Monday, October 28, 2013

{FILM} 35mm Style

Shooting in film is raw, creative, and gritty.

Each photograph is taken with precision, care, and intense focus.  There is no way to know that your photograph is exactly how you want it other than making sure you took correctly.  Are your lines straight?  Is your white balance correct?  Is your shutter speed fast enough?  Is your focal point on target?

There are no redo's and there is no immediate gratification.

I firmly believe every photographer must occasionally shoot in film to keep their skills sharp and to venture back into the creative arena of making every shot count.

About a month ago I wrote about a photo excursion I took where I shot in both film and digital.  Here are the film shots I took....  They are completely unedited except for my watermark.






The digital shots have much more clarity and are a better quality overall, however there is just something about the film shots... they have so much raw emotion.  I feel they capture the mood so much better... What are your thoughts?  Which do you like better?  The film shots or the digital ones. If you missed the link above, here is the link to the digital shots.

Capturing the Moment.

Corrie <3

Monday, October 21, 2013

Around Town: Felix the Peanut Man

Felix is somewhat of a local hero on Amelia Island, FL.  He can be seen selling peanuts, pineapples, and other items on his three wheeled bicycle down the cobblestone sidewalk of Downtown Fernandina Beach.  He has been a local favorite for over 20 years.  

Back in April of 2009, there was a City Commission meeting that had Felix on the agenda.  An out of towner was upset he couldn't open a hot dog stand and named Felix as an example of someone who was not following the law.  The city banded together in traditional small town fashion, all supporting their local favorite street peddler.  There were t-shirts made, signs, pickets, and even cookies made by Felix's mom.  This was truly an epic moment.  When Felix was offered the podium at the City Commission meeting, he pulled out his harmonica and played "My Country, Tis of Thee" according to an article in the Florida Times Union.  They all agreed that hot dog man had to go, but Felix could stay and continue doing what he had been doing for over two decades.  The Mayor even proclaimed April 29 as Felix Jones Day.

"Felix the Peanut Man"
ISO 320 ~ 28mm ~ f/4.5 ~ 1/200 sec
© Corrie M Avila

When I ran into Felix, I was spending the day with my family in Downtown Fernandina.  My son and cousin had just walked into the ice cream shop on the corner, when I heard someone playing the harmonica down the sidewalk.  I looked up and saw Felix with a harmonica cradled in his weathered hands and a radiant smile on his face.

Felix is an inspiration.  He has a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy, but does not let that define who he is.  He has spent the last 20 years selling peanuts he boils himself and other fruits.  He then takes the money he earns and donates it to schools and local charities.  Completely inspiring.

So play on Felix.  Play your music.  Tell your story through your song.  We are behind you and we support you.

Capturing the Moment,

Corrie <3

Some Links for your Reading Pleasure:
http://www.polkpreps.com/article/20130829/NEWS/130829131?template=printpicart
http://fbfl.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/2702
http://www.fbnewsleader.com/articles/2009/04/07/news/00newscityvsfelix.txt
http://jacksonville.com/community/my_nassau_sun/2009-04-18/story/historic_district_views_fernandina_commission_did_right_by_
http://www.searchamelia.com/felix-jones-icon-of-amelia-island

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Missing Fall

Northern Florida has some amazing qualities... such as the beach, some amazing sunrises, warm weather, and theme parks just a few hours away.  But what it doesn't have, is a real Fall.  I am desperately missing the change of the season, the crispness to the air, and leaves... in all different hues silently falling one by one as the wind blows...

Last fall in Northern Virginia
ISO 100 ~ 41mm ~ f/4.0 ~ 1/800 sec
© Corrie M. Avila

So you will have to excuse me as I have my personal pity party over here.  I wish I were apple picking, going to the pumpkin patch, and watching my son play Fall Soccer.  After having distinguishable seasons for the past 6 years, it just seems like this October is missing something.  

Capturing the Moment,

Corrie <3