Category: Art

The Joy of Printing

Art, Beauty, Comparison, Digital Printing, Enlargements, Industrial Photography, Landscape Photography

After a long day of MRIs and X-rays at Baltimore’s John Hopkins University, some lackluster service at a local restaurant, and worse, the unusual bumper to bumper traffic while returning to Virginia. I stopped at New Arlington’s District Camera to pick up several images I had sent in for printing. During the three or so years I’ve been in VA. I’ve depended almost entirely on the camera stores service for all my photography needs. The attention to customer service, detail and quality has been unrivaled since day one.

Upon arriving home, I more carefully, then usual, opened the envelope to view my prints. Thus returning me to the joy associated printing my images. The difference between seeing something on a computer screen and the absolute thrill of holding something in your hands. It’s magic. The colors, detail and depth in Black and white prints . It returns you to the lost beauty that photography always offered. So going forward, I urge you and myself to find a reliable lab, darkroom and/or printer to print your favorite images. I also suggest finding a place to display and share them with others.

Cost Fucked Madonna Prints for Sale.

abstract, Advertising, Art, Art Prints for Sale, Enlargements, NYC, Street Photography

Below are six color variations of street art I photographed in New York City’s S.O.H.O. neighborhood, just below Houston Street. I’m selling 11X14 prints in your color (offered here) for $80. each. Images come unframed and without borders. Currently, I’m accepting Paypal as my only form of payment. Contact me here or at DamionPhoto@gmail.com with any questions.

Lost and Found

abstract, Art, Beauty, Portraiture, RAW Files, Studio Photography

So, here I am, listening to the criminally under-acknowledged album “Broken Hearts Are Blue.” by Minneapolis indie rock standout The Truth About Love and mulling through images I might have overlooked. Perhaps something that just needs a crop or touch-up to give it new life. Funny how I can easily recall a photo shoot and whatever chemistry or connection that was made over that thirty or so minutes we shared, while allowing countless images to go unexplored. This one image of a badass musician / artist I met on the lower east side of Manhattan jumped out at me while appeaing to my recent obsession with edgy punk rock captures. It also draws me to the core of a style in which I’d love to photograph going forward. Please, share your thoughts. If you think this image and it’s dramatic style suck. Let me know. I get so little feedback on this blog. Let me know you’re thoughts on the matter.

Thank You for the Memories.

Art, Friendship, Memories

Over the weekend, my wife and me took a trip north to the area of New Jersey we once called home. During those two days we covered a lot of ground and met up with a respectable amount of old friends and loved ones. One, a long time friend and photography mentor met us at a otherwise overlooked Irish spot on Clifton. This friend, one who had met some health issues head on and conquered them was full of life and laughter. He made my wife smile from ear to ear and even knocked my hardened personality back to life. As our meet up began to wind down. He pulled out a coffee table book on the famed photography and directorial icon Herb Ritts While the book served as a priceless token of our friendship. One I can’t imagine I earned. It served as a reminder of my childhood visits to DDB (Doyle, Dane, Bernbach.) where my Mother was a financially struggling secretary.

As a ten year old, it was such a privilege being brought up to the art department where artists and designers were working on the next, best sketch, art piece, or movie poster. The work, along with the artists I met, gave me an early passion and understanding of art that influenced me to draw and ultimately dive into photography. Years later, I was sitting next to a friend catching up on one another’s travels and run ins. The time was short, yet conversations through regular phone calls Kept us up on the important things. As our time came to an end, he revealed a old brown bag. Within, a book to brought back the memories of the apartment I grew up. Yes, we were poor, but my Mom always brought art and art books given to her at work. Things and memories that enriched us in countless ways. Funny how two unrelated stories reflect one another. I guess that’s life.

A Trip Through History

Art, Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Finding your Zen, Travel, Travel Photography

As the weather gets warmer and Spring continues to develop. I hope to take full advantage of the history, culture and museums of the Washington DC area. Last week signaled somewhat of a start to this as we experienced the somewhat heartbreaking exhibits within the Smithsonian Museum of African History and Culture. As someone who became addicted to history at a very young age. I was always aware that our teachers and history books were lying to us, or at the very least, telling us less than half truths. We learned more in out two plus hours there than we were taught our entire life. I did my best ro be respectful and keep my piture taking to a minimum. I took the image on the right as we headed downstairs the the eventual exit. I tend to appreciate the images that fall on the dramatic side when it comes to shade and lighting.

The Empire Strikes a Chord.

Art, Exploring, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

After finishing a hefty brunch at Washington DC’s Union Market, we took a much-needed walk and explored the surrounding area. On the tail end of our journey, we found ourselves navigating a somewhat edgy alleyway that featured some exciting art and murals. I came across this Stormtrooper launching a mushroom into an awaiting group of teammates or an unsuspecting crown. Throughout my travels, I’ve encountered countless odes to Star Wars characters. However, my interest in the rapidly widening franchise has waned considerably. I still hold a special place in my heart for the original trilogy.

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tattoos

Art, Mental Health, Tattoo Culture

As mentioned in a previous post, “Things to Come.” I hope to add some flavor to the blog by including contributing editorials and pieces that hopefully add spice to the recipe. The first offering came from James Phoenix, who offered an idea that struck a chord with me, as it was a subject close to my heart, as someone with my tattoo history and a family with its share of tattoo stories as artists and enthusiasts. Before posting, I’d like to thank James for his time, contribution, and remarkable enthusiasm. 

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tattoos

With tattoos gaining popularity in recent times, it’s no surprise that they’ve garnered significant attention among researchers and psychologists to understand their role in human lives.

Historically, tattoos were known to hold personal meaning, represent various cultural nuances, and be part of religious practices. However, what does it mean to get a tattoo in the modern world?

This article explores the connection between tattoos and the human mind and the positive impact this artistic expression has on multiple lives.

Body Modification And Mental Health

Artistic ways of self-expression have been intertwined with body modifications like tattoos and piercings for centuries. But did you know that they may also impact mental health?

The human psyche involves many woven stories of self-identity, personal experiences, and culture, and body modifications serve as a strong form of visually communicating the emotions and values specific to every individual. While the psychology behind getting tattoos and piercings is complex, they certainly hold symbolic meaning.

So, whether someone gets an intricate full-sleeve tattoo or adorns stretched earlobes with various ear weight styles, it can hold personal, spiritual, and emotional meaning to them.

Positive Impact Of Tattoos Mental Health

While there are so many types of body modifications, tattoos are among the most popular, especially in this modern era, especially because of their newfound recognition as a form of ink therapy that symbolizes the transformative process of getting tattooed.

These are the positive influences of this process:

1.   Expressing Oneself

Your inner thoughts, personal stories, and feelings need to be heard. There may be instances where someone struggles to communicate verbally their point of view, and that’s when tattoos become a unique way of expressing their emotions without using any words. Since it provides an indirect way to communicate your own narrative, it leads to a feeling of liberation and instills a sense of relief.

2.   Self Acceptance

Many of us struggle with accepting ourselves, and we use tattoos as a way to love ourselves and find peace within. Whether you get a tattoo that reflects personal growth, signifies a struggle you’ve overcome, or marks a major milestone in your life, it’s all part of your identity, and embracing it in the form of a tattoo is a constant reminder and a boost to your self-esteem.

3.   Mindfulness

Several individuals use the process of tattooing as a healing ritual to learn and push their spiritual boundaries. Getting tattooed requires a lot of patience and perseverance because it’s a lengthy process that involves enduring pain and nervousness. Being present in the moment and teaching your body tolerance is a form of practicing mindfulness, resilience, and strength.

4.   Connection To Community

Once you start getting tattoos, you innately become part of the tattoo community, which surprisingly is quite close-knit and has a strong sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity to build connections, speak your truth, and realize you’re not alone. This breaks down self-isolating habits that leave many feeling lonely as they continue with mental health struggles.

5.   Scar Transformation

People who have visible scars struggle with body image issues and self-confidence. Tattoos offer a way for these individuals to turn their flaws into beautiful works of art. Getting scars tattooed doesn’t just help their sense of self but also helps them heal emotionally as they positively redefine their relationship with these imperfections.

Parting Thoughts

While some get tattoos for aesthetic appeal, using the human body as a canvas has a more powerful meaning to others. It can be an excellent tool for self-expression and discovery that helps you unlock your healing journey so you can evolve and grow as a person.

James Phoenix (Author and Contributing Editor)

Things to come.

Art, Blogging, Commentary, Creative Writing, Editorial, Promotional, Travel, Travel Photography, Uncategorized

After ten-plus years, a small following, and virtually no feedback, the thought of bringing Photogeek to a merciful end has crossed my mind more than a dozen times. Though I still love sharing pictures with others. I get more feedback from friends and family there than I ever will here. Still, this blog was started and began with just that in mind. I want to share my images and stories with friends, family, and whoever might want to join. A few things bring me peace and calm, like photography and capturing a moment. Throughout my life, I’ve always been an explorer who enjoys documenting the moment. All things said. A recent inquiry from a follower interested in contributing an essay to the blog ballooned into the possible contributions from a poet, an expat, and a fellow photographer, which inspired me to keep this train running. So, who knows, perhaps these outside contributors will spark more creativity. It’s worth a shot. Hopefully, it won’t be long before these contributions get the love they deserve. Only time will tell. Any interested parties looking to contribute. Step forward.

The Streets of Frederick, Maryland.

Art, Exploring, Travel, Travel Photography

Whereas, more and more cities and towns of the U.S. are beginning to purposely look the same with each one being fitted with fimiliar franchises, box stores and corporations who seem to frown on individualism. As a photographer, I try to seek out the quickly vanishing personality of small cities and their still unique downtowns. There’s no fun in taking pictures of a Starbucks or McDonalds. They seem to take up space in every town, city or throughway, all look and serve the same purpose.

Ongoing Project (Trains)

Art, Documentary Photography, Industrial Photography, Travel

In order to keep myself sane while I attempt to create a new website. I’ve decided to follow the lead of long time skateboarder, actor, and above all, photographer Jason Lee. While nourishing my soul with some recent interviews with him. I’ve taken his lead in beginning project related photography adventures. Considering I grew up riding the subway and trespassing in whatever train yard I could sneak into. It feels like a excellent place to find inspiration. Being that since the 9/11 bombing. (More than twenty years ago.) I’ve been questioned, detained and fined for photographing the inspiring time travelers. Choosing something related to transportaion, (Trains in general.) seems like the right subject. My fascination with travel should keep me focused and satisfied with my choice. Whether it takes weeks, months or a good year or two. I’m ready amd prepared to share my results along the way. Wish me focus.