Harry Parker Photography Blog

At Skydive New England the season is short here in Maine for jumping. Just about every week something is going on, one celebration or another.
This week was Emma’s Birthday. Being from Australia Emma didn’t get a Prom, which became the theme for the party. Weather moved in the night before and pretty much washed all activity away for the big event leaving only the true locals on site.
A true pot luck where everyone brought something and before you knew it there was too much of everything, again.
In anticipation for the event I thought it time to start getting all the little goodies I’ve made a list for regarding off camera lighting. I’ve been a fan of Strobist for a while now and diligently made my beginning list for all things off camera lighting. I was excited at the opportunity to put this new found info to practice.
I was able to get most of what I was looking for at Midwest Photo Exchange, Strobist’s supporting equipment dealer. After saving a little money I threw down for my first light stand, umbrella and several clamps and some wireless triggers.
Everything made it the day of the event except the wireless triggers. I own a canon 430 and 580Ex with wireless TTL, which become my only option. No time to practice, no time to look through all the notes, just throw it up and wing it.
Brand new batteries helped a LOT. But a few drinks into the process did not. That goes for myself and others who participated but made for some great laughs. I will say this, nothing helps getting people in the photos more then the light stand with umbrella. Must look professional or something.
I have a ton of little projects I know I will be able to use the wireless triggers and get the most money for these flashes, off camera. Now starts the beginning in lighting and I am quite excited. I must say, it’s quite embarrassing after what I have seen and been learning about, but it’s a start. Finally.
Below are a few samples of my new adventure. If you are looking for more pics to Tag you can find them on Harry Parker Photography Facebook Fan Page.
HP

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Late fall, October, family reunion on shores of Lake Michigan. A family over over ten is hard to group anywhere at one time. If half shows up, it’s a miracle. This year The Kennebeck’s celebrated a long awaited reunion at a beautiful resort complete with an indoor swim park for the kids. I was lucky enough to be invited along and help document this wonderful family.
Long time residents of Wisconsin, the family has roots throughout the state and the East Coast. Many members rising to the tops of their fields from medicine to law. Quite the amazing, loving group of people.
An honor to be invited and an honor to be called family. This time near the lake with light snow flurries in the afternoon and temps hovering just under 30 degrees was a lot of fun and a lot of football!
God Bless and Thank you.
HP

One thing that happens in California, you travel, a lot. Another 8 hour mission from Nor Cal to the deserts of So Cal call for a very needed stop in Santa Barbara to see some friends and meet some new ones.
At the time the Santa Barbara fires were just getting under control. From the pictures you can see how hot it really got. This was at a friends place, on the hill, in the center with almost a 360 view of town. We could see water helicopters and airplanes dropping water on mountainsides for three days.
Lots of fun, poolside in beautiful sunny Santa Barbara.
HP

Not long after I found a home in California the ultimate California roadster appeared. An early 60′s pin tail Alpha Romero. From what I understand there are only a few of these ever made. The entire car is original and completely restored. An amazingly fun ride through the hills of coastal Cali!
One early morning I got the chance to take a quick trip in this machine out to the coast. It was quick and fun. This thing drives like a go cart. Direct connect steering, lots of power and great in the turns.
The time also afforded me the opportunity to get the owner some pics. It was a great way to start the day and we made it a point to go out at least once a week in the mornings for a coastal drive. Nothing but blue skies, enough chill in the air to wear a jacket and stunning scenery.
It’s drives like these when words were never spoke. Just an occasional smile will do.
HP