So. Cal Photography Conference, June 16 2012

We just had a photography program in the Antelope Valley one rarely gets to experience.

Through the courtesy of the Lancaster Photography Association, the Antelope Valley Fair, and many volunteers, the first “Southern California Photography Conference”(SCPC} was conceived, organized, and accomplished in less than a year. It should be noted that admission was free, and there was no charge for the Fair Hall – normally a thousand dollars a day! Attendance was by reservation, and 160 people registered. Many were from out of town, from organizations all over Southern California.

The guest speakers shared their experiences and knowledge of the field of photography in which they specialize, to an attentive and appreciative audience. Many of us follow the fascinating stories about far off places these speakers feature in national magazines, and it was a great opportunity to meet them and have a personal discussion concerning the subjects they speak about.

In pursuing our own passion for photography we realize that it takes a rare and unique talent to serve as both a Reporter, and a Photographer, then get up in front of a very discerning audience and be a credible historian.

Moose Peterson presented “Challenging Your Photographic Passion”

Greg Rostami presented “Topaz Software”

Larry and Susan Cowles presented “Animal Portraits”

George D Lepp presented “From Snowflakes to Gigascapes: Maximizing the Creative Power of Today’s DSLRs”

Noella Ballenger presented “Nature by Design”

Lorne Resnick presented “The Art of Travel Photography – How to Create Emotionally Compelling Travel Images”

Coupled to this event was a “Gallery Show” that presented the best work of members of the LPA. Fourteen members submitted their digital pictures, ready to be presented, if selected, as Fine Art, mounted, framed, and under glass.  The judging method was one we have used to select images for interclub entries, such as PSA, and George Glennie competitions.  All fourteen participants got to vote on their top six images to be selected for Gallery Show and results were based upon a point system.

First Place: Sue Craft, “ Yosemite Valley View ”

Second Place: Diana Edgel  “ MOONBOW ”

Third Place: Arliss Dawson “ A Place In Time ”

Honorable Mention: Pat Ware “ Tulips ”

The “People’s Choice” picture was selected by a ballot vote, cast by the people attending the conference. A ballot was included in the packet provided to each person as they entered and signed in. Only one of the six pictures could be voted for. The votes were tallied and the one with the highest number of votes was declared to be the winner.

People’s Choice: Arliss Dawson “ A Place In Time "

Event Director SCPC: Helen Henry, Director, PSA Region 10

Chairman LPA Gallery Shows: Lyle Trusty

Photos by Lyle Trusty
unless otherwise indicated