Category: Image City Exhibits

In a celebration of creativity and skill, Camera Rochester is presenting its annual photography exhibition entitled Excellence 2024!  Showcasing the work of talented members, the exhibition offers a captivating visual feast for photography enthusiasts and art lovers alike.  President Lisa Cook and Vice President Dennis Adams explain that Camera Rochester’s Excellence 2024! showcases the full range of creative photographic talent in the group. “Varied subject matter and degree of abstraction reflect a worldwide interest in the capabilities of continued artistic and technological growth. Each member’s personal growth and strengths can be seen in this exhibit.”  Additionally, local poet Kitty Jospe’s poems, inspired by 7 images, are on display. 

The following Camera Rochester photographers are displaying their images in the exhibit: 

Jason Abel, Dennis Adams, Lori Bonati, Amy Carpenter, Bob Clemens, Lisa Cook, Archie Curry, Elena Dilai, Jim Dolan, Wade Eaton, John Ejaife, Steven Gall, Bonnie Gamache, Flinn Hackett, Jeno Horvath, Jerome Kaye, Susan Kaye, Laurie Knapp, Larry Mandelker, Brett McIntosh, Loretta Petralis, David Ridley, Anne Ryan, Paul Shew and Sandy Silvestri.

The exhibition features a diverse range of photographs capturing various subjects, styles and perspectives. From breathtaking landscapes to intimate portraits, each image tells a unique story and reflects the individual creativity and vision of its creator.

For example, Lori Bonati, who has three images on display, describes one of her images. She says “Fusion Music fuses a piano keyboard with an electric guitar, using the Nikon Z5’s in-camera multiple exposure setting, which I learned from fellow photographer Luann Pero. I liked the contrasting colors and shapes of the instruments, and I added a gray and cream diamond-patterned pillow behind the guitar for even more contrast and to keep the guitar from falling over! I was pleasantly surprised to see that details in both photos remained clear, despite the two images being superimposed on each other.”

Another photographer with an image that tells a story is Susan Kaye.  She says, “One of mine is very meaningful to me. It is called Fading Memories and is a tunnel formed by memory chips from my computer.  At the end of the tunnel is a blurred image of my son Kevin and his then 4-year old daughter Talullah. It is one of my favorite pictures of them. Kevin died in 2013, not long after the picture was taken.  The idea behind it was that some memories of people we lose, fade with time. This is not meant to be sad, just the effects of time and distance.”

Excellence 2024! Provides a platform for both seasoned photographers and newcomers to display their work and receive recognition for their artistic endeavors.  The members have poured their passion, dedication and technical skills into crafting captivating images that speak volumes about their talent and love for photography. 

John Ejaife, who enjoys displaying his images at Image City, has included one of his nature landscapes in the Camera Rochester exhibit.  When he was in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, he was impressed by a scene of Lake Beauvert, which was adjacent to the chalet where he was staying.  When describing his image, Mountains beyond Lake Beauvert, he says, “The water was calm at about 9:00 am and allowed for a beautiful reflection of part of the Canadian mountains that were nearby.”

Aside from showcasing individual images, the exhibition also serves as a testament to the strong sense of community and camaraderie within Camera Rochester. Through sharing their creations and engaging in dialogue with fellow members and visitors, the photographers foster a supportive and inspiring environment that encourages growth, learning and mutual appreciation.

Camera Rochester Member Steven Gall truly appreciates this dialogue.  He says that he chose his photos for the exhibit after getting feedback from the peer review sessions held at the Camera Rochester meetings. “Having the opportunity for meaningful feedback on photos from the group members is a reason why I continue to be a member of Camera Rochester 

Excellence 2024! is not just a display of artistic vision, it is a celebration of the power of photography to connect people, evoke emotions and inspire dialogue.  Through their lens, the club members offer glimpses into their world inviting viewers to see and experience the beauty, complexity and magic that surrounds us every day.  

For more information about becoming a member of Camera Rochester, visit their website at https://camerarochester.org  

In the bustling world of photography, Image City’s current exhibition, On the Edge of Abstract, invites viewers on an evocative journey, where the realms of the tangible and the conceptual blur. Don Menges, the coordinator of this show, says his hope is “to demonstrate how several photographers interpret the same concept.”  Abstract photography often defies the traditional expectations of capturing the visible world, instead focusing on form, color, texture and pattern.  On the Edge of Abstract pushes this notion further, exploring the delicate balance where the abstract intersects with the recognizable.  The exhibit showcases Image City partners who navigate this frontier, offering viewers a diverse exploration of abstraction. 

When Don was thinking about a theme for this show, he recalled that partners have collaborated on several themes over the past few years. He says, “It’s interesting to our visitors to see how multiple photographers interpret the same concept. I wanted to come up with something that would challenge the participants differently. I’ve been experimenting with introducing analog effects into my photographs, which often creates an abstract image. I thought it would be fun.”

Throughout the past several months Don has been working with floral photographs with an analog effect.  For this show, he says, “Since architectural subjects are more palatable to me, I decided to switch subjects and see how that would work. I have also spent several years making only Black and White images, so that too became an analog challenge.”

Don is particularly proud of two of his images that are in this exhibit. One is a Black and White photo, Broken Fan, which is totally untouched by the process he has been studying. “It’s a ‘pure’ abstract image that I thought I composed well.”   He explains that the other is a color photograph entitled ROC History, which is of wall art on a building on Mt. Hope Avenue. He says “there was nothing new added to this; it is simply a composite of multiple exposures.”

Sheridan Vincent, decided to display several unique colorful floral images. He says “perhaps the category of abstract can be applied to an image that looks unusual”.   Sheridan explains, “After I cut a couple of Calla Lily blossoms and looked down on them, I saw what became Calla Watching after a bit of staging.”  He says that by adding a black background, he was able to focus the attention on the “floral eyes,” surrounded by yellow, with the pleasant curves of the blossom.

Luann Pero, also chose to include some images with vibrant colors.  She explains that her image entitled Orange and Blue, along with some of the other images in her display, “came from a boat yard, littered with abandoned boats with hull structures, paint and fiberglass breaking down into relics of the large boats that had once sailed the waters of Lake Ontario.”  Luann says, “I was intrigued by the colors and geometric forms of the discoloration, delamination, warping, and blistering of the fiberglass, wood, and paint on the hulls.  Bold abstract images came alive before my eyes in colors of blues, yellows, purples, and greens. My imagination was charged by these once beauties, decaying on the cradles.”

John Solberg was also intrigued with the colors he discovered when he explored the outdoors for his photographs, which were taken of very small sections of the walls under the Winton Road bridge near University Avenue.  John says, “At first, they were interesting only because of their textures and patterns.  As I played around with them, to my surprise and delight, I discovered hidden color, coaxed out by exploring saturation.” John explains that the images become more than a collection of colors, patterns and textures – they trigger the imagination to “make meaning” out of  abstraction. John says that he is especially proud of his photo called Nature’s Graffiti #1 because “in my imagination it is no longer a small patch of wall but a grand exploding volcano.”   As visitors view his image, he wonders, “What can you imagine?” 

Steve Levinson, took a different approach from Sheridan, Luann, and John.   One of the images he decided to include, Give Me Five, includes a hand as the subject.  He hopes that when viewing this photo, visitors will take the time to discover what is in it.  Steve points out that “hands have always been an intriguing subject for photographers because there is so much emotion that can be transmitted by a hand gesture.”  His photo combines the impact of looking at a palm with the added feature of a face, not noticeable at first, but it leads the viewer to think about the intentions Steve had when he created this composite image.  He says, “It is clearly not peaceful or beautiful, but has been designed to have an emotional impact on the viewer, who might be wondering what is Steve thinking?”

Like some of the other artists in this show, Gil Maker included a variety of black and white images with interesting shapes in his display. For his photo entitled Abstract #5, he was particularly attracted to the two simple shapes:  a straight line and a circle.  He was also drawn to the minimalist quality of the subject.

Don’s hope with this type of show always is to demonstrate how several photographers interpret the same concept. He says “I like viewers to understand that not everyone sees visual art the same way, even when the style is fixed.”  The title of the show On the Edge of Abstract, gave each of the participants a little room for a loose interpretation of abstract art.”

If you have a comment or question about this show, please enter it into the Comment Box below.

Photographers’ Journey, an awe-inspiring photography exhibition, coordinated by Image City Partner Steve Levinson, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who visit the exhibit. Featuring the works of 43 talented photographers, selected through a rigorous jurying process, the exhibition showcases a total of 64 photographs across the following categories: Digital/Abstract/Conceptual, Travel, Landscape/Seascape, Architectural/Cityscape, Documentary/Street, Portrait, Botanical/Still Life and Wildlife. 

Judges for the Exhibit include Daniel Hughes and Eric T. Kunsman. Daniel is an Image maker that specializes in post processing. He is the Undergraduate Program Director for the Photographic Sciences Program for the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences at RIT.  Eric is a photographer, book artist, Assistant Professor of Visual Communications and Adjunct Professor for the School of Photographic Arts & Science at RIT.  Daniel and Eric selected grand prize winning photos as well as winning photos in each category.

The Grand Prize winner whose photo is in the Digital/ Conceptual /Abstract category, is McDonald Beach Reach by John Kosboth. When viewing this category, the enigmatic compositions challenge perceptions and invite viewers to delve into the unseen depths of the mundane.  Each piece in this section is a testament to the photographer’s ability to transcend traditional perspectives, proving that the ordinary can indeed become extraordinary through the lens of creativity.  

There are two Runner-Up winning photographers. One of the winners is Tom Kredo. His image entitled Daydreams was chosen as the award winner in the Portrait category. The group of Portrait photos offers a compelling glimpse into the human condition, showcasing moments of joy and contemplation. The self-portraits along with the intimate, carefully composed portraits, remind viewers of the diverse tapestry of human experience. 

The other Runner-Up winning photographer is Sue Rossi. Her photo, Translucent Tulips, is the award winner in the Botanical/Still Life Category. The images in this section highlight the fragility of our natural world as it is artistically demonstrated by the variety of floral compositions, as well as an old Bellows camera surrounded by a burning candle, flower and book.  Each image has the ability to evoke an emotional reaction.

When viewing the Landscape/Seascape and Travel sections, observers are transported to remote corners of the earth, from the bustling Brooklyn Bridge to the serene solitude of a winter park.  The contrasting textures, tonal differences and dynamic compositions not only capture the essence of each location but also encourage viewers to explore the world with renewed enthusiasm. The photographers’ ability to capture the fleeting moments of serenity amidst the chaotic forces of nature speaks volumes about their observational skills and technical prowess.  The winning photo in the Landscape/Seascape category is Into the Mist by Beverly Goldschmidt.

David Kotok created One Small Voice, the winning photo in the Travel Section.

The Wildlife photos highlight the interesting behavior of birds, butterflies and elephants in their natural habitats, which serve as a reminder of the biodiversity that we are tasked to protect. The photographers created images with effective compositions and lighting, causing the subjects to come alive.  The winning photo in this category is An Elephant’s Eye by Janet Cruz.

Architectural/Cityscape photography, with its focus on lines, shapes, and textures, reveals the hidden symmetries of the urban atmosphere.  These selections pay homage to the ingenuity of human construction, from the spires of cathedrals to the sleek minimalism of modern skyscrapers. Michael D’Avignon created the winning photo Hotel Lafayette in this category.

The Documentary/Street Photography section includes photos that record everyday life in public settings. The photographers have managed to capture images at decisive or poignant moments by careful framing and timing. The winning photo is Chicago Doorway created by Bob Clemens.

Photographers’ Journey is more than exhibition; it is a celebration of the myriad ways in which photography allows us to connect with the world and each other. The diversity of styles, subjects and approaches represented in this show reflects a rich tapestry of human creativity and offers an invigorating glimpse into the potential of photography as a medium of exploration and connection. 

Significant awards for the Grand Prize winner and two Runners-Up were provided by Archival Methods, Adobe, Lumiere Photo, Scott’s Photo by Rowe, and Image City.  Category awards were provided by the following businesses in the Neighborhood of the Arts:

• Carnegie Cellars
• Marriott Courtyard Rochester Downtown
• George Eastman Museum
• Rochester Broadway Theater League
• ROC City Circus
• Salena’s
• Scents by Design
• Writers and Books

Celestial Lights: An Ethereal Journey

When Rochester was gearing up for the 2024 Eclipse, Image City Gallery Partner Dick Bennett thought that images from the eclipse might be a timely theme for his 2024 Featured Show.  However, when the sky was covered in clouds, and the changing views of the eclipse were not visible in Rochester, he shifted gears a bit and came up with the idea of Celestial Nights.  Dick invited the following photographers, who enjoy night sky photography, to join him in his featured exhibit: Joe Altieri, Image City Partner Marie Costanza, Robert Crumrine, Mike Dorofy, Cindy El-Gaaly, Tom Knauss, Margy Meath, Martha Price, Sue Rossi and Patty Singer. Dick says, “Though Celestial Lights may have an origin in the mystics and ancient beliefs, in this sense it stands for lights in the night sky such as the Aurora Borealis, the Milky Way or an Eclipse of the sun.” Celestial Nights is a captivating exhibition that illuminates the visceral connection we share with the cosmos.  The collection manifests an ethereal journey through the nocturnal heavens, showcasing an array of phenomena from the golden hues of the sunset to the enigmatic glow of the Aurora Borealis.  

For this exhibit several of the photographers chose to display their journey through images of the Milky Way, which stretch across the canvas of space, revealing intricate dust lanes and vibrant star clusters within our galactic home. The colors are vibrant yet nuanced, bringing out the natural beauty of our universe in ways that feel new and profound. Sue Rossi, who photographed the Milky Way over a covered bridge in Vermont, says that she likes the final result of this image because “it gives a vivid picture of how beautiful the Milky Way is.”  Sue enjoys going with friends on her photography journeys because of the “life-long memories” that are created.

The moon, another intriguing part of the night sky, and our closest celestial neighbor, is often depicted in a variety of settings, from the serene to the dramatic. Marie Costanza, who has enjoyed observing the moon and the stars since she was a child, decided to combine her love of the sky with her love of birds. Her photo entitled “Lunar Soar,” is an image of a Short-eared owl with the full moon in the background. Marie says “Since it was December when I shot this image, the sun set early, and the sky darkened quickly, so I had to move fast when taking several photos of the owls.” Later when the moon was visible in the sky, Marie took photos of it and merged the two images together to create her composite image.

Another photographer who enjoys the moon is Cindy El-Gaaly. The “Yosemite Moonbow” was one of dozens of images captured by Cindy, during a spring visit to Yosemite National Park, which she says “is a magical time of year.”  She says “the light is amplified at night when the light of a full moon strikes Yosemite Falls at just the right angle, creating a nighttime lunar rainbow, also referred to as a Moonbow.”  Cindy encourages viewers to “go out and look at a starry sky, or a field of fireflies dancing in the fields. Enjoy the magic.”

Photographing star trails is a stunning way to capture night shots that illustrate stars moving in the sky. Martha Price and Joe Altieri chose to exhibit this type of image. Martha’s “Star Trails at Arches National Park,” is a compilation of about 70 stacked photos centered around Polaris, the North Star.  The rock formation is Balanced Rock.  Martha says, “As we were taking our photos, the weather was cool, and we could hear coyotes howling in the distance.    The moon behind us provided some light for the rocky foreground.” Joe stayed closer to home when he captured his image by Lake Ontario, “Star Trails at Sodus.”  Joe explains, “This was a project that was planned for some time, playing a tug of war with weather and timing. The goal was to catch the sunset and trailing stars in a composite showing a transition from day into night. Our home star, the Sun, mixed in with its local community of neighbors. These trails are very beautiful and can create some dynamic imagery. The lighthouse was a perfect component to add into this type of composition providing a cool central light source connecting to    the stars.”

In July, 2020, many photographers also flocked to Lake Ontario to watch Comet Neowise make an appearance.  Patty Singer says, “A few of us were watching it over Lake Ontario with other people.  I decided to back up a bit and capture the comet with some people that were sitting on a bench in the foreground. Lo and behold, I was surpised and pleased to see that my 10 second capture included a firefly that flew over the people in my foreground. It was a pleasant surprise that I think really added to the photo.” 

When the Aurora Borealis was visible in Rochester, many photographers, including Dick Bennett, Robert Crumrine, Mike Dorofy and Margy Meath spent time photographing this phenomenon over Lake Ontario. Mike says, “There were two nights during May that were good for viewing the Auroras.” Mike took his photo “Braddock Bay Lighthouse” on the second night.  He says “I enjoy visiting this location for sunrises, and when there was a second night of Auroras, I was pleased to have the opportunity to capture it from there.”  Robert Crumine, who took his image along the lakeshore at Webster Park says “I wanted to preserve my memory of this display, and it was the best I’ve seen in 20 years.” Whether they were in a foreign country or in the Rochester area, the photographers managed to capture the dynamic, dancing lights with a clarity and vibrancy that is breathtaking.  The colors seem to leap from the images creating a visceral experience for the viewer.  The photos not only showcase the phenomenon itself but also convey the emotional impact of witnessing such a natural wonder.  Margy Meath, who was on the shore of Lake Ontario in Greece, also observing the incredible light show, says that her image “was one of the first images I took on the night of the Aurora show, and it represents a night I will never forget. All day long I was getting text alerts about the potential show, which was visible just as it was getting dark.  At first it seemed subtle, but very quickly this image emerged, and it looked like a curtain—starting high in the sky and flowing down toward the horizon.  I’ve never seen anything like this and to see such incredible northern lights and color in Rochester is very rare.”

Tom Knauss, like Dick Bennett, was anticipating several images of the Solar Eclipse on April 8.  Since Rochester was under heavy cloud coverage, Tom created “Rochester Broken Glass.” He says, he created the image “as a spoof of the Eclipse.” He took a photo of cloud-covered Rochester, which he merged with a sketch of cracked glass.  He had previously taken an image of totality with a diamond ring during the August 2017 Solar Eclipse, when he was visiting Wyoming.  He layered all of his images together in order to create this fascinating, creative image.

Beyond the technical mastery and artistic beauty of the photographs, Celestial Nights offers a profound narrative on the interplay of light and darkness, the vastness of our universe and the intimate moments when we pause to look up at the night sky.  It is a celebration of the natural world, an invitation to contemplation and a reminder of the fragile beauty that surrounds us, often unseen in our rushed lives. 

This exhibition is a must see for anyone who looks up at the night sky with curiosity and amazement. Celestial Lights is at Image City from July 9-August 4, 2024.  The opening reception is on July 12, 5-8:30, and the First Friday opening is on August 2, 5-9.

What are your thoughts or questions about the photographs in Celestial Lights? Please respond in the comment box below.

During the winter, when Gil Maker thought about a theme for his June 2024 show, he decided to focus on the idea of “Home.”  He says, “I do not like shooting in the cold, so I don’t go out much during the winter months.  To keep me busy, I started to photograph my house.”  His images depict rooms, items and anything in his home that caught his attention.  Since Gil enjoys reading, and he likes to show off his book collection, one of his favorite images that he captured is his photo entitled Books. 

Gil points out that the theme of Home can have a variety of meanings to each person. He says his images are just one of the many interpretations of what a home can represent.  Gil invited the other Image City Gallery Partners to join him in his featured show.  When the 6 interested partners asked him to explain what his thoughts were regarding the theme, he gave them complete flexibility to interpret it in whatever way they saw fit.  Each partner ended up with an interpretation based on individual unique interests. 

Because plants are an integral part of­ “home,” John Solberg chose their house plants to become the subject of his display.  They are cared for with love by his wife Louise.  There is a mixture of plants in their home, some they’ve had for many years, and new plants that have been added to their collection along the way.  John has used a minimalist approach while photographing and printing his collection, using only a plain white background that allows each plant to stand on its own. Two of John’s photos are of Peace Lilies.  He says “one of them displays the simple beauty at the peak of life; the other has passed its prime, but remains beautiful in its own way. Its flower seems to be pointing towards something, and we can only wonder about what it is.”  When he spotted these two beauties against a bright sheer living room curtain, they became the first two images in his collection. “It was their simplicity, the long stem, the beautiful cup-shaped flower. It was a ‘wow’.”   After that it was easy to pick candidates from among their other plants.  John hopes that when viewers see his images, they might take the opportunity “to take a moment to look and appreciate just one thing.”

Like John and Gil, Luann Pero focused on the interior of homes.  She decided “to paint a picture of a sanctuary of welcoming warmth and comfort.”  Luann says that when she saw “a small room enveloped in filtered sunlight, along with the colors of the room playing on the gauzy fabric of curtains,” she was enticed to photograph her “Window Curtain” images.  She also chose two stained glass lamps to photograph.  She said she “can envision sitting beside one of these lamps in an easy chair, reading a book in its soft warm glow.”  Luann hopes viewers can feel a sense of the belonging, warmth and comfort in her images as they relate to the theme of Home, and that her images “convey this calm, elegant atmosphere.”

When choosing her subject, Marie Costanza, decided to step outside of her home and stroll through her backyard. Marie enjoys taking photos of the birds that nestle near her home, so she decided “to focus on some of the birds who have made their home at my home.” She says, “Each image tells a unique story of survival, adaptability and the innate drive to create a space called home.”  She says spring offers a glimpse into the frantic activity of nest construction and the gathering of seeds to feed the babies.  Summer illuminates with the bustling demands of fledglings as well as the way the various birds adapt to her backyard environment, where they enjoy relaxing in their “sauna,” dining at the “Mosaic Inn,” or going for a swim in their “water hole.”  Some simply enjoy hanging out, like a female Baltimore Oriole, who was hoping to catch a glimpse of the Rochester eclipse!  Marie says that the images in her display are “a celebration of the unseen lives happening right outside our windows.” Also, it is a tribute to the diversity of avian life and an invitation to slow down and appreciate the natural wonders that surround us, encouraging a deeper connection with nature’s marvels that flourish in our own backyards. 

Don Menges took a different approach to the theme.  He says that his photos explore the idea that “homes can have different visual interpretations.  Some are elaborate, some are beaten, and some are just humorous.”  Don’s favorite image in his collection is called The Box.  It was taken several years ago when his granddaughter was playing and crawling out of a cardboard box.  He says that to her it was a home, and it reminds him “of the innocence of children.”  Don points out “It is a nostalgic photo and reminds me that each of us were in that very same box, albeit many years ago.”

Steve Levinson chose an artistic concept using mansions as the subject of his photos. He says “There is a saying that every man’s home is his castle, and sometimes a castle is actually a home!” The photographs Steve chose for his display are from the Biltmore Mansion and the George Eastman home. For the Eastman mansion photographs, Steve says, “I tried to capture its majesty with a slightly surrealistic twist, using a distorted fisheye lens.” Steve points out that both locations provide an example of how the owner’s wealth created an amazing home, which is so different from the “average” home in which most of us live.  These owners used almost unlimited funds to create a place to live and for entertainment. 

On the other hand, Betsy Phillips took an opposite view from Steve when photographing her Home subjects.  She says, “My images are about what the experience of home is for many of the less fortunate, and how each image conveys the mood of those living there, either by its unexpected vibrancy or by the reality of the residents’ poverty.  Betsy’s image entitled Te Amo (I love you) includes this message scratched into the bright blue painted exterior.  Betsy explains “a small dog awaits on the front steps, hats are hung on the door, toys are strewn about and clean-up tools are at the ready—just like any other home, despite the fact that poverty is clearly evident.”  The lights and the bright blue give the sense that life is celebrated here.  Betsy hopes that when viewers see her images, they will realize that “home is not always warm and fuzzy, like the classic Norman Rockwell portrayal, but that there can be a certain beauty in the most ordinary of spaces.” 

The concept of “home” resonates differently within each heart. The Home photography exhibit is a testament to the idea that while our definitions of home may differ vastly, the emotional tethering to a place we belong is universally inherent. Through the lens of some of the Image City Partners, visitors are invited into kitchens, living rooms, backyards and other personal spaces that hold the essence of everyday life. Through each photograph, we invite visitors to ponder “What does home mean to you?” It’s a question that yields infinite answers and yet brings us all closer.    In the comment box below please tell us, or upload an image, that shows what home means to you.

The Home exhibit is on display at Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue, from June 11-July 7. 

Over the past several years, Steve Levinson says that he has been making photographs—“collecting” various elements and textures for use in creating composites. He explains that this offers a new challenge as he “subconsciously identifies in the field those elements that might prove interesting to combine with others to create a new whole at a future time from the actual image making.” 

When deciding which of his images to display, Steve selected a group of images that have a similar visual sense—color, tone, subject, lightness and darkness.  Some of his images, which he describes as “free-flowing imaginative,” are a combination of over 12 different layers that he has edited, combined, and processed to produce an organic whole, employing tools such as Photoshop and Lightroom.  Steve says that his inspiration comes from this creative process…often employing an unplanned process of combinations that yields an unexpected result.  He says, “Once I start down the road to create a composite there is no plan; things and ideas just come together to produce the final product.

This process requires Steve to find many different elements and combine them in a creative, organic way.  He says that by selecting work from past shoots, as well as working to make the elements integrate into a whole, rather than just “sticking” a few things together that don’t interact, “is a challenge that I have been focusing on with the help of a mentor for several years now, and it has really had a positive impact on my work.”  He says that it also makes going out on a shoot more fun, as “I not only compose entire photographs in the camera for my traditional work but also am looking out for cool elements that I might want to use in a composite in the future.”

Several years ago Steve says he went through a “rather intensive self-analysis during a workshop in Maine with Cig Harvey, which was a real challenge to me.”  The objective was to make a correlation between your photographs and who you are.  After his self-analysis, Steve says that his introspective composites, as well as his more traditional photographs, reflect who he is.  “I like to explore new paths and directions, which is a major component that drives my creative process.”

Steve’s exhibit is made up of three parts: large canvas prints that best display the composite in a format that can further draw the viewer into the new alternate reality; a collaboration with well-known local poet Karen Faris; and a series of smaller, more intimate composites.

For several years Steve and Karen have been working together on their collaborative project combining poetry and composites.  In some cases the composite is the inspiration, and in other cases, the poem is the inspiration.  Steve says, “We worked together to refine the composite to really combine these somewhat disparate media into a finished product.”  Steve points out that in addition to reading a poem, poetry is an auditory experience; thus, Karen has recorded a dramatic reading of each poem and provided a QR code that will allow visitors to hear Karen’s performance on their cell phones.

When Steve views some of his images he has an emotional reaction that makes him feel as though he is soaring—experiencing freedom, which is abstract, but grounded; for example by a bird flying above.  He ponders “Is this the end of the world?”  He says “It might be or just puzzling you as you react.”

Steve hopes that rather than just “labeling” each photo as to what the subject is and then moving on, viewers will take the time to enjoy each image, and look at them for more than a few seconds, allowing their emotions to experience the alternate realities presented.  Visitors can experience Alternate Realities from May 14 – June 9. If you have questions or would like to leave a comment about Steve’s show, please write it in the comment box below.

The photography exhibit “Women’s Perspectives,” offers a compelling and diverse collection of images that delve into the unique viewpoints of ten talented female photographers.  Each artist brings her own distinct style and vision to the table, showcasing a range of emotions, stories, and experiences through the lens of their cameras.  In addition to their individual photographs, the women also have a wall featuring the theme of reflections, which adds a layer of introspection and depth to the individual visual narratives presented.

As visitors journey through the exhibit, they are taken on a visual exploration of strength, vulnerability and resilience.  The juxtaposition of different styles and subjects creates a rich tapestry of storytelling that celebrates the power of women’s voices in the world of photography.

One of the photographers, Kimberly Benedetto, says that although she does not have a favorite subject matter, “I truly do enjoy photographing abandoned structures.”  Over the years she says she has found “many different subjects that pique” her interest.  She tends to photograph whatever she is “most interested in at the moment.”  One example of this can be seen in her photo entitled “Unaltered.”  Kimberly says, I wanted viewers to know that not all whimsical photos are composites.  Some exist simply because that’s the way it was when the picture was taken.”  Kimberly found the subject suspended in the air by a thin wire attached to a wooden beam, which was “an unexpected delight to photograph.”   

Sandi Osterwise, who is originally from Pittsburg, Pennslyvania, says that she always includes at least one Pittsburgh photo in her exhibits; however, this year all of her images were taken in New York State.  She took one of her photos, “Times Square,” of the Times Square Building in Rochester, New York.  The Landmark Society conducted a tour of downtown Rochester and included the opportunity for participants to go to the roof on top of the Times Square Building.  Sandi also enjoys visiting various parks in the Rochester area.  One of her photos, taken at Kershaw Park, features a fence that focuses on the fence’s shadow.  She says, “I was standing in the right position to look at it and see it differently.”

One of the photographers in the exhibit is showing several photos that focus on a question that she has been contemplating for awhile. Melissa Mance-Coniglio wonders about the interaction between wildlife and humans and asks herself “Is it a good thing or not?”  What is truly wild any more?  Her exploration of this can be seen in some of her photos; for example, she shows a mink from “the wild” interacting with items in her “human” garage after it wandered inside to explore. Is the mink’s curiosity about human things a good thing or not? Melissa’s love of animals goes back to when she was a little girl and couldn’t get enough of horses.  Her favorite photo, “Rocking Horse,” exemplifies her question: What is truly wild anymore?  She says “I loved horses as a little girl, and my eye was looking for horse subjects.  When I saw the rocking horse as it just sat there, it struck me. I thought about how much I loved to play with toy horses as a child, and the toy symbolized the domestic horse.”  It makes Melissa ponder when she thinks about how long ago all horses were wild animals, yet the relationship between humans and horses for centuries has changed tremendously.  Melissa hopes that as viewers look at her photos, they too will question “What is truly wild anymore?”

Cindy El-Gaaly is showing photos that represent moments that resonate with her personally.  Each of the images that she selected reminds her of where she was, whether alone or with friends, and the emotions she felt while looking at the scenes she photographed. Two of her photos, “Stairway to Heaven,” and “Rainbow Falls at Watkins Glen State Park,” were taken on the same day.  She says that they “represent a victory” for her.  A year prior when she had attempted to hike at Watkins Glen Gorge, she found that she was physically unable to hike even a short distance.  She says, “I knew if I wanted to enjoy photography into retirement, I’d have to get in better shape to do so.”  After working out she became strong enough to make the hike and capture the images that she “had dreamed of.”  Cindy says, “I hope that viewers will open their eyes to see there is beauty everywhere you look, and everyone should open their eyes and soak it all in.”

Margy Meath, like Cindy, also chose images that captured specific experiences that left an impact on her.  She says, “I distinctly remember the moment when each of these images was taken, and as I reflect on them, I am struck by the fact that each represents a period of transition.”  One example is her photo “Autumn Patience,” which she took in Vermont.  She had gone out to a favorite pond that she likes to photograph in early morning. The pond was completely fogged in, but she could see that there were vibrant colors on the edge of the pond.  She waited a long time for the sun to burn off the fog, and she says it paid off.  “As the sun got higher, the fog started to lift, and the colors were incredible.”  She likes that the final result still includes a fair amount of fog and says “It leaves the viewer wondering what else will appear as the sun continues to warm the air and dissipate the fog.”

Another nature lover is Martha Price, who says “My images in the show represent my love of wildlife and nature photography.”  She emphasizes “Spending time in nature brings me peace and happiness.”  She is proud of her photo entitled “Short Ears, Big Eyes,” that she photographed while the Short-eared Owl was sitting on a post.  She says the bird “was kind enough to pose in the sun, and I even captured the catch lights in the big owl eyes.”  Martha’s image on the Reflections theme wall, “Long Lake Sunrise,” is a photo taken at Long Lake in the Adirondacks last summer.  It was at sunrise when she took it from a kayak.  She says that she hopes the image “conveys the peace I felt there.”

Diane Dersch, a photograher who also loves nature, typically takes photos outdoors. For this exhibit, she decided to include mainly images that she photographed locally, but she also included one from a trip to England.  “Dixter House” was taken on a photo tour during this trip.  She says that the photo “captures the essence of English architecture as well as their love of flowers,” both of which she thoroughly enjoys. 

Patty Ulrich Singer enjoys taking a variety of different types of photos, including nature, wildlife, landscape and travel scenes.  She says she was delighted on one of her journeys when she found the subject for her favorite image, “Golden Hour at Cape Enrage, New Brunswick.”  Patty says, “We were headed to the Cape Enrage Lighthouse when we came across a rocky beach at sunset. It was a surprise that we were not expecting.”  After finding such a beautiful scene, Patty says that they stopped, enjoyed and reflected as they looked around at nature’s beauty. Patty hopes that when viewers see her photos, they will walk away with the message to stop and smell the roses; take time to really look and enjoy what you see.

When visitors come to Image City, they will see one wall of the gallery covered with photos that represent the group’s reflection theme.  Each year Donna LaPlante enjoys the theme segment of the Women’s Perspective Exhibit. Even though the selected photos for the theme are chosen individually, Donna says that “it turns more into a group project, and I really love everyone’s interpretation of the theme.  For this year’s Reflections theme, Donna chose to include her photo called “Charlotte Beach Dragon Clouds.”  She says, “Rochester had a couple of days with huge clouds that reminded me of the dragon type clouds you might see in the Far East.”  Donna said that since this was happening during the work week, she had to figure out a way to get out to Charlotte to take some photos. “On the second day I walked into my boss’s office and told her that I needed to leave and get some pictures.”  Donna was delighted that her boss allowed her to go, and she is proud of the image she was able to photograph.

Another photographer with a fascinating interpretation of the Reflection theme is Joyce Freitas.  Her image, “Fall Reflections,” captures the essence of fall trees mirrored in a tranquil body of water, transforming the familiar landscape into a mesmerizing display of shapes and colors. The distorted reflections create a dreamlike quality, blurring the line between realty and illusion as the trees’ vibrant hues merge and intertwine on the water’s surface.

“Women’s Perspectives” is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exhibit that showcases the talent and creativity of these ten remarkable women.  It is a testament to the diversity and depth of their perspectives, inviting viewers to see the world through their eyes and experience the beauty and complexity of life in a new light.  The exhibit is on display at Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue, from April 16- May 12.  

The 15^th Annual Student Photography Show, Through the Student Lens, at Image City Photography Gallery, is a captivating and enriching experience, showcasing the talent and creativity of the budding photographers from 21 schools.  The exhibition features a diverse range of images that demonstrates the unique perspective and artistic vision of the student photographers.

Image City Photography Gallery Partner Don Menges, has been the coordinator of this show since its inception.  Don says, “I have enjoyed putting this show together every year.  It begins every fall and continues throughout the year until we have all the student photos from the teachers.”  Don admits it is a tough task to install over 200 photographs on the walls of Image City, but he attributes his fellow partners to helping to get it done, and says “It’s difficult and challenging, but oh so rewarding when it’s all up.”  He also says that it has been a huge benefit to receive the donated printing and mounting services from Michael Hager (Michael Hager Prints) and Jason Campbell (Frameworks).

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Photography is a powerful medium that allows us to capture and convey emotions, stories and perspectives; all of which can be viewed in Image City Photography Gallery’s 3^rd annual show called Red. 

Red is a color that instantly grabs attention and evokes strong emotions.  It symbolizes love, anger, power and vitality.  In the context of photography, the use of red can create a striking contrast, draw the viewer’s eye and add a sense of drama to the composition. The Red Show aims to showcase the diverse ways in which 80 photographers have harnessed the power of red to tell their stories.

The show encompasses various genres, including landscape, portrait, still life, street, abstract, architecture, botanical, wildlife and conceptual photography. Each genre offers a unique perspective on how red can be incorporated into the visual narrative.  From vibrant red sunsets over breathtaking landscapes to portraits that capture the intensity of human emotions, the exhibition presents a wide range of artistic interpretations

Red holds significant symbolism and cultural meaning in different societies around the world. The exhibit explores how photographers have used red to convey cultural traditions, rituals and celebrations. From vibrant festivals to traditional attire, the exhibition highlights the rich cultural tapestry associated with the color red.

Beyond its literal representation, red can also be used metaphorically to convey deeper meanings.  Photographers often use red to symbolize passion, love, or even danger. Through their lens, they capture moments that evoke these emotions, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and interpretations.

Whether you are a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of visual storytelling, this show promises to leave a lasting impression.  So, step into the world of red and let the photographs ignite your imagination and emotions.  After you visit the gallery, please leave a comment in the comment box below and let others know your impressions of this exhibit. 

Image City Photography Gallery’s 2024 Black and White Invitational, featuring David Braitsch, Steve Dent, Anne Dunford, Laura Knecht, Tom Kredo, Joel Krenis and Andrew Wohl, is an exhibit for these invited photographers to display their artistic vision and mastery of the monochromatic medium.

The purpose of a black and white photography invitational is to celebrate the unique aesthetic and expressive qualities of black and white photography.  By removing the distraction of color, these images can emphasize shapes, textures, tones and emotions in a way that is often considered powerful and evocative.

The photographers in this invitational demonstrate a range of subjects, styles, and techniques and vary in their level of realism from highly detailed to more abstract and interpretive.

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