CLM Visuals: The Art of Storytelling

Settling in my new Blog Home

2009-11-12T00:03:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been toying with the idea of leaving blogger. It has been a great journey but, the time has come to push myself to new limits and challenges. Boy, have I been challenged this week. I have been wanting to have a custom blog to fit the growing needs of CLM Visuals. I believe I have found a happy mix.

I am still making finishing touches on the new BLOG. I was able to transfer all of the fun, exciting and emotional post from here. So, please bookmark the new Blog and come and join me at www.clmvisuals.com/blog.

enjoy-

Moving

2009-11-11T09:53:00.000-08:00

I am not physically moving, however the blog will have a new home. I am working real hard on improving the look and feel of this blog. There be more room to post comments, add video and have BIGGER images. I am so excited about all of the changes happening with CLM Visuals. So, keep an eye out for the new blog.

Here is screen shot preview.

enjoy

Photographers mess up too.

2009-11-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

In my research to find wireless mics for the new camera I am getting this weekend. A picture of my baby is above. I was on forms listening to people talk about the pros and cons and what equipment to buy when I came across this post about photographers in the way.

There was a videographers who was shooting a wedding and the photographers keep getting in his shot. OH, when i heard about this I thought of referees. They are the reason I have won a Pultizer yet. They always have a nack of being front of all of those award winning shots.

Look at the videos below to feel the pain of this videographers.

http://www.dragonflyproduction.net/photographer/

http://www.dragonflyproduction.net/photographer2/

Flickr

2009-11-05T17:01:00.001-08:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Catwoman and the Pimp

2009-11-02T19:35:00.000-08:00

Wow, this Halloween was a fun one. I have been getting more work. I am so excited about that. So, if you are in need of a photographer, I am available. After a full day of work I went with my other half to The Great Blaze. I have always wanted to go. It is a walking tour with thousands of pumpkins carved with cool designs. It was just great seeing all of the cool designs and themes from dinosaurs, butterflies, aliens, bats, cats, spiders, snakes and so much more. It was really cool to see. The night would not have been complete with some dancing to old school classics. Headed down to BK to get our rub up on.

All in all it was a great night, after searching for weeks to find the right pieces for a cat woman. Here are a few pic from the night.

enjoy-

Halloween @ el museo

2009-11-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

El Museo is a great source of family fun. Better yet, just fun! This is my favorite photo of the day. This is why I HEART photography. To capture moments like this is priceless. Just a simple moment where people appreciate the ones they love. To see more check out my facebook page. If you like what you see be a fan at CLM Visuals on Facebook.

enjoy :)

2009-10-30T18:19:00.000-07:00

CLM Visuals will be on assignment. This will not be just any assignment. This is one will be assigned by fans, clients and supporters of CLM Visuals. Check back in two weeks for the details. In the meantime start thinking of people and places you want to see come to life.

.... enjoy this picture while you wait.

Champagne flowing from the sky

2009-10-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

I had this job shooting food at Jazz @ Lincoln Center. It was a nice event but, what caught my attention was the lady hanging by her feet serving champagne. Now I am thinking I want champagne served from the ceiling of my apartment. I have high ceilings. I got to work on that. Until then check out the photos.

Blogger

2009-10-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

I have been blogging all over the net. There have been changes at the office. Now, the photographers are responsible for blogging everyday. To check out my latest entry from today's soccer click here: Reivew Press

Fall Colors

2009-10-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of some beautiful fall colors. Enjoy. To see more click my facebook page.

El Museo Reopening

2009-10-20T17:16:00.000-07:00

Here is just a little video of the reopening of el museo. f you would like to purchase any pictures go to www.clmvisuals.com Click on Proofs. Put in the password 101709. Add images to the cart you wish to purchase. Then click on the shopping cart on the bottom left hand side of the screen to pick sizes and complete your order. If you have any problems email info@clmvisuals.com

A place to rest

2009-10-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot I took this photo. I was coming back from a shoot. I had to pick some things up on 125st on my way home. When I say this man, at first i thought he was awake. I told him, i had to take his photo, because he seemed like a colorful character. After talking to him for a minute I realized he was knock the hell out. I mean he was into that REM sleep. Nothing or no one was going to wake him up.

I just had to take his picture. I so wish I was on 1-2-5 right now in the chair with some shades taking a nap. I might need a wool jacket, heating blanket and those groovy shades. It was just a delightful photo.

enjoy-

Keep your eyes open

2009-10-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

It pays to be noisy. Keep your eyes open for anything that stirs emotions and feelings. I was on a job waiting for the people to come. It was all quite when i notice the el museo was being beamed down on the floor. I was literally like a cat intrigued with a red light. I followed it everywhere, thinking how could i make this cool. then out of nowhere, a man walked by and i was like. There it is.

Now the hard part was waiting around for the best set of legs, shoes and angles. After waiting this is why I got. These are my two favorite creative images from last night. I am sure I will find a dozen more by the time i finish editing. Oh, editing... got to get back to work. One more assignment then a night of toning, croping, editing, eating and making photos look beautiful.

enjoy-

Reopening of El Museo

2009-10-15T01:01:00.000-07:00

El Museo is reopening their doors after 17 months or renovations. I had a chance to see the new space and it looks lovely. I am so happy for El Museo. It is a great museum that offers so much about Latin & Caribean cultures. If you get a chance, check it out on Saturday. It is an all day celebration, so get your kids, friends and family help celebrate with the el museo. If you can't make it check out the photos. To see more check me out on facebook.

enjoy

Holiday Portrait Sessions & Holiday Cards

2009-09-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Holiday Portrait Session
& Holiday Cards are Here!!!

Now is the time to start thinking of gifts and treasures to give to your family for the holiday season. This is a great deal that leaves you with great memories of your family and you can share these with friends and family as gifts.

We’re offering up a few Holiday packages for you to choose from. All session must be booked by November 1st to get the holiday special. Prices will go up closer to the holidays, so book your spot before the space fill up.

Get on it already. I know it’s hard to start thinking about the holidays in September, but when December 1st rolls around, and you are half way done with all your shopping, you will appreciate the time you put into it.

Book your Holiday Portrait Session at

www.clmvisuals.com

lifestyles@clmvisuals.com

Click on the calendar for availability.

www.clmvisuals.com/lifestyles
lifestyles@clmvisuals.com

________________________________________________________________

Lost My Job Collection- $150
-Must show pink slip
60 minute portraiture session- One outfit change or Day in Life Shoot
10 4×8 flat OR 5×7 folded custom designed Christmas Cards w/ envelopes
1- 11x14 photo Collage- no more than six images
5% off any additional a la carte or collection purchase

Winter Wonderland- $275

90 minute portraiture session- Two outfit changes or Day in Life Shoot
20 4×8 flat OR 5×7 folded custom designed Christmas Cards w/ envelopes
1- 11x14 photo Collage- no more than six images

Jingle Bells- $350
60 minute up to 2 hour portraiture session- Three outfit changes or Day in Life Shoot
30 4×8 flat OR 5×7 folded custom designed Christmas Cards w/envelopes & labels
1- 16x20 photo Collage- no more than six images

T’was the Night Before - $450
2 hour portraiture session- Three outfit changes or Day in Life Shoot
50 4×8 flat OR 5×7 folded custom designed Christmas Cards
w/envelopes & labels
2- 16x20 photo Collage- no more than six images
5% off any additional a la carte or collection purchase

New things are popping up!

2009-09-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

There are some exciting things happening at CLM Visuals. We are launching Lifestyles. Check it out and book your session.

2009-09-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

I can feel the chill in the air. Fall is coming sooner than I like. Changes. Saturday was a great autumn night at el museo del barrio. Enjoy these pictures from the last Cielo Abierto. See you next summer. Check out the photos on Facebook. In the meantime check these images out.

I did it.. tweet. tweet

2009-09-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

I have made the leap. I know a while back I posted on here if I should get me a twitter account. And I have finally got me one. I am a little slow getting started. But, i am sure I am catch up in true Facebook fashion and not be able to get off of twitter. So, check it out. Follow me. I am sure there wont be any dull moments or maybe there will be.

happy tweeting.

clm

Think Pink

2009-09-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

CLM Visuals is excited to announce a partnership with Think Pink Photography. Think Pink Photography was founded in October 2007 to support individuals and their families who have been touched by breast cancer. We are a charitable organization that serves two main purposes – celebrating life and supporting the cause.

Through our professional photographer network, we are helping breast cancer patients to celebrate life with charitable photography sessions. Individuals may choose to document their fight against the disease before or during treatment, or prefer to capture their victory by scheduling a session within 12 months after treatment is completed. Photographers world-wide are now available to donate time and talent to celebrate life and support the cause. There is no cost or obligation to the breast cancer patient. Clients participating in a Think Pink Session will receive a complimentary photo session, as well as a set of 10 small prints from the session. They will also receive a discount on any additional portraits they wish to purchase, although there is absolutely no purchase required at any time.

To support the cause, we have partnered with The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation. All funds generated through donations and various fundraising efforts are paid directly to The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation. As a 3-time breast cancer survivor, Danielle Beverly and her husband Eric joined together to form a foundation dedicated to promoting education, increasing awareness, and providing support and resources for families who have been touched by breast cancer.

Please subscribe to our blog and tell your friends and family about Think Pink Photography. Awareness is everything and we can’t be successful without you.

I encourage you to view our website, make a donation, or hire a photographer that supports Think Pink Photography! If you hire me, mention Think Pink and I will make a personal donation to the organization. If you, or someone you know, would like to schedule a Think Pink session, please contact me for details.

I am very proud to be a network photographer with Think Pink Photography, and am anxious to get the word out about this amazing program. For more information, you can contact me, or you can visit the Think Pink Photography website at:
http://www.thinkpinkphotography.org

Times puts two cents in

2009-09-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

If you read my last post. It was basically a description of what has been going on at TJN. I was surfing the web when I came across this article in The New York Times. It pretty much summed up what is going on. Check it out.

Enjoy

Trouble don't last always

2009-09-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, a lot has happen over the past couple of weeks. We (staff @TJN) new that there was going to be some restructuring going to happen at our paper. We just didn't know what was going to happen. Things have been on shaky ground for the newspaper people. I have gone through countless rounds of people being laid off.

At first I wasn't really worried, but as we got smaller and smaller the fear got bigger and bigger until last week when we got the news from the publisher. The meat of it was, they were going to let 70 people go. 50 in the newsroom and 20 in advertising. The paper wasn't making enough money and they have to let people go. The kicker of the whole thing was we had to reapply for our jobs, then go on an interview and wait to find out if we were hired back with new titles.

Let me just tell you the past three weeks have the longest three weeks ever. From the filling out the interview to wondering who would be let go, and how I could keep my job. I know everyone doesn't want their job when it isn't in danger, but when it is... Your like. I don't wanna go. I have bils, I have a life here in NY. And the bottom line is this. I love being a photojournalist.

So, I got myself together, pulled out my valentine's day hills, pencil skirt and punch of color with a red wrap top and prepared myself for my interview. I was so nervous my friends and family were being very supportive with encouraging words. My boyfriend was just patient with me, listening to me ramble on and on about how they were going to fire me. He smile at me and said, "sweetie your talented, they are not going to fire you."

I will admit I was kick as in my interview. I gave as much eye contact as I could. It was kinda hard, because my interviewer had to type in my answers. It felt more like lunch with an old friend. She made me feel at ease so, the answer I gave were easy.

I just wish all my interviews would go like that. After the interview time lull about I enjoyed my days not thinking about the possible doom. Monday it hit me like a ton of bricks. Being without a job is all I could think about. I know that is silly. But, my identity was tied around having a job. Who would I be if I didn't have a job? Once again, the boyfriend, provided me with great words, You are not your job! Simple but so true. American society wants us to believe we are nothing we do not have a title. I am learning to believe that I AM somebody without a title.

The days still ticking away not know how we will be notified. Going to work, calling in was complete terror. The not knowing was the worst part. Luckly I spent my day with Tania. She is such a cool person. We were panicing together. Wondering nothing but the worst. I like that, especially after everyone being the great friends they are by saying only great things. But, I so needed to hear the worst. To fully understand what not having a job would really mean. To put me in action as to what I needed to do get myself together.

After hours of waiting and waiting wondering if today was the day to get the bad news. We get an email stating that the phone calls have started. I could feel the knot in my stomaching getting bigger and bigger. Tania and I had no words just nervous behaviors surfacing. Although I did fight the urge to eat junk food and got a chocolate milk instead. I was so proud.

Then the phone rang, it was the office. Tania picked up. The look in her face said it all. Well not really. ..."they want us to come into the office." we grabbed our stuff and drove to the office.
You could cut the tension in the office with a knife.

I was numb. There was nothing anyone could say to help me. My smile disappeared. I had no words. Yes, me with no words. But, i just didn't feel happy. We meet up with Angie and rode up the elevator to the 3rd floor. As we came into the office. I noticed Jim walking out with a big yellow envolope and sad look on his face. Then Mary rushed out with tears streaming down her face to be met with a tissue. At that moment, it sunk in. I could be next.

I tried to stay positive. I tried to remember all of the great things about myself but all I could do was go to that scary place. What if I am not good enough. I sat on the sofa with Angie and Tania. Tania look white as a ghost while Angie yammered on about something... I guess to mask her fears.

A little time elapse by, fellow photog. Peter leaves the room of knowledge to say.. "hey guys I got the last position." with his typical sarcastic humor we love. it did break the tension until Carrie came and called my name... "Carucha?"

The 20 steps to the door seem like the longest walk in my life. I could bring my head up to their eyes. I didn't know what to expect. I sat down in the seat accross from Larry. For a breif moment I found courage, to look up and know that I am good person weather or not I am still here. I hear these words..."i have good news for you Carucha, we are happy to offer you a job as a visual journalist. Would you like to take it?"

You would think the fear and fustration would be gone, nope. I was in a state of shock but, I was also happy. I still had a job. I signed my name below and thanked them for keeeping me and got out of the room as fast I could. I was still scared for my co-workers. So I wanted until Angie and Tania got finished. Good news.. they were both staying. It was a great feeling. But, what about the others whom I formed great relationships with.

As the day went on it was clear who was here and who wasn't. I was shocked and happy all rolled into one. There was no official notice of who was gone. Just a new phone listed printed and emailed out.

My friend and family were happy for me, but I just couldnt shake that feeling. I still dont think it has gone away. It has changed me. I dont know how, but it has. Lets just say I am a better woman because of it. It brought clarity into my life.

While all of this was going on, I almost forgot my anniversary was coming up. I had spent a whole year getting to know this really great man, who made me a better woman. He has supported, push and love me like no man has done before. And I am truly thankful to have that in my life. I could not have imagine going through this without him. I didn't know how to show him how much he meant to me. I am not good at buying gifts and when I asked him what he wanted. Typically he say... "YOU." Barf, Barf...

I guess in a way I gave him me. Below is the video I made to mark our anniversary. i look forward to many more with this great man who i love.

enjoy-

Shootings on 1-2-5st in Harlem

2009-08-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

I had to cover an assignment down the street from my house. Got some really cool shots and a great interview after waiting around for him to come out. Check the full story on Lohud.com.

enjoy

Photo of the Week 2-Sunset Silhouette

2009-08-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

I had this late afternoon assignment to photograph students rehearsing a musical "All Shook Up." I was waiting for Peter to finish interviewing the producer of the play. We were in the basement of the church building when this sweet light started pouring in through the window. I was so compelled to take this self portrait.

Enjoy-

Exciting things are HERE!!

2009-08-02T22:31:00.000-07:00

I have teasing you with things on Facebook . The time is here. There are a lot of new things in available for fans and clients of CLM VISUALS.

For starters, Photo of the Week is back. Every Thursday, check out CLM VISUALS on Facebook to see the picture of the week.

Also, for fans you can download FREE screen saver pictures. Yes, really cool, artisty pictures for your desktop. And when you get 10 friends to sign up as a FAN on CLM Visuals, you get a FREE signed 8x10 print of the picture of the week.

Keep your eyes on CLM Visuals on Facebook for more exciting give aways and deals.

Don't for get to download the FREE screen savers on facebook.

enjoy!

Cinema Under the Stars: The Fania All-Stars, Live in Africa

2009-08-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful night in Manhattan. Check out the pictures from Cinema Under the Stars: The Fania All-Stars, Live in Africa. El Museo del barrio always has great shows. Check their website out for more information.

enjoy !!!

Dont forget to become a fan of CLM VISUALS on Facebook!

Taconic Car Accident

2009-07-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

I had to cover the follow up on a really bad car accident on the Taconic. This is a such a sad story check out our website coverage. My co-worker Frank did a great job at the scene. Check out his great photos on lohud.com

Today I had to go out to Long Island to follow up with Diane Shuler's neighborhood and her brother's neighborhood in Floral Park. Check out the video.

Route 22

2009-07-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Today a the latest project I have been working on runs in the paper and online. Tania and I are doing a road trip up Route 22, the third longest highway in new york. Check out the video.

Obama made me late to meet my first love

2009-07-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

Joshua Lewis was my first love. Oh, how I used to watch him everyday after school. Soap Operas were my escape. I dont know what from, I was only 13. Anywho. let me explain how Obama made me late to meet Josh. I was on my drive down to the city to photograph Josh on E. 24st when traffic got really bad. I mean worst than the normal traffic. As I was driving down 2nd Ave. there was jammed pack traffic in front of me, but off in the distance the road was clear.

And i was like how can that be possible. And as I got further down, I saw a whole lot of police. Then I remember that Obama was in town for the NAACP convention where he was going to speak. So, I got caught up in Obama traffic.

Dirty Thirty

2009-07-09T22:40:00.000-07:00

My homegirl turned 30 on Tuesday. The big celebration is this weekend in DC. And i wanted to do something special for her big 3-0! And I wanted to practice with stop motion and audio. Thus, this birth wish from me.

Enjoy!

Shepp

2009-07-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

Just a nice picture of Eugene Shepp, a eighty-year-old man works from sun up to sun down at his deli in mount vernon. enjoy-

Punk Band steals the show

2009-07-04T23:47:00.000-07:00

I had a great 4th. I spent it in Brooklyn with my home girl. I got some great images of this punk band that was totally off the chain. I am so going to see Peelander-Z in concert in a couple of weeks. They so rock. For the rest check out my Facebook page CLM VISUALS. And while your there sign up to be a fan. Enjoy the pictures.

Still losing jobs in newspapers

2009-07-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

It has been buzzing around the office that there will be another layoff next week, possible on July 8th. My heart is racing. I have been preparing for a possible layoff, but never really thought it could be me. But, the thing I have seen is there is no rhyme or reason as to how they pick people. My gut says this time is not good. I hear buzz about middle management. Then I read what happened at the Detroit Freepress and I know that I could be next.

Just think I got into newpapers, because I thought it would be the most stable photography career and it allowed me to shoot all the things i wanted. Everyday would be an adventure. Now the adventure is becoming a nightmare. I just have to be brave and continue to think positive about finding new work in the city.

And realize that media industry is changing and it isnt just newspapers.Vibe is gone. Who is next... check out the Magazine Death Pool for more folding publications.

In addition to the fact that these publications are dropping like flies. ASNE did a survey that was quite interesting talking about the affect this has had on minorities in journalism. Here is a nugget from their findings.

Supervisors: Minorities account for 11.2 percent of all supervisors in newsrooms, which remains virtually unchanged for the past two years. Of all minorities, 22 percent are supervisors.

Newspapers with no minorities: 458 newspapers responding to the ASNE census had no minorities on their full-time staff. This number has been growing since 2006. The majority of these newspapers have circulations of 10,000 or less. All newspapers with circulations of 50,000 or more that responded to the census had at least one minority staffer.

Where do minorities work: Nearly two-thirds of minorities work at newspapers with circulations exceeding 100,000. The percentage of minorities working at newspapers with more than 500,000 circulation is 17 percent; 250,001 to 500,000 circulation, 19 percent; 100,001 to 250,000 circulation now account for 29 percent.

Other Findings

Online: The census found 2,300 journalists worked solely online of which nearly 19.6 percent were minority. ASNE started counting online-only journalists in 2007. Then there were 1,900 online journalists of whom 16 percent were minorities.

Internships: The percentage of interns who are minorities stands at 26.4 percent, a decrease from 28 percent last year.

First time hires: Minorities represented 16 percent of the journalists hired for their first full-time newsroom job down from 17.6 percent.

Women: Women working full-time in daily newspapers total about 17,300 or 37 percent. Minority women accounted for 16.6 percent of female newsroom staffers.

Men: Men total just under 29,400. Minority men account for 11.5 percent of male newsroom staffers.

Since 2001, Asian American journalists have increased by 167, Latinos by 23 and Native Americans by 44. The number of Black journalists decreased by 539.

RIP Michael Jackson...6.25.09

2009-06-25T22:58:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson died Thursday (6.25.09) at the age of 50. Millions of fans around the world gather to sing his songs, cry and mourn the loss of this multi-talented man. There have been numerous stories written about him in The New York Times, LA Times and many more publications. I was in shock to hear this. I heard the news that he had a heart attack and was sent to the hospital.

While I was covering a graduation at Yonkers High School I got the news from, Camille, that he had passed around 1pm. The buzz of Michael Jackson's death was on the minds and hearts of the graduates at Yonkers High School.

I can't imagine a world without the vision, talent and drive of Michael Jackson. He has opened doors for so many performers and pushed and set the standard for so many after him. And I could not just go home. So, I went where the people were on 125st near The Apollo. It felt like election night all over again. People were honking their horns, singing, having dance offs and rejoicing in the life of Michael Jackson. He was a brilliant man who touched many and he will be greatly lost.

My heart and prayers go out to the Jackson family.

Please post your reactions or what you were doing when you heard the sad news.I can't wait to hear from you. Enjoy the pictures from Harlem reacting to the death of Michael Jackson.

Museum Mile

2009-06-24T22:40:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures I took when covering the Museum Mile in the city

Graduates

2009-06-24T22:34:00.000-07:00

I am still covering graduations. Most of the time, there is not much there. But I lucked out at this graduation. enjoy the pic.

Strike3 your OUT!!

2009-06-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

It has been ages since I have covered a baseball game, actually it has been about two years. That is the thing about working at a newspaper, you can have a shift, where you cover nothing but sports, school plays and all of the county festivals. It comes along with the terrortory

I was a little nervous shooting baseball, I have always found it to be hard, because the majority of the action is on the pitchers mound. But, I guess it is like riding a bike. I just hate the coaches at first and third base. They always cover the best action.

Enjoy the photos.

To Tweet or Not?

2009-05-31T23:38:00.000-07:00

I have been toying with the idea of going on twitter. I think it will put me over the internet edge. I would official be addicted to online social networks. I tell myself it will be great to promote my business, CLM VISUALS. This will be great in pulling in new clients, because they will know me from my tweets.

Not mention, my life is reality show without the cameras and the extra income. What do you think? Do you think my life merits fifteen minutes of fame.

I would love to hear from you. Here is a random photo of my house plant that I killed in less than a week. Don't even ask. I might be tweeting about it real soon.

It's their 6month Anniversary

2009-05-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

Editing your friends wedding photos is one of the hardest jobs in the world. You really want them to be happy with the final product. Today is my friend Kelly and Michael's six month Wedding Anniversary. I shot their wedding back on Nov. 29th.

So much has gone on since then. The United States Elected the First Black President, layoffs, recessions package for TJN, BIG corporations declaring bankruptcy, Sonia Sotomayor being nominated by Obama as the for supreme court judge and a butting romance- so much on my plate.

But here are the videos I created for the wonderful couple.

Enjoy-

Ray's Grad Video

2009-05-19T10:55:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of my little brother. He has come such a long way. Here is a video of his special day.

Left for a Graduation... start back 2 work cover Graduations..

2009-05-18T12:07:00.000-07:00

Tis the season for famous people to get their honorary degrees, stand on the podium and spew words of wisdom to a couple hundred fresh faced graduates. As I clock in my employee hours covering countless graduations I feel like I have just come back from a motivation conference. Each speakers talks of the "haters" who will push and pull them off their journeys to the "believe in yourself, think out side of the box" talk.

I find myself, looking back at the decision I made since I walk across the stage back in 2000. A lot has pass- from the good bad and the ugly. Feeling less green with hunger when I left school I have found that I have settled into a place of limbo. Yes, I sought out to make my dreams come true. I am living it.. but I feel like there is more for me. After being a photographer for the past ten years. I have learn the tricks of the trade. I want more, something different for my life. And I want to get PAID!!

All of this to say. I too, an old school grad is going to use the motivation meant for the fresh face kids to keep me abreast of my journey of being who I dreampt of being when I graduated. And I would pass this same thing on to others. When you find your fire going out, find someone or something to get it started again.
Until then enjoy these pictures of these new graduations. I wish you the best.

enjoy-

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just want to say Happy Mother's Day to all the mother's out there. But, I want to say an special happy mother's day to my mother. On Friday her biggest dream came true. My brother graduated from Alabama A&M University making my whole family college graduates. It was a long and hard struggle but the dream came true. Here are some photos from my brother's graduation

enjoy-

Round Two....

2009-05-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

I had a really cool assignment today. My original assignment got canceled after the subject back out of the shoot. I was going to photograph/video, this guy who completed a drug treatment program. He was going to talk about how this program changed his life. Because if he didn't complete the program he was going to go back jail.

I had some really cool artsty fartsy ideas. The shoot was going to be in the Bronx... but, right before I was about to leaving the house, I called to check with the reporter. That is when I got the bad news... he canceled. I was feeling a little bummed, because most of the day was quite and rainy. And I hadn't did much... nothing creative at all.

I know your thinking... I thought you said you had a really cool assignment today. I did. Let me tell this story. Last week, my boss asked if I could work a night shift on Monday and start my day at 3pm. I was like cool. I knew my first assignment was at 5pm.

So, when I called to check in at 345pm. And I heard that I had a boxing assignment at 3pm, i was mad confused especially if I am working a late shift and that assignment was happening at the beginning of my shift. Normally the editors give me a call and heads up to let me know that I have an assignment before the start of my shift, so i can work accordingly. I know you thinking.. who cares rue, really.

At first I thought I couldn't fit in this assignment because, the subject jennifer might be gone. i gave her a call, we chatted, i told her i would get back to her. and i was able to roll out to brooklyn from harlem to get shots of her during practice. jennifer was a very sweet girl, who could pack one hell of a punch. here are the photo rejects from the shoot i took today. i didn't turn any of these in. oh, by the way she won the championship at the Golden Gloves.

enjoy

Isabel & Ruben Toledo

2009-04-30T22:38:00.000-07:00

I have been mad busy for the past couple of days. Here are some pictures from el Museo del barrios education series with Isabel & Ruben Toledo.

enjoy-

Perp Walk

2009-04-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

Every photog has done it or will have to do it. It is one of the worst assignments. If your lucky, your perp walk is of someone famous. Most of the times they are of people you never heard of or even seen which was my case today.

I had no assignments, I thought I was going to finish my religion video and chill at the satellite office. I get the call, that I was going to be sent into the city for an arraignment of Anthony Piliero. He was arrested 6am Thursday by the FBI on charges of hiring a hit man to kill his ex-business partner so he can collect the insurance money. You know typically business practices. He was expected in court at 2pm. I arrive to the Federal Courthouse in lower Manhattan at 1:14pm.

I sat outside of the courthouse waiting to see if I could get a good shot. No such luck because he was in police custody and they were going to move him from 26 plaza- no access for me. Needless to say I had to sit and wait to hear what was going to happen. Three hours later... no word. I am freezing, hungry and tired. And I so had to pee. I didn't want to have a Bridget Jones moment and miss the moment I had been waiting HOURS for, but I needed something to warm me up.

So, I literally ran TWO blocks to Starbucks. I told them I was on a stake out waiting for a person to leave the federal courthouse, could I please cut in line. Everyone looked at me like I was crazy... I was about to show them crazy, when they saw me drentch in camera gear, a book bag bigger than me. Go ahead, he better work for GM or AIG, a man grumbled under his breathe. They let me cut. I was so happy. I bought a VENTE, white mocha chocolate. I scooted out of Starbucks and practically ran back to the courthouse, my phone didn't ring not once. Whew... I made it back clear free.

I began to freeze again after waiting for an hour... I called the editors and was like... Have you guys heard anything... I am freezing. After I hung up the phone, John came out and said it was OVER... I didn't miss the shot, just that he got bail and they are waiting for him to leave.

Quick question, why can't people give a good description of people? The reporter says the guy was an older white man with a beard, and wearing a grey shirt. Uhm, can we say that is half of the people I saw while I was waiting the FIVE hours for the case to be finished. I guess not everyone is good at being descriptive.

After I got that description, I started to freak out, because I have NO clue as to what he looks like. I know he is with his wife and layer. So, every person who leaves out the courthouse I am firing off shots from my camera.

Did I mention there was more than one entrance into the building? I stood at one end waiting to see if they came from my door or the reporters. And this began my hide and go seek with the attorney, the wife and defandent. Now, mind you I am already feeling a little uneasy about being a predator with my camera. The reporter calls my name I come running with two cameras and my book bag (lap top inside). I get there it is just the attorney. I click off a couple of shots... and then a guy fitting the description, grey shirt, beard walking with a woman walks out of the courthouse. So, I start firing off shots without asking any questions... opps, not him, just pissed off man, because I am photographing him.

I see the defendant wife waiting on the side of the street. I snap off a couple of shots... I see her talking to the lawyer, so i take more shots, but there is no sign of Anthony Piliero.

I guess this is when the lawyer came up with the idea to give me a freaking heart attack... so, i am running back and forth because the three of them split up. The wife was walking one way.. the lawyer the other... then the reporter spots Anthony Piliero and I am around the corner trying to figure out where the wife was. It was just too much for a photo. I mean.. why not come out the front, let me snap off a couple of frames and the were done. No, they have to play hide and go seek.

Oh, I was so done after that. Here are the few shots I got from the assignment. The only thing that made me feel better was this wonderful dinner I made for myself.... pasta with veggies, avacodo and strawberry salad, with garlic bread.

enjoy

Recession Package

2009-04-28T15:31:00.001-07:00

The package that I have been working on for the past three months with my fellow photog ran this Sunday. Working on a project can be quite daunting task. There is so much to be mindful of when you are working on something for a period of time. Is it still relevant because the amount of time that has pass, does it grab the readers attention.

There are so many things to keep in mind when working on a project. I am on the fence on how I feel about the final project, but I learned so much working on this project. I loved working with my co-workers. They pushed me to do better work, they challenged me on things I had emotional attachments to instead of a journalistic view.

I learned so much about editing and moving the story along. Most importantly I love TWO camera shoots. It makes any piece seem so much better than a one camera shoot. I am so thankful to Mike for helping with that. All in all I had a great time working in my satille office with Tania. Now I am ready for my next project. I got one big one I am working on for myself, and for the paper. So keep your eyes open. Until then check out the Recession Package.

Oh, if you want to know which pieces I did... I did the generations piece, Stacy Gorman, Mega Mixer, Port Chester Retail and Stepinac HS.

enjoy-

Where is spring?

2009-04-21T21:39:00.001-07:00

This has been the longest winter since I have moved to New York. Normally it would be warm by now. Better yet, there would be pollen everywhere...my nose would be running, eyes itching, but no such luck. I went to DC/Maryland to visit my home girl. It was so lovely. I had on flip flops and tank tops... my two favorite things to wear in the world.

We went hiking on the Billy Goat Trail... it was the best weather ever. Then on my drive back up to the city it got colder and darker each day. I know April Showers bring May flowers.... but, can we get some warmth. Anywho... here are some tulips I saw on my trip to dc. I will post this really cool video I made of my trip. enjoy

New Spin on HouseSwap

2009-04-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

I had been stuck on I-95 since 2pm today on my way back from DC. I had a wonderful time in DC, the weather was just lovely. It was a much needed break from this chilly New York air. It just seems like spring/summer is ever going to come. This has been one of the longest winters EVER!! So after hours being stuck on the highway I finally made it back to the city. I was so exhausted and tired I thought some mindless hours on the internet would calm my nerves. When I came across this site... FURCATION....

And I was just thinking where can I go without money for vacation. This site is perfect. I am going to try it out. Wish me luck....

Launching New Projects

2009-04-13T18:47:00.001-07:00

Now that my site up and running. I am ready to tackle some new projects. The first two I am so excited about. I have been tossing these ideas around for way to long waiting for the right time. And there never is a right time. So here goes. The first project is apart of a big project I am working on about the changes in Harlem. There is so much about this wonderful area that is changing day by day. Some say it is for the worst some say it is for the best-either way Harlem is becoming something new. Check out the post card, it explains all.

The second project is called FAMILY PORTRAITS
I am looking for families to photograph for a project. I am taking picture of YOUR FAMILY, whatever it looks like. It can be you and your DAD, you and your best friend, or you and your lizzard. Whomever your call family If your interested shoot me an email with information about your family. All participants get a copy of their family portrait. Can’t wait to hear from you. email mail me at
family@clmvisuals.com
enjoy-

The site is up... CLMVISUALS.COM

2009-03-31T19:52:00.000-07:00

I am finally done. After several months of toying with logos, colors, fonts, photos, web hosting, and much much more. My site is up and ready to go. Carucha L. Meuse Visuals I can't say thank you enough from the great advice, to late night phone calls, to hands on help with technology, and the funny jokes and smiles to keep me going when i never thought this day would come. Let me stop before I get sappy.

Click on it and enjoy it. Most of all, please forward my information to anyone who in need a great photographer. A great photographer needs great clients.

Enjoy...

www.clmvisuals.com

Launching April 1st

2009-03-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

I know you have heard me talking about the redesign of my new site. It has been such a big challenge. I can proudly say we are less than a week away from the big launch. I have up to the weee hours of the night coming up with a logo, branding and much more. I am so tired right now. I have been working on the text and language most of the day. Well, i just wanted to give you heads up and a sneak peak. I am way too tired to go into full detail. So, i hope this screen shot will due.

enjoy-

NY Times joins gannett

2009-03-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

No paper is safe. My dream paper, whom I have a love affair with their visual content is jumping on the furlough wagon and asking their union members to take two weeks off without pay and a 5% pay cut. It seems like newspapers just can't find their financial foot. It is an exciting time for expanding the way journalist create stories for the audience, however, we just haven't found a way to get paid. Right now we give it away, hoping the money will follow behind. It just isn't coming fast enough. I toy with how do continue to do what I love and make money. I enjoy the evolution of being a visual journalist. I just don't know how to transfer my new skills into dollar signs. Argh.... hopefully with the help of my advisory circle that I will be able to move into that direction. Until then check out what the times is saying about the times.

Lohud Ladies

2009-03-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a recession package for the past three weeks with my co-workers. Today was one of the coolest days. I got to work with the ladies. Diana and Tania. It is always cool when you get paired with your favorite co-workers. The ladies took over the college campus getting video, photos and the story on how college students are tackling the job market.

enjoy

More Furlough Days..

2009-03-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

I was chatting away with my good friends in graphics. I just love them. They are the best. When they were talking about 90k. Not knowing what they are talking about. They asked if I checked my email, because FURLOUGH was back with thunder. For the next quarter, the employees have to take another week off without pay. Still trying to adjust my funding for the week without pay and now here we go again, yes, I a gratefully that I have a job, but money is getting TIGHT!!!!

Here the 411 from the Gannett Blog!

Going online

2009-03-16T15:02:00.000-07:00

My co-worker and I were talking about what could be the possible future of newspapers. He mention the thought of paying for online newspapers. I told him I don't know if people are going to be down for it since the internet has been primarily free from the beginning. Myself, included, I am skeptical of paying for my news. And this is how I get paid. Now keep in mind I am a thrifty person and I am always looking for a bargain.

But, after speaking with him, I thought it could work if newspapers are smart and not to greedy. This one reason why we are in the circumstances we are in. We didn't think of our future. Advertising dollars are the main source of revenue for newspapers and we (newspapers) have taken advantage of them for so long. And they have jumped ship to a place that can bring them more customers to their business. Newspapers are not thinking how we can keep them with newspapers, although there is a lot of buzz about the internet, there is still a market for newspapers.

People pay for quality material no matter what platform it is on. Who is going to buy something that they know will fall apart two minutes later. I will pay money for is quality material. I have a (free) subscription to the Times and I like the content that I get from them, as a matter of fact I would be willing to pay for the access to read the stories, blogs and watch the multimedia projects. Speaking of The Times, they have a story on the front cover about The Seattle Post-Intelligencer. It will publish its last print paper on Thursday and go online for all of it content. WOW, talk about a job shift in content.

Great Articles on my industry

2009-03-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

I found these great links on the state of newspapers. They are very good.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/12/business/media/12papers.html?_r=1&hp

http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1877191,00.html

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20090309/us_time/08599188378500

Random PIctures

2009-03-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

These are some photos I haven't taken recently.
enjoy

More Bad News for Newspapers

2009-03-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

Just found out that McClatchy group is making big cuts at their newspapers. According to my sources they are making their employees take a mandatory Furlough for a week and the staff has to take a pay cut. It is believed that employees who make under 50K will take a 5% cut and those over 50K will take a 10%. WOW!!!!! The storm is starting to pick up in full force. Newspapers are crumbling all around us. What is to become of my profession. Journalist have always been the watch keepers of society. They tell the readers what is going in places they can't get to and can get to. They make people, business and organization be accountable for their products.

And not having newspapers around is going to drastically change news as we know it. Yes, we are all online getting our news. But, there is something to be said about information provided by papers. We are going to have to find a solution to this problem. We need to find a way to fund newspapers and the readers have to help. Oh.... I must stop. Starting to tear up.

Free Food

2009-03-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

I have had back to back food assignments for the past couple of days. First, I have to tell you about Hilary. I love Hilary. She makes this winter stew to die for. We were doing more chatting than working, or should I say I was doing more chatting than working. She is so crafty, we were trading stories and websites. I almost forgot that I was there for an assignment. After what seem like hours I shot a video about the winter stew she made. I will post it next week after it runs on lohud.com. Yummie is all i can say about the stew. It was delicious. I was trying not to be too greedy. She also made banana muffins and a something else that I can't remember. All I know is it was yummie. I was willing to be her third child.

Speaking of food. Today I had a food assignment where I had to photograph-lemon sole with caper sauce, served with a seasoned plum tomato salad and vegetable rice. It looked so good. The only problem is I DON'T eat seafood. And I didn't want it to go to waste. I sent out a mass email at my job FREE FOOD!!! Stating if anyone forgot their lunch or didn't have lunch money I was giving way free food. I sent the email out at 2:24pm. My co-worker responded within one minute and four minutes later I had to send out email saying that the lunch is gone. People are still coming back to the photo department looking for the food. Below are shots of the free lunch.

Snow Day... still at home

2009-03-04T09:48:00.000-08:00

I am going on day three of being at home working on the redesign of my website site. Let's just say technology sucks. Php, templates, data, blogs, all of it is giving me a head ache. I have run across so many problems to make anyone want to jump out of their first floor apartment. If it wasn't cold and snowy outside I would be all over the side walk. I am working on the splash page for my site. I had created this really cool 35 second intro video about my work, but i get the page to support the video. Now I fear no one will see it. So, here is just a little something something i created.

enjoy-

Another Paper Bites the dust

2009-02-27T10:57:00.000-08:00

I was listening to The Brian Lehrer Show on WNYC. I just love his show. Well today is their last day on the public pledge drive. I SO love this station. Always informative and all around great journalism. When i listen to this show i am reminded of good journalism. In their quest to get subscribers they mention that the Rocky Mountain News was publishing their final paper today.

Yes, another paper has closed it doors due to the lack of funding. The newspaper was up for sale for the past month with no buyers so it had to close. I went to the site to see the employees response to the closure. And what I found was this really well done video, stories, photos and blog talking about this history of this pulitzer Prize award winning paper. Check it out.

Final Edition from Matthew Roberts on Vimeo.

Cheers,

rue

Churp, Churp, Churp....

2009-02-25T20:33:00.001-08:00

It has been quiet on the blog front. I have been busy as a bee getting ready for the redesign of my blog. WOW, there is a lot of work that goes into a redesign. Thanks for everyone who gave feed back on my motion graphic logo. I took the advance and made it shorter and punchier (i think that is a word). For your patience I will give u a sneak peak of the versions of my logo.

enjoy-

My loyal Fans, Please Vote

2009-01-26T23:27:00.000-08:00

Okay, if you have visited my website you saw a banner scrolling across the screen saying my site was going under a redesign. The thing is I can't afford a true web designer in these tough economic times. Instead I have decided to save money and design it myself like the first version of my site.

I have been so overwhelmed with work, layoffs and trying to figure out where I belong in this ever changing world of journalism. My sister gave them these great links to branding one self. It is hard coming up with a brand that will be face of you for the next couple of years. The only question I kept asking myself was, who am i in this MULTIMEDIA market and how to market myself.

This is where you come in. I wan to use you guys as my focus group. I have come up with my logo and colors. Yeah, Rue. I would love ur insight an opinion.

The name of my company is CLM Visuals: your one stop visual resource, bringing your projects to live on multiple platforms.

This is the new interactive logo, that will appear at the end of all of my movies.

Please check out the intro page of my website tell me what you think.

caruchalmeuse.com

Below is my new logo. Click on it and tell me what you think.

NYSE

2009-01-26T15:24:00.001-08:00

I was at the opening bell for the New York Stock Exchange....

enjoy

MV Hoops

2009-01-23T17:58:00.000-08:00

Can I just say every time I cover a Mount Vernon HS basketball game it is pure excitement. They were playing in SNY Invitational @ NYU.

enjoy- :)

Inauguration Day continues...

2009-01-23T11:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone wants more images and to hear my story about inauguration day. Two days later... I don't want to disappoint, but I feel like I didn't have the same experience as everyone else. I didn't witness the inauguration. However, what I witness and document was people experiencing the inauguration.

I was running from spot to spot trying to get images of people and document their experience getting to DC, navigating the crowds, staying warm in the cold, taking photos, buying souvenirs and staying motivate for hours and hours until the moment when Obama placed his hand on the bible that A. Lincoln used during his inauguration.

So for me it was HARD work. I was frustrated and LOST most of the time. But, for the most part I was calm and I just simply put the camera to my eye and clicked as moment happen in front of me. And that is what I experienced. I saw mothers and daughter sharing a bonding experience together. I saw couples huddling close together to watch the fate of their lives change by ushering in a new administration. I saw little boys climbing in trees to get a glimpse on the jumbo televisions.

This is what I saw this is what keep my mind away from the fact that my toes were blue and my legs were sore from walking and climbing on things to get a great shot. My heart was filled with warmth seeing these images seeing people care about something so much that they travel far and near to support something that means something to them. So, in a way I DID experience the inauguration. I just don't have the AP/Reuters view of the inauguration. I have to Obama inspired grass roots people who help elect him to be the president.

Here is what you asked for more images.

enjoy ;.. )

Photo Bag...inauguration Gear

2009-01-22T10:50:00.000-08:00

This video is self explanatory. Getting ready for my assignment. Quick question, how did people learn how to spell words before GOOGLE????

Amanda left... and I too shall go home

2009-01-21T21:34:00.000-08:00

The video is finally compressed. It is in the editors folder and I am ready to go home. Sorry it wont be up first thing in the morning. I guess that is life. I think I bit off more than I could chew this time. Next time... something simple and smaller. Give me until February. I already have a project in mind. But, the goal for this one is simple and small... NO bells and whistles.

Oh... check it out on our website. It also shows the photos.

www.lohud.com

If you go on the website, that is the revised version. the one below is the first draft.

I am still here. I decided since the video wont be posted until the morning I would correct the little problems... And like all little problems they turn into big problems. So, I am trouble shooting right now. My png bug is blocking the footage of the video... and it is taking forEVER to render. OH, my GOD I am NOT so going to find a parking space when I get back to the city. I will be sleeping in my car for sure....

here is a picture of me working that Vicki, from the bus ride took

Still at Work...

2009-01-21T21:01:00.000-08:00

I guess you can be photographed and not know it. I am STILL at the office. I finally finished my video. I don't think it is all that good, but hey I am a pessimist. Being a one woman show isn't as easy as it looks. And I have the habit of taking on jobs that MORE than one person should do. To do what I did I needed to be working in a team. Say, with two other photographers, editor, etc. But, that is not where I am at. Uhm, why am I saying this... oh, yes.. I now have time to kill while my video is squeezing... too tired to really tell my experience. Here are some pics, Matt took of me earlier today.

Enjoy

On the bus home from DC. Barack is official. He is the President

2009-01-20T18:33:00.000-08:00

Hi..
I am tired as hell sitting on the bus back to New York. I am coming back from Washington, covering the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president. Cold and tired are two words that became very familiar to me. I don't know where to start... how about I was the lost child. I lost my group ten minutes after I got off the bus. Yeah.. the group I was suppose to be following.

Then my toes froze, my phone didn't work.. Okay.. it would work but not when I truly needed it. There was a sea of people at the Mall. It was way more than I expected. I feel like I was so lost with everything that was going on. When I say there was just so many people. There was ALOT of people.

After an hour or so I got my barins, found a group of photographers, who were traveling in a pack carrying a crate. Thanks to my new found friends I got really great views and shots. MANY MANY thanks... from there I ran into some people from my bus. Yipp-E.... Took some images that are cool.

There are so many thoughts running through my mind that I cant seem to grab them and make them make sense. So, to tie u over here are just some of my favorite pics from the day.

Enjoy--

p.s. i will write a more detail info about the crowds and how i walked all the way to Potomac Ave... then rode the subway one stop to Armory Plaza where I walked back to the bus... did i mention that I cannot feel my toes. I need lots of love

Da Plane in da Hudson

2009-01-16T06:58:00.001-08:00

I was chillin in the office in White Plains (45mins away from times square) when Rory came in to say there was a passenger plane in the hudson. I was thinking, what? We had just order chinese food, I was thinking I was goig to get some editing done and little bit of co-worker time in. Not the case... for some strange reason, I had way to much stuff with me. Video camera bag, tripod, back pack, purse, a bag full of containers with cup cakes and didn't i mention we just order chinese food.

So, I struggle to pack all of my gear up and ask for 100-400mm lens so Icould get something. Then I jump into my car and drive like a controlled mad woman on I-287. The ride in Westchester was pretty smooth. I hit a few bumps in the road when I hit the bronx. But what really slowed me down is when I got into the city around 96st. Just traffic everywhere. I thought I could take the west side hwy to 79st and jump onto west end which turns into 11th st. NO LUCK!!! right when i get close is when they shut down the southbound side of the HWY.

And like any good New Yorker, me and a dozen of cars jump the side to take the on ramp back to the street. After having to go back uptown 20 blocks. I finally made my way down to the city. I illegally parked on 48th & 12th street. Gear up and ran down to 42nd.

There really wasn't much left for me to shoot at the scene as it had been over 45 minutes since the plane had landed in the water and all of the survivors were off the plane. All I could do was gather scene setters, and go live with Mogulus. Which was a bear... now did I mention it was freakin' cold. I couldn't feel a thing.

I ran into my co-worker Mark, we paired up tried to get something, but there really wasn't much to get... then we hooked up with Matt, my other co-workers. Still couldln't get anything. The passenger were all gone by then.

We decided to sneak into the bowling alley, eat our material and warm up. We did that for a while then called it a night. Man, days like this the thrill, excitement and pure adrenaline is the best thing about being a photog.

got run.. will post the pic/video in next message

www.Lohud.com

I learned a new word at work... Furlough

2009-01-14T14:57:00.000-08:00

Furlough. Yes, it sounds like a study word for the SAT's or the Scripps National Spelling Bee. And true to 21 century fashion I GOOGLED it. Many definitions came up. Plain and simply it has a rather calm and inviting definition meaning an authorized absence from work without pay.

Well, it wasn't gently announced to us, meaning Gannett employees. The big wigs sent out a massive email to all of the newspapers, no they didn't even drop off with Top editors at specific papers, so they in turn can break it down to us worker bees as to what the real deal is.

It was a little awkward, but basically we have to take a week off without pay before March 31st. A lot of thoughts ran through my head... should I be typing this is one. Then I think to myself does it really matter at this point. If they are going to fire me; there is not much I can do.

I think that is what is scary about these financial times. As a journalist I am always watching and filming people's stories of hardship and I never thought I would be one myself. I am not going to lie. I am a little frighten, but what can I do. Since day one I have been a hard working photographer, and that is all i can continue to do.

There is no room to yell and complain. This is the time to look into my heart and find a way to live the life I want to even during this hard time. What is it that they say.. what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.

OBAMA MANIA

2009-01-13T06:11:00.000-08:00

Yay Inauguration from Beep Show on Vimeo.

Count Down to the inauguration is on. I am so stressed getting all of the details together for this historic day. I am going to be working non-stop from 1am Tuesday until I am finished on Thursday/Friday. The city is doing so much to prepare for the ridiculous amounts of people who are coming into DC. I don't have proper press creditientials. Don't EVEN ask... argh!!!! And not to mention there are so many restriction for the people coming down. Most of the streets are going to be closed off to cars and people, no bags bigger than a fanny pack, limited food options (street venders). Did I mention that I will have to carry all of my gear. I feel like I should take a picture of what I look like with all of my gear so people understand. The more I type the more I remember the stuff I have to get done before I leave. Arghh.. Ok, I am going to stop now. I have a meeting with the editors today. Hopefully that will shed more light on the situation.

I know... inhale..... exhale..... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale.....
exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale.... inhale..... exhale....
Don't stop....

enjoy

El Día de Reyes

2009-01-11T00:05:00.000-08:00

This is best viewed full screen with the panoramic view. It makes the parade even better.

Enjoy

PAPA-RAZZI for the day

2009-01-07T14:42:00.000-08:00

Look this way... Say Cheese!!! I guess you can say that was who I was today. However, I wasn't like the guys who followed, Lindsay or Britney. I was the cool paparazzi from back in the day.

I was using words like, please and thank you... no i don't mind standing behind hind the cameraman ... yeah, that is where I get my best shot. Okay... I wouldn't say went that far. But, I was seasonably nice. I found me a nice spot and sprayed my lens all over BOBBY FLAY... Yes, guess I am talking about the hubbie to My Law and Order gal Stephanie March.
Bobby Flay. He is a real cool dude. He was shooting a webisode. I can't give all of the details... you know how it is in "Hollywood."

After shooting Mr. Flay I had to scoot down to the Bronx to get shots of Sister Margaret McEntee. I know you are thinking, yeah, Rue who is she. She is the sister Amy Adams character is fashioned after in the movie DOUBT. The author of the movie and play, John Patrick Shanley, based one of the main characters, Sister James, on his first-grade teacher, Sister McEntee.

So I got to hang out with the sisters today.. who they were a hoot. I think we did more chatting and eating M&M's then actually shooting. Okay actually I was the only one eating the M&M's I had a great time with the sisters nonetheless.

Enjoy-

Feliz Dia De Reyes/ 3 Kings Day

2009-01-07T08:20:00.001-08:00

Here are just a few photos from the 3 kings day celebration in the city.

A New Year, New Assignments

2009-01-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

For the first time in a long time I work a night shift. I don't remember it being so dark at 5pm. Here are some pictures from a a candlelight vigil that I covered in Mount Pleasant for slain firefighter Thomas Dorr who was killed Jan. 7, 1996.

Enjoy

The Best of 2008

2008-12-31T15:49:00.001-08:00

I love taking pictures. It is the best job in the world. I could not imagine doing anything else with my life. Being a photographer opens the world up to me and it allows me to captures moments.

I never really thought about how many pictures I take in a year. I know it is a lot. Just imagine I average a 100 shots per assignment and I have about two assignments a day. I know you what your thinking only two assignments a day. Sometimes two assignments a day can kill you. The worst part is working on two assignments and not having any images to show for it.

Another thing about being a photographer, there are no two days the same. I never know what is going to happen when I put my camera to my eye. I have to deal with the weather, bosses, malfunctions, attitudes, bad directions, captions and the list can go on an on.

And this year has been no exception. In fact it has been a wild year. If you would have told me that I would be producing videos for online and a newscast I wouldn't believe you. Over the course of a year I have produced countless videos, some good som, bad some just plain terrible. I have pitch projects that flopped and some that flew up up and away. I have been lost, stuck, late and plain old confused. I have had countless no shows, bad assignments, crazy, strange, happy, kind and cute people. And lets not talk about all of the technical problems or broken equipment I have had this year. It is just too sad to mention.

Despite the all of that I love being able to be create. This is what I do for a living. WOW, I did good picking a career. Only thing this is not a job to get rich!! They pay is... well you click here and find out. Not to mention newspapers are not what they once were, better yet journalism is changing drastically.

Below are just some of the hair brain crazy stuff I have gotten into in 08. I am sure there will be more to follow in 09. Especially since I am going to be working New Year's Day.

I just want to leave you with this. Life is filled with many moments. We tend to linger on the bad moments that took us off course. The one thing I know for sure... bad days don't last always. You have to have to find the good in everything. And if you don't see it then look for it. Don't worry about shoulda, woulda, coulda... just do what you can and learn from your short comings. No one is perfect and if they are, do you really want be with them? Love your flaws, know your flaws and find ways to work with them. And never let anyone make you feel like you are not important. YOU wouldn't be here if you weren't needed. Besides it isn't there place.

In 09 remember the good bad and ugly from 08 and strive to build a better opportunities for yourself. okay let me get off my soap box. I wish you the best it the new year.

Happy New Year

p.s. 2009 is the year of the Rue... so expect a funkier bolder and direct Rue-ski in 09!!!

Top 8 in 08- MOVIES

2008-12-31T15:24:00.000-08:00

I love movies... this is where my monies goes.

8. Black Book
7. Caramel
6. Curse of the Golden Flower
5. Broken English- I saw this movie at a good time. Brilliant job by parker posey
4. Lars and the Real Girl
3. Saving Face
2. Blame it on Fidel- LOVE IT... this little girl was great!
1. Run Fat Boy Run

Top 8 in 08- TV SHOWS

2008-12-31T15:06:00.000-08:00

These are the SHOWS that put a smile on my face.

8. Brothers & Sisters

7. Pushing Daises

Sniff, Sniff. they are canceling this delightful and visual delight of a show. It is always the out of the box shows the die.

6. Boondocks

5. Private Practice

4. Legend of the Seeker

3. Chuck

2. Weeds

1. Ugly Betty

Top 8 in 08- MUSIC

2008-12-31T14:39:00.000-08:00

These are the SONGS that got me through 2008!

8. Madeleine Peyroux- Don't Wait too long
7. Nikka Costa-Like a Feather
6. Alicia Keys & John Mayer- Lesson Learned
5. Fiest- My Moon My Man
4. Duffy- I'm Scared
3. Radio Citizen- El Cielo
2. Ehur- Calabria 2007 (MIMS Remix)
1. John Mayer- GRAVITY

Top 8 in 08- WEBSITES

2008-12-31T14:26:00.001-08:00

These are the sites that I live by. I spend countless hours of my time surfing the web.

8. Say Cheese
I know you are thinking why did i pick my own blog. It is simple. I love it. My life is freaking unbelievable and I can't believe some of the stuff that has happened to me. Not to mention I have a terrible memory. Checking my blog really helps me to remember. Everybody Say Cheese.

7. Multimedia muse
I love this site. I stumbled on it when I was looking for inspiration to help me on a video. It is a great resource to see what other photojournalist who have turned into visual journalist are doing.

6 . Mercury News Photo Blog & VuVox
I just love that the San Jose Mercury News have a blog for their photographers. This paper has always has a high regards for their photographers. I just love spending hours looking at their images & videos. After stalking this site I found that they used VuVox to illustrate their visuals. And now I use VuVox with my clients. Just great visuals all around.

5. Surf the Channel
I found this site from google. I just love it. For a person who doesn't have cable. I can still be hip and keep up with all of the latest shows. It is a great source for watching movies and television. Two thumbs up!

4. Media Storm
What can I really say other than great storytelling. When I see this site I dream big and believe I am can tell stories that impact the world. I love the technical and creative aspects of storytelling. Every time I see this site I think this is what photojournalism looks like when given the time and support. Just all around cool points.

3. Pandora Radio
I just love this site. It has turned me onto so many new artist like Adele. It has been my friend during long nights of editing not to mention..D.J. at my parties.

2. Anne Ruthmann
She is just the coolest photographer. I love her approach to capturing people's moments. she also dishes out great bits and of information about the business. Its just refreshing reading her blog.

1. FACEBOOK
I know you are thinking, what the freak. I did a history search on my laptop and apparently I am addicted to Facebook. I log at least 20 hours a week on the site. I am uploading crazy links, reading post, writing post and posting photos and videos. And we know that this post will eventually end up on facebook. Did I mention I have a fan page on facebook. Sign up and be my fan.

Mark the Magnificent

2008-12-31T11:02:00.001-08:00

I had a old college roommate come in town last night. We stayed up catching up on life. It was great seeing D. After hours of gossip and talking I turned in gave D, the keys and a guest pass to the YMCA and went off to bed. Now, mind I hear rubbling about cold conditions today, nothing really about snow. This being the north I don't assume my assignments are canceled because of the snow like it does back home in Atlanta.

I get to my assignment which is photographing people with disabilities at work. I turn my camera on... when the screen doesn't show any of the functions. I naturally assume it is the batteries. But, I thought I have plenty of juice left. I just went to my spare set in the camera bag. Same thing no juice. I immediately begin to panic.... holy crap. I have one battery at home on the charger.. but that is 15 minutes away in the city.

I proceed to do every trick in the book to get the batteries to work. I rub them together... I put a little bit of spit on them. Nothing, nada... it just doesn't turn on. What am I going to do? This is a centerpiece assignment for Thursday. I can't not take the photos.

The only thing I could do was call in for help. So I called Mark, who happens to live less than five minutes away. All I could say on the phone is SAVE ME!!!! Anyone who knows me... I just have major problems with technology. Stuff just breaks, gets lost or simply doesn't work.

I asked if I could borrow some batteries. I get to Mark's house put the batteries in and the CAMERA still doesn't work. Much bigger problem than I anticipated. I really wanted it to be something simple like batteries that needed to be charge. Now, I have to send my camera off to Canon. While Mark is upstairs getting his 5D for me to use. I try everything I know to get the camera to work nothing.

The minute Mark walks out with the 5D, my 40D gets jealous and begins to work. ARGHHHH, why, why.

I just want to take the time to say thank you Mark the Magnificent for saving me. It is great to have cool co-workers.

Pick up game, anyone

2008-12-29T21:40:00.000-08:00

I haven't shot a basketball game in over a year. I forgot how much I love shooting sports. It reminds of the days when I played sports in high school. Now, I wasn't the best player, however, I was always the most improved. I have the trophies to prove it. There is just is something about sports. The fans, players, coaches and the smell of the game is riveting (ha, ha, inside joke). It makes you want to lace up your shoes and get out on the court and score two.

Now mind you it took a minute to get my timing down but once I got it. I waited for the players to give me the action.

genießen-

A family Affair

2008-12-29T08:25:00.000-08:00

Let me just say I love families- especially families that laugh and really love being together. I put out my flier for Holiday Cards and my a former co-worker replied. I just had a wonderful time photographing their family. The photos speak for themselves.

Enjoy

End of the Year at TJN

2008-12-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

The end of the year photos ran in the paper yesterday. I am like those actors who say they can't watch themselves on screen. That is how I feel about being in front of the camera. Showing my work fabulous... me not so. When I click on our End of the Year Photos guess who's face popped up first in the intro. Mines yes, I did say mines.

All in all the it was a great presentation of the whole staff. Check it out.

Enjoy

End of the Year Photos

Much Needed Holiday

2008-12-22T01:09:00.000-08:00

Being on holiday is always the best. I have decided to make a much needed trip down south to reconnect with friends & families. My brother and his girlfriend picked me up from the airport. Drove around ATL looking for a WalMart.... man, it is good to be back down south. My first visit was with a great friend who was working in ATL for the week. I love hanging out with Jamie, she is cool peoples. I did some some family time. One of my sisters good friend had surgery, so I hung out with my sister at the doctors office and ran around town. Then i did some much needed holding the remote and fighting over cable channels. Ahh... so good to be home.

The next day I made dinner for my brother's girlfriend who came over for dinner. It was delicious. But, the best part of the night was my mom calling my apple pie DARK SKIN! So, what had happen was... I asked my brother what did he want me to fix for dinner for Miss T (to protect the love ones no family names will be used-). When it came to dessert, my brother doesn't like chocolate and i LOVE chocolate... instead i agreeded to make pies... two pies to be exact. I made a peach pie which turned out great, but the apple pie was left in the oven uhm, lets say a little too long.

I also had a chance to reconnect with some dear friends from HS and believe elementary school. I have know S.T. since we were on the red hots together. The red hots were are losing softball team. It was the best time ever.

Agghh. Ohh, I am sleepy. I am at my cousin's house in south florida working on my holiday video and other projects that need to get done before the end of the year. I will be documenting my trip. Enjoy the video below.

Not all Flashes and Smiles

2008-12-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

Behind the scenes of being a photographer is just has hard as standing behind the camera and knowing when to click the shutter. Christmas season is the busiest time for photographers. Everyone wants to take holiday photos. I truly love the creative process it takes to make take these photos. I even like editing the images as well. But, I would have to admit... the thought of editing down 5,000 wedding photos to 150 is MIND BLOWING. But it must be done. It is just getting myself siked up to sit down in front of the laptop and edit. The real problem is I want everything to be perfect-the best. But, sometimes, I have to just settle with good and get back to editing.

I know you are all wondering why is rue being all serious. Well this came from being over worked and clients wanting to see everything ASAP ( damn TechNoLoGy- the speed of light ).

One of my favorite wedding photographers (Ann Ruthmann) also posted an email she sent to a woman on her blog. I just love the way she handled it. Although she is comforting the client she is also comforting me, as the photographer. The thing about being a photographer is.... i doing most of the work myself, sometimes i have to opportunity to hire an assistant or collaborate with others. Plain and simple it is nice to hear others view points.

Enjoy your day!

I have been nominated for a Bloggy Award

2008-12-10T14:13:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much Heather. I just have to tell you about the sweet person whom I never meet and isn't paying me to say this but she is the coolest. I decided this year I would actually start posting more on my blog.

Back in the day before blogs I use to have a photo of the week which I posted via email. Everyone kept telling me my photos are the best and they love the stories behind them. Now mind you NONE of my friends leave comments.

So, I started thinking that my work didn't command an audience until.... Heather. She found me by accident and now has become my #1 feedback person. I truly appreciate it. I now have a gage on what the audience likes. When you get a chance please check me out on her blog. She nominated me for a Bloggy Award- Blutterfly Award-For the coolest blogs ever!

Happy Birthday...

2008-12-09T08:03:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish me a Happy Birthday... yeah, I am a big birthday person. It is the one day when I just don't worry about all of things I am suppose to worry about. I don't care what people say or do. I am going to enjoy this day no matter what happens. And hopefully I can take this spirit and carry it throughout my life... one day at a time. So, everyone enjoy this 9th day of December.

Rue

Baby Faces

2008-12-08T22:22:00.000-08:00

What can I say. This was the best baby ever, sorry Nora Rose. You are still #1 in my eyes. This past week I had an assignment where I had to photograph the cutiest baby. She was so calm and bubbly. She was active and had faces for days. And her family was the best. She has a life of love to come. Here are just some pics from the shoot.

Enjoy-

P.S. Happy Birthday, Carucha!

Lasting Impressions

2008-12-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is that time of year again. No not my birthday ( Tuesday Dec. 9th if you want to send some love- clm@caruchalmeuse.com). It is the time of year where people reflect on the New Year's resolutions they made and what has happened since the ball drop 365 days ago to make it 2008.

And for me it is the dreaded time where I have to pick one image that I shot for the newspaper that made a lasting impression. The thing about that is... I always forget about what I shot at the beginning of the year and then I ultimately pick the last assignment I was on. This year is no different except I did remember some of the things that I shot at the beginning of the year.

The only problem was, what should I pick? So, much has gone on this past year. I just don't know. There were some good and bad assignments that all made me feel something so. I decided that for my blog I would do a count down of the top ten that made a lasting impression. I will post those in a couple of weeks. Until then check out the last two years pick.

2006 Pick
http://www.lohud.com/flash/impressions/

2007 Pick
http://www.lohud.com/flash/07photos/

Enjoy-

My professional name is Carucha L. Meuse. For those of you who could find me. Wink, Wink!!!

Obama Block Party Podcast

2008-12-04T23:01:00.000-08:00

I was asked to talk about my experience covering election day. I am not just saying this because I am in the podcast, but the Barack Obama Podcast is the BOMB!!! It was well executed. I love the transitions with music that was created from the SI SE PUEDE/YES WE CAN campaign. I tell you FAMU J-School really knows how to turn out the best journalist.

The Barack Obama Block Party- Listen Now

Enjoy-

Mark Anthony Thomas

2008-12-04T21:56:00.000-08:00

Got to love my brothas from the ATL. When a friend of mine Mark Anthony Thomas ask me shot images for his new website I was thrilled. I love collaborating with other creative people. Check out his new site.

Enjoy

Never a Bridesmaid always the photographer

2008-11-30T21:01:00.000-08:00

Kelly Virella Michael Starkey Wedding

Nov.30.2008 ::::::: Friday, April 14, 2006 Kelly: I’m living in Oakland and trying to bum a ride to LA tomorrow to visit Cheryl Irvin, my best friend from college, but I can’t find one, don’t have a car and can’t afford to fly. Maybe I’ll just stay home and go to Luka’s Taproom & Lounge, tomorrow with my friend, Colette Cann. She says there’s some kind of party I should go to.

Michael: Today is my birthday. I’m getting ready for a party which I’m hosting tomorrow with my friend Sumi Mehta, who has a birthday close to mine. The party is at Luka’s, which is a favorite hangout. Saturday afternoon, April 15, 2006

Kelly: I find a thousand ways to waste time and finally call my friend to concede that I can’t make it to LA. I don’t really want to go Luka’s tonight either. I’m wearing jeans and a t-shirt and just don’t feel like going out. But Colette says I gotta. 8:30 pm, same day

Michael: I’ve just shown up at Luka’s. There’s going to be about thirty people coming to the party, and there’s always good music here, so it should be a lot of fun. A couple of friends and I grab some tables & bar stools and put them together to make a little informal party area in the club. 10 pm, same day

Kelly: I walk into Luka’s with Colette, underdressed in my jeans and t-shirt. She searches in the darkness for the guy we’re supposed to be meeting, but doesn’t see him, so we scoot into a booth at the far edge of the dance floor and wait for him to arrive. Suddenly, I look up and see a tall, lean, chiseled man with deep-set eyes and graying hair approach. My eyes almost jump out of their sockets. It’s her friend, Michael and I’m convinced I am going to marry him.

Michael: I see Colette sitting four tables away. She has a friend sitting next to her. I walk over, say “hi”, and tell them to follow me. Right away I’m attracted to her friend’s good energy and good looks. 10:15 pm, same day Kelly: Colette and I sit down in a line of bar stools, running along the wall, one seat away from Michael. There must be a hundred pretty women in here. Colette strikes up a conversation with Hodari Toure, a friend of hers from grad school. I sit quietly between them, plotting my approach to Michael. He seems to be doing the same thing and leans forward to initiate a conversation with me.

Michael: As soon as we sit down, I strike up conversation with Kelly, and I’m immediately hooked. She’s funny, down to earth, and beautiful.

Kelly: Oh my god, not only is the brother fine, but he’s brilliant, socially conscious, incredibly gentle and flirting with me. He just graduated from Berkeley, three years after I did, which means we went there at the same time, without ever having met. This is unreal. But I gotta play it cool. So I tell him in a roundabout way, how old I am, and get up from my seat to go dance.

Michael: Ok, I’ve been talking nonstop to Kelly, even with my friend Hodari sitting in between us. I’ve got to play it cool. It’s time to put my attention back on the party. At this point, basically everybody has arrived. I join in the fun & dancing. I just got my first digital camera as a birthday present from my parents, so I start snapping photos left and right. 11:00 pm, same day

Kelly: I dance to a couple of songs and when I see Colette I tell her how I feel about Michael, who is talking to his other friends. Later, Sumi comes up to me and asks if I’m the one who has sent Michael an anonymous drink. I say no, I’m not that clever and briefly worry that someone is stalking Michael.

Michael: The waitress brings me a free drink and says it’s from a secret admirer. Is it from Kelly? I’ll have to wait until the waitress comes around to find out. I ask, and the waitress points to a woman about half way across the room. I walk over to introduce myself, but I’m not interested at all, so I go back to be with my friends and continue checking out Kelly. 11:30 pm, same day

Kelly: Colette is ready to go home and walks up to me with Michael in tow, asking him if he can take me home. (She’s slick. I love her.) He says, yes, trying to hide to his enthusiasm. I hide mine too. But inside, I’m like, it’s on like popcorn. 11:45 pm, same day

Michael: Perfect. I’m set up to drive Kelly home. We’ve been playing it cool for over an hour. Now it’s time to make my move. I ask Kelly to dance. She says “yes”, and we hit the floor. Great chemistry, right away.

Kelly: We’re trying to play it cool, but there is no way that we can deny what is happening here. My leg accidentally touches his leg during our dance and a spark of electricity shoots off. Interesting!!! 12:00 am, Sunday, April 16, 2006

Kelly: As we walk to the car, I feel like I’m talking to an old friend.

Michael: I ask Kelly where she lives. Unfortunately, it’s less than a mile away. There won’t be much time to talk on the way there.

Kelly: We sit in the car chatting and I’m getting nervous. It feels like he wants to kiss me and I want to as well. But when he leans in, I grab my bag and jump out the car, with a nervous smile. Good night, I say cheerily, standing on the sidewalk with the door open. Good night, he says with equal cheer. He watches me as I run to the front door of my building. Rats, I don’t have his number! Inside, I shake my head. Lord, have mercy.

Michael: There she goes, and I didn’t get her number. Well, I’ll have to track it down. 8:00 am, same day

Kelly: I get up at the crack of dawn to call Colette and fuss her out about keeping this Michael guy a secret. She emails me one of his birthday party invitations, so I can get his email address. Then, I send him this message:

On 4/17/06, Kelly Virella wrote: > > Had I been more sane and awake when you dropped me off Saturday night (:>, > I > would have given you my contact information, 510-384-7640. You have a > beautiful smile and Colette says you’re always organizing something (Don’t > you just love the non-sequitur?). Put me on you list. I would definitely > like to be invited. For the fun and the ride, thanks again. > > Kelly

Michael: I write back the next day: From: "Michael Starkey" To: "Kelly Virella" Subject: Re: from Colette’s friend Date: Tue, 18 Apr 2006 08:46:53 -0700 Hi Kelly, It was really good to meet you on Saturday. I was feeling pretty much the same on Saturday night went I dropped you off -- a bit too exhausted to think to ask for your contact info. I was planning to ask Colette for your contact info this week. Looks like you beat me to it! Oh, yes, I do tend to organize gatherings at might house or for some outing now and again. That only happens once every couple of months, and it would be great to see you before then. I’m going to Seattle today. I’ll be back Thursday evening. Are you interested in doing something this weekend or next week? And thanks for the complement on my smile. You were looking good yourself :) Take care, Michael April 23

Kelly: Our first date is a picnic and 7 hour hike through Point Reyes National Seashore, a forest of coastal redwoods located on high rugged cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. We eat first, then walk through a dense stand of trees, over a stream and into a grassy clearing, where Michael starts to tell me about his grad school research. An ideas man? I love it! We meander along a sandy path to the beach, where Michael asks if he can carry my shoes. What a gentleman. Even when we lay down on the beach, about a foot apart, he keeps his hands and lips to himself. This boy’s got good manners. We resume our hike, climbing from the forest floor to the mountain ridge, where we parked.

Michael: Kelly and I finish our hike. We have pretty much talked to each other for 7 hours straight. Like I said, great chemistry. At the end of hike, we have our first kiss! April 16, 2007 One year after we meet, Michael proposes.

Michael: Kelly is coming home from work soon and I’m frantically pulling together a romantic dinner in preparation for my proposal. The ring is in a box in my pocket. A bouquet of flowers is stashed on the back step. I have her dad’s blessing. Now, it’s time to make it official. When she comes in, I hug her and jump into the shower. After my shower, I get dressed and ask her to go for a walk with me. I’m nervous!!!

Kelly: Michael says we’re just going on a walk because it’s a nice evening, but he’s anxious, his palm are sweaty and I feel like he has something to tell me. If I’m reading him right, he’s going to ask me to marry him. But I don’t want to assume anything. So I go along as if everything is normal, until he starts walking toward the boathouse. Are you taking me on a gondala ride, I ask. He says no. So I’m wondering why we’re going to boat house, until he gets down on his knee and pulls a small, black velvet box out of his pocket.

My answer is yes.

A Quickie

2008-11-26T16:47:00.001-08:00

Ouickie really scare me... but then again I thrive under pressure and limited resources. Who knew not having much as a kid would help me out as an adult. Thanks Mom and Dad for not buying me EVERYTHING I asked for.

I really love this portrait. From the assignment I thought I would have a lot of places to choose from. Although it was chilly outside I was going to try to shoot in front of this art structure. The art by itself is just way cool.

Okay... back to the portrait. So, Cohen steps out of his bentley and in the next breathe says..." lets go inside to take the shot, it is chilly out here...." Gasp, gulp... what the freak am I a going to do.

So I did what I do best... rearrange peoples' furniture and took a simple portrait. And that is what you have below. Just like a classic black dress so is this photo.

Enjoy

Fun Photos

2008-11-25T23:55:00.000-08:00

Not much to say... Here are so pics from the archive.

Enjoy

Not much to say... Here are so pics from the archive.

Enjoy

Kayaking on Hudson River

2008-11-25T23:43:00.001-08:00

When I first got home I was extremely tired. I edited my work and fell asleep in my clothes on the sofa. I woke up after 10pm and now I am not sleepy. After trying to get some sleep I decided I would be productive. I was editing material for my redesigned website when I came across this video. Wow!!! Almost two years of creating videos for the paper, this is one of my earliest videos. I am amazed how the videos are pretty good despite not having any experience.

Enjoy

Elevators

2008-11-24T20:01:00.000-08:00

My life is like an elevator these days. I am going up and down and I can't seem to get off the elevator. Holidays can be quite fun and boring. After ten years in the business you think to yourself how can I make a soup kitchen photo on Thanksgiving different than last year. The same elements tend to be in play... the persons receiving the meal don't want to be photographed and the volunteers don't mind. Of course that isn't what my editors want. Argh!!!!

Then I made the mistake of overbooking myself for gigs while the iron is hot although we are going through an economic down fall. Got to stock pile the cash... especially since there will be dome day at my job in December. Yes, they want to drop 10% more of the staff.

Everyone is worried, scared... deep down I am scared but life is unfolding too rapidly for me to notice. Really what can I do if they ax me. Just come back the next day and freelance.

Well, I have a gonzillion things in the fire that need to be edited, research, produced and just started. Enjoy this photo.

Way too LONG!!

2008-11-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

I still don't have a voice. It is kinda cool not being able to talk. I can brush off those people whom I don't want to speak with. Then again.. they keep talking while I want to yell and shout but just can't. I digress... so my assignment today was a simple one. Cover a veteran day celebration in Yonkers. It was a beautiful day outside. I walked around got some cool shots. Then I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Is that... no can't be... yes, it is her nails. I have never understood the need to grow your nails to the point of not being able to wipe your own a$$- excuse my french.

Is this a cultural thing? I have seen men in India grow there nails to this length. If u know please let me know or am going to have to try my luck with Wikipedia

I think I should stop talking now and just let u see the pics. Enjoy-

Dia de Los Muertos

2008-11-08T21:59:00.000-08:00

Another great assignment from el barrio del Museo. Here are a few pictures.

Enjoy