In the heart of New York City, the International Photographic Council (IPC) is preparing to mark a significant milestone in the world of photography. This May, during International Photography Month, the IPC will host a luncheon at the prestigious United Nations headquarters, celebrating its 50th anniversary and honoring luminaries in the field of photography. Among the honorees are the late Douglas Kirkland, set to receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, and Benjamin Von Wong, recognized as the Environmental Photographer for his innovative use of recycled materials in art.

A Legacy Celebrated and Future Honored

Andy Marcus, president of the IPC, is no stranger to the world of capturing moments. With a family photography legacy that spans decades, Marcus understands the profound impact photography can have on society. “Photography is more than just preserving memories; it’s about telling stories that transcend time and borders,” Marcus shared. This year’s IPC luncheon not only pays tribute to the exceptional talents of individuals like Douglas Kirkland and Benjamin Von Wong but also emphasizes the IPC’s mission to foster unity and recognition within the photographic community.

The luncheon promises to be a unique networking opportunity for photography enthusiasts. It will also serve as a platform to celebrate the achievements of several professional photographers who will be receiving the IPC Professional Photographer Achievement Award. The event’s significance is further amplified by the keynote speech to be delivered by Francoise Kirkland, who collaborated with her late husband Douglas Kirkland on numerous books and exhibitions throughout their 60-year partnership.

Innovation and Environmental Advocacy Through Photography

Benjamin Von Wong, known for his breathtaking installations and imagery crafted from recycled materials, stands as a beacon of innovation and environmental advocacy in the photography world. His recognition as the IPC Environmental Photographer underscores the council’s commitment to not only celebrating artistic excellence but also highlighting the role of photography in addressing critical global issues. Von Wong’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the impact visual art can have in fostering societal change and environmental awareness.

Meanwhile, the IPC will also shine a spotlight on the future of photography by awarding two students from the School of Visual Arts with the IPC James L. Chung Memorial Scholarships. These scholarships represent the IPC’s investment in nurturing new talent and ensuring the continued growth and evolution of the photographic arts.

Half a Century of Photographic Excellence

Since its inception in 1999, the IPC has been at the forefront of recognizing and celebrating excellence in the field of photography. This year’s 50th-anniversary luncheon is not just a reflection on the past but a forward-looking celebration that aims to inspire the next generation of photographers. The event at the United Nations in New York City epitomizes the global reach and influence of photography, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and specialties to share in the joy of photographic art.

As the IPC prepares to honor the legacies of Douglas Kirkland and Benjamin Von Wong, among others, the photographic community and enthusiasts around the world look forward to an event that promises to be both a tribute to the masters of the craft and a beacon of inspiration for future photographers. Through awards, scholarships, and the shared passion for photography, the IPC luncheon exemplifies the unifying power of visual storytelling and the endless possibilities it holds for capturing the essence of the human experience.

Knowing how to navigate the financial landscape of photography is crucial for those looking to turn their passion into profit. Understanding the various avenues through which photographers can monetize their skills will help you find the right niche for you.

Coming to you from Roman Fox, this insightful video sheds light on practical strategies for photographers aiming to make money with their cameras. Fox emphasizes the importance of having a solid foundation, suggesting that photographers should consider photography as a side hustle or a very involved hobby alongside a stable 9-to-5 job. This approach, according to Fox, offers a less stressful and more sustainable way to enjoy photography and generate income. He distinguishes between two main avenues for monetization: traditional freelancing and building an online audience. For those new to the field, Fox recommends starting with free shoots to build a portfolio and gain experience, a crucial step for those without a track record. He also highlights the significance of niching down in freelancing to stand out to potential clients, illustrating how specialization can make photographers more attractive to a specific market.

This all requires patience and consistency, as building a following and establishing a niche takes time. Fox’s own journey underscores the marathon nature of building a photography career, whether through freelancing or online content creation. His candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of each path offer a realistic perspective. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Fox. 

The former home of legendary photographer Elliot Erwitt who recently passed away is on the market with listing photos showing his home studio.

Erwitt was a titan of photography famed for his photos of dogs he met on the street and he had an illustrious career in photojournalism capturing celebrities and politicians.

His former home in East Hampton on Long Island, New York contains items that reflect the photographer’s famous sense of humor. The home studio he kept has a white backdrop as well as a smaller one for product shots complete with lights hanging on sliding rails.

Some of Erwitt’s photography is on display throughout the house including The California Kiss taken in 1955 in Santa Monica which hangs over the bar. And Sammy at the Beach, which was taken in East Hampton in 1998, is also displayed in the house.

The 3,500-square-foot home has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The idiosyncratic objects include two Japanese police mannequins which Erwitt installed to scare drivers into slowing down.

“Elliott always had quirky things like this in and around his house,” Erwitt’s son-in-law Rick Smolan tells The New York Post. Smolan is also a photographer and married to Jennifer Erwitt.

Erwitt was born Elio Romano Erwitt in Paris on July 26th, 1928, to Jewish-Russian parents. He spent his childhood in Milan, Italy, then emigrated to the United States with his family in 1939 when he was ten years old. In 1953 he joined Magnum Photos as a freelancer photographer and served as Magnum’s president for three years in the late 1960s

“Very often… I would take pictures with just the joy of taking pictures, for no specific reason and no client and just for my interest,” he told PetaPixel.

“You may not even know that you have a good picture unless you take a look. Taking pictures is a response to what you see and what you think you see. And it’s very easy not to respond to the quality of the image you shot until you see it in a different circumstance.”

The listing broker is Jennifer Wilson of Saunders & Associates.

Image credits: Saunders.

In this market landscape, there is a saturation of electronic devices, including tablets. We’ve compiled the best 8 tablets for photography to make your hunt easier. You will find tablets across all budgets, whether you want to indulge in on-the-go editing or high-resolution image viewing.

Our selection of tablets showcases devices that excel in image processing, display quality, battery life, and offer exceptional overall performance for your daily needs. With power cameras, vivid displays, and special features for photography editing, these tablets can capture, edit and share your vision without any hassle.

Whether you’re a hobbyist who likes taking pictures for their archives or a professional looking for a new device to keep your curiosities fed at all times, these tablets will capture your attention as they did ours. These 8 picks include lightweight tablets that are loaded with features and suit every photographer’s needs and preferences. Explore the features, functionalities, and benefits of the top tablets that can help you unlock your creative potential.

Also read: Best tablets under 30000: Top picks for an immersive user experience

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 27.81 cm (11 inch) Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, RAM 12 GB, ROM 256 GB Expandable, S Pen in-Box, Wi-Fi Tablet, Gray

Enjoy all-roundbrilliance with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9. This feature-packed tablet comes with an 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display that highlights colours and deep contrasts, in classic Samsung style. In addition, you will feel no lage with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB ROM expandable storage for all your multitasking and storage needs. Samsung has also provided an S Pen in the box so that your creative energies flow without interruption.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 27.81 cm (11 inch) Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display

• Display: 27.81 cm (11 inch) Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB (expandable)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi

2. Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular, 12MP front/12MP and 10MP Back Cameras, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Grey

The apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree that you wish to capture! The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) redefines tablet photography with its advanced camera features. It sports a 12MP front camera and dual 12MP and 10MP rear cameras for beautiful shots in all conditions – day or night. The Liquid Retina XDR display means you always have an exceptional screen to work on. It’s coupled with an M2 chip and Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular connectivity, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking professional-grade results while clicking pictures.

Specifications of Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB,

• Display: Liquid Retina XDR display
• Storage capacity: 512GB
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular
• Front camera: 12MP
• Rear cameras: Dual 12MP and 10MP

3. OnePlus Pad 29.49cm (11.61 inch) LCD Display, 12GB RAM,256GB Storage, MediaTek Dimensity 9000, Android 13.1, 144HZ Refresh Rate, Dolby Vision Atmos, Wi-Fi with Cellular Data Sharing Tablet

The OnePlus Pad is equipped with a vivid 11.61-inch LCD display for a good visual journey. Its features include 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, so that you never compromise on space and performance. This tablet is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9000 to deliver performance straight to your hands. Android 13.1 offers the latest features, while the 144Hz refresh rate ensures quick navigation. Dolby Vision Atmos is an added feature for improved multimedia experiences and its versatile connectivity features will impress all users.

Specifications of OnePlus Pad 29.49cm (11.61 inch) LCD Display

• Display: 29.49cm (11.61-inch) LCD display
• RAM: 12GB
• Storage: 256GB
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
• Camera: Front 8MP; Back 13MP with 4K recording

4. Xiaomi Pad 6| Qualcomm Snapdragon 870| 144Hz Refresh Rate| 8GB, 256GB| 2.8K+ Display (11-inch/27.81cm)|1 Billion Colours| Dolby Vision Atmos| Quad Speakers| Wi-Fi| Gray

With a focus on cameras, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is built with an 8MP front camera with a focus frame for clear selfies and video calls and a 13MP rear camera for above average photography. In addition, its metal unibody design ensures durability and feels premium to hold. This tablet runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor and features a vivid 2.8K+ 11-inch display with 1 billion colours, Dolby Vision Atmos support, and quad speakers. Its 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth navigation and gaming for your versatile needs.

Specifications of Xiaomi Pad 6| Qualcomm Snapdragon 870| 144Hz Refresh Rate

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870
• Display:  11-inch (27.81cm) 2.8K+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate
• Memory and storage: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage
• Cameras: 8MP front camera with Focus Frame, 13MP rear camera

5. Apple iPad Pro 11″ (4th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front/12MP and 10MP Back Cameras, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Grey

With its sophisticated camera setup, the Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation) is ideal for your photography needs – whether it is on adventures or at home. This tablet is equipped with a 12MP front camera and dual rear cameras featuring 12MP and 10MP lenses. Users can expect lifelike images and vivid colours across the board, in true Apple style. The iPads runs on Apple’s M2 chip that works wonderfully with the Liquid Retina display. This tablet is improved by Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and Face ID security. Apple fans can expect immersive multimedia and lasting battery performance for all-day usage on this iPad.

Specifications of Apple iPad Pro 11″ (4th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB

• Display: Liquid Retina display
• Storage:128GB
• Camera: 12MP front camera, dual rear cameras (12MP and 10MP)
• Processor: M2 chip

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 | 27.81cm (11.0″) LCD Display | 4nm Processor | 8,000 mAh Battery | Dolby Atmos Quad Speakers | Android 12.0 | 8GB+128GB | Wi-Fi | S Pen Support | Graphite

This Samsung tablet is made for your endless memories – capture moments in steep detail with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8’s exceptional camera setup. It features a 13MP + 6MP rear dual camera system and a 12MP front camera for clear and realistic images. In addition, the tablet comes with UHD 4K video recording and auto framing, allowing users to create professional-quality content effortlessly. Capture landscapes, selfies, and more with the Tab S8 that can turn every shot into a work of art. Plus, its powerful specifications and S Pen support are added benefits that will please all buyers.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 | 27.81cm (11.0″) LCD Display | 4nm Processor | 8,000 mAh Battery

• Display: 27.81cm (11.0-inch) LCD display
• Processor: 4nm Processor
• Memory: 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage
• Rear cameras: 13MP + 6MP dual cameras
• Front camera: 12MP camera

7. Google Pixel Tablet with Charging Speaker Dock – Android Tablet with 11-Inch Screen, Smart Home Controls, and Long-Lasting Battery – Rose/Porcelain – 128 GB

Android fans will be impressed with the Google Pixel tablet. It features an 11-inch screen, smart home controls, and a long-lasting battery. With 128GB of storage, this sleek tablet is optimal for those who don’t wish to store all their files natively on the device. Even then, this tablet will integrate into your digital lifestyle without issues. Its unique feature includes a charging speaker dock for added convenience in the options Rose and Porcelain variant. Whether for work or play, the Google Pixel Tablet promises an enjoyable user experience with a good camera setup.

Specifications of Google Pixel Tablet with Charging Speaker Dock – Android Tablet with 11-Inch Screen

• Screen size: 11 inches
• Storage capacity: 128 GB
• Colour: Rose/Porcelain
• Additional features: Smart home controls, long-lasting battery

8. Lenovo Tab P12 Pro (12.6 Inch AMOLED Display with Precision Pen-3, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB ROM, Snapdragon 870 Processor, 120 Hz Refresh Rate, 600 Nits Brightness, Quad JBL Speakers, 10200 mAh Battery)

The Lenovo Tab P12 Pro can help you capture important moments with its 5MP wide and 13MP auto-focus rear camera setup. It’s also a perfect option for selfies and video calls. In addition, its 8MP fixed-focus front camera combined with a TOF sensor captures images in impressive quality. Other features of this Android tablet include a 12.6-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870 processor, and quad JBL speakers, so that there’s never a delay or compromise on any front. With 8GB RAM, 256GB ROM, and a 10200mAh battery, this tablet is a worthy contender for your next purchase.

Specifications of Lenovo Tab P12 Pro (12.6 Inch AMOLED Display with Precision Pen-3, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB ROM,

• Display: 12.6-inch AMOLED
• Processor: Snapdragon 870
• RAM: 8 GB
• Storage: 256 GB

Also read: Best gaming tablets with high refresh rate display: Top 10 options to consider

3 best features for you

Best value for money

The OnePlus Pad stands out as the best value for money option among the tablets listed. With its impressive 11.61-inch LCD display, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, and reliable camera system featuring an 8MP front and 13MP rear camera, it offers a balanced blend of performance and affordability. The OnePlus Pad’s sleek design, robust hardware, and smooth performance make it an excellent choice for users seeking a cost-effective tablet with decent photography capabilities.

Best overall product

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) emerges as the best overall product in this selection. Boasting a powerful M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR display, spacious 512GB storage, and exceptional camera setup with 12MP front and rear cameras, it offers unparalleled performance and imaging capabilities. Whether for photography, productivity, or entertainment, the iPad Pro delivers a premium experience. Its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, stunning display, and reliable performance make it the top choice for users seeking the ultimate tablet experience.

How to find the right tablet for photography

To find the right tablet for photography, consider key factors such as camera specifications, display quality, processing power, and software capabilities. Look for tablets with high-resolution cameras, ideally with features like optical image stabilisation and advanced autofocus. A vibrant and colour-accurate display is essential for accurate photo editing and viewing. Opt for tablets with powerful processors and ample RAM to handle image processing tasks efficiently. Additionally, choose a tablet with photography-oriented software features, such as manual controls, RAW image support, and robust editing apps. Research user reviews and professional recommendations to ensure compatibility with photography workflows and applications. Finally, consider factors like battery life, portability, and budget to make a well-informed decision.

FAQs

Question : Can I use a tablet for professional photography work?

Ans : Yes, many tablets offer powerful cameras and editing capabilities suitable for professional photography tasks.

Question : Are tablets with higher megapixel cameras always better for photography?

Ans : Not necessarily. While higher megapixels can capture more detail, factors like sensor size, lens quality, and image processing also influence image quality.

Question : Do all tablets support RAW image format?

Ans : No, not all tablets support RAW image format. Check the specifications of the tablet to confirm RAW support.

Question : Can I connect external cameras or lenses to tablets for enhanced photography?

Ans : Some tablets support external camera attachments or wireless connectivity with cameras for expanded photography options.

Question : Are tablets suitable for photo editing?

Ans : Yes, many tablets come with powerful processors and high-resolution displays, making them suitable for photo editing tasks with compatible software applications.

At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it’s all here, just a click away! Login Now!

Published: 16 Feb 2024, 06:05 PM IST

New York, NY, February 16, 2024 –(PR.com)– The International Photographic Council (IPC) is excited about its upcoming luncheon to honor a high caliber of award recipients. World-renown photographer Douglas Kirkland will be honored posthumously with the special IPC Lifetime Achievement Award. Benjamin Von Wong has been named as the IPC Environmental Photographer Award as well as several professional photographers who will be awarded IPC Professional Photographer Achievement Awards. IPC has awarded professional photographers for their photographic achievement since 1999 and we await the names of the nominees from the key professional photography associations.

The IPC Professional Photographers Awards Luncheon will take place during International Photography Month in the Delegates Dining Room at the United Nations in New York City with special guest Francoise Kirkland as the Keynote Speaker.

“Photography has evolved substantially over the past 50 years in terms of how images are captured,” says Andy Marcus, President of IPC. “But the image still represents life and communicates in every language. Francoise Kirkland has been fully present in this spectacular craft and witnessed the emotions photography elicits. Her ability to narrate this world over five decades is something rare.”

Francoise and Douglas Kirkland met during the 1960s in France, collaborating over their nearly 60 years together on books and exhibitions. Kirkland remains one of the world’s most influential photographers, capturing the faces of Marilyn Monroe, Andy Warhol, Leonardo DiCaprio, Coco Chanel, Mikhail Baryshnikov and more. His portrait of Charlie Chaplin hangs in the National Portrait Gallery in London. In 1998, Kirkland’s picture book, Titanic, rose to No. 1 on The New York Times Best Seller List. A retrospective exhibition of Kirkland’s work entitled, A Life in Pictures, is currently on display at Fahey/Klein Gallery in Los Angeles, California until February 24, 2024.

Benjamin Von Wong is a multidisciplinary visual artist and photographer who uses recycled and reclaimed materials to create striking installations and images. His work has generated over 100 million views on social media focusing on various causes including plastics, fast fashion and electronic waste.

Two MPS Digital Photography students from the School of Visual Arts in NYC will also receive IPC James L. Chung Memorial Scholarships. The scholarship honors the late long-time president of IPC.

Visit IPCPhoto.org to learn more or to secure your reservation to the May luncheon. Please contact Kathy Jello, IPC Vice President for more information on sponsorship opportunities for 2024 or to donate to the James L. Chung Scholarship program. The May luncheon will be a fantastic opportunity to network and celebrate the power of photography, the universal language with all of the award honorees and special guests.

About the International Photographic Council (IPC)

The International Photographic Council (IPC) is a Civil Society Organization formally associated with the United Nations Department of Global Communications, composed of representatives from every major sector of the photographic industry. IPC’s mogo is “Peace Through Photography, the Universal Language.” IPC is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Contact

Kathy Magrane
International Photographic Council
KathyMagrane@southcomm.com

Kathy Jello
International Photographic Council
KathyJello@IPCPhoto.org

On a day marked by tensions surrounding press freedom in Thailand, two journalists found themselves ensnared in the legal system for their investigative work into acts of political defiance against the monarchy.

The saga unfolded as freelance photographer Natthapon Phanphongsanon was depicted in the back of a police vehicle, captured by the lenses of his peers outside the Thing Song Hong police station in Bangkok. This visual testament to the day’s events underscored the precarious balance between state authority and journalistic inquiry in Thailand.

The incident, which occurred nearly a year prior to their arrest, involved the defacement of the Grand Palace wall with graffiti—a visual protest against the pro-monarchy laws that govern the country. Specifically, the graffiti featured an anarchist symbol and a line through the number 112, a direct reference to Article 112 of Thailand’s Criminal Code. This article, infamously known as the lese-majeste law, imposes harsh penalties on anyone found guilty of insulting the monarchy, with sentences ranging from three to fifteen years in prison.

The  that attracted significant media attention. Natthapon, alongside Nutthaphol Meksobhon, a reporter for Prachatai—an online media platform known for its independent coverage of Thai politics—were the journalists caught in the aftermath of their reporting on this defiant gesture. The charges levied against Natthapon and Nutthaphol were severe, accusing them of complicity in vandalizing a historical site. This accusation came with the potential for up to seven years in prison and a fine of 700,000 baht (approximately $19,600), highlighting the risks faced by journalists covering sensitive political topics in Thailand.

The backdrop to this story is a country deeply divided over the role of its monarchy. Student-led pro-democracy protests that began in 2020 lead to a noticeable increase in prosecutions under Article 112. These developments have placed the country’s laws regarding the monarchy under international scrutiny, with critics arguing that they are used to stifle political dissent.

The arrests of Natthapon and Nutthaphol drew immediate criticism from a broad spectrum of observers, from human rights groups to professional associations. Organizations like Amnesty International Thailand and the Thai Journalists Association voiced their concerns, viewing the arrests as a direct assault on media freedom. Such actions, they argue, not only threaten journalists’ ability to perform their duties without fear but also impinge upon the public’s right to be informed about matters of significant political interest.

Following their detention, the two journalists were held overnight, a period of uncertainty that ended with their release on bail after posting a bond of 35,000 baht (around $980) each. This episode has been interpreted by many, including Tewarit Maneechai, the editor-in-chief of Prachatai, as a tactic of intimidation aimed at silencing critical coverage of sensitive issues. 

In the face of these events, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed the matter, asserting his government’s commitment to upholding media freedom. However, he emphasized that it falls to the security officials and police to determine the legality of the journalists’ actions, a statement that underscores the ongoing tension between state security imperatives and the principles of free expression and press freedom.

The case of Natthapon and Nutthaphol is emblematic of the broader challenges facing journalists in Thailand and elsewhere. As they navigate the complex interplay of law, politics, and public interest, their experiences serve as a stark reminder of the essential, often precarious role of the press in sustaining democratic societies.

What are some of the behind-the-scenes in creating a museum exhibit of night photography? This is how the “Abandoned Planes Trains and Automobiles” museum exhibit at the Hi-Desert Nature Museum in Yucca Valley, CA came together.

The museum is situated close to the entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, which attracts over 3 million visitors a year to its otherworldly, enchanting desertscapes. It’s a popular place for night as well as day photographers.

Submitting a proposal

Most museums will have a proposal process. This is your pitch. Here, you describe what the exhibit is about, how many photos you have, what sizes they are, and other information. Quite often, there’s a very short form, which they can either email to you or have on their website. 

While I did submit a proposal, my particular situation was easy. They were already familiar with my book “Abandoned Planes Trains and Automobiles: California Revealed”, published by Arcadia Publishing. They knew what it was about already. This made the proposal easier. I simply copied the description of the book, among other things, in the proposal.

Planning the exhibit

We discussed the exhibit at length, both in person and by email. The Museum Supervisor sent photos of other exhibits to give me an idea, also suggesting the amount of photos that might fit nicely in that space and the various sizes. I had a great deal of latitude in what sort of print I could create.

Signing the contract

After the museum accepted the proposal, they sent over a contract. This covered the dates that the exhibit would run, which would be about ten months later. The contract also discussed how they would care for the exhibit while it was in their care, finances, and other aspects you would anticipate to find in a contract. I signed this electronically and emailed it back, although I certainly could have signed it in person.

After the contract, I submitted an invoice for 25% of the total. They sent a check back within a few days.

Creating the prints

I was going to print up to 30 prints. I settled on 28, all different sizes, the largest ones being 20″ x 30″. They seemed to look good as matted color prints. Since the theme was planes, trains, and automobiles, I thought I would have at least one of each of these be the largest to serve as establishing photos. One plane, one train and one automobile.

The printing goes awry

I had tested one printer already, and was satisfied with the work that they did. However, when it came time to print, nothing on their website worked. It would just hang and do nothing. This was extremely frustrating. I contacted them, and they suggested several different approaches. Nothing worked.

I began searching to find another printer. I found Canvas Discount, which did all the printing in the United States and had strong reviews. They seemed to create quality prints while remaining within my budget. They didn’t offer a lot of options. For instance, they only offered acrylic glass, which is a little more prone to scratching. Still, the reviews were fantastic.

Thankfully, I had begun to attempt the prints well in advance of when I would need to get them to the museum. I still had some time.

I did two test prints with the new printer. They showed up just a few days later. The colors were beautiful and true, not too dull, but not too saturated either.

A clever idea

“Why don’t you create QR Codes and put them on the signs in the exhibit?” Tim Little offered this fantastic idea. I thought that was brilliant. I included them on three of the signs. The QR Codes led back to my website, where I had created a special gallery for the “Abandoned Planes Trains and Automobiles” exhibit.

Setting up the exhibit

This is probably the easiest part of this entire process. I had Canvas Discount mail all the photo prints to the museum. The Museum Supervisor had also asked about how I wanted the exhibit to appear and if I had any special requests. Their previous exhibits had looked great, so I said, “I think it would look best if I give you carte blanche. You have years of experience creating fantastic looking exhibits, and I do not.”

This follows a general philosophy that I have. Whether it was teaching, hiring people, or whatever, my philosophy has generally been, “Hire the best people, let them do their job, and stay out of their way.”

Opening Night

The extremely enjoyable opening night was on the 12th of January in 2024. I wrote some notes for my presentation, but would use them as reminders and launching points so I could speak more freely and spontaneously. The room was full of very friendly, inquisitive people, many of whom had traveled many miles to be there. This included my family. The people asked very astute, thoughtful questions. I even included short segments on how one light paints subjects, the general process of finding some of the locations, and more. 

The audience as well as everyone at the museum were beyond friendly. The museum was extremely friendly and professional. This was about as great of an experience as I could have ever hoped for.

Museum Exhibit

The exhibit runs through the 16th of March 2024.

Hi-Desert Nature Museum

7090 29 Palms Highway

Yucca Valley CA

a perfect sentence: photography in the algorithm age at karst

UK artist Oliver Frank Chanarin’s new exhibition, A Perfect Sentence, interrogates the photographic image in the age of the algorithm. At the center of this installation are two machines made in collaboration with fellow artists Tom Cecil and Ruairi Glynn. These robotic entities continuously hang and rehang framed photographs stored in stacks on the gallery floor. Appropriating the language of automation, the machines handle the images according to an inscrutable logic: identifying, sorting, displaying, juxtaposing, and storing photographs for the exhibition’s duration. A Perfect Sentence, commissioned by the non-profit platform Forma, is on view at KARST in Plymouth until March 23, 2024. 

Oliver Frank Chanarin, A Perfect Sentence, 2024 | installation view: KARST, Plymouth | image © Dom Moore

Oliver Frank Chanarin turns robots into unsettling ‘curators’

For this exhibition at KARST, Oliver Frank Chanarin (see more here) reflects on the unsettling sensation evoked by his work, suggesting that viewers feel observed by the artwork itself: ‘There’s something about the way the photographs are handled indiscriminately by the machines – the intimately human analogue prints bristle against the brutally mechanistic display. It goes against the grain of the images, and there is a sense that we are entering a factory rather than a gallery. Inevitably, we are left to reflect on the life of photographs, the myriad ways in which they circulate and accrue our attention or get ignored, and the hidden forces that shape these experiences.’

image © Dom Moore

The archive of images on display for A Perfect Sentence, only ever partially seen at any one time, was produced by Chanarin last year while traveling across the United Kingdom. Shaped by many spoken and unspoken exchanges with strangers, the artist became increasingly preoccupied with people’s conflicting desires and anxieties around being seen and the fraught experience of making documentary photography in this new social paradigm. Over 12 months, he produced over 3000 color negatives portraying encounters with hundreds of participants, from which he hand-printed unique, C-type prints in the darkroom. Many artworks featured handwritten annotations on cropping and color filtration or show exposure gradients. These interventions on the surface of the images point to a printing process in development and allude to the mercurial nature of identity and the subjectivity inherent in image-making.

image © Dom Moore

a continuous collaborative project led by forma

Following the presentation at KARST, A Perfect Sentence will then be a highlight of Images Vevey Biennial, Switzerland in September 2024. Subsequently, the exhibition will open at Wolverhampton Art Gallery in November 2024 and National Museum Cardiff in 2025, with additional presentation dates pending. A selection of Chanarin’s C-type prints was exhibited for the first time at Derby’s The Museum of Making earlier this year as a highlight of Format23, the UK’s leading photography biennial. The presentation program and a publication designed and published by Loose Joints will be accompanied by digital outputs and public acquisitions in 2024.

image © Dom Moore

‘In 2022, Oliver met and photographed groups and individuals in Plymouth, from navy officers and cadets to skateboarders and sunbathers. A selection of these photographs will be presented alongside images from Oliver’s encounters around the UK. […] Throughout the course of the exhibition at KARST, i-DAT (University of Plymouth’s creative technology research collective) will collaborate with Oliver to develop the AI algorithms, making it both an exhibition and a live research project,‘ shares Ben Borthwick, KARST’s Head of Creative Program.

image © Dom Moore

A Perfect Sentence is commissioned and produced by Forma, in collaboration with eight UK arts organisations. Photography took place in the regions of the co-commissioning and co-production partners: Derby: Derby QUAD, FORMAT International Photography festival and Derby Museums; East Anglia: Norfolk Museums Service and original projects; London: Guildhall Art Gallery; Plymouth: KARST; Wales: Artes Mundi; Wolverhampton: Wolverhampton Art Gallery. 

The Reese Bullen Gallery on the Cal Poly Humboldt campus in Arcata is showcasing an exhibition curated by Professor and Art + Film Department Chair Nicole Jean Hill.

Through research and collaborative preservation with the archive located in Wyoming, the exhibition features works by photographer Lora Webb Nichols (1883-1962), who created and collected approximately 24,000 negatives over the course of her lifetime in the mining town of Encampment. The images chronicle the domestic, social and economic aspects of the sparsely populated frontier of south-central Wyoming.

Given the period of time the collection spans, the isolation of the Encampment community, and Nichols’ gender, this collection of images is unparalleled in its historical significance and visual storytelling. Photography enthusiasts and historians are encouraged to explore more of Nichols’ photographs and writings online through the American Heritage Center (Laramie, Wyoming) or in person at the Grand Encampment Museum.

The exhibition, “Lora Webb Nichols: Photographs Made, Photographs Collected, 1988-1935,” will run through March 16 at the Reese Bullen Gallery.

Hill will host a “Curator Talk” March 6 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the ArtB, Room 102, Lecture Hall. All are welcome to attend.

The Reese Bullen Gallery, named in honor of a founding professor of the Art Department, was established in 1970. The gallery is located in the Cal Poly Humboldt Art Building, at the intersection of B Street and Laurel Drive, directly across from the Van Duzer Theatre. The gallery is open Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 6 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 11 a.m to 2 p.m. It is also open by appointment; contact the gallery director at rbg@humboldt.edu or call 707-826-5818 to make an appointment.

Admission is free and all are welcome. For campus parking information, visit humboldt.edu/parking.

More information on Lora Webb Nichols Archive can be found at https://www.lorawebbnichols.org.