My “Scenic and Wild Union County” exhibit has been getting a positive response during its run at the Trailside Nature and Science Center. The end date has been pushed back a few days, to June 4, so that we can enjoy a closing reception that day from 1-3 upstairs at the center. I hope you can stop by!  Here are a few articles about the exhibit and corresponding class I am teaching on May 13:

1. Article in Rahway TAPinto about the exhibit and closing reception

2.Press release from Union County about my class

Please join me for an overview of nature photography techniques and ideas for where to photograph nature in Union County! Lecture will be held at the Trailside Nature and Science Center on Saturday, May 13th at 2 PM.Please register here - Click on Catalog/Trailside Workshops/Adult Workshops/ and then select the class. $10 for residents in county/$12 out of county. 

Most of the time, we photographers try to avoid blurry pictures… carefully choosing shutter speeds to achieve sharpness…holding our bodies still while we release the shutter to preserve detail…So why would we want to intentionally move our cameras in the midst of making exposures?  

Beside being a fun and freeing experience, Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) can also satisfy our basic creative urges. We are able to do something different than “straight” photography, in a way that can be even more personally expressive. In addition, much can be gained by experimenting with such a technique: a deeper understanding of how our cameras work, increased fluidity while shooting, and composition skills that become refined as we tune into and play with some of the basic elements that make up our images.

Springtime in the Swamp, ISO 100, f32, 1.3 sec

Obviously, when we practice intentional camera movement, we are creating something very different than detailed, documentary images. The results will naturally be more abstract and impressionist. Details are generally obscured, and what’s left after ICM is often an impressionistic wash of colors, with only the implication of basic shapes. However, the sense of movement that is inherently imbued in these images carries a sense of energy that can be very compelling.

Koi Pond,  ISO 100, f25; 1 sec.

The basic technique for ICM involves choosing longer shutter speeds that will allow you to move the camera without overexposing your picture.  Depending on the ambient light and focal length, somewhere between 1/8 of a second and 2 seconds is a good place to start experimenting. Since these long exposures will let in a great deal of light, you will have to compensate in one or more ways: lower your ISO, stop down your aperture (higher number f-stop), or add a polarizer or ND (neutral density) filter.  I’ve even used sunglasses in a pinch, on my point and shoot camera!  (You can also just wait until it gets darker out!)

Camera movements can vary, though it is generally effective to move in the direction of your main subject, and in the same plane. Vertical movements work well for tree trunks and plant stalks, horizontal sweeps are pleasing for beach scenes, and circular movements can be magical for flowers.

Sumac Stalks in Early Autumn, ISO 100, f32, 1 sec.

To preserve some of the graphic elements in the scene, movements are smaller than one might expect, several centimeters at most.  Motions can be either in one direction, or back and forth once or several times, depending on the length of the shutter speed and the desired effect.  Some ICM artists like to work on a tripod for consistency, while others prefer handheld for its fluidity.  

When choosing your composition and framing, including some strong or definite shapes will anchor your image and keep it from becoming a complete abstraction. Abstractions can be wonderful, though…so it’s really a matter of personal preference.

Twilight at the Beach, ISO 100, f22, 2 sec.

Tree trunks are fairly easy to use as subjects when starting with ICM. With just a slight up and down motion, you can make the trunks seem like they were made with brushstrokes. Look for good separation between the trunks for cleaner lines and forms.

Aspens, ISO 50, f27, 1/3sec

Color and lighting play an important role.  Having your main subject contrast from the background - by color, for example - will allow the forms to take center stage in your composition.  

Yellow on Green, ISO 100, f5.6, 2 sec.
 

When considering lighting, be careful of bright spots that might blow out during the long exposures.  Flat light is often easier to deal with…but depending on the capabilities of your sensor, contrasting lighting can be dynamic and attractive.  I particularly like sidelight when making blurs of tree trunks, as it helps accentuate the shapes.  

Sidelit Trees, Impressionist

 
These suggestions are really just starting points for experimenting with ICM.  Don’t be afraid to experiment.  There are many ways of working with camera motion - pan blurs, zoom blurs, camera toss techniques, to name a few. An expanded world of creative expression is open to us when we use our cameras like this to “paint” with light, form, and color.  

Jacki Dickert
www.lightdance.org

originally published 3/16
 

To see current hours, visit Linden Public Library https://lindenpl.org/  or call 908-298-3830.

When Sun turns Frost to Mist10x13 print, matted and framed

"When Sun Turns Frost to Mist" will be on display as part of the current exhibit "Emerging" at Nails in the Wall Gallery at St. Luke's in Metuchen, NJ. It shows the magical moment when frost is transformed into water vapor, emerging as mist. I witnessed this on a winter trip to New Zealand, in the early morning, just as the sun struck the frosty leaf. I was in awe at the spectacle!  My photograph will be seen for the first time in print at this exhibit.

I also have a very different work included in the show, which can be seen below. "May You Find Wings to Fly" was created using a digital collage method.  First I created the background by dissolving the ink from an old National Geographic Magazine.  I photographed the resulting "altered paper" and layered it with a photograph I took of a dancer.  The resulting image as well as the techniques used represent "emerging" on various levels: new art emerging from the old, new directions for me as a photographer/artist, and the subject matter of the dancer leaping into the air and the energy that takes shows the emergence of a new state of being (and possibly a new self) from something that has gotten old and limiting. I hope you can see the show! Poster with info below.

May You Find Wings to Fly 10x13 print, matted and framed

Ready for some inspiration? Join me at the New Jersey Audubon Society in Bernardsville for a lecture as part of their wonderful education series. I’ll be speaking on ways to expand your photographic creativity. This talk requires registration, and seating is limited. Click here for more details. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nj-audubon-digital-photography-workshop-6-creative-photography-registration-541162370217

Following on the heels of “Scenic Union County,” my new expanded collection “Scenic and Wild Union County” just opened at the Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside, NJ. It features 14 landscapes from the parks and natural areas in the county as well as 12 prints of some of the local wildlife. The series can be found in the upstairs gallery space of the beautiful, state of the art facility. In addition, I’m exhibiting one of my father’s 16 x 20 prints that he made over 50 years ago. Frank Dickert, Jr., was my first photography teacher and he absolutely showed me how to appreciate the local environment. I wanted to acknowledge that as part of my exhibit. Hope you can make the show! 

2. Almost Touching1. Winter Sunset on the Dunes

2. Almost Touching
3. Snowgeese
4. Pennies from Heaven
5. Lotus Dreams
6. Jersey Shore
7. Chipmunk in the Flowers
8. Rainbow Wave
9. Fingers of the River
10. Maple Leaf
11. Winter Light
12. Between sunset and moonset an owl took flight Above: "Almost Touching"  -   12x18 high definition metal print by Jacki Dickert - photographed in Linden, NJ

My collection of 10 high-definition metal prints from my home county, Union County, is now on display at the Commissioners Gallery in the County Administration Building in the courthouse complex in Elizabeth, NJ. Below is the quoted text from the Union County press release about the exhibit.  I am thankful for this opportunity! 

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"Stunning Photographs of Nature’s Artistry on Display at Commissioners’ Gallery, Dec. 12 – Jan. 27"

"The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to present “Scenic Union County,” a selections of works by the photographer Jacki Dickert. Ms. Dickert’s photographs will be on display from Monday, December 12 to Friday, January 27 at the Commissioners’ Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in midtown Elizabeth.

“Ms. Dickert provides us with a whole new way of seeing the beauty that surrounds us, and she renews our appreciation for the natural heritage that is ours to protect and preserve,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “As stewards of Union County’s public parks, we encourage everyone to stop by and enjoy this enriching exhibit.”

The Commissioners’ gallery is open during regular weekday business hours, and on Thursday evenings when public Commissioner meetings are in session. To view the schedule of meetings visit ucnj.org/commissioners/schedule.

Ms. Dickert’s photographs have been showcased in both solo and group shows at galleries throughout New Jersey, and her work has been published in magazines, book covers and numerous online blogs. She taught at Winfield Elementary School for 18 years before retiring in 2019 to devote herself to art and the arts community full time. She teaches photography classes to people of all ages, and is an active member of the Camera Naturalist Photo Club and speaker and judge throughout the NJ Federation of Camera Clubs and other arts organizations, including the annual Union County Teen Arts Festival.

She was recently honored with the First Place award in the Ansel Adams contest at the Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown, New York, and her work has been selected for display at the new Terminal A at Newark-Liberty Airport.

In a volunteer capacity with environmental organizations, Ms. Dickert also offers her art and skills for conservation purposes and self-publishes the annual “World of Wonder” photography calendar.

To see more of Dickert’s work, visit her website at lightdance.org.

The Commissioners’ Gallery was created more than 20 years ago to help connect visual artists and arts organizations to the Union County community. Exhibits are coordinated by the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation.

For more information about the Scenic Union County exhibit, the Commissioners’ Gallery, grant programs and other activities, e-mail culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550(NJ relay users dial 711), or visit online at ucnj.org/cultural."

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Click here to see the selections included in this year's collection of my recent favorite photographs. If you'd like to order a copy, visit the listing on Lulu.com The calendar photos are 8.5x11.  Retail is $22 and Lulu almost always has coupons.  Try LKAB317CD or WELCOME15 or JOYFUL15. Thank you in advance if you decide to order!

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Cover - Autumn Fog on the River

Talk about "hyperlocal" - All of these photos were taken within a 10 minute walk from my front door!  I am lucky to live in a town surrounded by parkland - the Rahway River Parkway to be precise, a natural greenway surrounding the river that makes a loop enclosing most my town.  It's suburban here for sure, but as you can see, it's possible to find beauty and inspiration practically in my backyard. To see the images closer up, visit www.lightdance.org/downthewoods2023

If you'd like order a copy, I am using the print-on-demand site Lulu.com. They don't send me customer info, so let me thank you in advance if you do decide to place an order. THANK YOU!  

Two versions are available, with and without local recycling dates.  CLICK HERE TO ORDER  Calendars are $22 each, but Lulu has frequent coupons if you search.  Try WELCOME15 or JOYFUL15.  If you are local and want to get in on my bulk order and save shipping, fill out form here https://forms.gle/o1ya9V1aSGtrpoxu7

Thanks, everyone, for your support! 

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Guild of Creative Art 620 Broad Street | Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 | 732-741-1441 | info@guildofcreativeart.org

Namib Desert
Morning Conversation, 10x20 high definition aluminum print by Jacki Dickert $250 

Here is the backstory of the photo:  With a river between us, I had been quietly watching this young owl with its sibling on a branch close to where the family had been nesting. Not yet able to fly, the owlets were in the process of slowly moving away, in a process actually called "branching." I did know realize the parent was nearby.  All of a sudden a Great Blue Heron flew up the river, a little too close for mom's liking, and she swooped in seemingly out of nowhere, making sure the heron did not get to close to her precious offspring.  She landed near them, and one at a time the owlets scooted close to her and receive some comforting contact and loving preening. It was a beautiful, moving thing to witness.

Owl Comfort

12x12 photo matted and framed

photo by David Brighouse

Koi Impressions 12x12 high definition metal print

Spring Birch20x30 on canvas

Three of my photographs are included into the current exhibit  “Return to Love” at Metuchen  Gallery Westerhoff. Celebrating love in all its forms, the show opens on Valentine’s Day and can be viewed virtually on the gallery’s website. 
 

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Six of my photographs have been selected to show at The Gallery Space in Rahway, NJ as part of its HomeGrown2 exhibit, on display from January 10 through February 4. Works include:

Glory of the Night, 20x30

Conversation between Trees, 12x24

Ice Abstract, 12x18

Fog Edge, Infrared, 16x24

Kiss of Light, 10x30

Moonlight Fire Spinner, 12x18

These are all high definition aluminum prints, prepared using dye sublimation. I hope you can stop by to see these as well as the other works by some amazing local artists. Our opening reception is Sunday, January 23 from 1-4PM. Poster below lists additional information.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER

Usually, I publish a "World of Wonder" general photography calendar each year, but this year I made *2* different projects.  The first was a publication to go along with my local photography exhibit, and now I am pleased to have created another work, a calendar with a Moon theme!  I hope you enjoy these 12 pics inspired by the moon. In keeping with the theme,  I've even included the dates for the full moon and new moons of each month.

You can order it by clicking HERE. Be sure to look for a coupon from Lulu.com!  *Sometimes* LAKAB317CD works for 10% off …but you might even find a better coupon. (It doesn't affect my take.) Thank you so much!

Front Cover - Down the Woods 2022 Calendar

Calendar selections revealed! Click here to see them. Or see below for collage of calendar photos.

This is a companion publication to my current hyperlocal exhibit at the Winfield Community Center which is on display until the end of December. These photos show the beauty of the area where I grew up and have returned. It's amazing to think that all of the image were taken in less than a square mile!

If you'd like to order one, you have 2 options:  

1. Click here for one that includes the Winfield recycling dates.    

2. Click here for the version with no recycling dates.

Please note, these calendars will be coming right from the publisher, www.lulu.com, not from me directly. They are $21 each.  Usually you can do a search for a coupon code and find one for at least 10% off.  Try LAKAB317CD

Unfortunately the online bookstore does not tell me who orders the calendars, so I will say thank you right now if you decide to get one.  And I would love to hear from you if you do!  Hope you love it as much as I enjoyed making it. 

THANKS!

Jacki

jacki @ lightdance .org

NEWS FLASH!  Companion calendars available. Click here for info and ordering link. Photo: The Rahway River as it goes over Bloodgoods Falls, aka "the falls." “Down the Woods”
Artist Statement

    Growing up in a big family in a small Winfield home, it’s no wonder I developed a love for the outdoors.  Inside, our house was always crowded, but outside I could breathe.  We were lucky to be situated on the county road, right next to the Rahway River Parkway. Naturally, my favorite place to go, like many neighborhood kids in those days, was “down the woods.”  
    I am so happy I was able to grow up close to nature, in tune with the seasons, and aware of the animals and plants that shared my world.  I also feel fortunate to have had a father who was a wonderful photographer as well as nature lover. My dad, Frank Dickert, could walk the same path 100 times and always see something new and interesting to photograph. I seem to have inherited his eye.  
    I feel it’s also the heart that makes a photograph special. These images were surely made with love, showing a treasured place that has been my home for most of my life. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Jacki Dickert
October 2021  

This special exhibit, part of Rahway’s first annual River Fest, is housed in Art on Main, a pop-up gallery at 1425 Main Street, Rahway. The “Real” section of the show features photographs of the Rahway River through the seasons, giving us an appreciation of the beauty of local natural landscape.  The “Abstract” portion of the exhibit takes a unique look at water in it various forms - from intricate ice patterns and colorful wavy reflections, to more impressionist work in which the photographer has intentionally moved the camera to create almost painterly images. The exhibit runs Monday to Friday during River Fest, from 11-8, with an opening reception on Monday, August 23 from 7-8:30 PM. The photographer/artist will be in attendance, and light refreshments will be served. Please join us!  

I recently discovered a section of shoreline along the Raritan Bay on which numerous tree skeletons lay. I don't know when they washed up or were otherwise deposited there - perhaps by Hurricane Sandy, years ago. In any case, the weathered trunks were smooth like bones, and in some cases, covered with seaweed from the ebb and flow of the tides.  It was a fascinating place to explore and photograph.  Click here to see some of my work from my visits to this tree graveyard.

Firework with zoom burst:

The scene at Union Beach:

Fledgling bald eagle practicing flying and landing

What a thrill to witness the ancient ritual of horseshoe crab spawning of the spring full moon tide!  Pics from Union Beach and Cliffwood Beach along the Raritan Bay can be found here: https://www.lightdance.org/horseshoecrabs. 

Reaching and Reflecting - will need to be cropped to fit standard size mat or frame. PM me for help.

Better late than never!  I wasn't sure I was going to be able to publish my annual World of Wonder calendar, but it finally happened!  This past year has been crazy for many reasons, which you all know.  I recently found out I have to move, and preparing for this big change put me behind on my usual photography projects. Things are slowly falling into place, and now I am happy to share with you this collection of some of my favorite images from 2020. Most of the photos are from my home state of New Jersey; indeed, my home county!  I did make a couple trips to neighboring states and one trip to Mexico before the pandemic hit, so you will see a few pics from there. But no matter where I found myself, I seem to be lucky with encountering beauty and wonder on a regular basis! I hope you all got through 2020 relatively unscathed, and I certainly wish you the best in 2021!  May beauty, joy, and wonder abound!

Calendars are $17.95 and may be purchased at this site: ORDER CALENDAR  The photos are a standard 8.5x11, the calendar taking up 11x17 on the wall when open.  If you *really* want a large one, contact me about a special order. Thank you!!

Back of calendar gives locations:

Thank you, and Best Wishes for wondrous holiday!

Jacki

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I've mentioned my travels around the Raritan Bay this past year, and hinted at one of my projects which involved Seeing and Imagining in the patterns of rust on the iron seawalls in some of the bayshore towns.  This led to a project I call "Water B'Witched" because most of the images were from an area called "Water Witch." You can see some of the images I made here.  Also, I have some 5x7 metal prints on display at the most awesome WaterWitch Coffee Shop and Art Gallery in Highlands, NJ, as part of my larger "World of Wonder" metal print exhibition there, now until October 30.  I'd love to hear what you think about this new work!  Thanks.  

I'm thrilled to partner with the fun and funky Water Witch Coffee, bringing my World of Wonder series of metal prints, as well as some new work, to their space.  Twenty one metal prints from around the world hang on the walls, and 10 all-new easel-backed metal prints have their own display area. My new series, Water B-Witched, was inspired by the sea wall right down the street from Water Witch Coffee, in Highlands, NJ.  During the Covid-19 pandemic, instead of traveling afar, I focused on my local area, especially around the Raritan Bay. (See earlier blog post.)  The rust patterns on the sea wall totally fascinated me, and I made a series of "rust-scapes" from my what I found there.  If you are in the area, stop by and check out the exhibit!  And make sure to try some of Water Witch Coffee shop's great food and beverages.  Hours are 7-1 Mon through Friday and 7-5 Sat/Sun.

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You are cordially invited to a FREE arts festival, featuring live music, talented artist vendors, and opportunities to socialize...all safely from home!  The Croton Arts Live Festival is happening September 25-27 from 6-10 PM each evening.  You have to register in order to get in, but it's quick and painless, and allows you to "chat" with the vendors in real time.  I have a booth that will be featuring metal prints from my "World of Wonder" collection.  I hope you can stop by!  Link: https://live.crotonarts.org

I am proud to have had a metal print selected for inclusion in a classy online gallery show.  Artfront Galleries  based in Newark, NJ, has found a way to continue their work in sharing art with a really cool cyber experience simulating walking through an actual art gallery.  Check out this show: Heliotrope: Turning toward the Light. My photo "Glory of the Night" is in the 2nd room on the wall across from the door.  Go full screen for the best experience!

I’ve been staying close to home this summer, for a change, exploring the beaches along the Raritan Bayshore. I love the open spaciousness there...and am excited by the drama of the dynamic clouds and changing skies. Favorite town beaches I’ve photographed are: South Amboy, Old Bridge, Cliffwood Beach, Keansburg, Union Beach, Keyport, Highlands...Click here for a gallery of photos from the Raritan Bayshore.

Etosha NP, Namibia

I recently had a client in need of elephant photos, and I was more than happy to have a excuse to go through my hundreds of elephant pictures from Namibia last year.. These majestic animals were a highlight of my safari with Gava Explorations! I especially loved seeing the desert-adapted elephants of Damaraland, and how family-oriented they were.  This big boy in the picture was joyfully splashing in a waterhole in Etosha National Park.  Enjoy my collection of elephant photos from Namibia as well as a previous trip to Tanzania here.

Rahway river Park

I have a few "secret galleries" on my website, and the most populated one is probably the one that features scenes of natural beauty from my local area. Most people don't think of New Jersey as a place of natural beauty, but I beg to differ.  Even though where I live is very suburban, we have a well designed, historic park system that follows the Rahway River where wildlife and other natural wonders abound.  It is getting well-used during the virus pandemic, when people don't want to be indoors.  I am glad others are discovering the treasure in our backyards.   Click here to check out my gallery from beautiful Union County NJ!

Lockdown (Covid-19)

I tried something new this spring - combining my digital photos with digitized versions of dissolved-ink art I created.  I used old National Geographic magazines, and poured a solvent on the pages, and was amazed at some of the results.  Many of them suggested landscapes or scenes having nothing to do with the original photos printed on them. Going a step further, I took photos of the papers, and then combined them with my own original photos.  I got some very interesting results! It was a great thing to do while I couldn't travel and when the local parks were closed...In fact, it seemed like a metaphorical activity at the time: society as we knew iit seemed to be dissolving, and it is up to us to create something new from what's there.  Click here to see some of my "mixed media" creations from this spring.

I'm so sorry to announce this lecture has been postponed until we can safely meet again!

     The January issue shows a magical night in Glacier National Park a couple of years ago. I was camping in the Two Medicine region and was amazed at the number of stars that could be seen there. One of the campsites had a red light that lit up the dead tree in the foreground. When I developed a picture in color, the artificial lighting was garish,  so I converted it to black-and-white with a digital red filter, and the tree popped out so white against the black sky!  I like how it mirrors and extends the split shape of the Milky Way. 

     The  photo on the February cover is an infrared photo I made in the Highlands of Scotland. I was pulled over on the side of the road trying to assist a motorist in need, and while we were waiting, I wandered about a bit.  I crossed a bridge and looked over at the train tracks, and immediately knew I had to make a photograph. I chose to use my infrared camera because I knew that the foliage would all turn white and make a great contrast with that dark track curving through.  I’m so happy it found a place on the cover of a magazine I enjoy and respect so much.

Announcing a solo exhibit at the Pearl Street Gallery, housed in a historic building along Elizabeth River in Elizabeth, NJ:  Landscapes of Wonder includes 13 metal prints from around the world, both near and far.   As a bonus, 2 canvas prints have been hung over the mantels of the large fireplaces in the building.  The gallery is open from Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 4:30 PM For more information,  please see this article.   

Below: Scottish Highlands, 30x40 canvas print

Sorry - Sold out! Contact me if I can help you with prints or anything else. Thanks! Jacki

This year's calendar features photos from 3 different continents! Last year I traveled to northern Italy, Namibia in the south of Africa, and of course wandered around my neighborhood in NJ, North America! I love seeing the beautiful things nature has to offer wherever I go.  I hope you enjoy this year's selection and that it inspires you to appreciate the wonder of of world!  Calendars are $13 each - Click to order.

Here is an example of a long exposure simulation you can make with "live photos" - Come to my talk and find out how!

Rahway River, above Jackson Falls

Blueberry Island - Massachusetts

Stargazer

I’m proud to have several of my high-definition metal photographic prints on display at a wonderful gallery and shop called Simply Art and Frames, in Cranford, NJ. The theme is “Celebrating Local Beauty,” and all the photos are from parkland in Union County, where I live - Rahway River Parkway, Echo Lake Park, and Warinanco Park. Lucky for us local folks, these parks were designed by the acclaimed Olmsted firm, who designed Central Park and other famous parks. There’s never a lack for beautiful photographic subjects here! if you are in the area, check them out, as well as the other great art and gifts Gary Fletcher has in his shop.

World of Wonder 2019 CoverTo purchase, please submit $12 per calendar and $3 for shipping to my paypal link. Be sure to include your shipping address. Additional calendars are an extra $1 each to ship. Thank you so much! Jacki

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The 2019 World of Wonder Calendar is now available for pre-order!  It features some special moments that I experienced in the natural world in the past year...from quiet moments like a leaf caught in ice and dewdrops caught in a low web...to the excitement of a baby moose leaping out a pond and a regal osprey leaping from a branch. My love for landscape shows, and this year there are many "intimate" or close-up landscapes - and many are from my neighborhood. No matter where I am on this lovely planet, I love looking up and looking down and finding wonder all around! The photos look great printed on the 8.5x11 professional glossy paper.

To purchase, please submit $12 per calendar and $3 for shipping to my paypal link. Be sure to include your shipping address. Additional calendars are an extra $1 each to ship after the first one. Shipping will be in early December.  Thank you so much!  If you are local, send me a message and we can arrange pickup. 

Thanks for your interest and support!  

Best regards,

Jacki

Slideshow of images from the calendar

Registration not required - just come on by the Linden Library!

This year, the publication features some magical Scottish landscapes, our new national monument in Maine, a rust collage, one motion blur, one black and white, one iPhone photo, and a few intimate landscapes from NJ. I hope you like the collection, which represents my work in the last year.  Thanks for checking it out!

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Cover of 2017 World of Wonder calendar

Thumbnails for the 2017 World of Wonder Calendar

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Photographer on the Edge

I am happy to announce that my photo "Photographer on the Edge" has won first prize in the "My Ansel Adams" photography contest sponsored by the Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown, NY  The challenge was to share a photo influenced by the style of Ansel Adams.  I chose to enter this one because of the subject matter (mountains of the West) and well as the tonal range in the image.  My other 2 entries (below) were runners up.  I am looking forward to visiting the museum in a few weeks. One of their current exhibits features early works of the famed and influential photographer.

Runner up: "Mountain and Cloud" by Jacki Dickert

Mountain and Cloud

Runner up:  "Sand and Sky" by Jacki Dickert

Most of the time, we photographers try to avoid blurry pictures… carefully choosing shutter speeds to achieve sharpness…holding our bodies still while we release the shutter to preserve detail…So why would we want to intentionally move our cameras in the midst of making exposures?  

Beside being a fun and freeing experience, Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) can also satisfy our basic creative urges. We are able to do something different than “straight” photography, in a way that can be even more personally expressive. In addition, much can be gained by experimenting with such a technique: a deeper understanding of how our cameras work, increased fluidity while shooting, and composition skills that become refined as we tune into and play with some of the basic elements that make up our images.

Springtime in the Swamp, ISO 100, f32, 1.3 sec

Obviously, when we practice intentional camera movement, we are creating something very different than detailed, documentary images. The results will naturally be more abstract and impressionist. Details are generally obscured, and what’s left after ICM is often an impressionistic wash of colors, with only the implication of basic shapes. However, the sense of movement that is inherently imbued in these images carries a sense of energy that can be very compelling.

Koi Pond,  ISO 100, f25; 1 sec.

The basic technique for ICM involves choosing longer shutter speeds that will allow you to move the camera without overexposing your picture.  Depending on the ambient light and focal length, somewhere between 1/8 of a second and 2 seconds is a good place to start experimenting. Since these long exposures will let in a great deal of light, you will have to compensate in one or more ways: lower your ISO, stop down your aperture (higher number f-stop), or add a polarizer or ND (neutral density) filter.  I’ve even used sunglasses in a pinch, on my point and shoot camera!  (You can also just wait until it gets darker out!)

Camera movements can vary, though it is generally effective to move in the direction of your main subject, and in the same plane. Vertical movements work well for tree trunks and plant stalks, horizontal sweeps are pleasing for beach scenes, and circular movements can be magical for flowers.

Sumac Stalks in Early Autumn, ISO 100, f32, 1 sec.

To preserve some of the graphic elements in the scene, movements are smaller than one might expect, several centimeters at most.  Motions can be either in one direction, or back and forth once or several times, depending on the length of the shutter speed and the desired effect.  Some ICM artists like to work on a tripod for consistency, while others prefer handheld for its fluidity.  

When choosing your composition and framing, including some strong or definite shapes will anchor your image and keep it from becoming a complete abstraction. Abstractions can be wonderful, though…so it’s really a matter of personal preference.

Twilight at the Beach, ISO 100, f22, 2 sec.

Tree trunks are fairly easy to use as subjects when starting with ICM. With just a slight up and down motion, you can make the trunks seem like they were made with brushstrokes. Look for good separation between the trunks for cleaner lines and forms.

Aspens, ISO 50, f27, 1/3sec

Color and lighting play an important role.  Having your main subject contrast from the background - by color, for example - will allow the forms to take center stage in your composition.  

Yellow on Green, ISO 100, f5.6, 2 sec.
 

When considering lighting, be careful of bright spots that might blow out during the long exposures.  Flat light is often easier to deal with…but depending on the capabilities of your sensor, contrasting lighting can be dynamic and attractive.  I particularly like sidelight when making blurs of tree trunks, as it helps accentuate the shapes.  

Sidelit Trees, Impressionist

 
These suggestions are really just starting points for experimenting with ICM.  Don’t be afraid to experiment.  There are many ways of working with camera motion - pan blurs, zoom blurs, camera toss techniques, to name a few. An expanded world of creative expression is open to us when we use our cameras like this to “paint” with light, form, and color.  

Jacki Dickert

March 2016
www.lightdance.org
 

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Many of my local friends and I are heartbroken over the death of 24 year old Joseph Parrillo, a former student of mine, who recently succumbed to Leukemia only weeks after being diagnosed.  We are mobilizing to help his family with medical bills and other expenses.

My part is to offer my art at special prices, and I will donate the money I make to the cause.  Some pieces are available at an auction that will be held Saturday, February 27th.  They also may be purchased at "Buy It Now" prices, with 100% of the proceeds (not just profit) being donated. 

In addition, if anyone wants to buy ANY prints of mine, just send me a message and I will custom print them for you and donate any profit I make, after printing costs, now through March 1.  

Below are the pictures up for Auction/Buy it Now.   To pay for Buy It Now, Click this PayPal link and make a note telling which picture you are paying for.  ***Some have already sold, so please check the info below or contact me to see if something you want is still available.***

THANK YOU SO MUCH!! 

Jacki

NEW ADDITION TO AUCTION!  Milky Way and Tree  20x30 framed print  Starting bid $25

Golden Pathway, A misty autumn morning in Rahway Park makes a magical scene. 16x24  High Definition Aluminum Print   Starting Bid $40   Buy it Now $150  SOLD!!  Contact me if you would like to special order a print.  

Autumn in the Glen Autumn in the Glen - Ricketts Glen, Pennsylvania  High Definition Aluminum Print  SOLD!  Contact me if you would like to order a specially priced custom print with profit going to the cause.

Sunrise at Mesa ArchCanyonlands National Park, Utah, USA
Please select 5x15 print for correct aspect ratio or contact me for other sizes.

Sunrise at Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park, Utah  12x36 print, in black fame w/glass  Starting Bid $20  Buy it Now $125

Misty Alaska

Misty Alaska - 16x24 high definition aluminum print; Bidding starts at $40; Buy it Now $150

Belmar Fishing Pier, 12x16 gallery wrapped canvas, ready to hang  Starting bid $20; Buy it now $75  SOLD Contact me if you would like to order a specially priced custom print with profit going to the cause.

Kiss of Light

Kiss of Light - the last rays of sun fall upon a dune fence at Island Beach State 7x21 with 3 inch white border; 2 inch wood frame w/plexiglass. Bidding starts at $20. Buy it now: $85

Zion Moonrise Moonrise at Zion National Park, Utah   12x16 gallery wrapped canvas, ready to hang  Starting bid $20; Buy it now $75

Seastar Washout

Seastar Washout - Cape May, NJ. 14x14 on gallery wrapped canvas. Bidding starts at $20. Buy it now: $75  SOLD!!!   Contact me if you would like to order a specially priced custom print with profit going to the cause.

Drama on the SavannahTanzania

Drama on the Savannah - a glorious sunset in East Africa, sepia toned. 12x18 matted, framed, with glass. Bidding starts at $20. Buy it Now $100.  SOLD!!!   Contact me if you would like to order a specially priced custom print with profit going to the cause.

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY for fellow Winfielders!!  This was an original photo taken and printed by my father, Frank Dickert, Jr., in the 1970's.  I worked hard to digitize it in a way that would make him proud...It is now available in a 16x20 ready to hang canvas gallery wrap for $125  ***BOTH HAVE SOLD*** I will take special orders on this.  Contact me if you would like to order one. 

If you would like other sizes or formats, they may be ordered as well, with all profit after printing costs going to the cause.  Prices:  8x10 print on photo paper=$20;  16x20 print on photo paper=$40.  The canvas is really nice, though! 

Each year, I try to present a variety of images that celebrate the beauty and wonder of the natural world. This year, many selections are from my local area, but there are also some images from favorite areas in the Southwest, New England, and Iceland.  I usually like to make BIG calendars, to really show off the photos, but the company I usually work with discontinued the large 11x17 size.  This year, I tried out a couple of new places to print, and I am happy to report that the calendars look very good, even at smaller sizes.

If you are interested in purchasing a calendar, there are 2 size options:  Regular (8.5 x 11 inches folded) which sells for $12 (add $3 for shipping) and Large (11.5 x 14 folded) which is $22 (add $5 for shipping.)   The large size has thicker, glossier paper which shows off the pictures nicely.  The regular is more of a matte look, but the colors are still strong and true. 

Send me a message if you would like to order any!  Thanks.  Best wishes to everyone during this holiday season! 

The waterfall photo in the picture below is a large fabric wall sticker. Sometimes called "removable wallpaper," it's an affordable way to make a very large print and not have to spend the money to frame it. I will have some samples with me at the Trailside show and can take special orders to print any of my photos on the wall stickers, if you would like to try them.

From now until the end of February, you can view the  World of Wonder Photography Exhibit at Union County's Trailside Nature and Science Center, one the premier environmental centers in New Jersey. The exhibit has grown bigger and better, now with 25 metal prints featuring landscapes and nature images from NJ and around the world. The center, which is Mountainside, NJ, is open from 12-5 each day.  Stop by if you get a chance!

photo by Dave Williams www.feralflower.com

This grouping in the photo below shows some of the new work from around New Jersey:  Rahway Park, Warinanco Park, and Sandy Hook.

Fall into Creativity
by Jacki Dickert

Autumn is an inspiring time for photographers. Whether it finds you photographing richly colored leaves against a bright blue sky or composing atmospheric images of bare trees on a foggy day, fall always presents great potential for creating visually interesting shots.  It is also a wonderful time of year to go beyond the obvious, to engage the imagination, and to push the limits of your creative expression. Here are some techniques to experiment with during this colorful season, as you make your fall into creativity!

Capitalize on Colorful Water

Leaves and Reflected Leaves ISO 1600, f8, 1/30 sec. (handheld; no polarizer)

Colorful leaves are beautiful on their own, but you can sometimes use their reflections to add an important visual element to your images.  If you are lucky enough to be near a lake or stream, look at it from different angles and levels, and notice how the water reflects the colors in different ways.  For the image above, I had to crouch quite low to make the leaves appear to float on the yellow reflections, rather than the blue water.   If you are using a polarizer - as you usually should do in autumn, to cut down on glare on leaves, water, and wet rocks - be aware that it will also cut down on desirable reflections as well.  Adjust or omit the polarization accordingly.

Paint with Leaves
  Mystical Falls - Ricketts Glen, PA
 

Waterfall with Swirling Beech Leaves ISO 100, f16, 8 seconds on tripod, polarizer

There are several ways to achieve a painterly effect, using motion blur during long exposures. Since long exposures allow a lot of light in, this technique works best on cloudy days or at dawn/dusk. However, it is not impossible to achieve in  bright conditions.  Two especially useful tools in such situations are a polarizer and a neutral density (ND) filter.  Both cut down the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for longer shutter speeds.  Once you slow the shutter speed down, you can “paint”  either by capitalizing on movement already occurring in your subject or by intentionally moving the camera during the long exposure.

The image above shows what can develop when a handful of colorful leaves are thrown into flowing water. It was taken on a fairly bright day, so I needed to cut the light by using a polarizer, dialing the ISO down to 100, and using a small aperture (f16 in this case.)  These settings allowed me to have a shutter speed of 8 seconds, enough time to “paint” the flow pattern of the moving leaves into my image. Of course, a tripod is essential in such long exposures, to keep everything else from blurring.  I also usually use a 2-second self-timer or cable release, to avoid camera movement when pressing the shutter. It’s helpful to study the water first, noting the patterns of movement, and then imagining what it might look like if traced out.  There may already be leaves floating  in the water, or you can toss in a handful to create a natural painting from the resulting movement!

Tree Allee, Warinanco Park - Impressionist
Autumn in the Park, Impressionist: ISO 200,  f5.6, 2 seconds with camera movement, polarizer

Another type of creative painterly image that works well with autumn colors is made by actually moving the camera itself during a slower exposure. Again, you may need to cut the light by using a polarizer or ND filter as well as a low ISO and small aperture. A shutter speed of around one to two seconds often works well.  The camera is moved up and down (or side to side, or in circles, depending on the major graphic elements in the composition) a small amount - perhaps an inch or two - in the same plane. The more the range of movement, the more abstract the result will be.  Some experimenting is necessary to see what works. Look for compositions with contrasting colors and some definite lines - tree trunks work well, especially with a vertical panning motion.  Try to avoid bright spots from the sky.  Post-processing usually involves adjusting contrast, especially the midtones. Often the results resemble impressionist paintings!

Take Advantage of the Autumn Fog

Trees Dancing in the Mist

Trees Dancing in the Mist  ISO 1600, f6.7, 1/30 sec. (handheld)

Boldly colored leaves are even more striking against a soft backdrop of fog or mist.  Such atmospheric conditions are not uncommon in fall. When cool autumn air meets the warmer lakes and waterways, wonderfully evocative atmospheric conditions result, and opportunities abound for rich imagery. Fog often has the effect of simplifying a composition, as potentially distracting elements are softened or obscured, and other graphic elements can take center stage. Autumn in also a great time to find and photograph mist-covered spiderwebs!  Using a zoom lens at maximum reach will help further eliminate background distractions. If your camera has a depth of field preview button, use it to see exactly what will and will not be in focus. Adjust your f-stop so the subject is in focus but the background is soft.

Spiderweb in the Rain, ISO 200, f8, 1/125 sec.  

This autumn, get caught up in the beauty of the season by making some creative photographs! 

When: Wednesday, May 13, 8 PM

Cost: Free

Photographing the infrared spectrum can enhance our creative output and exercise our ability to "see" photographically. In this program, I will give an overview of the options in making IR images, explore the issues involved with this kind of photography, make workflow suggestions, and hopefully inspire everyone to try something new!  (And, yes, it can be done on a budget!)

This program will be presented at the Cranbury Camera Club, which welcomes visitors.  Please click the link for more information about the club.

Directions

Shakes Lake, Alaska

That's me :-)A