maginei: Inter|Act Blog

Ride A Wave Video

2010-05-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here's my first video attempt documenting Ride A Wave camps. Today was a particularly exciting day for me as I photographed from the water for the first time ever (and took a few video excerpts as well).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8KouhMeiH0

This blog has moved

2010-04-28T17:44:00.001-07:00

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Symantec Conference

2010-04-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

Last week I enjoyed the chance to photograph for Symantec Corporation, where they held their Vision Conference at the MGM Grand from April 12-15. I photographed a number of events, did headshots for their magazine, and had the opportunity to meet their community. I even got some down time to see Cirque de Soleil's Ka show!

Some photos to come shortly. Right now, I'm just downloading, backing up and editing.

Business Portrait: Color or Black and White?

2010-03-02T18:18:00.000-08:00

When talking to businesspeople about their executive portrait, I often get asked whether they should order their image in color or black and white. It's a good question, as color offers a very different perspective and interaction with the image than black and white. My answer is always BOTH (and I include both in the final package). Here's why:

Look at the examples below. What is your first reaction to the color image? Do you react differently to the black and white image? Not only do people's reaction differ to the images, and you may want one type of reaction vs. another, but media also change. An image on newsprint may blur in color, whereas display more clearly in black and white. So always get both and use according to your need.

CEO, Color Image

CEO, Black and White

Copyright 2010 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Catalog images

2010-01-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a composited shot of a catalog shoot that I recently completed for a green business in Santa Cruz. I love that we're getting so many local green companies in the area. I've started greening maginei, as well: all online reminders, invoices, finishing off the last of the bottled waters then will replace with jug, and of course the biggest green-friendly effort a photographer can make: shoot digital!

Organic Bags

Copyright 2010 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Leveling Up

2010-01-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited to share that I've been accepted to grad school. I'll be studying photography (of course!). Here's to taking my skills to the next level! To infinity and beyond!

2010 Inter|Act Calendars Now Available

2009-12-29T15:03:00.001-08:00

Back by popular demand, the maginei Inter|Act calendar features images spanning the prior year's personal work of photographer Kimberley Bermender. Cost: $20.00

Calendar Cover

Calendar Back

Happy Holidays from maginei!

2009-12-24T10:27:00.000-08:00

As 2009 comes to a close, we wanted to thank you for the opportunity to work with you.
It was an exciting year for maginei as we grew professionally, personally and as a business. We couldn't have accomplished these successes without you:

We closed one studio location and opened another
Our architectural photography clients won illustrious industry awards
We expanded our integrated marketing services division, working with companies large and small to deliver outstanding marketing materials

We have lots planned for 2010, and will be taking time over the next weeks to refine our business vision. Stay tuned for our January update!

For now, we wish all of our clients — past, present and future — a healthy and joyous new year! We look forward to 2010 and the opportunity to work with you.

Best wishes for the holiday season.
Kimberley

Almaden Music Festival

2009-08-09T12:02:00.001-07:00

Here are some shots from last night's 2nd Annual New Almaden Music Festival, which was a benefit show for multiple sclerosis awareness.

View Slideshow

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Executive Portraits with a Twist

2009-07-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent portrait session images, including some shots of the 'not so executive portrait.' Some clients look to explore non-traditional images that capture a part of their personality they feel is key to their business success. Can you find the creative physician? An edgy lawyer? Nothing says that you have to go with a traditional headshot for your executive portrait, and these clients prove it!

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Explorations

2009-07-27T16:47:00.000-07:00

Creative vision doesn't come from the tools we use as photographers, but sometimes a new toy can help to force a shift of perspective. I spent some time this weekend at Roaring Camp Railroad, photographing trains with a new lens and just playing with light, perspective, and inspiring myself to start a new creative project. More to come, of course...

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

maginei Participates in Surfrider Santa Cruz's Surf Art, Photography & Film Fest

2009-06-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

maginei had several photographs on display during the Surfrider Santa Cruz's Surf Art, Photography & Film Fest exhibition, part of the International Surfing Day celebration.

If you didn't get a chance to check out the local art, check out our contributions to the exhibit:

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

First Portrait Session At New Studio

2009-06-12T19:32:00.000-07:00

There's something that comes to mind about old dogs and new tricks as I look at these images from my first session in my new studio. Here I am in new location, and yet I don't move off the black background. It's not that I'm incapable of swapping out my backgrounds (and yes, I do actually have a variety of muslins), but there's something just so very right about black for portraits - even children's. And I'm happy that my clients agree!

Stoked Surfer

Sittin' in Style

Perfect Trim

On another note, I've confirmed that the studio is actually large enough for a photographer, assistant, two kids under age five, a nanny and a mom during a session. Phew, Otherwise, someone was going to have to stand in the parking lot!

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Ride-A-Wave

2009-05-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

I have the great honor of photographing for Ride-A-Wave, an organization dedicated to getting kids with special needs into the water to kayak, boogieboard and surf. Here are a few shots from the past couple of weeks

Stoked Surfer

Sittin' in Style

Perfect Trim

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

New Studio!

2009-05-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to let you know that after several long months without a studio, maginei will have a 'photographic roof' over our heads again. I'd thought that with the amount of location photography that I do, it wouldn't be that large of a loss to go without a studio. Wrong, wrong, wrong.

We'll be situated at Rodeo Plaza, a warehouse complex off of 41st Ave in Santa Cruz. Details (and photos) to come, but wanted to share the big new!

2nd Year In A Row: maginei Client Wins National Architectural Award

2009-02-15T17:55:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to ABW Construction, who recently won the prestigious National Association of Remodeling Industry’s 2009 Gold Medal award - for the second year in a row! This is also the second year that maginei has created the photography for ABW Construction's submissions, in addition to designing the image layout for submission.

This shoot had it's challenges, including photographing the front and back in the same day under really harsh lighting conditions and high winds blowing leaves constantly onto the set. On the other side, I had a great crew, we had lots of fun, and shared many laughs as well as sweeping duty. And here are the results:

Loggia

Carport, rear view

Pool

Pool & loggia

Panoramic view of back

Copyright 2009 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

What's New

2009-02-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

These have been busy times, and I have a number of changes to share with my community:

First off, and most business-changing, I closed the maginei studio at the end of the year, after being unable to secure a new space for the studio. I am still searching for a new studio location, and if you know of studio space available in Santa Cruz, I'd love to hear about it! So, what does that mean to you? First off, I continue to offer catalog and commercial services, but will have to set up at your location in the short-term. Location services continue unchanged.

Have I stopped photographing? Not at all! Just a hiatus from publishing on my blog. In fact, I have great news and kudos to a maginei client, ABW Construction, who just won a prestigious architecture award using maginei photography. Did I mention that this is the 2nd year in a row? Congratulations to ABW Construction, and photos to follow.

The last big item to share is that I am venturing into video - after helping out a good friend and cinematographer with a video shoot recently, I seem to have caught the bug. I'm in a steep learning curve as I discover the joys of audio, motion and location, as well as a completely different approach to visual narrative. I promise to share some results soon.

Well, it's been a belated 2009 update, but please stay tuned as change seems to be the mantra of my year.

Blessings to all,
Kimberley

Personal Work: Europe

2008-10-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

I've just spent two weeks in Europe (England and Italy), recharging the creative juice. I viewed more galleries and cathedrals than any one brain can absorb in two weeks, and have come back inspired from having the privilege of viewing works from so many great masters. It'll take me several years to digest it all...

Of course, I managed a few shots of my own while touring. More to come, but here's one, at least....

It was a strange time to be away from home, trying to follow news reports of economies crashing, 700 point drops, bailouts, buyouts, and the likes. I think this shot really captured my state of mind.

David Under Construction

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Business Portraits

2008-09-23T19:46:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from holiday, and realize that I was so busy finishing orders prior to leaving that I've been negligent about posting recent photo sessions. More to come, but here are two business portrait sessions.

Christine

David

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

8/8/08 Wedding : The Perfect Day

2008-08-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

Beach weddings in Santa Cruz during the summer are often cold and foggy. Who said "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco?" Well, Santa Cruz is just down the road...

On this wedding day, 8/8/08, we had perfect weather. Not only was the weather perfect, but this was one of the loveliest weddings in which I've been honored to participate. The couple were charming, location gorgeous, amazing light, fun friends and family... it truly came together as a perfect day. Here are some of the moments:

Ceremony

Love On the Rocks

"I'm Married"

The Guys

The Cake

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Catalog Session

2008-07-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

Last week I did a two-day clothing catalog photo shoot with 60 final images delivered for a clothing company. Lessons learned from such an aggressive number of shots in a short timeframe: In order to maintain a high level of quality, we worked with a very tight process. A really sound, repeatable process ensures consistency, accuracy and detail - all critical factors when working on catalog images. It also helps that I had truly talented clothing stylists working with me. Fabric can be tough, and these shots really came together as we worked collaboratively to get the best images.

Be consistent: Catalog images end up side-by-side, so consistency is key

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Happy 4th Weekend!

2008-07-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

To clients, friends, family, I wish everyone a fun-filled, safe long holiday weekend. I am heading to High Sierra Music Festival where I will be photographing. I'll post some of the results here next week, time permitting. I have a completely booked schedule next week, so bear with me if I lag a bit on the blog posts. Actually, I'm already lagging, as have several jobs that are yet to get up here yet.

Happy travels!
Kimberley

Band Promo Shots: When High Noon Works

2008-06-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

I love a challenge: six guys, four locations, high noon, just over two hours. This session took a lot of scheduling to get the entire band together, and we had very few choices for timeslots. While many photographers will say they never photograph at noon, I actually find that with my style, which tends toward high contrast and dramatic, I can make that harsh light work in my favor. There were a few instances where I had to change spots to get the light, but for the most part, it worked out just fine. And the band was fantastic to work with - they're excellent models as well as musicians. To hear them live, check out Cuordoroy Jim.

Band on the Tracks
Bent Bike Wheels and Graffitti - Should be a Song Title!

Cuordoroy Jim

My Tombstone Vision Comes to Life

Stylin'

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Photographer in Action

2008-06-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

I took a holiday weekend with my husband to celebrate a friend's birthday. We were in Big Sur for three fun days of camping, great music, celebrating and enjoying ourselves with many friends.

So what does a photographer do while on vacation? Well, Arizona Steve caught me in action, camera in hand. It's not often the photographer gets her picture taken, so thought I'd share.

kb Caught in action. Photo credit: Arizona Steve Schneider, runningamok.net

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Event Photos: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

2008-05-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

It was an absolute thrill to photograph Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as he spoke at the corporate event that I was photographing yesterday evening. His environmental message was so powerful and compelling that I almost forgot to photograph at moments! He followed his presentation with a book signing of his new book: the riverkeepers (find out about the amazing organization behind the book at riverkeeper.org). Here are some of the highlight moments of the evening:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Speaks

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Environmental Crusader

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Speaks

Book Signing: the riverkeepers

On another note, I, along with so many people in America today, extend my wishes to Senator Kennedy and the Kennedy family as they deal with the news of his tumor. Senator Kennedy has given decades of dedicated service to this country and his nephew, as demonstrated at last evening's event, continues and extends the service of this great American family. A heartfelt thanks to both.

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Event: Star Analytics

2008-05-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

I'm just back from photographing two days of Star Analytics' Customer Advisory Board meeting. Highlights of the event (for me, at least) included their announcement of winning a prestigious Red Herring 100 award, as well as presentation by industry luminary Howard Dresner. Congratulations Star Analytics!

of the evening:

A Round Table Discussion

Howard Dresner, Industry Expert

Quinlan Eddy, Founder & CTO, Star Analytics

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Concert Event: Zyante Hoedown

2008-05-11T20:29:00.001-07:00

I've seen fire-dancers before, this being California and all. But I've never seen a fire-drummer! These shots were taken at the Zyante Hoedown, an annual music celebration in the Santa Cruz mountains. You can also check out the slideshow. which includes band images of Grampa's Chili and Dave Stein Bubhub.

Lighting the sticks

Chanda drums fire and sound

Alana dances with fire

Fire song, power song

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Event Coverage: Ride A Wave

2008-04-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

"Ride a Wave's mission is to give children with special needs the chance to feel the thrill of riding a wave and experience a safe, fun-filled day at the beach, whether they are physically, developmentally or economically challenged. Since its inception in 1998, Ride a Wave (RAW) has helped over 2,500 kids get in the water and have a life changing day at the beach."

Photographing these events and being part of these kids' first ocean experiences is an absolute honor. Their courage and the expressions on their faces as they experience the ocean is an inspiration to me. It is the most fun photography!

Slideshows

04/26/2008 - Sycamore House Commons RAW Camp

04/27/2008 - Burn Foundation/California & Peninsula Schools for the Blind

Business Portraits: Formal Headshot vs. Environmental Portrait

2008-04-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

I get a lot of calls from clients for headshots, and am seeing a trend moving away from the traditional executive headshot to clients looking for ways to compliment their personalities and businesses.

As both corporate and small businesses work to create approachable, customer-centric images for themselves, it's natural to reflect this positioning in your custom photography.As to which is right for you, formal vs. envirnomental, perhaps the answer is: both, depending.

WHICH ONE'S FOR YOU?

Formal Headshot
Environmental Portrait

Think of this: on your Web site, where you might have 3-7 key business member bios and photographs listed, a consistent, close-up view of the team is often the way to go. You can incorporate the feel of the business with colorized or black and white imagery, unusual cropping, unusual focus, etc. Magazines will often want a formal headshot image, and brochures and business cards generally don't have enough room for larger environmental images.

Alternatively, press packages and editorial articles, as well as the Web site, are often looking for that shot of the businessperson involved in the business.

Which one is right for you? When you're ready for a business portrait session, talk to your photographer about how you hope to use your photographs, what you want to represent, and what you style as a person and business reflects. Often, from answering those few questions, the answer is already solved.

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Event Photography: Antics Movie Premiere

2008-04-23T14:40:00.001-07:00

Gary Irving's Santa Cruz surf film, Antics, premiered at the Rio Theatre on April 12th, as part of a benefit fundraiser for Ride A Wave. The film showcases a stellar cast of local surfers, including: Jason "Ratboy" Collins, CJ Nelson, Tanner Beckett, Dane Perlee, Robert "Wingnut" Weaver and many more standout talents.

I photographed the event, and many of Santa Cruz's most active surf community stars came out to support Gary, Ride A Wave, and watch a great film. Sponsor was GP Surfboards, and some lucky fella walked off with a beautiful new board (I still can't believe I didn't win it!).

View the Antics Movie Premiere Slideshow

We'll be photographing upcoming Ride A Wave events. Check back for images.

Gary Sees His Film on Big Screen
Filling Out Raffle Tickets

Enraptured Audience

In Front of Theatre

Only In Santa Cruz: Surfers Crossing

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Professional Photographer's of America Workshop

2008-04-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

What do photographers do when we're not on assignment? The answer: continue learning, playing with gear, photographing photographing photographing the world around us. I attended a PPA (Professional Photographer's of America ) workshop last weekend hosted by Marc Benjamin in Suisun, CA. Here a couple of the shots where we were playing with lighting:

Model on Pony
Classic Portrait Setup

Pretty Girl, Crazy Lighting. 'Harry Potter' Double Side-Lighting

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Architectural Photo Shoot

2008-04-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

This dramatic space was designed for a orthopedic surgeon's clinic. The space offered may angles to approach from; the stunning ceiling lines, windows, millwork, and granite gave me focus for my shots. Unfortunately, the sun was moving fast and bright across the sky throughout the shoot, so there were some significant time constrictions on some of the shots. Of course, as soon as I wrapped up for the day, I got the cloud covered I'd been hoping for since 10 am :)

Waiting Room
Reception Desk

Doctor's Office

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Models: Studio Session

2008-03-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Kyle joined me in the studio for an action-packed session. They were high-energy, enthusiastic, and photogenic - every photographer's ideal combination for models.

Kyle & Jessica, 'Come Hither'
Boarder Kyle

Jessica

Kyle & Jessica

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Event Coverage: Rock Band Images

2008-02-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

Here are some shots from a recent Five Eyed Hand rock show at Don Quixote's in Felton, CA. Show summary: combine awesome talent in a great venue and good things happen. I was happy to have the opportunity to photograph this very talented group of musicians and their special guests.

Five Eyed Hand, Don Quixote's

Chris Zanardi

"Fiddler Mikey" Henderson
Jeb Taylor, Fiddler Mikey

Special Guest, Poet Sam Flott

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

Images from Joshua Tree Retreat

2008-02-16T15:23:00.000-08:00

I mentioned in a previous post that I spent a week in Joshua Tree as part of my annual business planning, figuring everything out, get inspired retreat. Well, part of keeping inspired as a photographer is working on personal projects, and one of my projects is to photograph California deserts. Here are some of my favorite images from Joshua Tree.

Intrepid Photographer in Rattlesnake Canyon (photo, Dan Bermender)

Approaching Storm

View from the Mine
Coyote 1

Coyote in the Road

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei photography

maginei Prints on Display in Santa Cruz

2008-02-11T10:33:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy time for maginei local displays. We displayed a series of retail images from wedding and portrait sessions at Bay Photo located on 41st Ave throughout the month of January. Now, in Feb, we've been invited to display at the Bay Photo located on Branciforte and Soquel Ave in Santa Cruz. Check out the display, as it runs through Feb.

Bay Photo Lab, 41st Avenue

Bay Photo Lab, Branciforte & Soquel

Copyright 2008 Kimberley Bermender
maginei: weddings & portraits

Best Wishes for 2008 from maginei

2008-01-02T17:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of the maginei clients for another fun-filled, great year of photography! Some of the highlights of 2007 included opening our new studio downtown Santa Cruz, having one of our architectural clients win a national design award using maginei photography and design for award submission, being including in the International Museum of Women's gallery, and being represented by Adobe Stock Images. And of course, the grandest highlight goes to our clients, I thank you for all of the wonderful photo sessions I had the honor to be involved with in 2007.

So what's in store for 2008? First off, I will doing another 'desert-retreat' in January, followed by attendance at the ASMP Strictly Business Conference in LA. Last year, I spent a week in Death Valley. This year, it will be Joshua Tree. The goal of the retreat is to reflect on the past year, look ahead, and regroup for another busy year. Oh yes, and of course I'll be bringing my camera, as one of my personal photography goals includes a desert series ;) Also on the agenda for 2008, a Web site revision, or actually, two. Visit www.magineiweddings.com for wedding and family portrait work. Visit www.maginei.com for corporate, editorial and architectural work. The goal is to better serve our different client groups.

OK, now to work, I have lots to do! Looking forward to working and playing with everyone in 2008!

maginei Client Wins National Architectural Award

2007-12-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to ABW Construction, who recently won the prestigious National Association of Remodeling Industry’s 2007 Gold Medal award for an entire House Remodel in the $500K-$1M category!

maginei has enjoyed working on a number of architectural photo assignments for ABW Construction, including photographing the house that won the award, and for designing the image layout for the design submission. We had a number of panoramic VR movies that were taken of the interior, and for the final design submission, we created a single image from the movie.

VR images are becoming more and more popular for commercial photography, as they provide both a sense of a space the flow through the space, allowing viewers to become virtually immersed in the scene, rather than viewing a traditional image.

VR Movie of Award-winning Remodel

Reduced version of the image

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Bands, Babies, Chocolates and More

2007-12-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

It's been a hectic few months, and I really have not kept up with my blog very well. So, in one giant post, I'll bring you up to date on the highlights of recent maginei activity.

Family Time
I've had the pleasure of photographing a number of families both in the studio and on location. Here are some of my favorite images from these family photo shoots:

Rob and Yolanda Look Forward to Baby

Rob and Yolanda

Mikey, Laurel and Quinn at the Beach

Quinn Discovers the Ocean

Mikey and Quinn Warm Up

Mark, April and Reyna

Reyna Moves Fast - Keep Up Folks!

Mark and Reyna - Quiet Time
Snack Time
Food photography is an entirely different beast from people, and I'm not sure which is more complicated. The technical detail needed to make meat and other food items look realistic and appetizing is quite the challenge!

Godiva Chocolates

Hoffman's Bakery - Beef On Pastry

Hoffman's Bakery - Crab Cakes

Hoffman's Bakery - Fruit Tarte

Hoffman's Bakery - Dessert Selection

Party Time
The following images were taken on location at the Catalyst, Santa Cruz, where the band Five Eyed Hand played on Dec. 8th.

Five Eyed Hand - Catalyst

Drummer/Singer Derek Bodkin, Five Eyed Hand

Chris and Jeb Rockin', Five Eyed Hand

Wedding: Hollins House, Pasatiempo Golf Club

2007-10-07T19:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some images from this weekend's wedding shoot, located at the historic Hollins House (built in 1929 by championship golfer Marion Hollins) at the Pasatiempo Golf Club. Pasatiempo was designed by world-renowned golf architect Alister MacKenzie. It's ranked #12 in Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play 2006-2007.

The wedding was outside at the gazebo at 6pm, and we had stunning clear views across Monterey Bay.

Love ~ Loyalty ~ Friendship

The Guys

Portrait with Pasatiempo Golf Course Behind

Hollins House Gazebo Ceremony

Frolicking in Front of Hollins House

Wedding: St. Joseph's Cathedral

2007-10-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

A cathedral wedding is gorgeous and this was no exception. The ceremony was held later in the evening, so unfortunately the light wasn't ideal. But between old cars, cool kids and amazing venue, there was lots of eye-candy for the photographer!

Getting Ready

1928 Classic Car to Whisk the Couple Away

Flowers on Running Board

The Bride

Unity Candle Lighting

Bling Review

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

An Event: Walnut Ave Women's Center Unity Day Celebration

2007-10-01T17:39:00.001-07:00

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Walnut Ave Women's Center was hosting a Unity Day celebration. Kimberley photographed the event, which included speeches by Mayor Riley and others. maginei was honored to participate in such an event.

Now how are you going to celebrate Unity Day?

Adding Handprints to the Wall

Mayor Riley Reviews the Mayor's Proclamation

Mayor Riley Speaking Out Against Domestic Violence

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Death Valley Panoramic

2007-09-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

I've been working on VR panoramics for a while, but primarily on architectural shoots. This is the first of a series as I explore the possibilities of immersive imagery using VR for other projects, as well.

Panoramic of Zabriskie Point, Death Valley, CA

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Twins Portrait Session

2007-08-15T21:44:00.001-07:00

Twin babies create challenges I'd never dreamed of; this was a fun and challenging portrait session with highlights including how to get pee off the backdrop. Don't worry folks, it got washed! Seriously though, these two were absolutely sweet and real treasures to work with.

Double Vision

Twins

More Twins

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Wedding: New York

2007-08-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

The wedding was in New York, so I took some time off and traveled the city. Crammed a lot of tourist time into just a couple of days, but the city had me all inspired by the time of the wedding (will post tourist shots separately). The wedding couple went with a retro theme and had both the ceremony and reception in a well-known restaurant.

The Bride and Groom

The Groom

The Bride

Groom and Henchmen, Goofing Before Formals

Wedding Party

The Restaurant

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Wedding: Byron Airfield

2007-07-16T17:08:00.001-07:00

A wild wedding, taking place at the drop zone of a parachute club, with huge gusting wind. Highlights included the bride and groom being handcuffed at the end of the ceremony, lots of wild parachutists attending, beautiful hills in the background, and a really fun couple.

Bride at the Drop Zone

We Do, At the Drop Zone

Best Girlfriends

Inside the Hanger

Just Married: Riding Into the Sunset...
Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Engagement Portrait Session: San Francisco

2007-07-06T14:38:00.001-07:00

Here are some images from a recent engagement session in San Francisco. The couple wanted to have a variety of 'signature San Francisco' backgrounds.

Cable Car

Legion of Honor

Golden Gate Bridge, from Presidio

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Studio Portrait

2007-07-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

We've created four separate portrait light areas in the studio, and then were working on images using a center bare bulb strobe. Very interesting and effective. Here's a recent shot using the bare bulb with two kicker lights behind.

The Thinker

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Architectural Shoot: Day and Night

2007-06-16T19:10:00.001-07:00

I was commissioned to photograph this home both during the day and at night. It was a dramatic reminder that the landscape is completely changed depending on the light. The following are some of my favorite shots of this home, both interiors and exteriors, day and night.

Night View of Front

Day View of Front

Night View of Entry

Terrace

Kitchen Detail

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

maginei Studio

2007-05-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Work begins on the new maginei studio! Located in downtown Santa Cruz, it will offer studio sessions for clients, workshops, and studio rental space for photographers, continuing my personal mandate to work in and support the photographic community.

We'll be having a grand opening celebration, probably July 1st timeframe to properly celebrate this big step for maginei photography.

Commercial: Architectural

2007-04-12T19:39:00.001-07:00

This home had fantastic circular granite counters in both the kitchen and bar. The great open space, amazing craftsmanship, and flow through the home gave me plenty to work with and I ended up shooting from many different angles. The biggest challenge was the shifting light on a bright day. But a little realism in a photo session isn't a bad thing.

Kitchen

Bar/Family

Family Room

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Commercial: Gym

2007-04-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

I approached this photo session for MichRoFit with the primary goal of capturing movement. It wasn't until the end of the session that I decided to document some of the 'tools of the trade' and then I revisited some thinking from when I first started chewing on this project: the idea of the body as a machine. The final shots were about gears, levers, hydraulics, and many things that one might not associate with a commercial session in a private gym.

Teamwork

Running

Weights

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Photographing Bands

2007-02-23T20:53:00.000-08:00

My first time either attending or photographing at this venue, Don Quixote's in Felton, CA. I photographed both Open Space Project and Skeleton Cruz. I don't do a lot of band photography as it just seems so overdone, that so many have stood on the sidelines to photograph for so long, and it's rare that I get a sense of the music from a photograph. At last evening's photo session, I approached with a combination of my love for long exposure and capturing an image that is outside of the eye's perception with the feel of the jamband music. The results are in...

Open Space Project

Derek Bodkin, Skeleton Cruz

Skeleton Cruz

Skeleton Cruz, Don Quixote's
Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Corporate Event

2007-02-22T09:09:00.000-08:00

As I was doing a photo session for a corporate event at Hayes Mansion in San Jose, this sliver moon appeared over the mansion. Here's the still shot; I also did a panoramic which I'll include here.

Hayes Mansion with Quarter Moon

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Event Photography for Silent Auction

2007-01-04T16:57:00.000-08:00

maginei was honored provide the photography for True Salon's silent auction in support of the Support Network for Battered Women organization last month. A great party supporting a great cause.

Silent Auction for Support Network for Battered Women

True Salon, Venue

DJ

Copyright 2007 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Thanks to You!

2006-12-28T17:41:00.000-08:00

As I review my past year and make plans for the adventures of 2007, I just wanted to take a moment and say thanks to all of my wonderful clients with whom I've had the great fortune to work this past year.

One of the surprises as I looked at back is how many of you have stayed in touch with me; maternity photos turned into baby pictures, engagement images into weddings. I am honored to have worked with all of you, and wish you the very best in 2007. Thanks for choosing maginei! May your next year be blessed with health and happiness!

All my best,
Kimberley

www.maginei.com

Wild Horses

2006-12-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

One of the great aspects of working as a professional photographer is that each day is so different from the prior; one day working on a family portrait on the beach, the next day a studio lit interior for an executive portrait. And some days, you are not creating the images, they come to you, and that feels like a great gift. Yesterday was such a day.

I was doing a shoot of a ranch in Los Gatos. As I was setting up my gear to capture the amazing views (from San Francisco to the South Bay), two horses approached. The woman I was with said that they were wild, but very friendly. Sure enough, they both came right up to me, nosing in my camera bag, and one even fogged up my lense as he breathed into the camera. And wouldn't you know it, they were both camera-happy!

Then, later in the afternoon after visiting with my friend Jan, I swerved off the side of the road as I came upon this sunset view of the Santa Cruz Harbor lighthouse, where I was married four years ago. After spending several minutes visualizing how I wanted to create the composition, I realized that I was very quickly losing light. I went into 'fast' mode, and was so surprised when I worked on the image later and ended up with the exact image that I had visualized.

Some days are a gift.

Wild Horse

Wild Horse with Bay View in Background

Santa Cruz Harbor Lighthouse

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
maginei

Personalized Holiday Cards, Photo Calendars and More!

2006-11-01T15:41:00.000-08:00

The weather is getting chilly, and at maginei, we're getting ready for the holidays. Why send a generic message to your family, friends and customers this holiday when maginei makes it easy to give personalized, quality photo gifts that everyone will love! It's easy:

1. Book a portrait session (for yourself, your family or your office team).
2. Pick your favorite image and choose a style from our
selection of greeting card, photo calendar, magnet and gift tag templates.
3. Place your order and there you go... personalized holiday gifts from you to your clients, friends and family.
Portrait Sessions
Personalize your holiday with a business or family portrait session. Includes pre-session consultation, one hour photo shoot in Bay area location (with as many people as you want to squeeze into the image), online proofing and print ordering gallery.

Book now.

Greeting cards, photo calendars, gift tags and magnets

Use an image from your maginei portrait shoot to create personalized holiday cards, gift tags, magnets and photo calendars. Choose from our wide selection of templates:

Holiday greeting cards

Photo calendars

Magnets

Gift tags

Schedule your photo session by November 30th to ensure holiday delivery.

A Local Event: Santa Cruz Peace Lights

2006-09-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

After a long hiatus away from the blog, I barely know where to backtrack to in terms of assignments to share. With all the recent work, it seems strange to focus on a personal project as recent as yesterday. Catch up with the recent present and the past will make itself clear?
At 9pm on Thurs Sept 21, five hundred giant flashlights were lighted along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, and pointed to the sky in celebration of peace. In true Santa Cruz style, the town came out to party - thousands of families, couples, crews, and yep, lots of photographers descended along the 4 mile stretch to enjoy the spectacle. Lasting for about 30 minutes, the lights burned though the light fog in the area. The following images were taken using a fisheye lens, challenging reciprocity at 30 second + exposures.

West Cliff Before the Lights

Peace Lights on West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

Peace Lights Illuminate the Santa Cruz Surf Museum

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Assignment: Lighting Transparent Objects

2006-05-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

Shining light from below or behind is a standard method for lighting glass or other transparent objects. The photograph below was created with the following setup:

- Diffusion material behind
- Glass table
- Strobe light with softbox behind and below table, aiming toward the glass head

While the technique is standard, the details that suddenly pop with the light can be great discoveries. In this case, the head will be base of a digital artwork, incorporating text and... who knows what else.

Glass head lit from behind and below with strobe and softbox

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Living Legends: A Who's Who of Northern California's Legendary Photographers

2006-05-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

Founded in 1944, the American of Media Photographers (ASMP) is the leading trade association for publication photographers. The Northern California chapter has boasted such esteemed members as Ansel Adams, Imogen Cunningham and Bob Cameron.

This week was an opportunity to meet some of the legends of the photo industry, as we celebrated a number of lifetime ASMP members. Giving sage advise, discussing issues of archiving, orphan works, and keeping motivated in your 80s and 90s were: Wayne Miller, Joe Munroe, Jon Brenneis, Matt Herron, Morton Beebe, Bob Cameron and Phiz Mezey. What an honor!

L to R: Wayne Miller, Joe Munroe, Jon Brenneis, Matt Herron, Morton Beebe, bottom row: Bob Cameron, Phiz Mezey

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Night Photography Assignment: Creating Great Night Images

2006-05-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

Photographs are all about light. So many photographs are taken during daylight, that by default a night image has an air of mystery to it. In this assignment, create several distinct image styles at night.

Here's what you'll need for your nighttime photo shoot:

- Camera with ability to take long exposures
- A tripod
- A quick release cable (optional, but really helps with camera shake)
- A location with some light
- A flashlight deer light or other light source (optional, but a lot of fun)

1. Find a location with some available light (moonlight, streelights) or just after sunset.
2. Set up your tripod and quick release cable.
3. Meter? Forget about it! Night photography metering consists of your eye and experience. Play with shutter speeds. I'll often start at a few seconds, then work my way up to a minute + (you'll soon learn the law of reciprocity failure*). One of the great advantages of the digital camera is the ability to change ISO on the fly. Play with longer shutter speeds, increase ISO and see the results (clue: high ISO will give a grainier 'feel' to the image. Can you make this work as a compositional tool?).
4. Photography literally means 'writing with light'. Why not take that literally? With your camera on the tripod pointing at a fairly dark area with some discernable objects in in, set your shutter speed to a minute (this will vary, depending on the ambient light in the area, and how close you are to the objects). Release your shutter, and take a flashlight or deer light and start painting around objects. Notice that you can paint foreground, middle and background areas, just depending how much time you have with the shutter. Also, you can work yourself into the image as well.

Long exposure Joshua Tree landscape painted with flashlight. Notice the light streaks from the stars and the graininess of the image. 303 seconds, f/11, ISO 800

Hand held Halloween night, downtown Santa Cruz, people moving. 60 seconds, f/6.7, ISO 400

Tricky, this has an infrared filter on it, Santa Cruz beach boardwalk. 60 seconds, f/16, ISO 400

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Reciprocity Failure Definition (Wikipedia)
Reciprocity refers to the inverse relationship between the intensity and duration of light that determines exposure of light-sensitive material. Within a normal exposure range for film stock, for example, the reciprocity law states that exposure = intensity × time. Therefore, the same exposure can result from reducing duration and increasing light intensity, and vice versa.

Outside of the normal range, the reciprocity law does not describe the actual behavior of light-sensitive material. This is known as reciprocity failure. At very low light levels, for example, the corresponding increase in duration required to produce an exposure can be higher than the formula states. That is, at 1/2 of the light required for a normal exposure, the duration may have to be more than doubled to expose the media.

Santa Cruz Photographer Featured in International Museum of Women’s Online Exhibit

2006-04-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., April 3, 2006 – Maginei, a Santa Cruz photography and marketing services company, today announced that “Balanced,” a combination of story and image, will be featured on the home page of the International Museum of Women’s ‘Imagining Ourselves’ exhibit on April 5-6 and April 11-12, and translated into French, Spanish and Arabic.

Imagining Ourselves captures the energy of the first global generation of women; photographers, painters, poets, songwriters and essayists from around the world provide their insights into subjects such as April’s theme of ‘Women and Money’. The project includes an online exhibit, global events, blog, and a book.

Kimberley Bermender, Santa Cruz-based photographer and founder of Maginei, is “thrilled to be selected as a contributor. The International Museum of Women and Imagining Ourselves have created a communication medium for women worldwide to share experience, using artists’ works as the guiding structure. To be included in such a groundbreaking project is an honor.”

About Maginei
Based in Santa Cruz, Maginei provides integrated photography and marketing solutions to companies throughout the Bay area. Maginei specializes in portrait, corporate and event photography. For more information, please visit www.maginei.com.

###

March Magazine Cover Photo

2006-03-09T12:07:00.000-08:00

March started off with a bang, with a Kimberley Bermender image on the cover of Practical Ecommerce magazine. Here's what our customer had to say about the experience working with Kimberley on this photo shoot:

"Kimberley's creativity and technical skills made it possible to get the feel we wanted for the cover photo. From working with our CEO during the photo shoot to coordinating with the art director at the magazine, she managed the shoot professionally and with a sense of fun. The results look great."
Michael Stebbins
VP Marketing, ClickTracks Analytics Inc.

Practical ECommerce. Photo Credit: Kimberley Bermender, Maginei

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Something Old, Something New

2006-02-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

No reference to rituals, just a testament to my laziness as I realize how long since I've posted personal project images.

So, starting with something old: Goldman is a statue that I borrowed about a year ago, and have had grand series plans for ever since. This image session turned into a Photoshop experimentation evening.

Something new: Last week's photo session at a koi pond, surrounded by cherry trees just starting to blossom. The wasps were getting drunk on nectar.

Goldman, A Continuing Inspiration

Koi Pond

Going for the Blossom

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Recent Assignments

2006-02-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

It's a New Year and a month of firsts. I've had much to celebrate recently:

- first magazine cover (photo to follow, once the publication is out)
- first time having two assigments in the same week
- second first time having two assignments in the same week
- first time my new ordering system got rolled out - without a hitch!
- first BOE taxes - what a learning experience

As we're only 6 weeks into the year, I can only hope that this wonderful pace continues; It's been such an exciting start to a year.

Steamer's Lane Storm

2006-01-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

It was raining for a week solid, with storm swells bringing waves up to 40 feet high. As the weather finally cleared for a bit, it was time to pick up my camera and see how the ocean had fared. This series was taken just as the fog started rolling in. So much for a break in the weather!

Surf museum

Waiting for the perfect moment

Surfers

Copyright 2006 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

The Third Eye

2005-12-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

percept: the representation of what is perceived; basic component in the formation of a concept

I saw the old man as he crossed the street. I was getting out of a taxi and I trailed after him, intrigued. He turned around a corner and disappeared. I promptly forgot about him as I wandered off on my photographic journey through Honolulu's historic Chinatown. Later that day I saw him again, his arms full of groceries, and I asked permission to take his picture.
I took the picture, created a print, created a gel transfer of the print onto fabric, forgot about, found it, hung it on my wall, and today, took a picture of the transfer. Sometimes the evolution of an image seems outside my control; then I realize that I was working out a concept in my mind. Is this the precept?

The Third Eye

Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Who Needs A Stinkin' Camera???

2005-12-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

While I'd love to take the credit for this, a friend of mine works with flower images that she stages on a flatbed scanner and scans, rather than taking the shot with a camera. I loved her results. I've tried working with objects on scanners before, but really wasn't impressed with my working images. I think the flowers work so well in this format - maybe it's the subject that counts. Also, the medium fits so well with my approach - Kimberley's "Unreproducable Art."

Flower Study #1

Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Happy Holidaze!

2005-12-14T11:49:00.000-08:00

How is it possible that it's already December and my last images were from Halloween? Did someone see November - I seem to have misplaced the month. In a desperate scramble for Christmas card materials, I found a dog, some reindeer antlers and a Santa hat. Who could ask for more??? Here's the final shot. For all of you on my Christmas card list, act surprised when you open your card. To all, Happy Holidaze!

"Can I Take Off the Antlers Now?"

1st Runner-Up

Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Happy Sam'hain

2005-10-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

A dismal four children arrived at our door. Not that we didn't have Disney 'Haunted Mansion' playing, jack o' lanterns lit, and the sugar ready to hit. Seemed like a good idea to pack it up early and head downtown Santa Cruz to the epicenter of Hallow'een madness. And bring along the camera, of course. I was not disappointed, as thousands of people were dressed to the nines and partying. Played with long exposures underneath a giant float light.

Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Still Life Painted with Light

2005-10-31T10:14:00.000-08:00

Working with excellent equipment really does make a huge difference. The photo below is a still life created in the studio using a fiber optic light system to paint in the key light. Fill light provided by flash. Long exposure using bulb. Original image is polaroid using 4x5 view camera. It's a far cry from a flashlight and cinefoil!

Still Life
Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Phenomenal Woman

2005-10-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

An homage to Maya Angelou's "Phenomenal Woman" this image is a studio work print of a vision I had of documenting women as figures of power and the beauty in that power. Will submit more of the series as it progresses.

A Phenomenal Woman
Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

An Adventure Through America's Southwest

2005-10-17T19:05:00.000-07:00

After leaving the software industry and finishing my first Maginei project, it was time for an adventure. Stocked up 25-year-old RV, got my mother-in-law, and headed to Texas, where I was photographing a family wedding. A little nervous as Hurricane Rita was threatening to aim straight for Austin, my destination. Documented the journey and will compile for freelance article. Spent a lot of time looking at light as I drove. Studio lighting class lectures echoing in my head. I read "Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee" as we traveled. Excruciating to read, and bizarre to be going through these lands and being what was ultimately part of the destruction of native life in the area.

Bandalier National Monument, Infrared

Brownwood Lake State Park, Texas

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Newest Exhibit: Ocean Creatures Their Totems

2005-07-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

Between travel, intense cyanotype work and life, it looks like my blog slipped away. Or more appropriately, Kimberley left the building but has returned. Have been very busy preparing a series on Ocean Creatures and Our Totems, which opened last week at the Chill Out Cafe. Was in Hawaii for several weeks and got a lot of excellent material. Instead of the darkroom, where I expected to do most of my work, I seem to be moving toward the sun as my source and working with cyanotype more and more. What an experience. It takes patience in photography to a new level. When the print takes an hour to find out if it needs a burn here or a dodge there... Obviously not playing to my strengths but I do really enjoy them. I have three cyanotypes in the exhibit. Once over, will scan and share here. Was in such a rush to get my materials finalized, that I didn't even stop to get a shot of them.

IR and Hand Coloring

2005-05-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Am playing with some of the alternative processes and the IR imaging. There is so much to learn, technical, artistic. Why why why? Why do I get a color ring around my focus point? So much, why not add another dynamic to it? Here's the results of today's playing.

Lily in back yard, hand colored

Roses, hand colored

Copyright 2005 Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Gotta Love Santa Cruz

2005-05-23T17:08:00.000-07:00

Today is all about inspiration provided me to keep photographing. Was out on Capitola Wharf the other day, practicing with my new infrared lens, and three dolphins came frolicking by. Got some images and was very excited, as they were the first marine-life images that didn't just look like black blobs in the ocean. Then yesterday, while out surfing, the dolphins were out playing again, this time just off of the break where I was surfing. Gotta love Santa Cruz!

Dolphins

Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

Infrared Experimentation

2005-05-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

Just got my infrared filter, and started some testing with landscape and portrait. Hope to get some experience before June wedding. Flash, long exposures. Lots to play with, that's for sure!

Looking north to Pleasure Point

Capitola Wharf

Kimberley Bermender
Maginei

A Belated Cinquo De Mayo

2005-05-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

A part of something that is something like Hallmark here. We all know we're being advertised to, but it doesn't dampen the celebration. It is a sunny day in the park, there is a bandstand and tortilla vendors. Families spread out and open baskets full of home cooking. Kids run around and chase balloons. Everyone is in their finest and beautiful.

Good bye John Paul II

2005-04-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

These are interesting times. They always are. The signs are falling down. The Catholic church is taking a turn. Where? Where does faith lead? CNN does God on prime time. This feels like marketing. Yet there, on the street, the faithful line the alleyways with their tears and prayers as they have for a thousand years. What do they pray for?

New Orleans Photo Shoots

2005-04-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Am back from New Orleans and trying to organize the masses of pictures. Got to the city in time to do two different shoots of the French Quarter Festival, as well as several cemeteries and Garden District. Didn't stray too far off the beaten path, but am really happy with the images that I've got, and am noodling around new ideas for a series that I'd like to create. All in all, a very inspiring trip. Notes to remember for next time:

- It helps to bring along battery recharger (doh!)
- Carry both cameras even if it's a hassle (I really really wanted my film camera for the cemeteries)
- Research pays off (I really maximized what little time I had because I knew when things were open, that the festival was in town, etc.

Pictures to come shortly.

Mounted Photos for Exhibit

2005-04-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

Well they're finally all done and ready to hang for exhibition at Bathori salon this month.

They stand mute and immobile while their stories are told around them. These statues stand in Havana’s ‘City of the Dead’, the Necropolis Christobol Colon.

This statue is one of a series shot in Havana’s famous ‘City of the Dead’, the Necropolis Christobol Colon.

Montreal, Canada is renowned for its transvestite community and drag shows. This Montreal angel DJ, pioneer of the disco night, reminds me of everything I love about this city.

Montreal, Canada is renowned for its transvestite community and drag shows. This Montreal angel DJ, pioneer of the disco night, reminds me of everything I love about this city.

The missionary and the Indian boy – this should be a story of love but we know with our 20/20 historical vision that it is a tale of twisted religion, genocide in the name of peace.

Last thought before the unconscious
gets up to dance
when the reality of day
fades into the extravagance of dream
to be lost in this land
and find no way out

This guardian deity stands at the Great Gate entrance for pilgrims in Koya-san, Japan, the center of the Shingon Buddhist religion. The character in the background is from a monument to victims of the atomic bomb.

An open crypt in Havana’s ‘City of the Dead’, the dead’s meeting place.

Tattoo Images

2005-03-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Part of the 'Transformations' series, I photographed a woman tattoo artist as she worked on clients in a private home. Note: she didn't really tattoo the little boy... just letting off a little steam with stick-ons between sessions.

My tattoo photographs have been both for artists to document their work and for individuals who want to capture the experience of getting their tattoos, or document their tattoos while they are as beautiful on their body as they'll ever be. It is an honor to work with tattoo artists as they create works that will continue to change and evolve over time - in some ways, the very definition of performance art.

There are a few sample tattoo images below. View the maginei Web site Portrait Gallery to get a feel for the idea of having your tattoo experience documented and the moment captured forever. Or contact maginei to schedule a photo shoot: either at the tattoo artist's establishment or at the maginei studio.

Hard at Work

Reflecting

Tattoo Boy

Alternatives samples

2005-03-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

Have been working on polaroid transfers and emulsions, and cliche verre for alternative processes class. Am learning a lot about the transformation of a mistake into an 'avenue for opportunity' in art. Notice the jagged edges on the lily emulsion transfer, much thanks to putting the transfer on the lid of a tin, then putting a screwdriver in the tin. Some things just seem obvious...

Polaroid transfer - Lily

Polaroid emulsion - Lily

Photo Shoots

2005-02-23T18:46:00.000-08:00

Finally getting back in my groove after hiatus. Am prepping materials and prints for show here in Santa Cruz through the month of April - working title 'Mutations to Transformations'. Inspired by the old man I met in Hololulu (Jan post) I've decided to work on creating my own frames from urban salvaging. Have been haunted salvage yard and thrift shops, spray painting like mad. Also working on another segment of a transformations project - photo shoot this weekend, working on tattoos and tattooing. The idea of working with skin as a medium for art, and then watching that art change as the body changes, seems to me like the ultimate in transformation art. Am not sure if I'm most interested in the artist or the subject, but will surely get a feel for it. This will be the second tattooing that I've photodocumented. Not sure where I'm going with it, but do feel a pattern emerging.

Shot slide film for photo class on the weekend. It poured rain and I really wanted to shoot outside, so in the small break of sunshine, I ran out to the backyard and did my annual calla lily/beauty in my own back yard shoot. Then took b/w 35mm down in Monterey.

Alternative Processes

2005-02-07T18:37:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week but not actually taking any shots. Finished updating my portfolio and am adding all my recent shots to my Web site. Next stop will have to be to getting more calendars ready for sale and getting search optimization on my site. The details... An hour taking pictures = 6 hours miscellaneous tasks. Starting a new class tomorrow on Alternative Processes. Excited to take the idea of two dimensional images into three dimensions. Have been thinking about this for a long time. Other idea that I'm working on is trasformation art.

Business Is

2005-01-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get serious about my photography this year, and seems like no better way to get serious about something than to make it official with the taxman. Set up with business name which led to the City Planning office which led to the Business License office. Everybody got their cut of my checkbook and my new little business is legit. Lotta work for a side project. Sigh...

Another island image

2005-01-22T09:48:00.000-08:00

I've just finished reading the biography of Eddie Aikau, who was a legendary waterman, cultural icon and lifeguard of Waimea Bay in the North Shore . I was so excited to finally visit the North Shore and see some of these famous breaks that I had only heard of before. I was surprised that this surf mecca was so uncommercial and undeveloped. Visiting Waimea,Pipeline, Sunset, I could feel the power of this area. I wanted to tap into that feeling with some of my images.

I shot this image at Pipeline, just as were were leaving the path. I wanted to get almost pure black for the profile and foreground, and really emphasize the connection of the man to ocean he's looking at. What attracted me originally was that he looked so comfortable and balanced on that tree stump, as if he jumped up there to recon the waves every day.

Pipeline closeout. Even the shorebreak was huge., reverberating on the beach. No one surfed this day.

Back from Oahu

2005-01-14T18:24:00.000-08:00

Just back from trip to Oahu with my brother, and am busy working on my images. Traveled along North Shore, took some night shots in Waikiki, but by far my best shots came from Chinatown in Honolulu, which is an array of lei stands, noodle and dim sum factories, acupuncture and herbal medicine shops, and of course the historic Oahu Market.

This man was working at the Oahu Market. I was initially struck by the fish in the bucket with the sun hitting them at the angle, and then the man came up and started working. I loved the striking contrast of the earing and cigarette modern man constrasting with the old fish market environment.

I saw this old man as soon as I got to Chinatown and then he disappeared into one of the stalls. Later, I saw him again with his bags of groceries. He didn't speak english, but through signs, he agreed to let me take a whole series of photos of him - a very good sport!

Preppin for Photo Expedition

2005-01-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

Am busy getting ready to head to Hawaii at the end of the week. Got some guidebooks and am looking at different options while on the island. I'll be there for such a short time that I'm going to have to hit my areas carefully and spend more time in a couple of areas. I've been working out some theme ideas, possibly looking at the dark and light contrasts of the place. All in my head right now...

In the meantime, here are a couple of pictures from a hike we took recently to Wilder Ranch, on the coast of Hwy 1 just north of Santa Cruz. The rain finally stopped just long enough for us to take a quick hike. The light and clouds were amazing. Had lots of fun playing with my wide-angle lense.

Dan was calling to me to get the birds, get the birds and I was focusing through my viewfinder. I almost missed this huge flock of gulls swooping past. There's a lesson about looking through the viewfinder or past and beyond it to the world.

The world reflected in puddle. Tried to get a feel of the sky and earth connected, with a huge sense of depth. f22 with wide angle lense on vertical. The original has a lot more foreground to it, and as I look at this I'm thinking that have maybe cropped too tight here.

What It's All About

2005-01-01T17:13:00.000-08:00

What is it about New Year's Eve that inspires this incredible sense of optimism? Teetering on the verge of midnight, peering over the edige of this symbolic line in the sand - tomorrow, tomorrow - it's a whole new world.

Standing on the steps of the post office right before midnight and the rain started coming down. I wanted to try and capture the idea of 'divided' that comes to me at New Years when everything is before/after party/suffer now/then resolve resolve resolve. From Douglas Adams' book, I like the idea that 'the mind and the body are undergoing a trial separation.' She is of two minds, and neither of them are connecting with her body.

Last Images of 2004

2004-12-31T17:48:00.000-08:00

Dan and I raced down to Pleasure Point to catch the very last light. We're between storms, and the ocean was dark and ominous, the sky clouded but with incredible pinks and blues. Climbed down the sea wall to my new favorite spot to shoot. It started to rain again as soon as I got set up and my tripod was being lifted by the wind, threatening to fly into the ocean, so was a little distracted to say the least.

Am off to First Night Santa Cruz tonight to try and get some long exposure night shots/drunk partyers. We'll see how that goes... the photographer might be a little wobbly too. Until next year.

Wanted to try to capture some of the energy around the storm with jagged lines everywhere that match the craziness of the sky when pink becomes an ominous color because you know there's another storm right behind it.

My goal for this year is to get this one image of the surfers going into the water just RIGHT. Got the shot, better than last time, but still soft everywhere.

Start Somewhere Today

2004-12-30T15:13:00.000-08:00

Every day I'm learning something new about photography, what I want to focus on, something about the world around me. But like a photograph, if I don't capture the moment then it is gone. So my goal here is to capture my progression as a photographer. Today is all about technology frustration instead of the art. I've gone from building the most complex forum to the simplest blog just to get my ideas out. Hopefully this is the end of my adventure and I can get back to the important elements now.

Am reading "The Practical Zone System," an excellent explantion of the Zone System in layman's terms. Have been stopping and looking at the scenes in front of me, trying to determine the perfect Zone III.