Illuminating history of light art

Popularized by Sprint in its beautiful "Dreams" commercial, light art has once again appeared mostly in cameos in a few commercials this holiday season. This has spurred a discussion around the nest here about one of the original inspirations of the light-pen-as-art element - a series of photos taken by Life magazine's forward-thinking photographer Gjon Mili of Pablo Picasso in 1949. That's sixty years ago for those scoring at home. Just unbelievable images. And they don't even move.

Gigantic photographer focuses on IND Airport

HRW recently enlisted tall photographer John Fleck to capture images of the new Indianapolis International Airport. Gaining access to jetways, the control tower and the FedEx hub made for some exciting shooting opportunities. Not only was he able to get closer and more personal, all while not needing a ladder, we also got some nice shots. Look for them to appear in advertising and promotional materials for the airport in the coming months.

Here are some images of the impressive new facility.

Skin is the new denim

Proving the universal truth that selling jeans is really about seeing more skin, two major jean companies have recently used the same provocative photographer for their new ad campaigns.

Ryan McGinley, buzz-worthy photographer known for his carefree, and often clothes-free, photographs of youth frolicking through nature, is the chosen visionary for both brands.

Levi's launches its new campaign today with the tag “Go Forth.” And Wrangler recently launched a rebranding with “We Are Animals.”

Even though McGinley’s voyeuristic lens captures images for both, the campaigns are quite different in tone.

Levi's takes a rebellious, young American approach, while Wrangler creeps darker and more primal to say the least. Pictured is one of the tame ones (more here)…thank goodness it's only appearing in France. Americans are not prepared for something so very…how you say…French.

Case in point, the removal of a recent Calvin Klein Jeans billboard from Houston Street in New York City. It’s nothing new for Calvin’s imagery to make the grown-ups nervous, but this made even jaded New Yorkers blush. Judge for yourself. Now go immediately to church.

Err Force One

The recent photo of Air Force One is causing quite the stir. Not because of the fact that a low-flying 747 chased by F-16s was buzzing over New York. But because of the cost to take the picture. I mean, c'mon. $328,000? HRW could produce an image for half that. Or even a third - whatever, we can talk.

The photo you're looking at now is a fake. It's one we put together using photoshop, stock photography and a common sense of frugality. Rollover the image to see the 'real' photo.

Not only is ours a reasonable substitute, it would've saved the taxpayers $327,000 and change. Next time you're in the market for a stunning visual, but not sure if your budget suits, give us a call. Maybe we can bail you out.

Photographic memories

Thank goodness a picture is worth a thousand words because the images taken for Flashes of Hope might leave you too choked up to speak.

This tender not-for-profit effort works with families of children fighting life-threatening illnesses. Photographers and other professionals donate their time and talent to give these kids the spotlight to celebrate their innate vitality and give their families and friends a lasting impression of why the world is greater for them being here.

These children and young adults who are all too aware of how illnesses have stolen a part of their childhood shine with this chance to let the world see them not as patients whose lives may be cut short, but as kids with the whole world in front of them, IV tubes and all.

There are 36 or so chapters nationwide. And these poignant portraits are often on display in traveling exhibits throughout the country, including the latest one being displayed in the Columbus Learning Center featuring photos taken at Riley Hospital for Children.

FWA Photo launches today

The FWA launched a new endeavor today for your daily inspiration. FWA Photo includes comments, info and links to the photographer and even a lightbox to archive your favorites. If today's post is any indication of the surprises you'll see, then FWA Photo is definitely diversion-worthy.



Bodybuilder Children by Kurt Stallaert