The Power of Social Media for Photographers

Welcome back to the final installment of our three-part series on landscape photography during the Golden and Blue Hours. In Parts 1 and 2, we explored the magic of the Golden Hour and the ethereal beauty of the Blue Hour, especially in the captivating landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Now, it's time to take your breathtaking photographs and share them with the world. In this part, we'll delve into effective social media strategies to help you showcase your masterpieces.

I have to admit that I have struggled with Social Media and Promoting my own personal photography work. Social Media can be very powerful if used intently and purposefully. The biggest advice I can give is to have a PLAN. Put your intentions on paper. A calendar, daytime, and even an alarm clock on your smartphone. If you are like me and procrastinate or you just have no idea where to start – hire someone to help motivate you.  To save you some time and for me to have something to reflect on for my own business, here are some suggestions. In the past 15 years, I have learned that old dogs need to learn new tricks in this industry, and you need to understand how the promotion of your business works. It is not just about a website and how beautiful it is – it is about how well you get yourself out there and follow a plan.  Cheers to the New Plan. 

Social media platforms have revolutionized the way photographers share their work. It provides a global stage for you to display your art, connect with fellow photographers, and build an audience. Here's how to make the most of these platforms:

1. Choose the Right Platforms

Different social media platforms cater to different audiences and content types. Consider the following options:

• Instagram: This visual-centric platform is a haven for photographers. Use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability, and take advantage of Instagram Stories to share behind-the-scenes moments.

• Flickr: Flickr is a dedicated photography platform where you can join communities, participate in groups, and get constructive feedback. (Yes. It's still a thing. )

• 500px: Known for its high-quality photography, 500px is a platform for photographers to showcase their best work. (I have signed up, this is now a work in progress)

• Facebook: Create a photography page or join photography groups to connect with a diverse audience.

• Pinterest: Share your work on Pinterest to reach an audience interested in visually inspiring content.

• Twitter X: While it's not solely for photography, Twitter can be a great place to engage with a broader audience and share your work.

2. Craft an Engaging Profile

Your social media profile is your digital portfolio. Ensure it's professional and engaging:

• Use a high-resolution profile picture, preferably a headshot or a logo.

• Write a captivating bio that succinctly describes your photography style and goals.

• Add a link to your website or portfolio.

3. Post Consistently

Consistency is key on social media. Regularly share your work to keep your audience engaged. However, prioritize quality over quantity. Post your best images rather than flooding your feed with mediocre ones.

4. Storytelling Captions

Enhance your photos with compelling captions that tell a story or offer insights into your creative process. Share anecdotes about the locations, challenges you faced, or the inspiration behind the shot.

5. Engage with Your Audience

Social media is a two-way street. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, asking questions, and showing appreciation for their support. This builds a loyal community around your work.

6. Utilize Hashtags

Hashtags are essential for discoverability on platforms like Instagram. Research and use relevant hashtags that relate to your photograph, location, and style. Don't overdo it; aim for a mix of popular and niche hashtags.

7. Collaborate and Network

Collaborating with fellow photographers or influencers can expand your reach. Attend local photography meet-ups or workshops in your town or city, to connect with like-minded individuals.

8. Showcase Your Process

Share your creative process by posting before-and-after editing shots, time-lapse videos, or tutorials. This not only engages your audience but also establishes you as an expert in your field.

9. Leverage Stories and Reels

Use the Stories and Reels features on platforms like Instagram to share short, engaging content. These features are perfect for showing snippets of your adventures, sneak peeks of upcoming photos, or quick tips and tricks.

10. Monitor Analytics

Most social media platforms offer analytics tools. Monitor these insights to understand what content resonates with your audience, when your followers are most active, and which platforms are driving the most engagement. Adjust your strategy accordingly.

11. Protect Your Work

While sharing your photos, remember to watermark your images or consider using copyright notices to protect your intellectual property. However, as in the case of 500px, they require that you do not watermark your images. They have put into place a right-click protection security. 

Conclusion

Social media is a powerful tool for photographers to showcase their Golden and Blue Hour masterpieces. By selecting the right platforms, maintaining a consistent posting schedule, and engaging with your audience, you can create an online presence that not only showcases your work but also fosters a community of photography enthusiasts.

Now, armed with the knowledge of capturing the perfect moments during the Golden and Blue Hours and the skills to effectively share them on social media, you are well on your way to becoming a celebrated landscape photographer in the and beyond. Look out PNW you are about to meet a fantastic landscape photographer. 

I hope this three-part series has been a valuable resource on your photography journey. May your future endeavors be filled with stunning photographs and a growing community of admirers. Keep exploring, keep creating, and keep sharing your art with the world.

Happy shooting!  📸 Photo Art by Laura Photography | Laura Dusek | Photographer, Author

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End of Series

Mastering the Blue Hour: A Landscape Photographer's Guide to Captivating the Pacific Northwest

Welcome to Part 2 of our series on harnessing the power of the Golden and Blue Hours in landscape photography. In this installment, we venture into the mystic realms of the Blue Hour, and we're going to focus on one of the most photogenic places on Earth: the enchanting Pacific Northwest. With its diverse landscapes, lush forests, rugged coastlines, and serene lakes, this region offers a photographer's paradise during the Blue Hour.

The Blue Hour: A Brief Introduction

Before we dive into the specifics of capturing the Blue Hour's magic in the Pacific Northwest, let's take a moment to understand what the Blue Hour is and why it's so special.

The Blue Hour is the period of twilight just before sunrise or after sunset when the sun is below the horizon, and the sky takes on a deep, rich blue hue. Unlike the harsh daylight or warm tones of the Golden Hour, the Blue Hour offers a serene, calming ambiance with a subtle, ethereal light. It's a brief window of opportunity that transforms landscapes into mesmerizing scenes, characterized by its deep blues and soft, diffused lighting.

Why the Pacific Northwest?

The Pacific Northwest, encompassing states like Washington and Oregon, boasts an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, each more breathtaking than the last. From the rugged coastlines of the Olympic Peninsula to the mystical forests of the Cascades and the serene beauty of Crater Lake, this region is a photographer's dream come true.

During the Blue Hour, the Pacific Northwest takes on a surreal quality that enhances its already striking natural beauty. Let's explore how you can master the Blue Hour in this captivating region.

Preparing for Your Blue Hour Expedition

1. Location Scouting

Effective landscape photography during the Blue Hour begins with thorough location scouting. Research, explore, and identify the specific spots in the Pacific Northwest that speak to you. Whether it's a serene lake surrounded by towering pines or a rugged coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, know your locations inside out.

2. Timing is Key

As with the Golden Hour, timing is everything during the Blue Hour. Use apps like PhotoPills or The Photographer's Ephemeris to determine when the Blue Hour occurs at your chosen location. Remember that the Blue Hour is relatively short, usually around 20-30 minutes before sunrise or after sunset, so arrive well in advance to set up your gear.

3. Essential Gear

To capture the beauty of the Pacific Northwest during the Blue Hour, you'll need some essential gear:

• Camera: Invest in a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings for complete control over exposure.

• Sturdy Tripod: A reliable tripod is a must to keep your camera steady during longer exposures.

• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens (e.g., 16-35mm) is ideal for capturing expansive landscapes.

• Remote Shutter Release: A remote or cable shutter release minimizes camera shake during long exposures.

• Lens Filters: Consider using graduated neutral density (GND) or circular polarizing filters to enhance your shots.

Shooting During the Blue Hour

1. Manual Mode Mastery

Set your camera to manual mode to have full control over your exposure settings. During the Blue Hour, you'll typically use slower shutter speeds and wider apertures to let in as much light as possible. Start with a low ISO (e.g., 100 or 200) to reduce noise.

2. White Balance Settings

Experiment with different white balance settings to emphasize the rich blue hues of the Blue Hour. "Tungsten" or "Incandescent" settings can enhance the blueness of the scene, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

3. Long Exposures

To capture the soft, ethereal quality of the Blue Hour, consider using long exposures. This technique can transform water into a glassy surface and blur moving clouds for a dramatic effect. Don't forget to use your tripod and a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake.

4. Composition and Framing

Compose your shot with care. Use leading lines, foreground elements, and interesting focal points to create a visually compelling image. Pay attention to the balance of light and shadow in your frame, as the Blue Hour often adds a touch of mystery to your scenes.

5. Bracketing

Bracketing is a technique where you take multiple shots at different exposures to capture a wider dynamic range. This is particularly useful during the Blue Hour when light levels can vary dramatically. Merge these shots in post-processing to create a perfectly exposed image.

Post-Processing for the Blue Hour

Post-processing plays a crucial role in bringing out the full beauty of your Blue Hour shots. Here are some tips:

• RAW Format: Shoot in RAW to retain maximum data for post-processing flexibility.

• Enhance Blues: Use software like Adobe Lightroom to fine-tune the blue hues and overall color balance.

• Reduce Noise: Long exposures can introduce noise. Apply noise reduction techniques to keep your images crisp and clear.

• Dodge and Burn: Enhance the contrast and details in your image by dodging (lightening) and burning (darkening) specific areas.

Blue Hour Photography Ethics

As you explore the Pacific Northwest during the Blue Hour, it's essential to be mindful of the environment and the ecosystems you are capturing. Follow these ethical guidelines:

• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring with you, and be respectful of nature.

• Stay on Trails: Avoid trampling on delicate flora or disturbing wildlife.

• Respect Privacy: If you photograph people, always seek their consent and respect their privacy.

Conclusion

The Pacific Northwest, or anywhere for that matter, but my home in the Pacific Northwest is close to my heart, with its breathtaking landscapes, becomes even more enchanting during the Blue Hour. By mastering the art of Blue Hour photography and embracing the region's diverse natural beauty, you'll have the opportunity to create captivating and ethereal images that will leave viewers in awe.

In Part 3 of our series, we'll explore how to leverage the power of social media to showcase your Golden and Blue Hour masterpieces to a global audience. Until then, venture out into the Pacific Northwest during the Blue Hour, and let your creativity soar.

Stay tuned for more photography wisdom!

The Image  Above - is an example of the Blue Hour – Photographed by Photo Art by Laura Photography while I was in … New England.  I really did look for a Blue Hour of Home, I broke the rules.  Shot at 800 ISO 1.0 sec and opened the lens all the way to F4.0.  If I find a better one, I will post it. Guess now I have some homework (smile) Till the next time.  Enjoy the world around you and I pray it invokes abundant inspiration. 

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Part 3: Social Media Strategies for Showcasing Your Golden and Blue Hour Masterpieces (Coming Soon)

Maximizing Your Landscape Photography: Harnessing the Power of the Golden and Blue Hours

Maximizing Your Landscape Photography: Harnessing the Power of the Golden and Blue Hours

Part 1: The Golden Hour - Nature's Perfect Filter

Welcome, fellow photography enthusiasts, to this three-part series where we delve into the art of landscape photography during the magical hours of the Golden and Blue Hours. As a Professional Landscape Photographer, I've had many opportunities to see some of the finest landscape opportunities. I love the Pacific Northwest; it is the closest to my heart and probably always will be. In this first installment, we'll explore the Golden Hour and how it can transform your landscape shots into stunning works of art.

What is the Golden Hour?

The Golden Hour, also known as the "magic hour," occurs twice a day – shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. During this brief period, the sun hangs low on the horizon, casting a soft, warm, and golden glow over everything it touches. It's nature's perfect filter, providing a dreamy, ethereal quality to your photographs.

Why is the Golden Hour Special?

1. Soft, Warm Light: The low angle of the sun during the Golden Hour results in a soft, warm light that enhances colors, textures, and shadows. This gentle illumination adds depth and dimension to your landscape shots, making them visually captivating.

2. Reduced Harshness: Harsh sunlight, with its strong contrast and deep shadows, can be challenging for landscape photography. The Golden Hour offers a more forgiving lighting environment, minimizing the need for complex exposure adjustments.

3. Dynamic Skies: Sunrises and sunsets often produce dynamic, colorful skies filled with hues of red, orange, pink, and purple. Combining this celestial display with your landscape composition can create breathtaking visuals.

Tips for Golden Hour Photography

Now that you understand why the Golden Hour is so special, let's dive into some practical tips to make the most of it:

1. Arrive Early- There are many great tools (apps) to research the rising or setting of the sun.

To capture the full magic of the Golden Hour, arrive at your chosen location well in advance. This allows you to scout for the perfect composition and be ready to shoot when the light is at its best.

2. Use a Tripod

The soft, low light of the Golden Hour often requires slower shutter speeds. To avoid camera shake and ensure sharp images, use a tripod. It also enables you to experiment with longer exposures for creative effects.

3. Experiment with White Balance

Adjust your camera's white balance settings to accentuate the warm, golden tones of the hour. Try "Daylight" or "Shade" settings to make colors pop.

4. Shoot in RAW & NOT in JPEG 

RAW image files retain more data than JPEGs, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing. This is crucial for fine-tuning the exquisite details the Golden Hour brings out.

5. Frame Your Shot

Compose your shot thoughtfully, taking into account leading lines, foreground elements, and interesting focal points. Use the magical light to highlight your subject and create a sense of depth.

6. Don't Forget the Afterglow

The Golden Hour doesn't end as soon as the sun dips below the horizon. Stay a while, as the afterglow can produce its own unique and stunning lighting effects.

In Part 2 of this series, we'll venture into the realm of the Blue Hour, which is equally enchanting and offers its own set of challenges and rewards for landscape photographers. Until then, embrace the Golden Hour and elevate your landscape photography to new heights.

Stay tuned for more photography wisdom!

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Part 2: Mastering the Blue Hour - A Landscape Photographer's Guide (Coming Soon)

Autumn In Washington State - Places to find beautiful - Fall Colors

 

Autumn in Washington State: A Photographer's Guide

The fall season is a magical time in Washington State. The leaves change color, the days get shorter, and the air becomes crisp and cool. It's a time for enjoying the outdoors and capturing the beauty of nature.

As a landscape photographer, I love photographing autumn in Washington State. There are so many beautiful places to explore, and the colors are always stunning. Here are a few tips for photographing autumn landscapes in Washington State:

• Plan ahead. The best time to photograph autumn colors in Washington State is from late September to mid-October. However, the timing can vary depending on the elevation and location. Do some research to find out when the leaves will be at their peak in the area you plan to visit.

• Be patient. The weather can be unpredictable in the fall, so be prepared to wait for the perfect conditions. Cloudy days can actually be ideal for photographing autumn colors, as they can help to create a soft, diffused light.

• Use the right settings. When photographing autumn colors, it's important to use the right camera settings. I typically shoot in manual mode and set my white balance to "shade" or "cloudy". This will help to warm up the colors in the scene.

• Experiment with different compositions. There are endless possibilities when it comes to composing autumn landscape photographs. Try different angles and perspectives to find the one that you like best.

• Don't forget the details. Don't just focus on the big picture. Pay attention to the details, such as the leaves on the ground, the bark on the trees, and the reflection in the water. These details can add interest and depth to your photographs.

With a little planning and patience, you can capture some truly stunning autumn landscapes in Washington State. So get out there and start exploring!

Here are some of the best places to photograph autumn landscapes in Washington State:

I am now inspired and anxious for Autumn Colors… How about you? 

Where will you go for a Fall Color Drive this Season? 

• Leavenworth: This Bavarian-themed town in the Cascade Mountains is a popular destination for fall foliage viewing. The town is surrounded by mountains and forests, and the leaves change color in a variety of shades.

Leavenworth autumn landscape, Washington State

• Stevens Pass: This mountain pass is located between Seattle and the Cascade Mountains. It's a popular spot for hiking, camping, and fishing, and the fall colors are simply stunning.

Stevens Pass autumn landscape, Washington State

• North Cascades National Park: This park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Washington State. The fall colors are incredibly vibrant in the alpine meadows and around the lakes.

North Cascades National Park autumn landscape, Washington State

• Olympic National Park: This park is known for its temperate rainforests, but it also has some stunning fall foliage. The best place to see the colors is in the Hoh Rainforest and along the Sol Duc River.

Olympic National Park autumn landscape, Washington State

• Washington Park  Japanese Arboretum: This arboretum in Seattle or Spokane is home to over 10,000 different types of plants. The fall colors are especially beautiful in the Japanese Garden and around the lake.

Washington Park Japanese Arboretum autumn landscape, Washington State

I hope these tips help you capture some amazing autumn landscapes in Washington State. So get out there and start exploring!

 

A Journey Through Timeless Beauty

A Journey Through Timeless Beauty

Exploring the Artistry of Fine Art Photography:

Fine Art Photography is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of photographic styles and techniques.  However, all Fine Art Photography shares one common goal: to express an idea, a message, or an emotion through the medium of photography. The camera is not just a piece of a technically advanced tool. It is like the knife is to a Professional Chef, it is an extension of themselves that they hold in their hand. For myself  - my camera is an extension of my eyes and what I see in my head when I look at nature.

Fine Art photographers use their skills and creativity to capture images that are more than just snapshots. They create images that are visually striking, emotionally resonant, and intellectually stimulating. When they get that shot – there is an Awe Moment that speaks to them and they are hopeful that this moment they have captured will resonate to others. 

There are many different ways to create fine art photography. Some photographers focus on the technical aspects of photography, such as composition, lighting, and exposure. Others are more interested in the emotional or conceptual aspects of their work. Still, others combine technical and artistic elements to create unique and personal images.

No matter what approach they take, fine art photographers are all driven by a desire to create something that is both beautiful and meaningful.

Exploring the Themes of Fine Art Photography

Fine Art Photography can explore a wide range of themes, from the personal to the political. Some common themes include:

• Nature: Many fine art photographers are inspired by the beauty of nature. They capture images of landscapes, animals, and plants that evoke a sense of wonder and awe.

• People: Fine art photographers also often explore the human condition. They capture images of people in all their complexity, beauty, and vulnerability.

• Abstraction: Some fine art photographers use abstraction to create images more about the mood or feeling than the subject matter. These images can be challenging to interpret but can also be very rewarding.

• Conceptual photography: Conceptual photography is a type of fine art photography that uses images to explore ideas or concepts. These images are often ambiguous and open to interpretation.

The Artistry of Fine Art Photography

The artistry of fine art photography lies in the photographer's ability to use the medium to create something that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. This requires a deep understanding of the technical aspects of photography, as well as a strong creative vision.

Fine art photographers must also be able to choose their subjects carefully. The subject matter of a fine art photograph should be something that the photographer is passionate about and that they believe will resonate with viewers.

Finally, fine art photographers must be able to tell a story with their images. The best fine art photographs are those that leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

The Journey Through Timeless Beauty

Exploring the Beauty of Fine Art Photography really is a Journey of timeless beauty. It is a journey that can take us to the depths of the human soul, the rights of the natural world, and the far reaches of the imagination.

It is a journey that is both challenging and rewarding. It is a journey that can enrich our lives and make us see the world that we call home in a new way. 

The journey of exploring the artistry of Fine Art Photography is a lifelong one. There is always more to learn discover and grow and the journey is well worth the taking. Come take a Journey with me - Photo Art by Laura - Fine Art Photographer.

 

Embracing Nature Through Fine Art Photography

As a Landscape photographer, I am constantly drawn to the beauty of nature. The vastness of the mountains, the power of the sea, the delicateness of a  flower - all of these things fill me with awe and inspiration. I believe that Fine Art Photography is a powerful way to capture and share the beauty of nature, and to help people connect with the natural world.

When I am out shooting, I am always looking for ways to capture the essence of nature in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally evocative. I want my photographs to make people feel something, whether it is a sense of wonder, peace, calm and focus. Our home is precious and it should be seen.

I believe that fine art photography can play an important role in our physical and mental well-being. I can also raise awareness of the environment around us... By sharing images of the beauty of nature, I hopefully can help people to appreciate the natural world and to understand the importance of it. 

I am also committed to using my photography to promote sustainable practices. I believe that we all have a responsibility to care for the planet, and I hope that my work can inspire others to make choices that are better for the environment.

If you are interested in learning more about my Fine Art Nature Photography, I encourage you to visit my website or follow me on social media. I love helping commercial offices decorate their space. I offer a space analysis to help you customize my art for your office. Located in Spokane Washington.

Here are some tips for capturing exquisite fine art nature photography:

What Makes Me Different

• I pay attention to the details. In looking for interesting textures, shapes, and patterns in nature; these details can add depth and interest to a photograph.

• I use light to my advantage. The time of day and the direction of the light can have a big impact on the mood of your photographs. My sweet spot is Mornings or Evenings. Otherwise known as the Blue Hour or Golden Hour. These hours are not just about a sunset or sunrise. This time of day brings richness to my photography and depth that you just cannot in my opinion grant the same feel at high noon. I love to experiment with different lighting conditions to find what works and what doesn't. 

• Being patient. Sometimes the best photographs take time to capture. I have learned to embrace this asset - to be patient and not to be afraid to wait for the perfect moment. 

More about  Blue Hour or Golden in my next post.

A Journey Through Timeless Beauty- Exploring the Artistry of Fine Art Photography

 

A Journey Through Timeless Beauty

Exploring the Artistry of Fine Art Photography:

Fine Art Photography is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of photographic styles and techniques.  However, all Fine Art Photography shares one common goal: to express an idea, a message, or an emotion through the medium of photography. The camera is not just a piece of a technically advanced tool. It is like the knife is to a Professional Chef, it is an extension of themselves that they hold in their hand. For myself  - my camera is an extension of my eyes and what I see in my head when I look at nature.

Fine Art photographers use their skills and creativity to capture images that are more than just snapshots. They create images that are visually striking, emotionally resonant, and intellectually stimulating. When they get that shot – there is an Awe Moment that speaks to them and they are hopeful that this moment they have captured will resonate to others. 

There are many different ways to create fine art photography. Some photographers focus on the technical aspects of photography, such as composition, lighting, and exposure. Others are more interested in the emotional or conceptual aspects of their work. Still, others combine technical and artistic elements to create unique and personal images.

No matter what approach they take, fine art photographers are all driven by a desire to create something that is both beautiful and meaningful.

Exploring the Themes of Fine Art Photography

Fine Art Photography can explore a wide range of themes, from the personal to the political. Some common themes include:

• Nature: Many fine art photographers are inspired by the beauty of nature. They capture images of landscapes, animals, and plants that evoke a sense of wonder and awe.

• People: Fine art photographers also often explore the human condition. They capture images of people in all their complexity, beauty, and vulnerability.

• Abstraction: Some fine art photographers use abstraction to create images more about the mood or feeling than the subject matter. These images can be challenging to interpret but can also be very rewarding.

• Conceptual photography: Conceptual photography is a type of fine art photography that uses images to explore ideas or concepts. These images are often ambiguous and open to interpretation.

The Artistry of Fine Art Photography

The artistry of fine art photography lies in the photographer's ability to use the medium to create something that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. This requires a deep understanding of the technical aspects of photography, as well as a strong creative vision.

Fine art photographers must also be able to choose their subjects carefully. The subject matter of a fine art photograph should be something that the photographer is passionate about and that they believe will resonate with viewers.

Finally, fine art photographers must be able to tell a story with their images. The best fine art photographs are those that leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

The Journey Through Timeless Beauty

Exploring the Beauty of Fine Art Photography really is a Journey of timeless beauty. It is a journey that can take us to the depths of the human soul, the rights of the natural world, and the far reaches of the imagination.

It is a journey that is both challenging and rewarding. It is a journey that can enrich our lives and make us see the world that we call home in a new way. 

The journey of exploring the artistry of Fine Art Photography is a lifelong one. There is always more to learn discover and grow and the journey is well worth the taking. Come take a Journey with me - Photo Art by Laura - Fine Art Photographer.

Embracing Nature Through Fine Art 

Spring is Here.

 

Hey Friends – Well Spring is finally here… Praise God!  I am excited about that upcoming trip I told you about. Also updates on the conversion of Deliah. “The Photo Mobile”

Early in April, I will be traveling to Western Washington to find the colors of Spring.  I will be photographing one of my favorite locations, Skagit Valley Tulips at Mount Vernon Washington.  I am hopeful for a break in the weather but sometimes a storm just makes the colors more vibrant.  I bought an umbrella for the possibility of weather for my camera.  Yes, you read correctly – for the camera and also a rain jacket for me.  I found this very cool tripos holder for the umbrella and if it goes as planned, I will put a link on my Pinterest board.  I have put a placeholder on my landscape website so keep watching for new images.

 

As for the conversion to my vehicle, I am learning that patients is a prerequisite for this type of change. Logistics don’t always walk to the beat that you would like them to.  Remember the song that helped us as kids memorize the parts of the body and how they were connected?  Well, when you are converting a vehicle for camping (Sub Overlanding) there is an order to the installation.  We have ripped everything out and the back of my GMC Suburban – so I suppose there is No turning back now.  When we began to prepare to take out the back AC unit we discovered it was a bit more entailed than just a few bolts and what not to be done. It actually required a licensed mechanic to dismantle and disconnect the AC for environmental purposes.  So that is now done…

We have the design down pat and so now we get to install the insulation and subfloor.  Remember when I said things have an order? We got a fancy weather sensor fan to keep airflow within the cab of the rig but that means we need to take out (remove) a 14x14 square – cut the metal away and leave a giant hole in the roof of the rig. Plus get it wired.  If that doesn’t have a ring of intimidation to it…then- yep –

Then wiring for power, insulation for ceiling, walls, and floor.  It has been months of research to decide how this is all going to be laid out.  I wanted a space to work at night after my images have been shot without hunching over, so that had to be thought out.  What do I need to have with me and where will it live?  Everything must have a home because space is limited.  My shopping list is constantly evolving, and things are arriving to have me totally prepared for this adventure.  We discovered that the spare tire was a slight issue.  There was no way I could lift from the top of the rig the spare, so we needed to find a way to mount it to the back door.  After a ton of research and discovery, this was going to be an expensive issue if we went with conventional -  it was not going to be an option to purchase a brand new back bumper for thousands of dollars, one quote was $11,000.  I almost fainted on the spot.  NOPE!  So plan be was thinking outside the box.  Where could we get a swing-away tire mount that would not break the bank?  After a walk in the rain, we found our solution in the car's graveyard.  Now we had to locate a professional welder.  It feels really good when things fall into place.  I may not have the rig completely ready for a show and tell, but hopefully, it will be sleep worthily for a few days and my trip to Skagit Valley.  When it’s all complete I will give you a tour.  In the meantime, we have been trying to keep a video log of our progress. 

 

I invite you to subscribe and follow us to keep up to date with everything Photo Art-related. 

Oh, before I forget – one last thing.  If you are looking for all things Family Portraits.  See my Portraits Page.  www.portraitsphotoartbylaura.com

 

I will write again soon. 

 

All My Best

 

Laura D