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Louise Thomas

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Cave paintings dating back thousands of years illustrate the ancient relationship between humans and deer.

Like then, today’s recorders of deer have to go to great lengths to glimpse a species which is often very shy, and more fond of the night.

Efforts to capture images of these skittish, wild animals have formed a sub-genre of wildlife photography – buoyed no doubt by the natural majesty a stag’s antlers bring to a picture.

This year sees the launch of a new contest to seek out and celebrate the very best in the field of deer photography.

The inaugural Deer Photographer of the Year award has seen entries coming in from around the world.

The judges handed the top prize of £5,000 to an extraordinary night-time shot taken in the plains of central Hungary – with entries from the UK, Ireland and India claiming category prizes.

Bence Mate-Gyulaj’s winning image came after months of chasing the ideal picture – taking more than 30,000 throwaway frames – until one starry night when a large fallow deer came into view and wandered against a starry sky.

Competition director Mark Nicolaides said: “The unusual manner in which Bence Mate has captured the nature of the deer, set within its nocturnal habitat, make this photograph a worthy winner of the competition in its inaugural year.”

Besides the grand prize, judges awarded prizes for the pictures that best displayed deer behaviour and their relationship with humans. There was also a youth prize, a portrait prize and a selection of Judges’ Choice winners.

One of the most moving images came from Karol Waszkiewicz in Killarney National Park, Ireland, who captured a shot of a red deer caught in a plastic wrap.

“Red deer stags are well-known for rubbing trees, shrubs, ferns, etc, during the rut to practice rutting behaviours and strengthen their neck muscles, which are crucial during fights,” Karol said.

“Unfortunately for the stag, he had practised somewhere on the farm fields because the plastic on his head is used for baling straw for farm animals.

“His vision was seriously limited; however, he managed to disentangle himself a few days later and was not hurt by other stags in the meantime.”

Parth Kansara earned a Judges’ Choice award for his shot of a group of chital deer crossing a track in the soft morning light in Kanha National Park, India.

“This is a wonderful deer photograph showing natural behaviour in a stunning habitat,” judges said.

Deer Photographer of the Year is an annual competition that welcomes submissions from anyone, anywhere who has photographed a deer.

It was created by Mark Nicolaides – an award-winning physics teacher in Dorset – to celebrate the life of deer and promote awareness of the role they play in an ecosystem.

The full list of winners and highly commended entries can be seen on the competition website here – where free entries into next year’s competition can be submitted from 1 September.

Smartphone cameras have come a long way and have become quite capable tools in preserving memorable moments for posterity. There is, however, still a very good reason why they haven’t completely overthrown pro cameras. You can only squeeze so much hardware into a slim smartphone, and you can’t really have large lenses or even a lens mount bulging out from the back of the phone. There are admittedly a few accessories that try to bring some of that interchangeable lens experience but usually limit themselves to small lenses made just for smartphones. Bringing a true “pro camera” experience to mobile requires taking a few cues from pro cameras themselves, and that is exactly what the SwitchLens does to level up your mobile photography game.

Designer: sneaki design

Click Here to Buy Now: $199 $329 ($130 off). Hurry, 33/450 left! Raised over $490,000.

SwitchLens is a complete pro camera system that not only takes the lessons learned from digital cameras but even the technologies employed there. In particular, it embraces the popular micro four thirds or MFT system that leverages large sensors and interchangeable lenses to create highly detailed and breathtaking shots. The large 20.75MP 1.33-inch CMOS sensor that SwitchLens uses is unmatched by even flagship phones, which means it can take in more light and record more details just with the hardware alone, no post-processing or AI touch-up required.

And just like the MFT used in compact digital cameras, you can also swap out lenses to get the best shot out of a scene, whether that’s a 25mm f1.8 portrait lens for closeups or a 12mm f2.8 wide-angle lens for sweeping panoramic shots. What makes the SwitchLens system even more impressive is that it can actually support MFT lenses from Panasonic or Olympus that you might have lying around. You are no longer limited to what the manufacturer provides, and you are definitely not limited to tiny lenses that compromise on performance in return for their pretty sizes.

Unlike other such accessories, SwitchLens is a powerful device that can function even when detached from the back of your phone. Using a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection, you can control SwitchLens remotely for more difficult shots, or magnetically stick it to the back of your iPhone or Android phone to recreate the experience of using a digital camera but with a much larger and clearer viewfinder. From selfies at extremely low angles to macro photography, SwitchLens gives you the flexibility to take a shot in the most comfortable and most convenient way.

The pro camera experience doesn’t end there. SwitchLens’s Peaking Focus assistance feature easily marks out which objects are in focus with vibrant, eye-catching colors to ensure sharp and in-focus images every time. With support for microSD cards up to 1.5TB in capacity, you have nearly limitless room for taking thousands of RAW photos and recording 4K 30fps videos without filling up your phone storage. With the SwitchLens MFT modular camera system, your phone is no longer a stumbling block for a pro photography experience and becomes the launch pad for taking stunning photos and videos like a pro.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199 $329 ($130 off). Hurry, 33/450 left! Raised over $490,000.

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM HST
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...East winds 15 to 25 kt with higher gusts and seas 6 to 10
feet.

* WHERE...All Hawaiian coastal waters.

* WHEN...Until 6 PM HST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Conditions will be hazardous to small craft.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller
vessels, should avoid navigating in these conditions.

&&

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Island Darkroom presents CEARNS, an exhibition featuring the work of award-winning Isle of Lewis photographer Deljeem Rai. This event marks Deljeem Rai’s first solo exhibition and his debut showcase on his home island.

Deljeem Rai, a Nepali photographer, is currently balancing his studies at the Glasgow School of Art with his home on the Isle of Lewis. His work has garnered significant recognition, including the British Journal of Photography Portrait of Britain Award in 2023 and 2024, and a finalist position in the Scottish Portrait Awards in 2023. His images have been exhibited across Scotland in notable galleries such as the Scottish Art Club in Edinburgh, Kirkcudbright Gallery in Dumfries and Galloway, and The Glasgow Art Club.

Through sensitive portraiture and environmental photography, he explores themes of identity, belonging, and community. Deljeem uses the medium of photography to delve deeper into his experience of living with a dual identity of Nepali and Scottish and reconnecting with his childhood in Nepal, a part of his identity he became disconnected from after arriving in the UK as a teenager. His experience of cross-cultural migration is evidenced in his work which unpacks what it means to belong.

This project grew from a desire to explore Deljeem’s connection to and identity within the Cearns, a small housing estate in Stornoway. Growing up in Nepal gave him a strong national identity and sense of self, a sense that suffered after migrating to Scotland where a desire to fit into his adopted nation necessitated he disconnect from that identity. However, while living in the Cearns, Deljeem found a new sense of belonging within a community. There, he and his family became part of a community that had a strong sense of connection with each other and who supported and welcomed them. Portraying the Cearns through portraits of the people who live there and environmental photography, he hopes to create pride for those who live there, seeing themselves and their homes represented in a way that reflects their strong community values.

Island Darkroom is a photography gallery with its roots embedded in traditional process. Established in 2018 by award-winning photographer Mhairi Law, Island Darkroom draws exciting and varied work to the island from across the UK through a rolling program of exhibitions, events, and artist residencies. As well as exhibiting and sharing the work of contemporary artists, Mhairi keeps traditional skills at the fore by holding regular workshops in analog processes at the darkroom.

Based in the village of Achmore in the heart of the Isle of Lewis, Island Darkroom looks out over the undulating, loch-pitted peat moor to the Harris and Uig hills. The choice to build this creative space here came out of a love of the beautiful landscape that surrounds it, and a desire to create a rural, contemporary hub of creativity.

CEARNS runs in Island Darkroom until July 26, 2024. While many of our readers might not make it to a small island in the Scottish Highlands to view the exhibition this summer, stories from remote places are no less significant than those shown in mainstream galleries, and worthy of sharing with wider audiences. Seek out independent photography galleries when traveling to find new perspectives to connect with.

All images in this article are by Deljeem Rai, shot on medium format, 2022, ongoing.

Mayadet Cruz, a friend of Taylor Casey, hugs a friend while operating a bubble machine during a news conference outside City Hall in the Loop on Casey’s 42nd birthday, where friends and family of Casey gathered to call on state, city officials and the FBI to help find Casey, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Casey was reported missing during a yoga retreat in the Bahamas on June 19. “She’s just a beautiful and amazing person who deserves to be found. Her community loves her and we want her back home,” Cruz said.

I have heard the expression many times…

…”He or she has an EYE for photography”  – that applies 100% to my friend Carley Ramsdell. She has been holding a camera since she was 16  – waiting for that perfect moment to take a picture. That’s what someone with natural talent and instincts does. Here is what makes her so special, she cares about people – I first came across what kind of person she is back in July of 2022. A 4th of July weekend – like so many others, Carley was out and about with her friends enjoying the Missouri River – unlike everyone else, she collected trash. That’s right. They took matters into their own hands and loaded over 15 full bags of garbage people threw out along the river. Check out the story HERE – it’s when I became a Carley fan.

 “I love watching people have a good time…”

Think about it, when you are looking through a camera lens, you are FOCUSED on your subject or subjects – an average person like me is just snapping away – A talented photographer waits for the perfect moment, to capture emotion. Carley has done weddings, family gatherings, graduations, and even politicians, and now she does Boudoir shoots. She originally photographed nature and the outdoors before moving to human subjects. In a professional photographer’s mind are shapes – lines – imagination – and creativity – You’ll see her brilliant work taken from her Canon EOS Rebel T7.    This I know, you can’t be as professional as she is without doing your homework – going on Google and researching other photographers – and opening up Pinterest the app for inspiration.

“To have my own studio one day in the future…

…to share my passion with others – that’s what I want to do” I highly recommend you contact Carley for any kind of event –                           https://www.facebook.com/Carleyramsdellphotography    – Here is what you will get – someone who absolutely loves what she does – takes pride in her talents – someone that will be easy to talk to and who will charm you and genuinely care about the people and event she is taking pictures at.

 NOW take a look at a labor of love – her pictures are all special – I am proud to be her friend – You will love her!     https://www.facebook.com/Carleyramsdellphotography

Renowned filmmaker and photojournalist Catherine Bauknight’s photography exhibit, “All One World Turn of the Century: 20th-21st,” had a spectacular opening night on Friday, July 5, 2024, at The Betsy Lueke Creative Arts Center Gallery in Burbank, CA, marking one of the summer’s premier art events. With over 200 attendees, members of the art world, media, as well as many friends and family who flew in from various parts of the U.S. and Norway, the event was a resounding success.

The exhibit’s theme and goal is to promote a peaceful movement to connect humanity globally and reduce the fear of differences through photojournalistic coverage of culture, events, and influential figures across five continents from the latter 20th to the 21st centuries. Catherine’s photographs are not just aesthetically pleasing but are deeply thought-provoking, telling powerful stories that resonate with a global audience.

Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/uploads/1ee7c0e404904090b960c7713b329b16.jpg

VIP Attendees and Highlights: The opening night brought together a gathering of notable VIPs, distinguished guests, and media including:

Burbank Mayor Nick Schultz
Burbank Vice Mayor Nikki Perez
Larry Namer, Founder of E! Entertainment
Nick Ut, Special Guest – Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer (known for his iconic photograph that contributed to ending the Vietnam War)
Camille Nighthorse, Actress and AZ Hualapai Tribe Member
Kamaka Brown, Comedian, Actor, and Writer, owner of Sandwich Island Network
Rodney Allen Rippy, Actor and former child star
Patrika Darbo, Emmy-winning Actress (Days of Our Lives), and her friend Donna White
Visual Arts Guild Members including Ann Lau, who were also Gold Sponsors of this event
Joey Zhou, LABA Founder, Journalist, and International Celebrity TV Host
Jaime Monroy, Comedian and Entertainment Correspondent (Owner of Multi-Media Content Studio)
David Laurell, former Burbank Mayor and current Burbank Leader Journalist
Peter Foldy, Writer, Director, Filmmaker
Bella Trost, Fitness Champion, Actress, and Producer
Dawna Shuman, President of Lighthouse Public Relations
Richard Greene, International Speaker and Political Consultant
Damain Dovarganes, AP Staff Photographer
Special Appearance by Robot RT-ZK with his creator Walter Martinez Marconi

Special Thanks: Virginia Causton-Keene, Director of The Betsy Lueke Art Center, and her dedicated staff, who did an outstanding job supporting the event throughout the evening. Jackie Lewis Media and her team orchestrated an exciting event, with media photographers and video interviewers filling the Red Carpet. Their seamless management ensured a smoothly run event, providing attendees with an exceptional and memorable experience.

Ambiance and Special Features: The opening night embraced the spirit of Aloha with a Hawaiian theme. A special appearance by Robot RT-ZK, built by roboticist Walter Martinez Marconi, delighted guests as Robot RT-ZK interacted with them with verbal robotic sounds and posed for photos. Live Hawaiian music set the tone for the evening, featuring a performance by Auntie Geri Brigoli-Kahia traditional Hawaiian singer and band. One of the hottest DJ Teams in Southern California, The Jack of Grooves(@thejackofgrooves) with owner DJ Louis Palos and acclaimed DJ Raul Mora DJed live and continued the Hawaiian music theme, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

The evening commenced with Mayor Nick Schultz presenting a certificate from the City of Burbank to Catherine Bauknight statement reading, “Your incredible work shows the beauty of different cultures and captures meaningful moments in everyday lives around the world”, followed by actor and Hawaiian cultural connector Kamaka Brown emceeing the program. Catherine shared riveting stories of her experiences and the risks she’s taken to capture compelling images, highlighting her commitment to giving a voice to those who cannot speak freely. Native American, Camille Nighthorse and other Hawaiian speakers discussed the significance of Hawaii and its Indigenous peoples,emphasizing Catherine’s unique ability to connect with and document their stories authentically.

Friends and colleagues shared their admiration and anecdotes about their adventures with Catherine, emphasizing the excitement and unpredictability that she brings when they are with her, and how she enriches their lives.

Exhibit Theme and Impact:

“This evocative collection captures pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped the transition from the 20th to the 21st century, such as Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Sting, Muhammad Ali, U.S. Presidents, and more. Bauknight’s work has consistently elevated social change and fostered communication across diverse cultures through exhibits like ‘Renaissance of the Catawba Indians’ and ‘Hawaii: A Voice for Sovereignty.’

“Her photography serves as a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness and shared humanity,” remarked LABA Founder and International Journalist Joey Zhou, who holds Bauknight’s work in high esteem. He was particularly moved by her photo of iconic Singer Smokey Robinson, which he purchased as it captured the essence of Robinson and resonated as one of Zhou’s favorite interviews among his many high-profile interviews. All purchased photos will remain on display for audiences to enjoy through July 25, 2024.

Venue and Exhibit Details:

The exhibit will be open for viewing from July 5 through July 25, 2024, at The Betsy Lueke Creative Arts Center, located at 1100 W. Clark Avenue, Burbank, CA 91506. Admission is free. On-site parking is free with additional parking on the street if needed.

Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Catherine Bauknight expressed, “My goal with photography has always been to show the world that we should not come from fear of differences but connect globally for a higher conscience. This is why Hawaiians, Native Americans, Anglo, and other cultures will be present to represent a movement to connect cultures and knowledge for a peaceful future together. All One World… at the turn of the century. This is an international educational experience connecting people through photography.”

Her work often placed her in challenging and dangerous situations, including being detained in foreign countries like Peru, Saudi Arabia, and China. Through her lens, Bauknight captures the essence of humanity’s struggle for democracy and freedom. Her philosophy underscores the importance of understanding our shared history to create a unified and peaceful future.

Her work can be viewed at http://www.catherinebauknight.com and trailer for documentary film http://www.hawaiiavoiceforsovereignty.com

The exhibit promises to be a captivating and educational experience… celebrating the power of photography to bridge cultural divides and inspire a global community.

Media Contact
Company Name: Jackie Lewis Media
Contact Person: Jackie Lewis
Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=world-in-focus-catherine-bauknights-photography-exhibit-premieres-with-high-praise]Phone: 818 720 4221
City: Los Angeles
State: CA
Country: United States
Website: http://www.iconnectyou.today

This release was published on openPR.