Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Monmouth Battlefield and the Sutfin House

Today marks the 239th anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth. I decided to mark the occasion by writing about one of my favorite photographic subject - The Sutfin House.

The Sutfin House was built in 1731 and was inhabited by Derick Sutfin, his wife, Mary and four of their eight children at the time of the battle. He was a farmer raising livestock and growing grain. He was also a slave owner and it is said that the slaves lived in the upstairs loft of the house. I became fascinated with this house from the first time I saw it while hiking the Washington Trail a few years ago. The images here are just a few of the ones I have taken - every angle in all kinds of weather. There was a time when I was shooting it nearly every day. I mostly shot from afar and have only ventured close on three occasions - twice alone and once during a paranormal investigation. Yes, I participated in a paranormal investigation and will write about that in a later post.

I will leave you with a few of the images I have made over the years and invite you to read more about the house and Monmouth Battlefield State Park on my companion blog - From the Mind of Joe Valencia. I wrote a series titled "Hiking Through History" and covered the battlefield in four parts, links are provided below.


All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

Monday, June 26, 2017

Interview with Portrait Photographer Ruth Nyce

This interview is dedicated to the memory of Stephen DiStefano.

Ruth Nyce is a New Jersey-based portrait photographer but she is so much more than that. Her first love is nature photography but the field is fiercely competitive and difficult to break in to. She did well but decided to turn her attention to people and portrait photography. One look at Ruth’s portfolio on her website and you will see that Ruth’s portraits do more than capture what her model looks like, they capture their personalities. This is an innate talent and not something you can learn. Whether posed in and around her studio or shot on-location at your favorite getaway, you can see the love she has for her models and her craft.

As I mentioned, portrait photography is what she does for a living but her underlying passion is nature. It would seem she was born to be a photographer – her father was the photographer for the Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City. You can see by some of the images included here that she is also an accomplished nature photographer, even if a bit too daring for her own good sometimes. When others are running for cover from an impending storm, she runs out with her camera to capture the drama. The intrepid woman standing on the jetty tempting fate is Ruth. If you have ever been out on a wet jetty, you will understand how dangerous it can be, let alone having waves come at you like they are here. The images of the crashing waves were made during a hurricane along the Jersey Shore.

I normally begin with a headshot or portrait of my subject but not this week. I have a great shot of Ruth with her son, Stephen. Stephen was killed in a one car accident early morning on July 4th of last year. He was 25 years old and working two jobs to pay off his college student loans and fell asleep at the wheel - he was on his way to work when the accident occurred. This interview is dedicated in his honor.

So. Let me introduce to you, Ruth Nyce – in her own words.

The Interview

Personal questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

Ahh, this question is easy; being a part of history in Atlantic City - Captain Starns. Growing up I always had a camera in my hand. I started photographing as a part of my fathers business; taking pictures of the guests on the boats at Captain Starns as they departed for their adventure into the Atlantic Ocean.

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

I LOVE pasta! That would be my number one food. A very close second would be ice cream. I will visit any place that serves it, even in the dead of winter. Next would be pizza. A good pizza on a Friday night after a rough day at work is just nice! Next would be seafood, not fish, but shrimp-scallops-lobster, all together if possible. Dipped in butter all of them are just amazing. Last would be soda. As bad as it is for you, I just love it!
(Joe: I had to make sure this wasn't something I had written. This is the best answer to this question EVER! I would replace soda with cheeseburger, though....)

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

The best advise that was given to me was by my friend Olga who lives on the other side of the world. She tutored me on a website that we both were a part of. She is simply amazing with everything that she touches. When I questioned her about my abilities and talents and what I should better to move forward she critiqued a little but then she said something unexpected. She said "You know that you have the talent and a gifted eye, let it out and don't be so afraid to use it. Let yourself shine!" She saw something I needed to move out of the way - that being myself!
(Joe: great advice. This question has become one of my favorites and I am never disappointed with the response.)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't shooting?

I love the outdoors. What better way to relax and unwind after a long day! I can just sit out on the jetty at the end of West Cape May or Brigantine for hours just watching the waves.

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

That would have to be Jesus. It is totally amazing how a person who lived so long ago is still revered so highly and followed so lovingly by so many people today. His knowledge is astounding and it would be an honor to just sit and chill and have Him teach me!

Professional questions

Why photography?

Photography allows you to be yourself. You can photograph your world and show others just what you see. I find that totally amazing! Its telling a story without using words. Secondly, I love to make people smile through my work. You can sit and watch people just being themselves and capture memories that they will cherish for a lifetime!

Can you explain your photography in 10 words or less?

Fun, happy, beautiful, dramatic, captivating, colorful, memorable, family, amazing, and we can't forget detailed!

What is your greatest achievement in photography?

Mastering my fears of working in "Manual Mode" is up there for that opened up a whole new world in quality. My real accomplishment was learning to get myself out of the way.
(Joe: shooting "manual" is a good skill to have but for my money you also need to know when to use it. I think "get myself out of the way" is probably the hardest thing.)

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

That most certainly would be Ansel Adams!!!! His photography is stunning and absolutely amazing! There is so much to learn from a talent like that!
(Joe: I had the pleasure of seeing an exhibit of original Ansel Adams prints 25 years ago - what an absolute thrill. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to have my work hang alongside his!)

Where do you draw inspiration from when you shoot and what’s your favorite part about the process?

My inspiration comes from my father. He is an amazing photographer and has taught me so many things over the years. We photographed together at Captain Starns in Atlantic City and we also photographed together the Miss America Pageant when I was young. He has this eye for the perfect shot and his wisdom on the art of posing your subjects has been priceless. My favorite part about the process? I love the final product-being able to present the final work to my clients. Theirs smiles are what I live for!

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone looking for a career in photography?

My start came through nudges of my friends and family believe it or not. I was always that "go to" person when parties were happening. I was told that I shouldn't let my talent just be used on them; I should share it with the world! My advise to those seeking a career in photography? Do not get discouraged. It takes time and diligence to move forward. I am starting later in life for I let myself get in the way. Don't be afraid to chase after your dreams!

Bonus question

What are your Top 5 "Deserted Island" albums?

I love Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, and Keith Urban! If you cant tell I am a big country fan but also love modern Christian artist Michael W. Smith. My favorite albums would be Cosmic Hallelujah, Platinum, They Dont Know, Ripcord and Stand. This would give me a balanced beat to dance around to as well as music to sooth my soul. I find music to be a healing remedy during any time in ones life!

One last peek into Ruth using a quote from her National Geographic - Your Shot bio: "I have had a camera in my hand for as long as I can remember, venturing into the unknown to capture amazing shots. Some say that I am a little too adventurous, but I call what I do 'fun' and exhilarating!"

Check out the websites below for more of Ruth's work and contact information:

Studio Location: 109 New Jersey Avenue, Atco, New Jersey
E-mail: rcphotography1220@outlook.com


All Images are © 2017 by RUTH NYCE.

Monday, June 19, 2017

Why Photography?

I normally post an interview on Monday but my current interview isn't quite ready so I decided to do something a bit different. The one question that I ask each photographer that I interview is "Why photography?". It is a simple question and I have gotten some wonderful answers but it was never a question that I asked myself. In this post, I will explore that question.

Why Photography?

A simple question but difficult at the same time. I never really gave it much thought, just like I don't think about breathing - I just do it. My camera is my constant companion, an extension of myself.

The Beginning

My earliest recollection of taking photograhs is when I was about 8 years old - I used a Kodak Brownie and took pictures at the beach. When I was 11 or 12 I got a Polaroid Colorpack 88 camera and my life changed forever. I didn't know it then but that was the beginning of a life-long journey. By the time I was in 8th grade I was reading everything I could and I was tasked with building a darkroom for my school. I will never forget the feeling of bringing my photos to life in the darkroom. When I graduated 8th grade I got my first 35mm camera - a Yashica Electro 35 GSN rangefinder.

The Yashica came with two screw-on lenses - wide angle and telephoto - and it got quite a workout. I was mainly taking pictures of family and friends with an occasional landscape thrown in for good measure. I was learning. The Yashica got me through high school and beyond but I was outgrowing it and in 1980 I bought my first SLR - a Canon A1 that I still have today.

Learning the Craft

This opened up a whole new world and was when I first considered a career in photography. In 1981 I took my first, and only, photography class at Brookdale Community College. It was fun to get a chance to be in the darkroom again. It was also my first introduction to the art of photography, as well as my introduction to criticism. I was being told what I got "right", and "wrong", in my prints. The most important lesson I learned was that art is very subjective and not everyone shares your vision. The lesson I am still learning is that, ultimately, "right" is what I decided it is.

There are those who choose to be a photographer for their own personal reasons - I also believe others don't really have a choice, photography chooses them. I fall into this category. I find that I am taking pictures even when I don't have a camera in my hands. I look at things differently, evaluating light, looking at shadows, etc....

I often use my phone to grab a few shots of something I find interesting but either don't have time to explore or the conditions aren't right. I will do some work with it and then decide whether or not to pursue it further. The images here of the tree stump are an example - I didn't have my tripod and the lighting wasn't great so I grabbed a quick shot and did some playing with it. I will be re-visiting this stump. I am always looking for the next shot. It is my "high."

So.... why photography?

I guess I don't really have an answer. I didn't choose photography - I believe photography chose me. It isn't what I do, it is who I am....

I will leave you with a quote by Imogene Cunningham that sums it up perfectly - "Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I'm going to take tomorrow."


All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Look Deep Into Nature

"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein

I read this quote a while back and thought - "You know, that Einstein was a pretty smart guy!" I also couldn't agree with him more. When I think about the times I have gone into the woods or walked along the beach and been amazed by the beauty surrounding me it is awe-inspiring. I could just as easily say that about being at a lake, in a field or even my own back yard, it doesn't matter; I still get lost in thought and the rest of the world goes away along with my problems.

I wasn't sure what I was going to do for the photography part of this post until I started going through some flower photos that I took at Deep Cut Gardens. If you haven't visited, you owe it to yourself to go one day. I have been many times and I always see something new. If you take time to explore the different areas of the park you will see any amazing diversity of nature but what I would encourage you do to is to quite literally - stop and smell the roses. Take some time and sit in the gazebo or on one of the benches in the rose parterre and just watch nature happen. You will see bees coming and going, butterflies of all types and sizes. Listen carefully and would will hear from more birds than you ever thought possible. A more rewarding concert you will never experience. Look overhead and you are almost certain to see a red-tailed hawk looking for it's next meal. Rabbits are common visitors, too. Take a walk to the Koi pond and watch these incredible fish for a while.

If you take the time to really watch, and listen, you will come away with a better understanding of the world around you. We take so many things for granted and have become creatures of comfort; many of us have lost an appreciation of the day-to-day struggle for life. The next time you feel like complaining about having no time to do the things you enjoy, think about the honeybee constantly going from one flower to the next, back to the hive and then out to the next flower.

How about the bird who has to gather material for a new nest every year and then constantly fly back and forth with food to feed it's young - not to mention fighting off predators. They don't have the luxury of a day off or the ability to take time to enjoy life. We do. Take time to enjoy life; take a walk, lay in a hammock and read a book, sit on the boardwalk and watch people go by. It doesn't matter what you do but it is important to take time for yourself and relax. If you ever find yourself saying that you are "too busy" or you "can't take the time" remember the busy bee and how short their life is.



All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

Monday, June 12, 2017

Interview with Photographer Melissa Susino-Nussbaum

Melissa Susino-Nussbaum is an aspiring photographer and TV/Film Producer. She studied Communication at Brookdale Community College and William Paterson University. During her career she has worked for various production companies working on shows like Dancing with the Stars, Food Network’s “The Kitchen”, and NBC’s “The Voice”. Currently she works for Warner Music Group.

In her spare time she likes to travel, go to concerts, attend Broadway shows, and spend time with her family. Melissa currently resides in Sayreville, NJ with her husband Ian and their cat, Bailey.

I learned of Melissa from a long-time friend, Debbie, who also happens to be Melissa's mother-in-law. Debbie has posted on Facebook a link to Melissa's website and when I checked it out I was quite impressed. The more I learned about her, the more impressed I became - she is quite accomplished for someone of her age. I hope you enjoy her interview and I encourage you to check out her work.

The Interview

Personal questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

My dad used to take me and my sister to visit my grandfather at his job at a garage in Paterson, NJ next to Lambert Castle. When we got there he used to give us tons of snacks like popcorn, chips, and tons of juice to take home. They also used to have an office dog named Duke who we loved to see.

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

I can’t live without Pasta or any type of Italian dishes like eggplant parm! Also, pizza, grilled chicken Caesar salads, and French fries.
(Joe: pasta, pizza and fries - isn't that some kind of trilogy? :-))

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

One of my professors from William Paterson University, John Rhodes said to me, “Always say what you are, if you want to be a producer, say you are a producer. If you want to be a director, say you are a director.” His advice really helped me become more confident in building my career.
(Joe: wonderful advice!)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't shooting?

When I’m not shooting my time is spent with my husband Ian and our new kitten, Bailey. My husband is also a photographer and we love to travel. We bring our camera and try to take tons of day trips or vacations as much as we can.

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Jim Henson. I’m a huge fan of The Muppets. He has created such amazing work. His filmmaking inspires me every day. I’m honored I was able to work on one of his productions, Sesame Street.
(Joe: what a great choice, I think he would have been a lot of fun to sit and listen to.)

Professional questions

Why photography?

The best thing about photography is that it gives you memories. I love to take as many as possible so I can look back at all the places and things I have seen throughout my life.

Can you explain your photography in 10 words or less?

Adventurous. I still have much to learn and still trying to find my way.

What is your greatest achievement in photography?

My greatest achievement is just being able to have the opportunity to pursue my dreams and have gained success.

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

I’d like to share a gallery show with any Film Set Photographer. Kim Gottieb-Walker is one; she did a lot of photography for John Carpenter on his Halloween films.
(Joe: this is an interesting choice - I would definitely check out that exhibit!)

Where do you draw inspiration from when you shoot and what’s your favorite part about the process?

I gain inspiration from looking at other photographer’s work. There’s a great site called 500px that is out there where tons of people share their photos. My favorite part of the process is trying to find the best angle for my subject. When I take concert photos I love to try and take a photo that makes the viewer feel like they were at the concert.

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone looking for a career in photography?

I started my photography with my father’s old video camera. Throughout my childhood and teen years I made short videos and took millions of photos. I often went to boy band concerts and would be so excited to bring my camera. After high school I went to Brookdale Community College and William Paterson University where I studied TV/Film. I was involved with tons of productions on college campus as well as participating in Stage Management for theatre. I also landed my first internship at MTV Networks during my time at Brookdale. Since then I made contacts and was able to successfully score tons of gigs with different production companies.

My advice would be is to- Practice. Practice. Practice. If you can afford to take some classes, definitely take advantage of them. There is so much you can learn. There’s also tons of information on the internet where you can teach yourself the ins and outs of photography and film. Get yourself on social media and share your work. You never know who can come across your photos.

It is a really hard field to get into. I know tons of people that are still trying, but DON’T GIVE UP. There were many times that I would get discouraged in between gigs thinking I would never find more work. It will happen for you, you just need to keep on pushing and getting yourself out there.

Check out some of Melissa's work


All photos are copyright Melissa Susino-Nussbaum. For more information you may contact the photographer at melissasusino@gmail.com

Monday, June 5, 2017

Interview with Calendar Designer Sara Olson

This weeks’ interview is a bit different. I am interviewing Sara Olson, a designer with a major calendar publisher. Sara grew up in Greenwood, Wisconsin, attended the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in the Twin Cities and now lives in the Northwoods of Wisconsin with her husband Jake, daughters Evelyn & Scarlett and dogs Millie & Roscoe.

When she isn't busy at work she is busy at home and with her family. She loves to travel, cook, go to farmers markets, yoga, gardening, hunting (for morel mushrooms), fishing with Jake and singing and dancing with Evelyn & Scarlett. When she has a quiet moment or two, she enjoys listening to music and NPR or reading a good book. Sara has recently purchased a DSLR camera and exploring the world of photography – just another feather in her creative cap.

So now, grab a favorite beverage, sit back and enjoy my interview with Sara.

The Interview

Personal questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

It’s hard to pick just one, but probably our backyard dance recitals. Each summer, the neighbor girls, my sister and I decided on a recital theme, choreographed our own performances, made costumes & programs, invited all our neighbors and even provided refreshments at intermission.

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

  1. Brandywine tomatoes
  2. Morel mushrooms
  3. Avocado
  4. Blueberry walnut pancakes from Al’s Breakfast in Dinkytown
  5. The 112 Burger at the 112 Eatery.
(Joe: I love and agree with any list that has a good burger in it!)

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

“Everyone comes into your life to teach you something.” This came out of a conversation I was having with my mom in the 4th grade. I was a pretty shy kid growing up and I still struggle when facing confrontation or with someone who’s being difficult, so sometimes it helps to look at the situation through that prism.
(Joe: how true!)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't working?

We have two little girls at home, so that takes up most of our time these days. Slowly but surely I’m starting to get back to reading, sketching, painting, yoga, photography and cooking.

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Bill Murray. I love his comedy, his movies and his approach to life.
(Joe: this is somewhat of a surprise answer but I love it. He has been popping up all over and seems like a great guy to just hang out with.)

Professional questions

Why graphic design?

I’ve seen myself as “an artist” since I was three years old… there was never anything else I was going to do. The great thing is there’s a need in every industry for creatives. Since receiving my BFA in Illustration from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, I’ve created home décor products for Target, designed performance wear for figure skaters & NFL cheerleaders, created content for educational software, exhibited specialty toys & games at the American International Toy Fair and now I create calendars for one of the top calendar publishers in the country.

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

The amazing artists at Light Grey Art Lab. Following their adventures and seeing the amazing work they’re making inspires me to carve out the time to create and reconnect with my own talents.
(Joe: to learn more about Light Grey Art Lab, check out their website at http://lightgreyartlab.com/)

Can you explain what you look for in a photograph in 10 words or less?

Balanced, clear, bright, vibrant images… basically a step beyond reality.

What is your greatest mistake a photographer makes when submitting images?

Not being personable and accommodating. It doesn’t happen often, but occasionally you run across someone who just isn’t nice to work with! Life is too short to deal with difficult people if you don’t have to.

What is your favorite part about your job? What is your least favorite?

My favorite things are being able to start fresh on new calendars every year, seeing new images from our photographers and hearing their photo shoot stories, discovering new talent and researching our Travel & Events calendars. My least favorite part of the job is having to tell people they’re images weren’t selected or sending out rejections.
(Joe: I can tell you from experience, the rejection notice is also the least favorite part for the photographer…)

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone trying to break into the calendar business – designers and photographers, alike?

I was fortunate to get my start through an internship at Target HQ, but each job I’ve held since that time has taught me something, not only about my creative process, but how to perform my best as a professional. A lot of other publishers are much larger than our company, but I think these suggestions should basically be universal…
  1. Research and ask good questions. This way you can decide if the relationship with the company you’re reaching out to will be mutually beneficial.
  2. Read the directions. Most companies have what they’re looking for and how they’d like to receive it on their websites, whether you’re submitting work for publication or applying for a job.
  3. Put your best foot forward. Make sure your resume & inquiry emails are short, relevant & specific. Curate your own work and only post your best stuff in your portfolio… More often than not, you’ll only have seconds to grab someone’s attention.
  4. Follow through. If a company knows they can count on you for something and you’re easy to work with, you’re sure to be high on their list whenever a new project comes up.
  5. When in doubt, read these books:
    • Orbiting the Giant Hairball by Gordon A. Mackenzie
    • Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
    • When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron
(Joe: This is great advice for any endeavor – don’t waste the time of others! You may have the greatest image ever made of a Great Blue Heron, but “Dairy Farmers Weekly”* doesn’t have a need so don’t send it to them.)

Bonus question:

What are your Top 5 "Deserted Island" albums?

  1. Mary Chaplin Carpenter – The Essential
  2. Kenny Chesney – Lucky Old Sun
  3. Civil Wars – Barton Hollow
  4. Blackhawk – Strong Enough
  5. Carolyn Cruso & Robert Almblade – Tone Poems

To find out more about Sara, check out the links below:

* “Dairy Farmers Weekly” is not a real publication.


All images are copyright Sara R.W. Olson

Thursday, June 1, 2017

Cooper Gristmill

I had an opportunity to visit the Cooper Gristmill in Chester, New Jersey on Memorial Day. The mill wasn't open, it was raining lightly and there was no one there but my wife and me. We were in the area on a mini-vacation and I put the mill on our list of destinations. We took a couple shots of us standing in front of the building before my wife went back to the car. I decided I couldn't leave without getting some shots of the wheel and water.

It wasn't raining hard but enough so that I put the camera in a "raincoat" that I had purchased a couple years ago and put it on a tripod. The camera was set to bracket -2/0/+2 for some HDR and I also set the timer to 10 second delay, 6 shots. While the camera was working I moved to take a different angle with my smartphone.

The image shown at the top is the finished smartphone shot - shot and edited entirely in Lightroom for mobile on my Galaxy J3v smartphone. The image below is a different angle showing my camera set-up with the raincoat. Unfortunately these are the only usable images from this outing. I failed to notice that the lens was set to manual focus and so everything is out-of-focus. I was using "live view" and didn't realize until I got home a couple days later and uploaded the card to my PC. It is am embarrassing mistake but a lesson learned. I will certainly never repeat that mistake!

For more information on the mill - check out their website at Cooper Gristmill at Black River County Park

Note: for more information about Lightroom for Mobile you can read my post - Improve Your (mobile) Photography: Using Lightroom for Mobile.

If you are interested in purchasing a rain cover for your camera, here is the one that I used - Op/Tech 18" SLR Rainsleeve for Digital & Film Cameras with Lenses up to 7" Diameter, 18" Long. For a complete line of covers carried by Adorama, click here.


All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

Featured Post

Art Exhibit - Neon Spring

Neon Spring “It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart.” - Rainer Maria...