Bob Carney Photography

I had the privilege to photograph the Antietam Battlefield Luminaries this weekend with the Brunswick Photographers Guild.  It turned out to be a very cold night but it was exciting to be there.  I am not going to talk much about the history of the ceremonies.  You can read more about it on the Official Antietam Battlefield Memorial site. It was a big learning experience for me as low light conditions are challenging to focus.  I had the basic setup a tripod and my wireless remote, but the wind created some camera shake.  Lesson learned…need heavier tripod or weights to hold it steady in adverse conditions.  Double check the shot in on the camera and zoom in to varies locations to check the accuracy of the focus.  And then pack up for another shot. I had quite a few that looked good on the camera but wasn’t nearly as well as I remembered once I downloaded them.

Here’s a few from the shoot.


I played around with photoshop and created a magazine cover to summerize the event. We had some fun with light painting using large portable spot lights. Unfortunately none of my painted shots turned out as well as I had wished.

You can see some of the others on my gallery.

I came across an article today on the Strobist about working for free. I have been contimplating on how to gain recognition and new business with out breaking the bank.  I believe in Pro-bono work for a worthy cause and couldn’t think of a more worthy cause than myself.  I believe I have found the answer with offering up free services to local businesses for exchange for enhancing my portfolio.  Of course, my intent is to create a very compelling product for them as well and gain respect from their peers of which will be (future) paying clients.

As for this article…I get it.  This will help me in a couple ways.  What type of photographer do I want to be.  I do know that art doesn’t always sell, but it makes you whole and keeps the passion inside you driving for the next best shot.  Photography with a purpose whether it be corporate, portrait or events pay the bills.  Just as in any job, once you lose the passion or stop having fun, it becomes more like work.  I hate work, but I love to have fun.