Ruth A B Clegg: Blog https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog en-us (C) Ruth A B Clegg (Ruth A B Clegg) Fri, 08 May 2020 16:08:00 GMT Fri, 08 May 2020 16:08:00 GMT https://www.ruthabclegg.com/img/s/v-12/u681255679-o347536806-50.jpg Ruth A B Clegg: Blog https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog 120 120 A Smart Phone can be a great camera https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/5/a-smart-phone-can-be-a-great-camera When out and about, you see an awesome scene. Whip that smart phone out and take the shot. Not thinking much about what you are doing, you get an average image. If in the future, just before you take that shot, stop, look again for color, angles, where is the most exciting part of the scene, then press that button.

 

I recently purchased the i Phone 11Pro and challenged my self to take it on vacation with me instead of my normal travel camera. That would  be a big no-no for me, but this time I thought "DO It". I was pleasantly surprised at the images I made, especially after I learned how to use and visualize what the 3 lenses on the camera would capture. Of course, now, I make sure that I have my i phone 11Pro wherever I go so I am ready at a moments notice to capture what I see.

There are certain rules that apply to whatever you are using and whenever you are trying to take an photograph. Look for complimentary colors, angles that create visual energy with their direction, that the point of interest is in the best place and check your angle of view.

IMG-1030IMG-1030 IMG-1030_2IMG-1030_2

I like having flowers in bloom all over my home and property and am lucky to have this red amaryllis flowering. The red flower and the blue pot behind it are complimentary (opposite) colors, so they create a certain amount of visual energy. That energy is in the bottom third which is a dynamic area and a good place for those colors to be. You also can see the arrow shows the angles that are created  by the direction of the flower petals.

IMG-0939IMG-0939 IMG-0939_2IMG-0939_2

In this image, on the Goddard Park beach, the angles created by the clouds and shadows dynamically lead to the trees and the rising sun behind them. This image is simple and strong. The sun is in the upper right third of the photograph and that is a very good place to be.

IMG-0547IMG-0547 IMG-0547_2IMG-0547_2

While skiing in Lech, Austria I took this photograph. The image has an incredible amount of angles expressing a powerful amount of energy. The river and the sun are in the important intersections of thirds (see circles). The amount of textured trees (also angles) are opposite the smooth sky which is creates good balance and relaxes the eyes. 

IMG-0846IMG-0846 IMG-0846_2IMG-0846_2

This is a skylight in my bathroom! We had just taken down a very large tree that always filled that upper space and I was very excited to see the sky that morning! The molding of the skylight makes an interesting frame and the walls of the space add another dimension. The texture of the clouds and trees kind of tickle each other and the strong division of that space emphasize that activity. Lastly, the color of the tree bark and the blue of the sky are complimentary colors and work very well together.  

IMG-1071IMG-1071 IMG-1071_2IMG-1071_2

I recently posted this image on Facebook. I was walking around my yard inspecting all of the emerging buds and leaves when I bumped into this tree, a chestnut. I don't think that I had ever paid much attention to it in the past, but now while looking I was struck by the engineering of the leaves. It starts as one big bud and then multiple leaves pop out, just incredible! I cropped the photograph on the left to get the bud more into the upper left intersection of the thirds. Note the arrows that show the leftward angle of the stalk, very dynamic.  I purposely changed my angle to the subject and made sure that there was mostly sky behind the bud so that the viewer could see the detail of the bud which would make more of an impact.

If you keep practicing taking photographs and thinking about the space, colors, lines and placement of the subjects you will become more masterful at capturing the story impactfully and it will show in your photographs. It actually doesn't matter what you use as a camera, it matters how you make use of what you have.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Art League Rhode Island best Photographs i phone 11Pro photography Providence Art Club Rhode Island Artist Ruth A B Clegg smart Phone https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/5/a-smart-phone-can-be-a-great-camera Fri, 08 May 2020 16:06:50 GMT
Can you create stunning photographs? https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/4/create-your-best-photographs Create what you want!

 

That is what I do the minute I feel that twinge of excitement when I visualize a future photograph. I think about what camera and lens I have on hand and what I can do. Sometimes I even think in black and white, strange brain! I think that is from studying Anzel Adams and using the Zone System. That's OK if you don't know what that is, that was the film days but you certainly can use those references now.

Camera Equipment

These images were taken on the Green River in Rhode Island, while paddling around in my kayak, with a Canon Rebel SL1 and lenses Canon EFS 24 mm and a Canon EF 75-300mm. Once I have captured the images I bring my equipment back to my studio and process them using Adobe Bridge, Light Room and Photoshop. Here is what I made, original file on the left and enhanced file on the right.

 

001_9854l001_9854l 002_The Pull of the Tide_Dye Sub_180.00l002_The Pull of the Tide_Dye Sub_180.00l

Digital Darkroom

The minute I saw the grasses and the composition I knew that I could create an impressive image using post processing in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. When I was thinking about the image from my kayak, I realized that I needed some paddle movement to make the grasses float in the direction that I wanted. Once I had that, I imagined the tools that I would use in Lightroom, specifically the dehaze, texture, clarity, and black & white tools. After working in Lightroom, I moved the image into Photoshop and did some fine tuning and cleanup.

Composing and Cropping

Another thing that crosses my mind when I am composing in camera is cropping. Sometimes you get more of the image than you would like and know that you will have to make changes in your computer.  I processed the image below first in Lightroom, saved it as a working image in my selected folder (I always keep a master folder separately of camera raw images untouched) and then I moved it into Photoshop for cropping. These images are a good example of how cropping can enhance an image and make your message much stronger.

008_1625_origl008_1625_origl 007_1625_4l007_1625_4l

Changing the tones with Photoshop Tools

You also can see in the images above that I have toned down the background and lightened the bird just a bit using the dodge and burn tools. This moves the bird forward as a light object against the dark background. In addition, the cropping that I did along with changes made to tones in the fore and backgrounds creates many new directions for my eye to follow and an entirely different energy to the story. This is what I saw in my mind, visualized, as I was taking the shot. Sometimes, you might have to take several shots to get the perfect placement of the subject. You might have to change your position to accomplish that. In this case, I am in a kayak and can't do much. One exciting thing is that I am positioned well below what the normal eye level view would be and in fact the tide is low so that puts me in an unusually low angle for a more creative view.

 

004_1483_origl004_1483_origl 003_1483_5l003_1483_5l

Looking at the scenes above of foliage and water, notice that I enhanced the tones to create more of a direction from left to right. There is a rhythm that was in the scene in the light colored leaves that really enhanced the story. Here is where you can really see what the dehaze tool does, not only enhancing the leaves but look up in the right corner where the trees meet the sky. It was a very moist morning  and that certainly distorted what I captured. Knowing that I had the dehaze tool to use in Lightroom  gave me the confidence that I would achieve a stronger image than what my camera captured.

Tools in Lightroom and Photoshop

011_1609_origl011_1609_origl 010_1609_2logo010_1609_2logo

In these images you can see the tip of my kayak in the photograph. Paddling my kayak to keep me positioned and steady did not allow me to capture the image without the tip of my kayak included.  I knew that I could remove the tip of the boat in Photoshop with the spot healing and healing brush tools. Both did a great job at imitating the color, texture and information just next to the spot that I removed.  Before moving the image into Photoshop I used the Lightroom tools: dehaze, texture, clarity, saturation, vibrance, hightlights and vignetting.Then  I moved the image into Photoshop, retouched out the kayak and used the dodge bush to lighten certain parts of the image to encourage the eye to move toward the head of the river. The dynamics of the image totally changed and that is what I visualized when I was taking the image.

 

Visualize your final image before you push the shutter and...

Select the right equipment (or the best thing that you have), and use your software in post processing to finalize what you planned for and then I would suggest experimenting to try new things. Always, save your work and create new folders that you can place the finished work in.

Then enjoy and share your finished image! 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Adobe Adobe Bridge Adobe Creative Suite Adobe Lightroom Adobe Photoshop Beautiful Rhode Island Canon Canon cameras Canon lenses Landscape Photography Marshes of Rhode Island On the water in Rhode Island Photographing in Rhode Island Rhode Island Artist Ruth A B Clegg https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/4/create-your-best-photographs Thu, 23 Apr 2020 18:08:55 GMT
Family Heritage Photographic Treasures https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/3/family-heritage-photographic-treasures  

I love this photograph!

The woman seated in the back seat, left side is 100 years old and going for her first automobile ride! Seated with her are my great grandmother and her sister. The date was August 10, 1907.  Such a treasure! 

 

 

1st car ride1st car ride

 

 

I am lucky enough to have a Stereo Scope, cards to view of my family and some local landscapes and cards that were sold to the general public to learn about foreign lands.

From what I understand, at the Great Exhibition of 1851, Queen Victoria was introduced to the stereoscope and was immediately taken by it. Within three months, over 250,000 refracting stereoscopes were sold along with over a million stereoscopic prints. By this time, stereoscopic prints were made via the collodion process because of it’s nature to easily duplicate prints. In 1856, the London Stereoscopic Company had pushed mass production of stereo cards into most middle and upper class homes. With their success, the company began sending photographers around the world to create stereo cards of over 100,000 different places and views. This contributed to solidifying photography’s place as a tool for education, a tool for discovering, and a tool for recording people or places as a record to be viewed at a later time.  In 1861, a hand held stereoscope viewer was designed that allowed individual adjustments for viewing distance. It had the bonus of being light weight and a cheaper contraption and since it wasn’t patented, copies flooded the market and it became the most popular version. This is the type of Stereo Scope that I have.
 

Below is a view of family members reading and relaxing. Maybe even sleeping! Steroscope cardSteroscope card

 

Cyanotype is a 170 year old photographic printing process that produces prints in a distinctive dark greenish-blue. The word cyan comes from the Greek, meaning “dark blue substance.”  Sir John Herschel invented the cyanotype in 1842. The process depends on the photochemical reduction of ferric salts into ferrous salts leading to the formation of Prussian blue, an iron-based pigment. The process was used sporadically throughout the 19th century, mostly by amateur photographers, and more frequently in the twentieth century for the reproduction of architectural plans and technical drawings, called “blueprints."
 

Below are two images from New Bedford, the Cook Family home and a carriage with Cook family members

 

New Bedford HomeNew Bedford Home CyanotypeCyanotype

 

Below are tintypes, also known as a melainotype or ferrotype, is a photograph made by creating a direct positive on a thin sheet of metal coated with a dark lacquer or enamel and used as the support for the photographic emulsion.

 

Tintype with backingTintype with backing Tintype without backingTintype without backing

A tintype with the full image has the black backing behind it and the image resembling a negative is without the black backing. I just realized that I have a family antique chair that looks very similar to the chair in the photograph. I think that this is a photograph of my great great grandmother.

 

 

18861886 Cottage City 1884Cottage City 1884
These ladies had their photographs taken often. These images were taken in the late 1880's and are  both tintypes.

Brown CoverBrown Cover Tintype albumTintype album

This is a very early family album, possibly dating back to the mid 1800's.  The images inside the album are just over an inch and I am thankful that some one took the time to label each image with the person's name.

 

You can watch this video and learn even more about photography and how it was used to record individuals, families and life in the past.

Exploring Photography with Family TreasuresExploration of the ages with Family Photography

 

I hope that you have enjoyed seeing some of my family treasures! I am sure that you have some of your own. It is my hope that you will consider working with me as a professional photographer and consultant to help you manage your own family treasures and digitize, archive and create collages, albums, slide shows and wall portraits that your family can enjoy and pass on to future generations. I am happy to discuss this process with you. [email protected]  401-263-4065 cell

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Antique antique family albums cyanotypes Family Photographs family stories old photographs old photography portraits photographs" Rhode Island Photographer Ruth A B Clegg stereoscopes tintypes https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2020/3/family-heritage-photographic-treasures Mon, 30 Mar 2020 15:24:12 GMT
The Best Way to Tell Your Family Story, Have a Portrait Taken! https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2019/7/the-best-way-to-tell-your-family-story-have-a-portrait-taken Why are you thinking about recording your family activity with a professional photographer?  If you are anything like me, you are the person always taking the portraits and struggling with your family just to act naturally.   Having a non-family member take charge of managing the people and pets included in your portrait can create a fun and non-confrontational situation. A professional may have some fabulous ideas that you never thought of such as:

 

 

 

 

 

 

KidsKids

 

CousinsCousins

The Best Location to describe your family and create an enjoyable situation. Do you have an active family like I do?  Our boat or my son’s boat would  be an ideal place to take our family portrait. Maybe you have a lovely yard that everyone gathers in or a beach that creates many memories for your family. Those are the things that make a portrait session much more memorable for your family and should be part of your gathering and portrait.

Sandy Pt BeachSandy Pt Beach Private backyardPrivate backyard

Your backyardYour backyard

 

The Best Time of Day for lighting and temperature, and for the members of your family such as young children or older family members. Maybe your children are their best early in the morning. It is important to consider when people are feeling their best, it will create a more pleasing portrait and a more pleasant session.
 

Your deckYour deck

The Best Clothing to wear for your portrait session. A visit to your home prior to the portrait session can make the planning so much easier. A discussion about the final location for the finished portrait and a review of your clothing selections can take the stress out of making those decisions. 
 

Portsmouth Polo GroundsPortsmouth Polo Grounds

Favorite ParkFavorite Park fireplacefireplace

 

Collage 20x20_2Collage 20x20_2 Home GalleryHome Gallery

The Best Way to Review the images and make your final selections a reality. A professional photographer can make the entire process very personal whether you review the images with them in the studio, in the comfort of your home or at your office.

I look forward to spending time with you, learning about your family and helping you to make some wonderful memories! Contact me today to book your planning and photography session. 401-263-4065
 

 

 

 

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) children's photography family portraits location photography New England Photographer photography Rhode Island Artist Ruth A B Clegg summer portrait sessions https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2019/7/the-best-way-to-tell-your-family-story-have-a-portrait-taken Mon, 08 Jul 2019 16:06:17 GMT
Inside the Artist's Studio with Patricia Allen and Mike Fink https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2019/3/inside-the-artists-studio-with-patricia-allen-and-mike-fink P1022354P1022354

Artist Patricia Allen contacted me in the Fall of 2018 to work with her on a video project. Patricia and Mike Fink, a long time friend and writer, had been planning to collaborate on a story-telling project about Patricia's artwork. I was curious and motivated to engage in an art focused project and agreed to meet with Patricia and Mike. From that meeting forward we participated in two very enjoyable filming sessions. Once the capture was complete, I moved into the editing phase and both Patricia and Mike were immersed in that with me. I found that the process was comfortably collaborative and in many ways  impromptu, innovative and creative. The final video is a blend of Patricia's lovely artwork, Mike's creative prose along with my photography and film making. A thoughtful, respectful, personal and ageless story of creativity and friendship. I hope that you enjoy it!

 

Arist Patricia Allen in Conversation with Mike Fink

Patricia will be presenting the video at Hamilton House in Providence RI.

 

Hamilton House RIHamilton House RI

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) artist Hamilton House Photography Providence Art Club Rhode Island Artist Rhode Island artists Ruth A B Clegg video https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2019/3/inside-the-artists-studio-with-patricia-allen-and-mike-fink Wed, 13 Mar 2019 17:45:51 GMT
Every Family Has a Story to Tell https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/4/every-family-has-a-story-to-tell  

Every family has a story to tell.... Warwick Neck Family PortraitWarwick Neck Family PortraitRelaxed evening portrait on the family beach with their beloved dogs.

Day's at the beach...evening's on the deck

 

 

 

Amadeus Family PortraitAmadeus Family PortraitFun aboard the sailboat Amadeus in the Greenwich Bay Rhode Island photographed by Ruth A B Clegg.

Afternoon sail...let the youngest steer the boat.....

 

 

Red Car Family PortraitRed Car Family PortraitFamily fun in a Red Chevrolet Convertible. Family portrait by Ruth A B Clegg www.ruthabclegg.com

Car ride with the grand kids with stories on the way....up the hill,

to that spot ,that Grandma and I would steal away....

 

 

Baseball Family PortraitBaseball Family PortraitFamily Portrait with Baseball gear by Ruth A B Clegg. www.ruthabclegg.com

Make sure to hit that game on Saturday afternoon, and Dad  will bring

his glove to catch that fly ball.....

 

Balloon Family PortraitBalloon Family PortraitOutdoor relaxed family portrait by Ruth A B Clegg

 

Mom will bring the food, making a  fun picnic  with balloons for all........

 

Narragansett BeachNarragansett BeachFamily portrait taken at Narragansett Beach by the Towers. Rhode Island. Rhode Island Photographer Ruth A B Clegg Children will not remember you for the material things you provided, but for the feeling that  you cherished them. ~Richard L. Evans

 

Gift Certificates and Family Portrait Sessions to help Celebrate Mother's and Father's Day. Contact Ruth now:  401-263-4065

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) (children's (family (father's (framing (fun (gift (mother's (pet (wall albums) and available) certificates day expert) family portrait portrait) portraits) portraiture) relaxed https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/4/every-family-has-a-story-to-tell Fri, 13 Apr 2018 19:12:47 GMT
One of my cameras is a Smart Phone https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/2/one-of-my-cameras-is-a-smart-phone My smart phone travels with me pretty much every where. It is my mini computer, note taker, connector, and camera. It records how many steps I take, contains professional information, helps me with research and helps me illustrate my thoughts. As a camera it works pretty darn well, although I know the limitations and times to use it. I especially enjoy taking photographs when I travel for pleasure, work in my gardens, take long "thinking walks" or see things that dazzle me. 

 

IMG_0164IMG_0164

When I am composing an image I think about the same things that I do when I am using my professional cameras, facing a blank piece of paper for water color or am about to put pencil to paper for a drawing. Where are the points of interest? Are there leading lines into the image? Does the image have impact?

 

IMG_0683-2IMG_0683-2   

Should it be color or should I venture into black and white? I make these decisions on the spot and use the camera software to edit the images. I don't go back to my computer and work on them in Adobe Lightroom or  Photoshop. I am in the moment so I work in that moment.

 

IMG_E2429-2IMG_E2429-2

I learned  the importance of story telling thru the eyes of  water colorist and illustrator, Al Albrektson, I watched him work his magic with color and composition, Al makes things "sing" with his brush. I try to do the same with my camera!

 

IMG_0795-2IMG_0795-2 And lastly, I try to put a bit of magic in my images. The magic that I am seeing and hope to share with you!

 

IMG_2219-2IMG_2219-2

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) artist photographic imagery photography providence art club rhode island artist ruth a b clegg scenic photography smart phone camera thinker travel photography https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/2/one-of-my-cameras-is-a-smart-phone Wed, 14 Feb 2018 18:29:35 GMT
Best of Show! https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/1/best-of-show Restful ReachA Dye Sublimation Print on Aluminum. Printed by Blazing Graphics

So excited! This image/print won Best of Show at the Art League of Rhode Island's International  Open Juried Exhibition, "Thru the Lens".

https://artleaguerhodeisland.org/2017/09/05/call-for-entry-through-the-lens/

 

This image is part of my quest to view life from a different perspective. I have been working under water in both fresh and salt water for many years. I find that the ponds of the Adirondack Park are clean and clear and offer me a wonderful world to explore. This image is taken in Clear Pond on the property of The Hollywood Club in South Colton, NY.

 

The image is available for sale, please contact me for details.

My Dye Sublimation images are printed by Blazing Editions  of East Greenwich, RI https://www.blazing.com/  I feel very lucky that they are a short drive away and that I can work personally and  directly with them.

 

I will be giving a presentation on Dye Sublimation printing and thoughts on my work February 21st @ 6PM at Blazing Editions. More information to follow.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2018/1/best-of-show Thu, 18 Jan 2018 16:04:05 GMT
Another View, a art showing of hand colored etchings https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2017/5/another-view-a-art-showing-of-hand-colored-etchings This past year has been one of experimentation with the polymer plates for etching. Changes in chemistry, metal, manufacturers and processing have created much upheaval in the world of printmaking with polymer plates. After many disappointing failures I settled in to making the correct exposures, ink choice and subject matter. I enjoyed every minute of printing and hand coloring these final images. They feel mystical and magical. I spend much time in my gardens and last season was intrigued with the thought of a view from under the leaves looking up to the sky. These images are of my squash plants and sunflowers in the Rocky Hill School's Jamie Gardener Garden Classroom.

Ants_ Handcolored Polymer Intaglio_450.Ants_ Handcolored Polymer Intaglio_450.

 

 

My process includes Carbon Black and Graphite Gamblin Etching Inks ,  BFK Rives Printmaking Paper  , Takach Polymer Plates and Printing Press, Water Based Oil Paints, Wax Based Colored Pencils, Aquacover and framing from Crestar Manufacturing.

Lady Bug_Handcolored Polymer Intaglio_450.Lady Bug_Handcolored Polymer Intaglio_450.

I hope that you enjoy the slideshow of my work! The current show is at Providence Art Club, Mary Castelnovo Gallery May 13-June 2, 2017

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Fleur de Llys Studios Goddard Partridge Studio hand colored polymer etchings polymer etchings printmaker Providence Art Club Rhode Island Artist Ruth A B Clegg https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2017/5/another-view-a-art-showing-of-hand-colored-etchings Thu, 11 May 2017 16:45:57 GMT
Portraits make wonderful memories! https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2017/5/portraits-make-wonderful-memories April showers sure bring May flowers! and Mother's Day too!

011_2505_2011_2505_2

Wandering my property and enjoying the beautiful blossoms puts me in that "Portrait Mood". May brings us the beauty and scents of our precious earth along with the day that honors our Mothers. I don't think that there is a better way to celebrate Family and Mothers than a Family Portrait. Give your mom a Gift Certificate for a family portrait and we can plan and gather at the best time for your family.

 

Certificates can be tailored to your need. Just let us know.

[email protected] or 401-263-4065.     It is never too late!

 

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) family portrait gift certificates location portrait photography professional portrait providence art club ruth a b clegg spring portrait weddings https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2017/5/portraits-make-wonderful-memories Tue, 02 May 2017 19:23:01 GMT
Welcome to the world Andrew! https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/8/welcome-to-the-world-andrew  

 

 

 

 

Welcome Andrew!

At just 3 weeks old Andrew and his family visited my portrait studio. We had a wonderful time capturing the joy that he has brought to his family, his big brother was so excited! Of course, Andrew snoozed away! 

IMG_1433_2seIMG_1433_2se

 

 

I created beautiful images and designed a Keepsake Album for his family to enjoy. 

 

 

We are planning for Andrew's next visit, when he is making eye contact and cooing sounds. We might even include a pumpkin in the portraits, Halloween will be on the way!

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) 2016 baby portraits black and white portraits family portraits newborn portraits rhode island photographer ruth a b clegg www.ruthabclegg.com https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/8/welcome-to-the-world-andrew Mon, 29 Aug 2016 12:59:50 GMT
View Arts-RUTH CLEGG: UNDER & OVER—ADIRONDACK POND LIFE July 23 - October 16, 2016 https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/8/view-arts-ruth-clegg-under-over-adirondack-pond-life-july-23---october-16-2016  

14x14_Lily Dance_40014x14_Lily Dance_400Dye Sublimation Photograph by Ruth A B Clegg, Printed by Blazing Editions, displayed at View Arts

 

 

I am very pleased to have a show at View Arts in Old Forge, NY. The work is beautifully presented and was hung by Cory Card of View Arts. The show is a mix of Dye Sublimation photographs printed by  Blazing Editions in East Greenwich, Rhode Island and etching, linocuts and watercolors. Framing was done by Crestar also of East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Images are descriptions of the pond life of Clear Pond located in South Colton, New York. You can visit the show at View Arts until October 16th. If you wish to purchase a piece, please contact Cory at View Arts. Prices are listed in the title of the work in the Gallery.

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Adirondack Park Adirondacks Etching Ruth A B Clegg hand colored underwater plant life https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/8/view-arts-ruth-clegg-under-over-adirondack-pond-life-july-23---october-16-2016 Sun, 14 Aug 2016 19:36:09 GMT
Working with missing members of your Family Portrait https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/4/working-with-missing-members-of-your-family-portrait What do you do when you organize a Family Portrait and part of the group can't show up? Don't stress or change the date, it is possible to add them to your image. 

 

 

 

 

IMG_6086 copyIMG_6086 copyInitial family portrait creating a base.

First establish your date, clothing and location. These decisions need to be duplicated for the missing family members. It is important to try to create the same lighting, although in this portrait the second session had sun in the background which created more retouching difficulties but it all worked out! 

IMG_6649IMG_6649 IMG_6645IMG_6645 IMG_6673_2IMG_6673_2

Next, make sure that they have the same experience. I try for "fun". The mood has to be the same if you are going to blend all of the images into one image.

IMG_8680Family PortraitFinal blended family portrait

This part is the most important, create trust with your client that it will be beautiful when completed. I usually invite the client to view my work at different stages so that they can feel involved. It does take longer than a traditional one time family portrait session. There also is an additional cost. The value of having everyone in the same portrait is worth it. A timeless remembrance, priceless!

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Artist Ruth A B Clegg Children's Portraits Family Portrait Location Portraits Outdoor Portraits Photograph Photographer Ruth A B Clegg Rhode Island Ruth A B Clegg https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/4/working-with-missing-members-of-your-family-portrait Mon, 11 Apr 2016 20:45:18 GMT
Portrait Planning for 2016 https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/2/portrait-planning-for-2016 Family at home

 

 

Mother, daughter and puppy in their living room at home.

 

 

 

 

This slide show can be helpful when you are planning to have a portrait taken of your children and entire family together. Watch for location and clothing ideas including what season is best for your portrait. It might even be appropriate to use the studio instead of outdoors, weather will not effect the outcome! If you would like to discuss ideas, a date or have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.

www.ruthabclegg.com

401-885-4065 studio

 

 

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Photographic Imagery Photography beach portraits children's portraits family portraits location portraits in your home portraits" relaxed style", https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2016/2/portrait-planning-for-2016 Mon, 08 Feb 2016 18:43:59 GMT
Planet Tales Greeting Cards https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/12/planet-tales-greeting-cards SunflowerSunflowerHand painted image of a sunflower from my garden by Ruth A B Clegg

 

Planet Tales Greeting Cards

Thirty one beautiful images on 5x5 greeting cards. Cards are printed on heavy stock and come with white envelopes. Send your greetings out on lovely cards and create Unforgettable Moments. You can find them in our Art Gallery section on the homepage www.ruthabclegg.com

 

Pond LifePond LifePond Life Greeting Cards by Ruth A B Clegg

Pond Life

 

Wonders of NatureWonders of NatureWonders of Nature Greeting Cards by Ruth A B Clegg

Wonders of Nature

 

 

Adirondack ViewsAdirondack ViewsAdirondack Views

Adirondack Views

 

Beach ViewsBeach ViewsBeach Views  

Beach Views

So excited to introduce these fabulous greeting cards for your personal use. What a beautiful way to correspond with friends and family. You can order as little as 4 each and mix and match or up to 20 each. Four themed groups have also been designed: Adirondack Views, Beach Views, Pond life and Wonders of Nature. I am looking forward to helping you send your personal messages!

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Adirondack Park Adirondack Pond Life Adirondacks Beaches" Greeting Cards Island New England Ocean Ocean Scenes Photographic Imagery Providence Art Club Providence Rhode Island Rhode Island Rhode Island Artist Rhode Island Coastal Scenes Rhode Island Seashore https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/12/planet-tales-greeting-cards Mon, 28 Dec 2015 22:22:46 GMT
Creating Holiday Cards with Ruth Clegg https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/11/creating-holiday-cards-with-ruth-clegg Enjoy the creative process of designing a Holiday Greeting Card with Ruth.

Plan your photography session ( make sure to see the prior Blog post- the Value of a Pre-Portrait Discussion).

Visualize and discuss with Ruth your family, children, pets, home, boat or that special family place and how to personalize your images.

Determine colors and design that are important to you. Or just let Ruth come up with some creative designs. Once finished, those designs will be posted on your special area on www.ruthabclegg.com.  Select your favorite designReview your card list  to determine the number that you need. Always add a few extra!  Select an envelope style: plain  white, or gold or silver lined. Determine if you would like your return address added to the front or back of the envelopes. And.... you are done!  We do the rest!

Flat holiday card designed by Ruth CleggFlat holiday card designed by Ruth Clegg

 

 

Flat   Hoiday Greeting card designed by Ruth CleggFlat Hoiday Greeting card designed by Ruth Clegg

Foil Press  Holiday Greeting Card designed by Ruth CleggFoil Press Holiday Greeting Card designed by Ruth Clegg

Folded Holiday Greeting Card designed by Ruth CleggFolded Holiday Greeting Card designed by Ruth Clegg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) (Christmas (Custom (Family (Greeting (Holiday Card Cards) Design Designs) Greeting Portraits) cards) service) https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/11/creating-holiday-cards-with-ruth-clegg Thu, 05 Nov 2015 00:31:46 GMT
Fall Fine Art Shows and Galleries https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/9/fall-fine-art The Joint Venture a collaboration between the Providence Art Club and The Torpedo Factory printmakers, of which I am happily a Providence Art Club printmaker, is having a final showing of the portfolio created by 31 artists and recent work from those same artists at The Bristol Art Museum on Friday, September 25th. Past showings of this portfolio have been at The Providence Art Club, The Torpedo Factory, Candita Clayton Gallery and Hoxie Gallery.  I hope to see you all there.

 

The Providence Art Club Galleries are hosting a Fall Member Show which has an opening reception September 13th, 2:00-4:00. The public is welcome. There will be some great work! Please come and enjoy the art and refreshments. My piece below is "Magic Tree" and is a collagraph.

I am proud to announce that I have been selected to be represented by Xanadu Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona in the 2015-2016 Artist Catalogue. In addition I have work in A-Z Gallery in Wellesley, Mass. These pieces of art are all from my Underwater Botanical Series printed in Dye Sublimation. This process allows for custom sizing so that you can tailor your desired image to your home or office. Please ask for details

Rhode Island Collection of handcolored solar plate prints (Intaglio process) are available at The Fleur Delys Studio (by apointment only, please call Ruth at 401.263.4065), David-Max in East Greenwich, RI and  Gallery Z on Atwells Avenue in the Federal Hill section of Providence.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Adirondack waterways Adirondacks Bristol Art Museum Candita Clayton Gallery David-Max Gallery A-Z Hoxie Gallery Photographs printed on metal Providence Art Club Rhode Island Collection Torpedo Factory Xanadu Gallery art artwork dye sublimation handcolored photography monoprints photography prints solarplate,printmaking underwater photography https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/9/fall-fine-art Tue, 08 Sep 2015 21:00:00 GMT
Creating a Business Portrait https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/6/creating-a-business-portrait Creating a business portrait is a very exciting and interesting process. Each individual business person has a set of ingredients that defines them, their job and the direction that they wish to take. It is extremely important to discuss the current position that they have and what they would like to illustrate about it, who are their clients and how do they interact with their peers, co-workers and competitors.  It might also be prudent to discuss future plans and what they might entail. This is the story that needs to be illustrated with the choice of clothing, lighting, background and location.

 

 

 

 

I had the pleasure of photographing Ashley, a Landscape Architect. Our photographic goals were to have her look professional, approachable, and competent. Her business generally focuses on large developments, public streetscapes, low income and affordable housing, as well as residential landscapes. This covered quite a bit of territory and different types of relationships, thus we needed to think very hard about the backgrounds and lighting to create the looks that we wanted. 

 

 

 

 

 

Ashley decided on a white tailored top and a black relaxed scoop neck top. We looked for spaces with texture and foliage in the background. I decided to try lighting with hard back lighting, frontal full lighting and edge of shade lighting. The sun added some hard light for a main light, light bouncing off a building across the street added a kicker light to Ashley’s hair and the edge of shade created a softer more approachable situation. 

 

 

 

Ashley’s final selections are both very approachable and professional looking. Each image has texture and the sense of the outdoors. Both will serve Ashley well on her web site, LinkedIn profile and any other social media or professional need that she may have. It was a pleasure to work with Ashley!

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Birchwood Design Group Business Portrait Headshot Location Photography Professional Business Portrait https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/6/creating-a-business-portrait Tue, 02 Jun 2015 17:03:53 GMT
The Dye Sublimation Process https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/the-dye-sublimation-process  

In January 2015 I had a show at the Providence Art Club of Dye Sublimation photographs on metal printed by Blazing Editions and hand-colored polymer intaglio prints. The subject matter was underwater plant life found in an Adirondack pond. I would like to focus on the description of the Dye Sublimation  process which is a relatively new and very exciting process. 

 

In order to transfer the image from the paper to the substrate, it requires a heat press process that is a combination of time, temperate and pressure. The heat press applies this special combination, which can change depending on the substrate, to “transfer” the sublimation dyes at the molecular level into the substrate. The most common dyes used for sublimation activate at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. However, a range of 380 to 420 degrees Fahrenheit is normally recommended for optimal color.

 

The end result of the sublimation process is a nearly permanent, high resolution, full color print. Because the dyes are infused into the substrate at the molecular level, rather than applied at a topical level (such as with screen printing and direct to garment printing), the prints will not crack, fade or peel from the substrate under normal conditions.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Adirondack Fresh Water Ponds Adirondack Park Blazing Editions Dye Sublimation Fine Art Photography Lily Pads Nature Photography Photographs on aluminum Photographs on metal Providence Art Club https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/the-dye-sublimation-process Sat, 23 May 2015 13:09:49 GMT
The Value of a Pre-Portrait Discussion https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/the-value-of-a-pre-portrait-discussion Visioning, discussing and focusing on an idea can be very exciting and rewarding. Sharing thoughts, expanding concepts and deciding on the final outcome are so important to any art project or for that matter any project. Moving ahead to the actual capture phase in a photography project truly demands a bit of time spent on discussions as to what, where, how and when. Visioning the final destination and how the piece will fit into the surroundings is vital to a comfortable resting place. Look for some great help here!

In the case of a portrait, final destination can determine the style, color or lack of color, clothing, orientation and the framing. If a family portrait is the desired outcome, it is important to determine what the location is for photography and how it relates to the family’s life style. Also the quality of light will be an important ingredient and the quality of natural light can be affected by the time of day. Early or late light will have softer and more muted tones while the midst of the day will have contrast and strong white light. An additional thought is the family members might be more comfortable in the cool of the morning or evening rather than the heat of the day.

Clothing is also important as a descriptor of personalities, and how the coloration will fit in the portrait’s final destination. If the wall that the portrait hangs on is red and the group is dressed in a version of orange it might not be a good fit. If the clothing is casual and the room is formal, again it might not be a good fit. It is also very important to look at body types and select the clothing that enhances the beauty of the subjects. Additionally, it can be very distracting if one family member wears a strong pattern such as bold stripes and another wears polka dots. The viewer will be constantly looking at the clothing and not the subject's faces which are the most important. Clothing harmony is an important ingredient to create a pleasing portrait. Although, tensions of multi patterns may be indicative of the family’s lifestyle and could be a rich ingredient for a successful portrait and in that case would be important to include.


Finally, the substrate that the image is printed on and how it is presented or framed is imperative to the enjoyment of the image. There is such a variety today of papers, metals, glass, and wood to print upon that can enhance your image. Possible proofing on some surfaces might be a great way to proceed in order to be sure of the final outcome.

 

Framing is another decision that can make or break the piece and should be carefully selected. It is best to select your frame after the piece is printed and ideally the selection should be made in the location that the image will hang. I am happy to bring selections of moldings to your home or office. My favorite moldings are from Roma and Larson Juhl. I also prefer to use acid free mats and UV glass. Once you have made the final wall portrait selection there may be images that you absolutely must have. An album is a wonderful medium with which to enjoy those images and a design can be created to artfully tell the family’s story.
The mission and goal of the pre-discussion is to make the entire process a smooth and enjoyable event, thus creating an image that imparts beauty and satisfaction for years to come.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/the-value-of-a-pre-portrait-discussion Sat, 16 May 2015 15:20:56 GMT
Working with the new Canon Rebel SL1 https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/working-with-the-new-canonrebel-sl1 My recent photography coverage for a wedding and two fund raising events was beyond thrilling! I have added the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 to my camera bag. My cameras are the Canon 50D and the Canon 5D Mark II. This little Rebel fits in the palm of my hand and my Shootsac so that I can wip it out and take spur of the moment images. The ISO is from 100-12800 and I used all of that range at my last wedding. The quality is fabulous and the ease of using the camera is great. I added a fixed Canon EFS 24mm and the fun begins there

Canon cameras used for wedding and event coverage.

Image below ISO 1600

ISO 6400

ISO 12800

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Canon Cameras Canon Lenses Crown Plaza Inn at the Crossings Fund Raising Events Lenses Photography Portfolio Professional Photographer Professional Photography Public Relations Shootsac Weddings https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/5/working-with-the-new-canonrebel-sl1 Thu, 07 May 2015 20:00:00 GMT
Celebrations https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/4/celebrations Celebrations of Life are such fun. Whether it is the birth of a child, Baptism, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, First Communion, Sweet Sixteen, Quinceanera, Wedding or Anniversary there is a story to be told. I am passionate about caturing the energy, beauty and life of these gatherings. It would be my pleasure to work with you and your family to tell your story. Images below are from Sakonnet Vineyards, Rhodes on the Pawtuxet and The Mt. Washington Hotel.

 

]]>
(Ruth A B Clegg) Anniversary Parties Bar Mitzvah Birthday Parties Family Celebrations Photography Providence Public Library RISD Museum Rhodes on the Pawtuxet Sakonnet Vineyards Weddings https://www.ruthabclegg.com/blog/2015/4/celebrations Thu, 30 Apr 2015 14:31:03 GMT