Ben Whishaw to play photographer Peter Hujar in upcoming film

Ben Whishaw to play photographer Peter Hujar in upcoming film

British stage and screen actor Ben Whishaw has been tapped to play the late photographer Peter Hujar in a movie directed by American auteur Ira Sachs, Deadline reported.

Hujar, who died of Aids-related complications in 1987, was a leading figure in Downtown Manhattan’s arts scene, and was best known for his tender, candid portraits of the city’s cultural vanguard in the 1960s and 70s. His monochrome photographs of Fran Lebowitz, Susan Sontag and Vince Aletti are some of the most enduring images of the era.

Despite receiving only marginal public recognition during his lifetime, Hujar is now lauded as a major creative force of the 20th century, one whose relationships with Robert Mapplethorpe, Andy Warhol, and David Wojnarowicz further solidified his place in the era’s canon. His work is held in institutional collections all over the world, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Tate Modern in London and the Morgan Library & Museum in New York.

Whishaw recently collaborated with Sachs on the film Passages, which has garnered significant awards buzz during the current cycle. The actor may be best known for his portrayal of Q in the most recent James Bond movies and has won numerous Bafta, Golden Globe and Emmy awards for his television and film roles.

In a conversation with Deadline, Whishaw described the upcoming, untitled Hujar movie as a “a very small, very intimate little film” that will begin production after he finishes production on the Netflix six-part thriller, Black Dove. He will star opposite Stella Schnabel (daughter of Julian Schnabel), though who she will play has not been revealed.

Lake Life Sheboygan Photography Contest

Lake Life Sheboygan Photography Contest
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Blue Harbor Resort released a new comprehensive guide to life in Wisconsin.

This season, the lifestyle publication titled “Lake Life Sheboygan” explores numerous ways to enjoy the winter in the city.

From outdoor recreation, the Sheboygan art scene, and dating inspiration in time for Valentine’s Day, the Winter issue has frost-filled recommendations set.

As Blue Harbor Resort General Manager William Rees notes, “There’s so much more to Sheboygan than bratwurst! Sheboygan’s thriving and diverse restaurant scene, the multi-disciplined arts community, plentiful outdoor activities, and natural beauty on the shore of Lake Michigan remarkably combine to create a vibrant community.”

The issue also introduced its seasonal photography contest to focus.

There will be five seasonal campaigns, ranging from spring, summer, fall, holiday, and winter.

Participants are asked to submit their photos during the appropriate season.

Currently, Lake Life Sheboygan is accepting submissions for their Spring issue.

One winner, who must be 18 years of age or older, will be selected to have their work featured.

Submission information and the full Winter magazine can be found online at BlueHarborResort.com/photography-contest.

New wildlife photography exhibit comes to Idaho Falls

New wildlife photography exhibit comes to Idaho Falls

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is introducing its new exhibit, A Life in the Wild.

This new exhibit features classic nature and wildlife photographs taken by Thomas D. Mangelsen.

Manglesen was named the 2011 Conservation Photographer of the Year by Nature’s Best Photography. This placed his work in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History’s permanent collection. He has received several other awards and recognitions.

This is the first time this traveling exhibit has been in Idaho Falls in six or seven years.

Mangelsen does not use editing programs on his photos. He often waited hours, weeks and even several days just to capture the right moment of wildlife.

Many picture were taken in “sometimes very freezing environments or very dangerous environments with these extremely wild animals,” said the museum’s Communications Director Chloe O’Laughlin.

Many of Mengelsen’s photos were taken in the Yellowstone area.

“We are excited because…it really highlights the beautiful place that we live,” said the museum’s Executive Director Alexa Stanger.

A Life in the Wild was supposed to open on Jan. 11, but was postponed due to weather conditions. It is now open to the public until March 30.

Mangelsen will be at the museum on Jan. 20 at 7:00 p.m. He will be available to sign his books.

For more information about A Life in the Wild and to buy tickets, visit theartmuseum.org.

The Untold Realities of Professional Photography

The Untold Realities of Professional Photography

Professional photography is a career path laden with unexpected challenges and thrills. The allure of this profession is undeniable, attracting many with the promise of creative expression and the glamour of high-profile assignments. Yet, there lies a stark reality beneath this glittering surface, one that every budding photographer must grapple with.

Coming to you from Scott Choucino of Tin House Studio, this fantastic video discusses a career that oscillates between intense periods of work and daunting stretches of uncertainty. It’s not just about capturing stunning images; it’s an endurance test, balancing the physical demands of shooting with the meticulous planning required for each project. This insider perspective sheds light on a key aspect often overlooked: the sheer amount of preparation and post-production involved. The notion that photographers are constantly on set, camera in hand, is a myth. In reality, much of their time is spent orchestrating the numerous elements necessary for a successful shoot and business.

Moreover, this candid account underscores the financial pressures of the profession. The disparity between day rates and the lucrative potential of usage fees highlights the economic unpredictability inherent in the field. It’s a high-stakes game, where every shoot could significantly impact your earnings. This financial rollercoaster is a critical aspect for aspiring photographers to consider, as it demands not just artistic talent, but also entrepreneurial acumen and emotional resilience.

Perhaps the most striking revelation is the emotional toll of professional photography. The fear of an abrupt end to one’s career, the stress of high-budget shoots, and the unpredictable nature of work availability are realities that test even the most passionate photographers. This emotional landscape is as much a part of the job as the technical skill of photography itself. If you’re considering going into the field, be sure to watch Choucino’s full thoughts above. 

Mastering the Art of Winter Landscape Photography

Mastering the Art of Winter Landscape Photography

Winter landscape photography presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, making it a fantastic pursuit for anyone who enjoys the genre. This helpful video tutorial discusses some common mistakes and how you can avoid them in your work. 

Coming to you from Mads Peter Iversen, this insightful video delves into common mistakes to avoid in winter landscape photography, starting with the essential aspect of proper clothing. Iversen emphasizes the significance of being well-prepared for cold conditions, as comfort directly impacts creativity and more importantly, safety. He offers practical advice, such as wearing multiple layers and using insulated gloves, to ensure you can stay focused and creative in the harsh winter environment. Another crucial point Iversen addresses is the importance of composition, especially when working with the limited light and color palette of winter scenes. He illustrates this with examples from his own experiences, highlighting how the interplay of snow, light, and shadows can create compelling contrasts and bring a scene to life.

Iversen’s approach to photography in snowy and slippery conditions is also noteworthy. He suggests carrying the camera in a way that minimizes the risk of damage in case of a slip, which has happened to almost all of us at some point. His discussion extends beyond technical tips, delving into the artistic challenges of capturing the chaotic beauty of a snow-covered forest, and how to find order and a focal point in such conditions. Be sure to check out the video above for the full rundown from Iversen.