Harry Parker Photography

NEW BLOG!

2010-11-01T09:37:00.001-04:00

Hello and thank you for coming to my BLOG! This blog has moved to a more improved space. If you would like to leave a comment, please do so at www.HarryParkerPhotography.com

Come on over to the Harry Parker Photography.com BLOG.

Thank you again and look forward to hearing from you soon.

HP

Prom Night for Emma

2010-07-14T17:29:00.004-04:00

At Skydive New England the season is short here in Maine for jumping. Just about every week something is going on, one celebration or another.
This week was Emma's Birthday. Being from Australia Emma didn't get a Prom, which became the theme for the party. Weather moved in the night before and pretty much washed all activity away for the big event leaving only the true locals on site.
A true pot luck where everyone brought something and before you knew it there was too much of everything, again.
In anticipation for the event I thought it time to start getting all the little goodies I've made a list for regarding off camera lighting. I've been a fan of Strobist for a while now and diligently made my beginning list for all things off camera lighting. I was excited at the opportunity to put this new found info to practice.
I was able to get most of what I was looking for at Midwest Photo Exchange, Strobist's supporting equipment dealer. After saving a little money I threw down for my first light stand, umbrella and several clamps and some wireless triggers.
Everything made it the day of the event except the wireless triggers. I own a canon 430 and 580Ex with wireless TTL, which become my only option. No time to practice, no time to look through all the notes, just throw it up and wing it.
Brand new batteries helped a LOT. But a few drinks into the process did not. That goes for myself and others who participated but made for some great laughs. I will say this, nothing helps getting people in the photos more then the light stand with umbrella. Must look professional or something.
I have a ton of little projects I know I will be able to use the wireless triggers and get the most money for these flashes, off camera. Now starts the beginning in lighting and I am quite excited. I must say, it's quite embarassing after what I have seen and been learning about, but it's a start. Finally.
Below are a few samples of my new adventure. If you are looking for more pics to Tag you can find them on Harry Parker Photography Facebook Fan Page.
HP

Wisconsin Family Reunion

2009-10-28T14:05:00.004-04:00

Late fall, October, family reunion on shores of Lake Michigan. A family over over ten is hard to group anywhere at one time. If half shows up, it's a miracle. This year The Kennebeck's celebrated a long awaited reunion at a beautiful resort complete with an indoor swim park for the kids. I was lucky enough to be invited along and help document this wonderful family.
Long time residents of Wisconsin, the family has roots throughout the state and the East Coast. Many members rising to the tops of their fields from medicine to law. Quite the amazing, loving group of people.
An honor to be invited and an honor to be called family. This time near the lake with light snow flurries in the afternoon and temps hovering just under 30 degrees was a lot of fun and a lot of football!
God Bless and Thank you.
HP

Beautiful Santa Barbara

2009-09-25T22:07:00.001-04:00

One thing that happens in California, you travel, a lot. Another 8 hour mission from Nor Cal to the deserts of So Cal call for a very needed stop in Santa Barbara to see some friends and meet some new ones.
At the time the Santa Barbara fires were just getting under control. From the pictures you can see how hot it really got. This was at a friends place, on the hill, in the center with almost a 360 view of town. We could see water helicopters and airplanes dropping water on mountainsides for three days.
Lots of fun, poolside in beautiful sunny Santa Barbara.
HP

Drivin' with the Top Down

2009-05-25T17:09:00.000-04:00

Not long after I found a home in California the ultimate California roadster appeared. An early 60's pin tail Alpha Romero. From what I understand there are only a few of these ever made. The entire car is original and completely restored. An amazingly fun ride through the hills of coastal Cali!
One early morning I got the chance to take a quick trip in this machine out to the coast. It was quick and fun. This thing drives like a go cart. Direct connect steering, lots of power and great in the turns.
The time also afforded me the opportunity to get the owner some pics. It was a great way to start the day and we made it a point to go out at least once a week in the mornings for a coastal drive. Nothing but blue skies, enough chill in the air to wear a jacket and stunning scenery.
It's drives like these when words were never spoke. Just an occasional smile will do.
HP

Texas Yoga

2009-04-26T19:33:00.001-04:00

Long road trip to California with a stop in Texas yeilded a nice photo shoot with Alex an aspiring Yoga teacher starting her own practice. This is a small area and we put more effort into stacking furniture then actually shooting that day.
Using one window gave pretty soft lighting to capture a few poses and head shots.
A perfect pit stop.
Thanks Alex!

Master Woodworker

2009-04-19T14:47:00.004-04:00

Some of the most interesting people you will find right next door. My neighbors in Sebastian Florida just can't be beat. Ron, has built quite the little shop in his garage and I am constantly amazed at what he produces. He has built just about every piece of furniture in his house, from tables, desks, chairs to wooden toy rides. His latest fascination is the wood lathe and making bowls.
Ron's ability to network allowed him to hook up with a wood source, yep, it's a secret too. The pile of stumps looks like firewood to most, but for Ron its all about seeing the art waiting to get out.
Below are some examples of his work. And these peices are in the #20's. He is now over 100 pieces and he keeps getting better and better.
Using some off camera lighting in the middle of day was a challenge I really enjoyed.
Hope you do too.
HP

Santa Barbara, California Jan 2009

2009-01-27T19:39:00.001-05:00

Made a quick trip through Santa Barbara. Nice place. Very beautiful. Couldn't help but trip around for a bit and of course take some pics.
Look what I found. More flight. This is definitely on the list of things to do!

California Jan 2009

2009-01-25T19:23:00.001-05:00

Gotta love the travel. Off to another adventure. This time to work with the world renown Craig O'Brien at Perris Valley Skydiving documenting the California State Record of 162 people at once in the air.
Well, the weather was horrible and we spent a week on the ground. Made a couple of jumps and one attempt at the big way from 20,000 ft. Took eight airplanes to carry everyone. Quite the monumental undertaking and a LOT of fun.
Then it was up the coast for a quick visit with Friends before heading to David Jay's Photography workshop.

Christmas 2008 Candy Cane Girls

2008-12-17T16:03:00.002-05:00

Nothing better then a skydive shoot.
Some of my favorite friends got together for a commercial shoot for some aerial fun. All the girls had a great time getting dressed and planning the dive. And in Sebastian Florida at Skydive Sebastian, the back ground can't be beat.
Although a little late on take off, the weather held and we got what we wanted in just one jump.
The prints came out great and all the girls got some big prints. The Owner loved it and Starbucks in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida hung the best for the Holidays.

California Nov 2008

2008-11-21T15:51:00.001-05:00

I love all my trips to California. I have a bunch of old friends there so there is always more then enough to do on one trip.
This time I visited Dave Major from Aerial Ace Cinematography and helped him develop a web page for his professional services. This was something long overdue. Although simple it is effective and finally gives him a place to show off his work and long history of movie and commercial film work.
Located in central coastal California, it was a haven for good sunsets, beach time and good clean air.
The week went by fast and the work was furious but it all paid off in the end. I relearned a few things, tried others and jammed out a full web page in just under a week. Not bad.
Enjoy the pics.

Quebec

2008-09-22T18:43:00.008-04:00

While enjoying New England I was invited for a last minute stroll along the Streets of Quebec for a photo shoot with Shireen Khavari.
The setting couldn't have been more beautiful nor the subject.
Working with people in an unfamiliar place is quite exciting. With out much time we chased the light on several occasions through the buildings and the streets. Any city has it's own flavor when it comes to light and Quebec is no exception. Bad weather hampered travel and shooting so we worked with whatever openings we had unexpected or not.
Shireen wanted something a little different when updating her recent photos files and was determined to do whatever it took to get something to remember.
I must say her tenacity and commitment was impressive. I carried her heels as we ran around the city chasing the setting sun shooting everything in our path. Who ever was checking us out could tell we were on a mission.
Then even as the temps dropped Shireen never complained always energetic and excited about what we were doing in the middle of one of the oldest cities on the North American Continent. By the time we found an authentic French restaurant I was bid to put the camera down and pay attention to my subject as opposed to my settings.
We didn't really take as many photos as I would have liked and still the mission was accomplished. Below is a small sample hot of the work flow.
I couldn't help but throw in some local shots as well. Enjoy

Skydiving for The Holiday

2008-09-02T17:00:00.004-04:00

Hello All! Been lost in the hills of New England for the last week or so. It's been a bit since I posted so figured I would show you what I've been shooting.
The threat of Hurricane G and now Hannah have kept me asking around for info, but the lack of reception has kept me off my phone. I actually lost my phone for three days. What a blessing.
Big once a year skydiving party to end the summer season here called for my photography skills. I know, end of season? End of summer? From Florida that just seems crazy. Hurricane season is just going, it couldn't be hotter and there is no end in sight to the humidity.
And that was more then enough reason to get away for a bit. Plus getting a chance to jump with long time friends, new friends and shoot some pictures was all I needed to say yes to this event.
Just an incredible time, weather and people here at Skydive New England. The owners Fred and Mikey couldn't have been nicer and really set me up to do a great job documenting the weekends events and jumping.
This PRIVATE airport with it's own landing strip, campground and facilities including a cafe are in the middle of nowhere and far from just about everyone. You either land on the airport or PRAY you land in a soft tree!
Warm sunny days, a slight chill at 13,500 and long sleeve evenings made for some comfortable living this past week in our wooded campground.
Still on the road at this point. Off to another adventure and should have more pics soon.
Take a looksee below for a sample of one of my favorite photo locations at 120 MPH.
HP

Mariclare & Paul Pictures are UP!

2008-08-11T11:15:00.006-04:00

Click HERE
or above title for Gallery.

I couldn't help it. Just had to post a few of these shots. What a great time. Thanks so much for a wonderful dinner this weekend and for letting us close the place. Mama Mia's IS the BEST place in town, hands down. That's the best home cooked meal this bachelor has enjoyed in a very long time.
Do hope you enjoy these shots and the galleries. I am having a great time with these photos. More to come, stay tuned.

As always, comments are greatly appreciated.

HP

Happy Birthday Rebecca!

2008-08-07T18:18:00.010-04:00

Click on Title above for a Larger slide show!

A very close long time friend, Rebecca, is celebrating her birthday next week so I put together a story book slide show of her BIG 40! from last year.
We had a blast. Organized by Jeannie Bankston and Lyle Presse, we covertly assembled Birthday girls house while she was being distracted at a local watering hole, Capt. Hirams on the river. Lyle and Jeannie had also set up an island as well with music, food, refreshments and party goers.
After the prep was done a big portion of us showed up and then whisked her away by boat to the already prepared spoil island.
About 20 people showed up in all and it was a great day spent with friends at one of the best get-a-ways around here, the islands.
As the sun set we made our way back to Hirams, re-grouped and then took Becca back to her already set up house for another round of celebration.
And there it went late into the night.
Do hope you enjoy the pics and the slideshow.
HP

This slide show is created in the storybook format and is ready to be published into a very attractive and durable coffee table book. Email me, Harry@HarryParkerPhotography.com with any questions.

Dinner Party Pictures!

2008-08-01T14:37:00.008-04:00

Can't wait any longer. The slide show will be up sometime next week, so keep checking back.
The title above is the link to the dinner party pics. You will have to get your password from Maryclare.
I must say some of the best food this bacholor has had in a while. Paul you are an amazing cook!
I'm having as much fun editing and moving through these pics as I did on site.
Thanks to all for a great evening of awesome food conversation and introductions.
I am currently on the road and my iPhone. So will keep this one short. Enjoy the pics, more to come soon.

Wedding Day!

2008-07-28T22:27:00.010-04:00

What a great day! Beautiful summer weather, bright blue sky and just enough puffy white clouds to make it interesting. Paul & Mariclare designed and coordinated their own wedding while running their Sebastian business, Mama Mia's. Of course Paul had to do all the food as well. A lot of work for sure and it paid off. Their riverside home was transformed into a beautiful Florida haven.
Mariclare took off early with her wedding party and we all made are way to the river for a nice boat ride to the ceremony on Sebastian's own The Mangrove Mamma! Bride delivery, island style. Paul patiently waited dockside for his new bride along with over 150 guests.
Everything went off without a hitch. Smiles all around. The two made their vows to all on their favorite spot on the river and then it was off to the house for the reception pool side to the local band "Hair Peace."
Once I met both sides of the family it was obvious that their good nature, big hearts, generosity and loving playfulness was deep seated in family values and tradition. Both sides of the family are BIG and the love of family obviously runs very deep from both their sides.
The out pouring from the community made it obvious that this couple's little restaurant and their every growing relationship has made a beautiful impact on the local community and beyond.
Like two kids who couldn't sit still, this couple was naturally intent on having more fun then anyone at the ceremony.
The entire day was filled with laughter good stories and sorted mayhem. Even the typical Florida thunderstorm made the day more interesting and cooler. Temps were peaking by mid-day and many welcomed the short lived downpour. So much so the entire wedding party made it into the pool!
A day of celebration! Thank you very much to you both for having the opportunity to share this day with you. A big thank you to all the family that gave me a helping hand in one form or another throughout the day. Everyone made me feel very welcome!
Below is a quick collage. Pictures will go up soon. Once Mariclare has the opportunity to view them all, she will release them to everyone.
Please take a moment to leave a comment below, they are most appreciated and let others know how I am doing out there. Thank you very much in advance.

Mariclare & Paul

2008-07-21T22:15:00.027-04:00

The blog takes off!
Here are a few snapshots of my most recent engagement session with Mariclare and Paul. They are due to be wed on Sunday July 27th, 2008 at their cozy home near Sebastian, Florida.
One of the best things about shooting weddings is getting the chance to meet some great people. As a local business couple these two run an exceptional restaurant in the middle of town. Their story of how they met and where they are going are made of what just about everyone is looking for. A real romance.
I love the engagement shoot. This initial chance to get to "know" the people you will be covering during one of the biggest days of their lives is essential and fun. These two were like little kids, just having fun being with each other. They couldn't sit still, joking, smiling and playing. I was told this was their "breath" between work and planning their own wedding.
This area of Florida is one of the best if not the best place to be. Much of it is unspoiled and Mariclare and Paul have truly built a nest in paradise for themselves. See you at the Dinner!

New England Summer

2008-07-18T13:37:00.035-04:00

A big thank you to the Trecosta Family for all their generosity and hospitality. The BIG family reunion was a blast. It rained and was overcast much of the time but that didn't stop anyone from jumping into a warming summer lake or taking a ride behind the boat.
It's not often one finds a family that gets along much less has this much fun together in one house. OK, a BIG house but one none the less.
Do hope you enjoy these few snapshots from this trip and of the family. The weather made for some colorless photography, so I just went with the theme and came up with some interesting effects. What do you think??
Leave a comment below.