Happy Artists

Today, I Stopped To Smell The Roses

cyndilong — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:25:12 +0000

Well, actually… no roses were involved. I did, however enjoy a gingerly walk in my neighborhood to soak in some lovely 69 degree sunny weather. The spring-like light was inspiring, so I brought along my camera.

One of my favorite things to shoot has always been abstract details of found objects. Today I took what Mother Nature gave me and honed in on textures, composition, focus and light. Here are a few of my favorites:

Big Differences In NBA Team Photos

cyndilong — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 21:02:30 +0000

As a detail-oriented photographer, I can’t help but notice subtle differences. The average NBA viewer probably didn’t notice how technically different these team photos were when shown during ABC’s Pre-Game coverage. But, I’m guessing that subconsciously, they did.
The difference in posing, lighting and post-production levels/retouching is huge. The Miami Heat look fierce and dominating. The Orlando Magic look like really nice guys.

I know, I know. Miami’s black uniforms and more energetic logo have something to do with that. Not to mention the fact that the Miami players really ARE more fierce and dominating in real life.

But, if I’m the PR person for any other NBA team, I’m taking notes on Miami’s press photos.

Studio Sweets + Drinks

cyndilong — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:19:01 +0000

Valentine’s Day is a great excuse for Laura to fire up the cookie-baking oven. They were delish!
Thanks to Nate Rehlander for the pics!

Visual Fun With Sound

cyndilong — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:34:25 +0000

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2012/01/15/magazine/painting-with-sound.html

Kaleidoscope Fun

cyndilong — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:02:27 +0000

This is a fun little time-waste website that takes a random image and allows you to create new designs with the move of your mouse (or finger if viewing on your phone.)

Here’s a link using one of my drink photos from the Happy Artists Blog:

http://j.mp/y5cNe7

I Get The Hint

cyndilong — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:43:43 +0000

I don’t know who wrote “blog” so enthusiastically on the back of my silver reflecting card, but I get the hint. So, there.

Drink Competition

cyndilong — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:06:11 +0000

I recently hosted a “drink-making” competition game night. Here are a few entries:

The Three-Way Tie

The Lead Piep

Richard Dawson’s French Kiss

Alex Trubeck’s Xmas Sweater

Super Bowl Commercials 2012 (In Order)

cyndilong — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:13:33 +0000

I’m not peeking yet. I’m like a kid on Christmas Eve. I can’t wait to see them live.

http://brandcottage.visibli.com/share/zl6fL9

These Cats Really Bring The Magic

cyndilong — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:00:54 +0000

Music video for All India Radio from Australian Post House, Oh Yeah Wow.

I’m kinda speechless.

I Say Edible Portraits Are The Best Kind

cyndilong — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:29:04 +0000

Another Mona Lisa!