Below the surface

Photo Randy Vanderveen, Swan Lake, east of Crooked Creek Alberta A grebe swims along on the waters of Swan Lake. While the bird may seem relaxed and calm, in order to propel itself across the water its legs have to be working hard.If there is one thing that bothers me about my photographs more than anything else it is that often they lack depth.

There are some photographers that have a talent (and work hard) at ensuring every photo of theirs has layers and the longer you look at them the more you have to admire the images.

Often times I feel like my photos are more just a visual record — which at times is okay — but I really need to strive to get more depth into my work.

Like the grebe pictured above, I want something that isn't necessarily evident at first glance, to propel my photos further along.

Please keep me honest in this pursuit.

If it seems I am just falling back on one dimension in my photography write me and get me back on track in this pursuit of a better image.

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The Grande Prairie Photography Club has a workshop coming up next week (Sept. 10-12) with award-winning photographer Darwin Wiggett.

If you are at all interested in honing your photography class, you may want to check to see if, although unlikely, there are still any available spaces by calling  Heather 780-513-8892 or Janice 780-539-1594. If you aren't already a member of the local photo club the 2010-11 membership is included in the non-members registration.

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If you have read my blog before you know I am a big fan of wedding photographer Matt Mendelsohn's photos and writing.

I rarely shoot weddings, but do often look at the work of those in the business and I would have to say he is, in my opinion, hands down the best wedding photographer out there, despite not having his name out there like others in the business who are more well-known. This week there is an entry in his blog about a wedding in Tofino. Check it out and the mini gallery of images linked to the bottom.