Alicia D.

A Photographer's Magic

Alicia Johnson — 2010-01-04T19:30:05-07:00

I believe in the photographer's magic — the ability to stir the soul with light and shape and colour.

To create grand visual moments out of small and simple things, and to infuse big and complicated subjects with unpretentious elegance. He respects classic disciplines, while at the same time insists on being fast, modern and wild.

- Amyn Nasser

Can one disagree with such elegance about a photographer’s magic? A camera is a relatively simple contraption – a lens, a mirror and a method of capture, be it film or a digital sensor and photography, in general, seems fairly simple – just point and shoot – so-to-speak.

But I challenge that idea! I subscribe to the philosophy that looks are deceiving. Just as someone who types isn’t always a writer, someone who presses the shutter button isn’t always a photographer.

The philosophy I subscribe to notes this… The moment matters, big or small, unique or mundane, it always matters. It’s the combination of camera equipment and imagination that surrenders that moment to the eternities.

Surely, I am no Ansel Adams, or even a Jinky, Cheryl Jacobs Nicolai, or David Jay, nor do I pertain to be. But I’m developing this craft and this I know – it’s a lot easier to shoot what the camera says is “right” than what the imagination, that is the photographer’s magic, says is possible.

Indulge: 2010

Alicia Johnson — 2009-12-30T21:13:20-07:00

It’s THAT time of year again! The time of year when people plan, set goals and make resolutions. It’s the dreaded R-word and yet, I find myself in a contemplative mood. What do I want to accomplish in 2010? How do I want to start the next decade?

Step One – to stop referring to New Year resolutions as resolutions. I’m now referring to them as indulgences. One can indulge in incredibly great things; therefore I will be indulging in the following during 2010…

Indulge: Gym – last year I vowed to go to the gym regularly and I met that goal. I want to keep that up in 2010! I want to feel lean and healthy. This isn’t about being skinny – it’s about being true to my body and its capabilities.

Indulge: Vintage – I love all things antique and vintage. It’s no secret! I want to indulge in all things vintage this year. It’s good for the environment, it’s great character for my wardrobe and my home and it’s just plain fun!

Indulge: Love – Seriously, who doesn’t want to feel love – to give and receive love! Count me in a million times over! ‘Nuff said!

Indulge: Capture – This one is a bit more ubiquitous, I suppose. I want to capture life by the tail, or really by the digital frame! I will take more photos of the small things, the big things and most of all, the in-between things.

Indulge: Authenticity – this is my most important indulgence – Authenticity. I want it! I truly, madly, deeply desire to be genuine and real in every arena I participate in. I will be honest with myself and with others. I will reflect authenticity!

So – that’s it – the five indulgences of 2010 - the indulgences that will make 2010 worth every waking (and sleeping!) moment.

Make no mistake - I will still be eating the occasional meal of McD’s Chicken Nuggets with Hot Mustard sauce, just one last indulgence!

I just couldn't wait...

Alicia Johnson — 2009-12-28T21:19:51-07:00

I'm starting one of the 2010 Resolutions early! Enjoy a few quick photos of a pretty handsome kid!

For B* - You're the best, kiddo!