mnartists.org: Night Photography

Night Photography -- Burlington Fireworks, 7.4.07

Brian M. Gardner — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 03:01:49 GMT

A few years ago I was in Burlington, WI and took my camera out for the Independance Day fireworks. This year, I had the opportunity to do it again and was hoping to improve upon a few of the originals. This is the only photo I kept this time around. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 Forthcoming and Recent Exhibitions, Publications, Activities. April - May 2007, Northern Lights Juried Exhibition, sponsored by the White Bear Lake Center for the Arts, White Bear Lake, MN (Judge's Choice Award: "At Upson Falls") May 2007, AIA Guide to the Twin Cities: The Essential Source on the Architecture of Minneapolis and St. Paul, by Larry Millett, Minnesota Historical Society Press (cover images and several interior images) November 2006, Big River Magazine (photos for a feature story titled "Really Big Park" ) June-August 2006, Lincoln Gallery, St. Paul, MN (on display: "At Upson Falls," "Gold Medal Flour," "Cathedral at Night") 2005-2006 Saint Paul Camera Club Awards: Most Original Print ("Spooky Tree"), Color Prints 3rd Place ("Miller Park"), 2nd Place Overall Color Prints, 3rd Place Overall Monochromatic Prints March-April 2006, Northern Lights Exhibition, sponsored by the White Bear Lake Center for the Arts, White Bear Lake, MN (Judge's Choice Award: "Wiemiller House") September-October 2005, "Pets and Picasso," Hopkins Center for the Arts exhibition and benefit for the Greater West Metro Humane Society, Hopkins, MN 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN ("Kenosha Streetcar") June-October 2005, at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN June-September 2005, "What I Did on My Summer Vacation: From Other Lands to Minnesota," Minneapolis Foundation gallery show, IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition ("Hurd House") February-April 2005, "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion," St. Thomas University architectural gallery show, St. Paul, MN ("Calatrava Art Museum #1") Aguirre private collection Curator, mnartists.org, "Night Photography and Low-Light Photography" Member, St. Paul Camera Club

001 Night Photography--"Stone Arch Bridge #1

Brian M. Gardner — Thu, 02 Dec 2004 01:44:20 GMT

This is the famous Stone Arch Bridge of Minneapolis in the foreground. This image was taken at night, approximately a 2 minute exposure. www.gardnerphotos.com I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: Nearly all of the images shown here were taken with an older Pentax SLR and a professional grade manual focus lens. I usually use slide film, 100 or 400 speed Fuji Velvia or Provia, and from these take a high resolution scan and then convert the images to monochrome (Black/White). While this is a rather round about way of doing things and somewhat expensive, I feel it has given me more control over the end result, and a few more options if I ever decide to work with color on current images. Also, using a more manual SLR and a manual focus lens forces me to take my time and think about attaining the best possible image. I also use a quality tripod whenever possible to keep the blur down when taking photos with a large depth of field. The final results are high quality professional prints. With all of this said, over the next 6 months I plan on going completely digital. The output on some digital camera and lens packages are comparably excellent now, and the cost benefit cannot be ignored. While I'll keep using my old setup for special occasions (night shots, cold weather, etc.), within a few months I'll make the switch. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally. All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com .

001 Night Photography, The Cathedral of St. Paul

Brian M. Gardner — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 14:19:26 GMT

I've lived here for a few years now and have attempted on several occasions to get a good photo of the Cathedral, but no luck--This one I'm somewhat happy with. It was taken on a moonlit night, which gave the sky definition behind the dome. Photos are available for sale--please use the contact info below for information. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 I enjoy the challenge of capturing an image that adequately represents the time, place, and emotion in which the photo was taken. This can be difficult--I wonder how many aging pictures of the Grand Canyon are sitting in shoeboxes because the photographers realized their 4x6 prints failed to capture the grandeur of the scene. For me, the joy in photography lies in discovering something interesting and then attempting to capture the image that most closely reflects what I had in mind. That isn't to say there aren't surprises--sometimes the final image is better than I thought it would be, and at times (okay, most of the time) it just doesn't meet expectations. About my photographs: • Photography has the capacity to tell a story and I strive to give my work a strong narrative quality. Even the most mundane subject matter has a tale to tell when we look closely. • I like to use subject matter with which viewers can identify. For this reason, many of the images I create are of landscapes. Many of my photographs are of a subject with which viewers are familiar and can be comfortable in assessing. • From a technical standpoint, I enjoy black and white photography. In general, I think black and white stimulates the viewer's imagination more than color and allows me to emphasize contrasts. I enjoy experimenting with the use of contrast, often creating rather stark images of everyday scenes. However, you'll see color photos from me when I think color adds to the final image. • I also like the technical challenge of special situations such as photographing at night. In this situation, the end result is rarely what I see while taking the photo. Some of the images I've created are the result of 1 to 15 minute exposures. Recent exhibitions, publications, etc. September and October 2005, part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts "Pets and Picasso" exhibition and benefit for the Greater West Metro Humane Society, Hopkins, MN 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN (Kenosha Streetcar photo) June 2005 through October 2005, Artist Gallery at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN June 2005 through September 2005, part of the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery show titled "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery show titled "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion" (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. Aguirre private collection Curated mnartists.org show, "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" Member of the St. Paul Camera Club

Untitled

Brian M. Gardner — Wed, 19 Jan 2005 21:13:29 GMT

This is a 2nd image of the Stone Arch Bridge and vicinity at night. Another long exposure shot, probably around 90 seconds. This is a slightly different perspective than the previous shot--I like this one as it shows a bit more, but on the other hand I am not a big fan of how the buildings are collapsing toward the center of the image due to the lens. www.gardnerphotos.com I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: Nearly all of the images shown here were taken with an older Pentax SLR and a professional grade manual focus lens. I usually use slide film, 100 or 400 speed Fuji Velvia or Provia, and from these take a high resolution scan and then convert the images to monochrome (Black/White). While this is a rather round about way of doing things and somewhat expensive, I feel it has given me more control over the end result, and a few more options if I ever decide to work with color on current images. Also, using a more manual SLR and a manual focus lens forces me to take my time and think about attaining the best possible image. I also use a quality tripod whenever possible to keep the blur down when taking photos with a large depth of field. The final results are high quality professional prints. With all of this said, over the next 6 months I plan on going completely digital. The output on some digital camera and lens packages are comparably excellent now, and the cost benefit cannot be ignored. While I'll keep using my old setup for special occasions (night shots, cold weather, etc.), within a few months I'll make the switch. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally. All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com .

Night Photography--Mark Burning His Leg

Brian M. Gardner — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:16:00 GMT

Taken the same night as "Creepy Bald Guy With Axe." This is the 2nd of 3 that I'll throw on here, and then I promise never to return to like images. This is another 14-15 second exposure, and although Mark is gazing whistfully into the campfire, in reality he is praying that I tell him he can move as he is sitting so close to the fire that his pants are dangerously close to catching fire. After the shutter closed, he jumped up and did his best impersonation of someone suffering from the old "hot foot" gag. Photos are available for sale--please use the contact info below for information. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 Recent exhibitions, publications, etc. June 2006 through August 2006, Lincoln Gallery (3 Prints displayed--At Upson Falls, Gold Medal Flour, Cathedral at Night), St. Paul, MN 2005-2006 SPCC Awards: "Most Original Print" (Spooky Tree photo), Color Prints 3rd Place (Miller Park photo), 2nd Place Overall Color Prints, 3rd Place Overall Monochromatic Prints 2006 Northern Lights Exhibition, March and April 2006, sponsored by the White Bear Lake Center for the Arts, White Bear Lake, MN ("Judges Choice Award," Wiemiller House photo) 2005 "Pets and Picasso" exhibition, September and October 2005, part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts exhibition and benefit for the Greater West Metro Humane Society, Hopkins, MN 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN (Kenosha Streetcar photo) Artist Gallery, June 2005 through October 2005, at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," June 2005 through September 2005, part of the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery show titled IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion," February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery show titled (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. Aguirre private collection Curated mnartists.org show, "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" Member of the St. Paul Camera Club

Night Photography--Spooky Tree

Brian M. Gardner — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 15:42:07 GMT

Taken the same night as my Cathedral photo--there was a full or nearly full moon and a partly cloudy sky. The tree is lit up by the moon and a streetlight nearby. After I took the photo, the tree ripped its roots from the ground and chased me back to my car. Photos are available for sale--please use the contact info below for information. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 I enjoy the challenge of capturing an image that adequately represents the time, place, and emotion in which the photo was taken. This can be difficult--I wonder how many aging pictures of the Grand Canyon are sitting in shoeboxes because the photographers realized their 4x6 prints failed to capture the grandeur of the scene. For me, the joy in photography lies in discovering something interesting and then attempting to capture the image that most closely reflects what I had in mind. That isn't to say there aren't surprises--sometimes the final image is better than I thought it would be, and at times (okay, most of the time) it just doesn't meet expectations. About my photographs: • Photography has the capacity to tell a story and I strive to give my work a strong narrative quality. Even the most mundane subject matter has a tale to tell when we look closely. • I like to use subject matter with which viewers can identify. For this reason, many of the images I create are of landscapes. Many of my photographs are of a subject with which viewers are familiar and can be comfortable in assessing. • From a technical standpoint, I enjoy black and white photography. In general, I think black and white stimulates the viewer's imagination more than color and allows me to emphasize contrasts. I enjoy experimenting with the use of contrast, often creating rather stark images of everyday scenes. However, you'll see color photos from me when I think color adds to the final image. • I also like the technical challenge of special situations such as photographing at night. In this situation, the end result is rarely what I see while taking the photo. Some of the images I've created are the result of 1 to 15 minute exposures. Recent exhibitions, publications, etc. September and October 2005, part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts "Pets and Picasso" exhibition and benefit for the Greater West Metro Humane Society, Hopkins, MN 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN (Kenosha Streetcar photo) June 2005 through October 2005, Artist Gallery at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN June 2005 through September 2005, part of the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery show titled "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery show titled "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion" (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. Aguirre private collection Curated mnartists.org show, "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" Member of the St. Paul Camera Club

Night Photography--"Night Arches"

Brian M. Gardner — Thu, 24 Feb 2005 03:15:44 GMT

Taken at night in Minneapolis--didn't have much time for bracketing as I was told by security that photography in this location was not an approved activity... www.gardnerphotos.com I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: Nearly all of the images shown here were taken with an older Pentax SLR and a professional grade manual focus lens. I usually use slide film, 100 or 400 speed Fuji Velvia or Provia, and from these take a high resolution scan and then convert the images to monochrome (Black/White). While this is a rather round about way of doing things and somewhat expensive, I feel it has given me more control over the end result, and a few more options if I ever decide to work with color on current images. Also, using a more manual SLR and a manual focus lens forces me to take my time and think about attaining the best possible image. I also use a quality tripod whenever possible to keep the blur down when taking photos with a large depth of field. The final results are high quality professional prints. With all of this said, over the next 6 months I plan on going completely digital. The output on some digital camera and lens packages are comparably excellent now, and the cost benefit cannot be ignored. While I'll keep using my old setup for special occasions (night shots, cold weather, etc.), within a few months I'll make the switch. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally. All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com .

Night Photography--"Our Lady of Lourdes"

Brian M. Gardner — Wed, 08 Sep 2004 02:08:13 GMT

While I was taking this picture, a guy walked up and mentioned that I should use a flash, otherwise the picture wouldn't turn out. I thanked him for his help and told him that it looked as though I would be wasting my time. He was right in terms of wasting my time--it took me several attempts over a couple of nights to get this right. Our Lady of Lourdes is the oldest continually used church in the city of Minneapolis. Photo taken at night. Around a 90 second exposure. www.gardnerphotos.com I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: Nearly all of the images shown here were taken with an older Pentax SLR and a professional grade manual focus lens. I usually use slide film, 100 or 400 speed Fuji Velvia or Provia, and from these take a high resolution scan and then convert the images to monochrome (Black/White). While this is a rather round about way of doing things and somewhat expensive, I feel it has given me more control over the end result, and a few more options if I ever decide to work with color on current images. Also, using a more manual SLR and a manual focus lens forces me to take my time and think about attaining the best possible image. I also use a quality tripod whenever possible to keep the blur down when taking photos with a large depth of field. The final results are high quality professional prints. With all of this said, over the next 6 months I plan on going completely digital. The output on some digital camera and lens packages are comparably excellent now, and the cost benefit cannot be ignored. While I'll keep using my old setup for special occasions (night shots, cold weather, etc.), within a few months I'll make the switch. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally. All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com .

Night Photography--"The Basilica of St. Mary"

Brian M. Gardner — Tue, 11 Oct 2005 13:54:03 GMT

Long Exposure night photo--well, twilight photo... Photos are available for sale--please use the contact info below for information. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 I enjoy the challenge of capturing an image that adequately represents the time, place, and emotion in which the photo was taken. This can be difficult--I wonder how many aging pictures of the Grand Canyon are sitting in shoeboxes because the photographers realized their 4x6 prints failed to capture the grandeur of the scene. For me, the joy in photography lies in discovering something interesting and then attempting to capture the image that most closely reflects what I had in mind. That isn't to say there aren't surprises--sometimes the final image is better than I thought it would be, and at times (okay, most of the time) it just doesn't meet expectations. About my photographs: • Photography has the capacity to tell a story and I strive to give my work a strong narrative quality. Even the most mundane subject matter has a tale to tell when we look closely. • I like to use subject matter with which viewers can identify. For this reason, many of the images I create are of landscapes. Many of my photographs are of a subject with which viewers are familiar and can be comfortable in assessing. • From a technical standpoint, I enjoy black and white photography. In general, I think black and white stimulates the viewer's imagination more than color and allows me to emphasize contrasts. I enjoy experimenting with the use of contrast, often creating rather stark images of everyday scenes. However, you'll see color photos from me when I think color adds to the final image. • I also like the technical challenge of special situations such as photographing at night. In this situation, the end result is rarely what I see while taking the photo. Some of the images I've created are the result of 1 to 15 minute exposures. Recent exhibitions, publications, etc. 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN (Kenosha Streetcar photo) June 2005 through October 2005, Artist Gallery at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN June 2005 through September 2005, part of the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery show titled "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery show titled "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion" (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. Aguirre private collection Curated mnartists.org show, "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" Member of the St. Paul Camera Club

Night Photography--"Stone Arch Bridge #2"

Brian M. Gardner — Sun, 13 Nov 2005 05:36:41 GMT

This is the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis, MN. Recently, the bridge was fitted for lighting and the results have given a night life to this local landmark. The Stone Arch Bridge was built by James J. Hill in 1883 to service the railroad--today it is primarily a pedestrian bridge. It consists of 23 arches and is 2,100 feet long. Since the bridge has been recently lighted and the results have been stunning, I believe this type of photo will become more and more common. This photo was a result of a 30 second exposure. Photos are available for sale--please use the contact info below for information. Brian Gardner Photography www.gardnerphotos.com bgard19@aol.com or 651-470-2105 I enjoy the challenge of capturing an image that adequately represents the time, place, and emotion in which the photo was taken. This can be difficult--I wonder how many aging pictures of the Grand Canyon are sitting in shoeboxes because the photographers realized their 4x6 prints failed to capture the grandeur of the scene. For me, the joy in photography lies in discovering something interesting and then attempting to capture the image that most closely reflects what I had in mind. That isn't to say there aren't surprises--sometimes the final image is better than I thought it would be, and at times (okay, most of the time) it just doesn't meet expectations. About my photographs: • Photography has the capacity to tell a story and I strive to give my work a strong narrative quality. Even the most mundane subject matter has a tale to tell when we look closely. • I like to use subject matter with which viewers can identify. For this reason, many of the images I create are of landscapes. Many of my photographs are of a subject with which viewers are familiar and can be comfortable in assessing. • From a technical standpoint, I enjoy black and white photography. In general, I think black and white stimulates the viewer's imagination more than color and allows me to emphasize contrasts. I enjoy experimenting with the use of contrast, often creating rather stark images of everyday scenes. However, you'll see color photos from me when I think color adds to the final image. • I also like the technical challenge of special situations such as photographing at night. In this situation, the end result is rarely what I see while taking the photo. Some of the images I've created are the result of 1 to 15 minute exposures. Recent exhibitions, publications, etc. September and October 2005, part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts "Pets and Picasso" exhibition and benefit for the Greater West Metro Humane Society, Hopkins, MN 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, St. Paul, MN (Kenosha Streetcar photo) June 2005 through October 2005, Artist Gallery at the East Side Arts Council, St. Paul, MN June 2005 through September 2005, part of the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery show titled "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," IDS Tower, Minneapolis, MN The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery show titled "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion" (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. Aguirre private collection Curated mnartists.org show, "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" Member of the St. Paul Camera Club

Night Photography--"Stone Arch Bridge #3"

Brian M. Gardner — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 04:03:56 GMT

I like the patterns of repeating arches displayed here, and decided on a recent trip to the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis to get a photo. Much of the enjoyment I get from photography is the challenge of capturing an image that adequately represents the time, place, and emotion in which the photo was taken. This is a great challenge--I wonder how many aging pictures of the Grand Canyon are sitting in shoeboxes because the photographer looked at the resulting 4x6 print and thought the scene was much grander in person. This is the fun I have with photography--seeing something interesting and then attempting to take a picture whose final output will closely resemble what I originally had in mind. That isn't to say there aren't surprises--sometimes the final image looks better than I thought it would, and at times (okay, most of the time) it just doesn't meet expectations. What to look for in my photos: • First, I like images that are easy on the eye. Many of the images I create are of the landscape variety for this reason--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. • I enjoy black and white photography. In general, I think black and white lends more to the imagination than color and allows me to emphasize contrasts. However, you'll see color photos from me when I think color gives more to the final image. • As noted above, contrast is another focus in my images. I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark. I agree--a lot of contrast will have that effect. • Another device I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. Sometimes a photo really isn't that interesting until you look closely to see what might be going on. • I also like the challenge of special situations like night photography. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images I've created were the result of 1 to 15 minute exposures. Recent Exhibitions, Publications, etc. • 2005 Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition (Kenosha Streetcar photo) • June 2005 through October 2005, Artist Gallery at the East Side Arts Council located in St. Paul, MN • June 2005 through September 2005, part of the the Minneapolis Foundation's gallery titled "What I did on my Summer Vacation- From other lands to Minnesota," located at the IDS Tower, in Minneapolis, MN • Upcoming publication in The Writer's Harbrace Handbook, 3rd edition and Hodge's Harbrace Handbook, 16th edition (featuring Hurd House photo) • February 2005 through April 2005, St. Thomas University architectural gallery titled "Building the Impossible: Architecture in Motion" (Calatrava Art Museum #1 photo), St. Paul, MN. • Aguirre private collection • Curated mnartists.org "Night Photography and Low Light Photography" • Member of the St. Paul Camera Club • Website located at www.gardnerphotos.com

Night Photography--"Burlington Fireworks #2"

Brian M. Gardner — Sat, 14 Jan 2006 00:24:31 GMT

Originally, this was just supposed to be a photo with fireworks over a few rail cars--then during the exposure a train passed through on the track closest to the camera--made for an odd image.

Night Photography--Squall Line Approaching St. Paul, June 2005

Brian M. Gardner — Fri, 17 Jun 2005 00:19:49 GMT

A few days ago (June 14) we had a bit of weather in the eastern part of MN. Ramsey County had tornado warning, and though there wasn't much damage save for a bit of hail, we also lost power. Later that evening another storm approached the city of St. Paul and I took a few photos. I was hoping to get a few lightning shots, but unfortunately most of the lightning stayed in the clouds. In this image, you can see St. Paul to the right as a squall line of an approaching store settles in ominously near the city. It looks worse than it turned out to be, but made for a dramatic sky. I believe this was a 15 -20 second exposure. If you look closely, you can see a lightning strike in the background. www.gardnerphotos.com All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com . I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: This photo was taken with a Canon 20D set at high resolution, and from an original color image converted to monochrome (Black/White). The output on this Digital Camera setup has given me comparable output to another process I use, which is scanning in slides and converting them to digital files. Either way, I've been able to get excellent results and print quality. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally.

Night Photography--Fountain at Night

Brian M. Gardner — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 03:21:37 GMT

What does one do on the longest day of the year--well, decided to wait till the sun went down and the long twiglight faded to do a bit of night photography--my guess is around 10:30 pm. This is a long exposure shot of a fountain. Because of the lighting, it looks as though the fountain's water took on a molten look with the longer exposure. I was going to call this "Use the Force Zeus," but then thought for a moment and decided against it... www.gardnerphotos.com All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com . I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: This photo was taken with a Canon 20D set at high resolution, and from an original color image converted to monochrome (Black/White). The output on this Digital Camera setup has given me comparable output to another process I use, which is scanning in slides and converting them to digital files. Either way, I've been able to get excellent results and print quality. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally.

Night Photography--St. Paul 4th

Brian M. Gardner — Thu, 08 Jul 2004 01:42:25 GMT

Taken from the High Bridge, St. Paul www.gardnerphotos.com I've been snapping photos for several years, but only in the past two have gotten a process down that I am happy with in terms of taking good pictures and getting an output that I can control. Part of the fun I am having now is looking at images I took years ago to see if my current processes can give me decent output. I also belong to the St. Paul Camera Club (http://stpcc.fpage.com/), an excellent resource for anyone interested in good photography. Process: Nearly all of the images shown here were taken with an older Pentax SLR and a professional grade manual focus lens. I usually use slide film, 100 or 400 speed Fuji Velvia or Provia, and from these take a high resolution scan and then convert the images to monochrome (Black/White). While this is a rather round about way of doing things and somewhat expensive, I feel it has given me more control over the end result, and a few more options if I ever decide to work with color on current images. Also, using a more manual SLR and a manual focus lens forces me to take my time and think about attaining the best possible image. I also use a quality tripod whenever possible to keep the blur down when taking photos with a large depth of field. The final results are high quality professional prints. With all of this said, over the next 6 months I plan on going completely digital. The output on some digital camera and lens packages are comparably excellent now, and the cost benefit cannot be ignored. While I'll keep using my old setup for special occasions (night shots, cold weather, etc.), within a few months I'll make the switch. What to look for in my photos: 1.) First, I like images that are easy on the eye. This is why most of the photos you see here are of the landscape variety--I believe that nearly everyone can identify with what they are seeing and can judge the image accordingly. 2.) I like black and white photography--I think that b/w lends more to the imagination than a color photo and allows me to emphasize contrasts. 3.) Contrast is another focus in my images--in some cases there may be way too much contrast--I guess I'm more into the blacks and whites than the greys... I've been told that some of my photos almost look stark--I agree--alot of contrast can do that... 4.) Another device that I like in photography is the capacity to tell a story. The best examples here are the baseball photos--only three are on this site, but all three tell a great story without focusing on the action on the field (then again, most decent baseball movies are the same way...). 5.) Special situations are also interesting--night shots are a good example. The end result is rarely what you see while you are taking the photo. Some of the images you see here were the result of 1-15 minute exposures. And again, since I like a lot of contrast night photos are perfect in this regard. You'll also notice certain themes--steamboats would be one of those--I've spent time in La Crosse, WI and currently reside in St. Paul, MN, so I guess this would come naturally. All photos are available for sale--contact me at bgard19@aol.com for size, prices and other information. Also, check out my website at www.gardnerphotos.com .