There's a lot of talk about "community" on the internet these days. Much of the time, it's just talk, but real creative connection happens online, and these relationships are at the core of my work with
Years ago, I realized that the internet wasn't only a publishing platform; it was a social place where people who cared about art and photography came together to share their passions.
Writing this newsletter allows me to meet new people and stay in touch with old friends. Many of you, my readers, are people I'm meeting for the first time. If you have a few minutes, please introduce yourself in the comments so we can learn more about each other.
You can read more about me here: https://www.flakphoto.news/about
Don't worry; I won't send many posts asking you to write like this. The spring season has me in an open, curious mindset, and it seemed like an occasion to ask about you.
Thanks in advance for sharing your story. I’m looking forward to hearing from you. Have a great week!
Hi! My name is Page. I’m an undergrad photo major at RISD. I’m a photographer, writer, and collector. I love magical realism. I love film photography’s ability to let the magic seep in between steps, when the latent image dwells. I find myself returning to photograph tree carvings, unmade beds, and words left on blackboards.
Hi Page! I am from PVD and return frequently. Have you had a chance to check out the RI Ctr for Photogrsphic Arts on N Main? They host juried exhibits throughout the year.
Hi Suzanne, thank you so much for telling me about this. I’m so surprised I haven’t heard about it before, it is super close!! I will check it out for sure
It's on 118 N Main on the second floor. Between Throop Alley and Park Row. They have calls for entry with different themes every month so check their website and join their mailing list. I've had a few images accepted there for various shows.
I took a look at your Website, Page. You are a very interesting artist. Your ideas are fresh and creative. Especially the blackboard and skin imprint series.
Thank you so much for looking at my work. It means a lot to hear :). I just looked at your website. It’s so interesting how some images are split down the middle with one side in color and another in black and white. I hadn’t seen that done before and it creates an intriguing conversation.
Thank you Page. Always good to converse with other artists. I've been interested in the expressive distinctions betrween B&W and color. For me color can sometimes diminish the purity of form present in black and white. I keep thinking of Hitchcock movies. The other thing I kick to do is desaturate color in an image. I'm starting to like Substack - still getting to know it. I'm new to Flakfoto and Andy is great. cheers.
I am an artist dealing with issues and ideas as broad as climate change and how that is affecting our trees and arboretums, which I have been photographing and collecting scientific data about since 2007, and our legacy as Americans dealing with our history and collective past. I also work with my own images as well as found silver gelatin images and other ephemera creating unique collages.
Not all of my series are available on the web, but you can see some examples at:
Hi, Stephen, just followed you- we have similar missions. I am a writer-artist-poet-nature lover-advocate with a mission to fix problems for good, holistically: mind-body-spirit-nature.
I am doing well Andy, thanks for asking! Fresh back from an exciting time at Fotofest and, of course, the eclipse. I am actually in two eclipse themed shows at the moment. And the photo collage work has really taken on a life of its own out there in the world. Very exciting! I’d be happy to share with you directly some of my unpublished new projects if you like.
I will, thanks! And that piece was brilliant. I have referred to the cartoon of the 8 types of eclipse photos often, and am proud that my work at the eclipse shows both before and that I am working on for a follow up installment to the show up in the Cleveland gallery do not fall into any of them!
It's great that you are working with silver gelatin and ephemera-- hopefully this will never become a lost art. There is so much that you could bring to this practice in the context of contemporary photography- so much that has not been done.
My name is Ibarionex and I have been in the photo industry in various roles for 4 decades. I am the host and producer of The Candid Frame Photography podcast, which I begin in 2006. I currently serve as a special projects photographer at the Huntington Library, Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Southern Californian. I currently lead photo workshops through the Los Angeles Center of Photography, Santa Fe Workshops, and Nobechi Creative. My website is thecandidframe.com or ibarionex.net. My instagram handle is @Ibarionex. I look forward to meeting more people in this community.
I’m Carmen, based in the Alpine region in the south of Germany. I work in tech, and have a passion and years of experience in holistic wellbeing.
I write about the lost art of rest, rituals and nurturing rhythms that support us in our busy lives and noisy world. I am a big believer in nuance and aim to write inviting words rather than telling people what they should or shouldn’t do (there’s enough 10 ways to transform your life posts on the internet)
I love doing arts and creative stuff. Travel Photography has a special place in my heart - I’m just not sure yet how to incorporate that into my substack.
Hi, Carmen, you live in a beautiful part of the world! Cheers to your mission and I also write (also a artist-poet-photographer-advocate) about holistic well-being. Looking forward to checking out your work!
Hello Andy and Community, I'm Pamela Leavey, a retired entrepreneur, writer and photographer, still going strong with the inspiration to create and share, and doing that here on a regular basis: https://pamelaleavey.substack.com/
I live on the northeast coast of Massachusetts and focus on nature related photography.
Hi Andy! I'm a graduate of Pratt Institute in fine art photography. Having a day job all of my adult life while pursuing photography. Typical teen job in McDonalds. Surprisingly working in camera sales right after leaving there few years later (then attending college). which worked out into assisting in a commercial studio, leading to a photographer position.
I've been learning photography since twelve year old. Photographing on my own since about fifteen. I guess I can be termed a "classic". with inspiration from photographers like Avedon, Skrebneski, Atget, Moneta Sleet, Jr., Ansel Adams, Imogen Cunningham, Ralph Gibson, Irving Penn.... I could go on, but will leave it there. My website--> http://kennethnelsonphotography.com
Thanks for the Kudos! I got close, firstly by working through my angst about being inside someone else's space, and photographing in crowded spaces. Secondly, the crowded spaces offer a bit of anonymity and freedom to explore being there enveloped in the energies of it all commiserating as a group--we can say. Technically, I no longer use Long lenses--28mm to 40mm (equivalents) at most
I've been photographing dancers on Coney Island over the years, so have gained a bit of familiarity from the community. Sometimes, they're aware I'm there, and just ignore me. Better yet, sometimes they're not aware because they're so engrossed in their dance that nothing else matters 🤣
Hi Andy, this is such a lovely invitation and thank you for reaching out to say hello.
I am Emily, accountant by day and illustrator by night. I write While I Was Drawing, where I explore through magical doorways, down the rabbit holes of our minds, out through the back of the wardrobe to places brimming with ideas, inspiration and creativity. I am starting a Celebrating Creativity series to share about the amazing creativity that surrounds us, both here on Substack and creatives who aren't here (yet!). I'm inviting people to share words and pictures "for the joy" of their passion on While I Was Drawing. I'll also be hosting "Because, Creativity" sessions where subscribers can come together with me to do something creative, to explore creativity of all kinds, just for fun. I have a mini illustration market on my Substack with illustration embellishments and decorative dividers where I add new pictures each month for subscriber to use in their homes, lives and online spaces 💛
Hello everyone, I'm David and I've been making pictures for about 15 years.
It's been a while since I've shared my photographs publicly, but I still take them every day. Burnout seems the main cause. Not just photographic burnout, but social media too. There's so much noise online that I find it difficult to really connect with anything or to want to share the things I make. Tossing images into an electronic void as content for media corporations to make billions off of took its toll on me.
Negativity aside, when I was making photos more frequently, I focused on environmental portraiture and nature photography. I'm also a writer who has been working in the marketing/advertising/public relations space for a long, long time.
Flak is something I've always appreciated. It's a real community of photographers that feels much more substantive than anything else I've found online.
Hey there. I’m extricating myself from prudence and reason by pursuing a writing career—something I should have started 30 years ago. And while I’m at it—taking up hobbies or vocations with deceptively low barriers to entry, that is—I’ve been practicing photography.
I’m stretching my low reserves of faith by just “following where it goes.” Happiness increases. Income remains about the same. Haha.
My name is Susan, I'm a third generation photographer, native Californian. In the 1940's my grandfather partnered the beginnings of what became Keeble & Shuchat photography in Palo Alto, CA. In the 50's my father learned to print fake ID's for his buddy's in the family basement darkroom. I've worked in the visual arts as photographer, videographer and director of marketing; my current job incarnation. I am also a working musician. I opted for music as my major upon transfering to a 4 year college, when the director of photography at the college I was entering rejected my portfolio. I've performed in opera theater, jazz orchestras and am currently in a couple of Western Swing and traditional country bands. I've since move permanently from San Francisco to the countryside and have had the great fortune of commuting in to my job in the city, one day per week. I would like to learn to operate a 4x5 deardorf or land camera again, set up a darkroom in my barn and figure out where to buy film sheets! I never took well to the digital medium. In some sense, the endless amature captures have taken the dignity from this artform. Still, I enjoy it and am curious about what's next here for myself. Thank you for asking ! Best wishes, Susan
Hi Susana. I was also in the Bay Area and have since moved to Solano County, just outside the Bay Area. I started with film over 20 years ago and currently in the process of getting back into it and building a darkroom. If you are near Solano Community College, they have a great darkroom class.
Hi Andy, nice idea. My name is Wouter. I work in economic diplomacy by day and do photography at night. Through my job I’m fortunate to be able to live in different countries. In 2020 I published a photobook about Hanoi, Vietnam, a city where I used to live. Currently I’m in Mumbai, but leaving for Seoul in a few months. Sense of place, and transformation, are some of the themes I try to explore through photography. I particularly enjoy urban photography at night. For those who are interested, this is my website: www.woutervanheesphotography.com
Hello! I was introduced to photography at around age 12. As a result I became enthralled, curious and desperate to know more about the world around me. My Aunt bought be photo books which I would spend countless hours studying. Working on farms, in rural Ontario I always had my camera and a job. I saved up and backpacked around North Africa and Europe for a year. When I returned I was met with a strange curiosity, fear mixed with paranoia. I later studied photography at school and after, started a portrait series I call RELATIVE inspired by Avedons “in the American West” series, travelling to different countries when I had saved enough, setting up a white sheet in back alleys, parks and street corners. It’s been ongoing now for a long time (30 years) with about a dozen countries to date. It is my way of celebrating “those people”. Like so many, Photography has given me a wonderful opportunity to engage rather than just observe. Thanks for the opportunity to share.
Hi Andy! My name is Kathleen Sanker, most folks call me Kate. I have followed your news letter and social feeds for a long time. I am a Professor of Art - Photography at St Charles Community College just outside of STL. Many of your musings have come up in classroom discussions over the years. I am a book lover too. http://kathleenmsanker.com
Hi! I'm Zach Hodges, avid lover of photography, founding member of VSCO, wearer of many hats over the years. My website is very much in-progress here: https://zachhodges.com, my VSCO always has my latest work at vsco.co/zach.
Found your newsletter recently and it's been great, thank you for doing this!
We’ve chatted, Andy, so perhaps a flavour of things you don’t know about me. I’m Barrie, living a life of curiosity in rural France. I was five months out of my teens when I became a dad. I’m lucky to now be a pretty young Grandpa. I ran a marathon and turned 50 the day after. Five years of owning a coffee shop and mastering some barista skills means I am reduced to one (very good) coffee a day (heartburn is a kicker!). I miss the camper van we sold last year. It is nearly a year to the day that I got brave enough to start sharing my fiction here at ‘Just Write, Right’. Love the way you build community, my friend.
Ah, we’re in the Vienne Department, not Vienne south of Lyon (we love Lyon and visited when we were touring in our camper van). This is a very quiet agricultural area … no Substackers immediately to hand. Plans to meet Samuél Lopez Barrantes in Paris are emerging though.
If not mistaken, Samuel recently published a new book, and his wife Augusta is hosting her first solo photography exhibition starting on the 5th of May.
I’ve read both Samuél’s books … there is a handful of copies in Shakespeare and Co - you have the bag, of course, for conversation starters ;) - we’re planning a mini trip to Paris to coincide with Augusta’s exhibition; hoping it’ll work out.
Hi, Barrie, just followed you, great to connect with you. I own a farm with my husband, a Cherokee and a Physicist, on his family farm founded in 1902. I'm an artist-writer-poet-photography lover-nature lover-advocate with a mission to fix problems for good. Here is my recent pub: https://robinmotzer.substack.com/p/food-farming-and-freedom
Heyo! My name is Chaya and I'm a daughter of Mark Rico (Minesis Kinesis?)! I like sunshine, friends/family, laughter, and smiles! I think I'm still figuring myself out because I've published stuff about food, Misty Copeland, and something like the Ugly Duckling. I'm hoping to start writing more about ballet dancers in history. I love reading poems but I don't write them.
Hi Andy! My name is Ryn and I'm a fine art photographer/artist from Cleveland, OH deep-diving into composite photography since Covid days. My work spans concepts from beautiful floral composites to environmental issues. You can see some of my composite work on my website: www.rynclarkephotography.com
I'm John from Maryland USA. I'm a retired mathematician and serious lifelong amateur photographer. I got into photography as a youngster via Life and Look magazines and Steichen's "Family of Man" book. I'm primarily into environmental portraits, street and landscape photography. You can see some of this work on my website:
and in my self-published blurb book (link on my web site) "Unnoticed No Longer". I thank you Andy for your newsletter and for introducing me to some great work, e.g. that of Jessica Todd Harper.
Hi Andy. I’m a former photographer who for years now has enjoyed looking at photos rather than taking them. Not much to say about myself other than I really, really love art.
Hi Andy. Thank you for your conversations and observations. I’m Laura and I live in North Carolina. My first camera was a Brownie and I can still feel the way it felt in my hands. I think I was 5 or 6. One of my first photographic impulses was wanting to document the felling of a tree in my front yard. I took several photos as it came down. The images were blurry and dark and I wish I still had them. I love photography because of its energetic exchange--and the vast possibilities of emotional communication.
Hello. My name is Nancy. I currently live in Portland, OR, but lived 30+ years in the Midwest (6 yrs in Columbus, the rest in Minneapolis). I've been a film/video/photography curator (late 70s-90s) and have written on film and photography. I also collect photo books, and I worked in a dye transfer lab.
My name is Kevin McSpadden and I am a photography hobbyist. I take photos mostly using film and my Nikon Fe2. You can find my work on instagram with the unsername kevinmcspadden.
Thanks for the invitation to share on this vibrant thread! I'm Niquelle. I've dabbled with photography for years, and am finally take a proper class this summer. I've also recently begun sharing some writing here on substack (niquelle.substack.com) and have been grateful for the space to experiment creating with words. It's been a refreshing "social media" experience and I'm eager to read and see what everyone is making. Cheers!
Peggy here, writing with Char about Grief at Grief101 here on Substack. I'm a frequently published full time writer - fiction and non-fiction - and very interested in photography from an amateur's point of view. Also love manipulating images once I take them. I've also loved images all my life - from chooing what goes into a book cover to reading children's books.
I am a political immigrant from Russia, since 2022 living and working in Italy. I am still trying to find my ground here, working on different projects and collaborating with art residences, theatres and museums. I also have a PhD in antropology and work with universities.
My areas of interests are narrative photography (something between art and documentary, romantisizing everyday life) and portraits. I have spent several years researching themes of racial and cultural discrimination, abuse and bullying, perspectives of diversity and acceptance of others; shot several big portrait projects regarding these themes. Now I am working on some new visual research, collaborating with immigrant artists around the world.
To be honest, the idea of sharing my projects is quite new to me. I always thought of photography as a profession and concentrated on commercial aspect of the job, while doing the actual artistic research in my spare time. Now I am trying a different approach and home it will work.
I recently received a private message of concern from an old friend (who once led laughter sessions for dementia patients in Santa Barbara), a good soul. After reading my chapter entitled “Love is a Mad Dog from Hell” he gently entreated me to move on from my childhood. “Put your past into the past where it belongs,” he’d written. I’d like to share my reply, in part:
“Dear sweet man,
Your kindness is palpable... and your advice is well taken. What's so gratifying about this latest creative effort of mine on Substack, is that at this point in my life, and for the many years since I put together my multi media memoir, it's become clear to me that I have, in fact, freed myself from that history.
My friend Daniella says she sits down to write and opens a vein. I’m an artist. I never thought of myself as a writer, but I was compelled to write my story, take back my narrative. Writing is what enabled me to untangle it, to move on. People often want to skip the hard, painful part. I can understand why. But there is no moving on until you come to terms with your past or, on a certain unconscious level, it will grab onto your guts and grow until eventually it controls your behavior. Ernest Hemingway said, “Write hard and clear about what hurts.” Writing that saved my life.
At this stage, I'm so much more aware of what's going on for those around me. More empathy, more compassion, more appreciation for the light lasting longer, and the explosion of crocus coming up through the snow. When I was younger, I was consumed by my own experience. I'm no longer drinking water from a fire hose.
Recently, a subscriber asked me how she could find forgiveness for her own childhood. She was so tired of being angry. And I said, I've come to the conclusion that if we really want to feel forgiveness, and we don't keep running away from the pain, eventually forgiveness comes. It can take a very long time. But if that’s what we really want and we stay with it, it comes. I consider it a kind of grace.
My life is good, great, in fact, my dear, concerned friend. My Substack is about sharing the story of how that life got itself worked out (adding photography, graphics, videos, animation and hard-earned perspective this time.)
There are fathers out there; there are daughters out there. I’m reminded of the lyric in a John Mayer song, “You are the God and the weight of her world. So fathers, be good to your daughters.”
And at this point, though it sounds antithetical, the predominant feeling I have about this writing effort is: not devastated by the shock of what I recently discovered, but thrilled that it gives me a bombshell ending to my story…so, I’ve added a new final chapter to the final chapter. And perhaps a final chapter after that."
Hi! I´m Nicolas from Uruguay, a small and very nice southamerican country. Really love to take photos in concerts, underground concerts. We have a really eclectic scene and I hope you discover music that you like because of my photos ;) https://www.instagram.com/salohacecosas/
Hello, I'm Adrian and I've been passionate about photography since way back in highschool, but abandoned it after a couple of years as everyone around me was being discouraging at it being a "real job". However, I'm glad to be back at it (as a hobby), and I'm going through some hard times so it's a very welcome distraction! Here's my Instagram in case you're curious: https://www.instagram.com/eydryan?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Hello! I’m Clara, a visual designer, photographer and museologist. I enjoy walking on the streets and photographing the graphic-visual landscape, as well as capturing the visual culture of a time and place. Currently I’m a master’s student in visual arts with a thesis about street photographers (especially women photographers) in Manhattan/NYC and I’m investigating if these photographs could be documentary record and/or art.
Hello! My name is Dan Pal and my Substack site is PalCinema, Television, & Music. I teach film and television at DePaul University in Chicago. In addition to film reviews, you can find my Top Ten memoir on my site. I am recounting every year of my life through stories and favorite ten songs of each year! Check it out, if interested! https://danpal.substack.com/
Hey Andy, as mostly said previously, I live in Spain and Wales, shoot b+w only on an old Leica with a single lens, one type of film and no flash, filters or anything else. I studied business, art history and photography at university and am both a collector of books and prints, as well as a maker of photographs. I struggle with the digital manipulation, prefer 'straight photography' most of the time, though there are exceptions. I am not on social media, but you can find my stuff at http://harbel.com/ where I have some images in a few galleries as well as some of my thoughts posted.
I had an opportunity to recently connect Shelby Lee Adams - a grand photographer of Appalachia and its people - with a publisher, as well as a gallery in Paris and am going to go see his show at the end of May and collect a signed copy of his book! Can't wait.....
In short: b+w, darkroom, silver prints, photographers' monographs, dinosaur. (and not necessarily in that order!)
Hello, I'm a recent Substack member, hoping to have a better experience than I have had on the Facepage, the Chirp Machine, and so on. I recently moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Barcelona with my husband and our dog, and am having so much fun wandering around taking pictures here. I'm not a professional photographer, but lately I have started wanting to get my photography in front of other people as it seems a waste to have it all just sitting on my hard drive. So here I am, on Substack!
Hi, Les, following you- nice to connect- we have lived in some of the same places and I love Spain! And, have lived in Cincinnati, Tucson, and various other places, now am a nature nomad and a Poet with a Purpose, Restoring Soils and Souls: https://robinmotzer.substack.com/p/food-farming-and-freedom
Wow, I don't often meet people who have lived in Cincinnati! I have not been back for.... 15 years? I'm not even sure now. Part of me is very curious to go back and see how it's changed, but I'm not sure I'm curious enough to fly across the ocean just for that. 😆
Hi, I'm Chen alias April, via my very talented friends I realized at some point, probably too late in my life, that photography is art. I love art. I love architecture, and design, cultures, and languages, and, overall, people and their relationship with world and each other fascinate me.
I love to read. Prose and poetry alike.
I don't photograph myself, I'm just a person who looks, and learns, and is breathless and stopped in his tracks sometimes-by great art.
Thank you for the delightful Substack(I don't like the word "delightful" but will have to do for now, 'cause I can't find a better one)
I'm an Artist/Photographer with a BFA in design and an MFA in art. In the 1980s I worked as a book cover designer in NYC, continuing my personal artwork. Later, I joined the faculty of Northeastern University & Art & Architecture for 12 years and then taught at MA College of Art & The Art Institute of Boston. As a documentary photographer, I have worked in Europe, Morocco, Central America & throughout the US. Moving to Falmouth,MA in 2002, I opened Jon Moore Photography and in 2014 founded the Cape Photo Collective. I am now focusing (no pun intended) full time on Contemporary Art Photography, drawing and art books. My art Website is jmoore-photo.com.
I also have a new Website, nothingphoto.com The purpose is to post the work of other photographers who are sharing the same or similar interests in their work. A small community of sorts. I’m inviting photographers to visit the site, take a look and send my some pics. Please do!
Hi, I'm Nika Belianina, Toronto-based fine art photographer and a filmmaker. I love exploring themes of escapism and longing and wrapping them in mystery of magical realism. I am genuinely inspired and often work with nature and use self-portraiture, movement and various in-camera techniques. My images often have a painterly feel to them. I've exhibited my work thru North America, and my films have travelled around the world. My insta in @lifeasnika
Hi, Andy! I’m Jack, a teen writer obsessed with high fantasy, dystopian literature, and everything about nature. I’m a passionate Christ follower and am fascinated by almost everything, especially science, history, and philosophy. I look forward to reading what you post on this newsletter and Notes. Keep up the good work 🙃
I am a entrepreneur and life coach and love photography since I was 10 years old, when I received my first camera - then with film rolls. When I was 15 I bought my first camera, a Minolta SRT 101. After that I bought all the dark room equipment from Durst and made this for some years.
Timeshift.
Meanwhile I'm digital, use most of the common programs and have several cameras.But I use the most the phones, where I use the latest iPhone and Pixel. I prefer the Pixel (stripped of all the Google cr*p with a custom ROM) way over the iPhone, the camera is lightyears better for my understanding. Especilly the color temperature is much more natural and the sharpnes outperforms every other phone.
Beside of this I teach people to LIVE WITHOUT LIMITS.
Hi there, I'm Alex, residing in Northern Ireland. While I currently dabble in portraiture and wedding photography, it's not my full-time gig yet. However, I aspire to dedicate myself fully to it someday.
If you're curious, you can find some of my work on Instagram at www.instagram.com/alex.kudrenko. I'm just starting out there, so my portfolio isn't extensive yet.
I'm a big fan of FlakPhoto digest and always look forward to it. Keep up the great work!
Also, if you ever find yourself in Ireland or Northern Ireland, feel free to reach out. I'd love to show you around.
I'm Oleg, a photographer who focuses on the rich stories that unfold in everyday settings. I work and research towards emphasize of the significant relationship between people and their environments, capturing moments where characters interact vividly with their surroundings. I strive to create images that invite viewers to look deeper, to notice the intricate details and consider how these elements connect to the human experience in the scene.
Hello, I'm Andrew. I've been a photographer as long as I can remember, but started taking it seriously in 2009. My wife and I run a group home for at-risk youth, so we have eight teenage girls that live with us that we care for. It can be a hard, emotionally tolling life, but photography helps me to pay attention and to find the little metaphors of life that surround us. I always have a camera of some sort with me, so I'm often capturing these moments. Oftentimes for my own journal and documentation of my family's life, but also many times to share with those who might be interested in what stands out to me.
I've found the photography community on the internet one of the most truly connected communities. I have formed true relationships with other photographers via Instagram, various photo forums, and platforms like this. I am still a believer in their ability to truly allow us to connect with other people. I am very impressed with the intentionally and care you put into FlakPhoto. Thanks for all you do and the conversations you start! It is noticed and appreciated.
Hi Andy, I am a short story writer (tobythecht.substack.com) and a cancer immunologist. I started writing about 25 years ago and have published about 35 short stories in literary journals over the years. I love photography and used to really be into it when people used actual film and a darkroom to develop their creativity. Now I look at and admire other people's photography in museums, galleries, and online. Keep up the good work and build your community. Glad to be a part of it.
Hi Andy! I'm a recent graduate from France. I have a long-standing passion for outings and a budding interest in writing, which allows me to share bonding moments with both friends and strangers.
Through written notes, I aim to provide practical ideas on how to stay connected offline.
Hello Andy, I’m Nolan. I have an MFA in photography from the San Francisco Art Institute. I also create music under the moniker The Grassy Knoll. I’ve released six albums and my music has been featured in Film, TV, and video games. Most notably the theme music for the Netflix documentary series Bobby Kennedy for President.
Recently, I’ve been creating comic drawings.
I love darker themes but I also love to laugh.
I get my juice from others and I love discovering new artist/creatives. Thank you for this prompt, Andy.
Hi all- for 35 years I've been a commercial photographer, specializing in architecture, interiors and related products. I got my BFA from Art Center College of Design and live and work in Southern California. Andy, I appreciate the diversity of work you feature in your newsletter. The design world can be pretty insular and I appreciate learning about how other folks are making art. My website is www.carothersphoto.com and my IG feed is @CarothersPhoto.
Hey Andy, Ansh this side basically from India but currently living in Geneva.
From hating the act of 'photographing' to loving it now 10 years later, I have come a long way. From keeping my musings to myself from childhood till 2020 I have opened up a lot and started sharing my musings online on various platforms.
Here I write about the ancient Eastern wisdom and how it can make us 'whole' human beings.
Hello, I am Tom and live in Rhode Island. I am retired and like to shoot street photography and urban landscape, and shoot for Waterfire here in Providence.
Hi! My name is Page. I’m an undergrad photo major at RISD. I’m a photographer, writer, and collector. I love magical realism. I love film photography’s ability to let the magic seep in between steps, when the latent image dwells. I find myself returning to photograph tree carvings, unmade beds, and words left on blackboards.
Hi Page! I am from PVD and return frequently. Have you had a chance to check out the RI Ctr for Photogrsphic Arts on N Main? They host juried exhibits throughout the year.
Hi Suzanne, thank you so much for telling me about this. I’m so surprised I haven’t heard about it before, it is super close!! I will check it out for sure
It's on 118 N Main on the second floor. Between Throop Alley and Park Row. They have calls for entry with different themes every month so check their website and join their mailing list. I've had a few images accepted there for various shows.
Thanks for this tip, Suzanne. I'm also from RI and would love to check this out when I visit this summer.
Nice. Good to meet you, Page! Do you have a website?
Thank you so much for asking. I just set one up recently: https://psulliva.myportfolio.com/work
the shape of time gallery thing is fantastic
Thank you so much!!
I took a look at your Website, Page. You are a very interesting artist. Your ideas are fresh and creative. Especially the blackboard and skin imprint series.
Thank you so much for looking at my work. It means a lot to hear :). I just looked at your website. It’s so interesting how some images are split down the middle with one side in color and another in black and white. I hadn’t seen that done before and it creates an intriguing conversation.
Thank you Page. Always good to converse with other artists. I've been interested in the expressive distinctions betrween B&W and color. For me color can sometimes diminish the purity of form present in black and white. I keep thinking of Hitchcock movies. The other thing I kick to do is desaturate color in an image. I'm starting to like Substack - still getting to know it. I'm new to Flakfoto and Andy is great. cheers.
I am an artist dealing with issues and ideas as broad as climate change and how that is affecting our trees and arboretums, which I have been photographing and collecting scientific data about since 2007, and our legacy as Americans dealing with our history and collective past. I also work with my own images as well as found silver gelatin images and other ephemera creating unique collages.
Not all of my series are available on the web, but you can see some examples at:
https://www.stephentomasko.com/
Hi, Stephen, just followed you- we have similar missions. I am a writer-artist-poet-nature lover-advocate with a mission to fix problems for good, holistically: mind-body-spirit-nature.
I mix in humor, too, and recently published an essay on poop. https://robinmotzer.substack.com/p/heres-the-poop-how-to-heal-the-mind
...and how to heal the stuckness of mind, the mind virus...
Grateful for Andy's FLAKPHOTO for connecting with you and others!
Good to hear from you, Stephen! Thanks for the note. How are you doing?
I am doing well Andy, thanks for asking! Fresh back from an exciting time at Fotofest and, of course, the eclipse. I am actually in two eclipse themed shows at the moment. And the photo collage work has really taken on a life of its own out there in the world. Very exciting! I’d be happy to share with you directly some of my unpublished new projects if you like.
Please feel free to email me anytime. On the topic of the eclipse, you might like this: https://www.flakphoto.news/p/picturing-the-solar-eclipse Cheers!
I will, thanks! And that piece was brilliant. I have referred to the cartoon of the 8 types of eclipse photos often, and am proud that my work at the eclipse shows both before and that I am working on for a follow up installment to the show up in the Cleveland gallery do not fall into any of them!
It's great that you are working with silver gelatin and ephemera-- hopefully this will never become a lost art. There is so much that you could bring to this practice in the context of contemporary photography- so much that has not been done.
Thanks, Jon, I appreciate that insight and enthusiasm for the project!
Your collages are very, very good! Nice work. Thank you for sharing your link!
Thank you, Soren! I really appreciate that.
My name is Ibarionex and I have been in the photo industry in various roles for 4 decades. I am the host and producer of The Candid Frame Photography podcast, which I begin in 2006. I currently serve as a special projects photographer at the Huntington Library, Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Southern Californian. I currently lead photo workshops through the Los Angeles Center of Photography, Santa Fe Workshops, and Nobechi Creative. My website is thecandidframe.com or ibarionex.net. My instagram handle is @Ibarionex. I look forward to meeting more people in this community.
Hi Andy and everyone:)
I’m Carmen, based in the Alpine region in the south of Germany. I work in tech, and have a passion and years of experience in holistic wellbeing.
I write about the lost art of rest, rituals and nurturing rhythms that support us in our busy lives and noisy world. I am a big believer in nuance and aim to write inviting words rather than telling people what they should or shouldn’t do (there’s enough 10 ways to transform your life posts on the internet)
I love doing arts and creative stuff. Travel Photography has a special place in my heart - I’m just not sure yet how to incorporate that into my substack.
Love the topic of rest and nurturing rhythms. It‘s so important in our fast paced society. I will check out your work!!
🥰 so glad it resonates Manuela! I’ll also check it out yours :)
Hi, Carmen, you live in a beautiful part of the world! Cheers to your mission and I also write (also a artist-poet-photographer-advocate) about holistic well-being. Looking forward to checking out your work!
Great to connect, Robin! I’ll check out your writing too :)
Hello Andy and Community, I'm Pamela Leavey, a retired entrepreneur, writer and photographer, still going strong with the inspiration to create and share, and doing that here on a regular basis: https://pamelaleavey.substack.com/
I live on the northeast coast of Massachusetts and focus on nature related photography.
Thanks for chiming in, Pamela! I always enjoy your Notes. Great to hear from you today. Be well!
Thanks Andy! Enjoy the week!
Hi Andy! I'm a graduate of Pratt Institute in fine art photography. Having a day job all of my adult life while pursuing photography. Typical teen job in McDonalds. Surprisingly working in camera sales right after leaving there few years later (then attending college). which worked out into assisting in a commercial studio, leading to a photographer position.
I've been learning photography since twelve year old. Photographing on my own since about fifteen. I guess I can be termed a "classic". with inspiration from photographers like Avedon, Skrebneski, Atget, Moneta Sleet, Jr., Ansel Adams, Imogen Cunningham, Ralph Gibson, Irving Penn.... I could go on, but will leave it there. My website--> http://kennethnelsonphotography.com
or IG: https://www.instagram.com/photokenarts/
Cheers!
I am glad you fixed the link. Wonderful pictures! I especially like the cheese-eating women and the dancing couple. How do you get so close to people?
Thanks for the Kudos! I got close, firstly by working through my angst about being inside someone else's space, and photographing in crowded spaces. Secondly, the crowded spaces offer a bit of anonymity and freedom to explore being there enveloped in the energies of it all commiserating as a group--we can say. Technically, I no longer use Long lenses--28mm to 40mm (equivalents) at most
I've been photographing dancers on Coney Island over the years, so have gained a bit of familiarity from the community. Sometimes, they're aware I'm there, and just ignore me. Better yet, sometimes they're not aware because they're so engrossed in their dance that nothing else matters 🤣
Cheers!
I find that very motivating. Thank you for your frank reply. Next time I am in a crowd with a camera I'll think of that.
I looked at your Website, Kenneth. Nice work. You love getting you teeth into crowds!
Definitely the case! It started happening when I switch to full frame from medium format. Thanks for the kudos!
FYI the link doesn’t open?
I've updated the link. Was missing a letter. Good to go now!
Hmmm. That must be a formatting thing. Here you go! https://www.flakphoto.news/about ✌️📸
Hi, I'm Manu. I'm a librarian and a photographer.
I have a photo blog at https://manuschwendener.ch, and I am selling some of my pictures as postcards in local shops and even a museum.
Hey, good to meet you, Manu!
Hi Andy, this is such a lovely invitation and thank you for reaching out to say hello.
I am Emily, accountant by day and illustrator by night. I write While I Was Drawing, where I explore through magical doorways, down the rabbit holes of our minds, out through the back of the wardrobe to places brimming with ideas, inspiration and creativity. I am starting a Celebrating Creativity series to share about the amazing creativity that surrounds us, both here on Substack and creatives who aren't here (yet!). I'm inviting people to share words and pictures "for the joy" of their passion on While I Was Drawing. I'll also be hosting "Because, Creativity" sessions where subscribers can come together with me to do something creative, to explore creativity of all kinds, just for fun. I have a mini illustration market on my Substack with illustration embellishments and decorative dividers where I add new pictures each month for subscriber to use in their homes, lives and online spaces 💛
Hello everyone, I'm David and I've been making pictures for about 15 years.
It's been a while since I've shared my photographs publicly, but I still take them every day. Burnout seems the main cause. Not just photographic burnout, but social media too. There's so much noise online that I find it difficult to really connect with anything or to want to share the things I make. Tossing images into an electronic void as content for media corporations to make billions off of took its toll on me.
Negativity aside, when I was making photos more frequently, I focused on environmental portraiture and nature photography. I'm also a writer who has been working in the marketing/advertising/public relations space for a long, long time.
Flak is something I've always appreciated. It's a real community of photographers that feels much more substantive than anything else I've found online.
Thanks for keeping this alive, Andy.
Hey there. I’m extricating myself from prudence and reason by pursuing a writing career—something I should have started 30 years ago. And while I’m at it—taking up hobbies or vocations with deceptively low barriers to entry, that is—I’ve been practicing photography.
I’m stretching my low reserves of faith by just “following where it goes.” Happiness increases. Income remains about the same. Haha.
Hi Andy,
My name is Susan, I'm a third generation photographer, native Californian. In the 1940's my grandfather partnered the beginnings of what became Keeble & Shuchat photography in Palo Alto, CA. In the 50's my father learned to print fake ID's for his buddy's in the family basement darkroom. I've worked in the visual arts as photographer, videographer and director of marketing; my current job incarnation. I am also a working musician. I opted for music as my major upon transfering to a 4 year college, when the director of photography at the college I was entering rejected my portfolio. I've performed in opera theater, jazz orchestras and am currently in a couple of Western Swing and traditional country bands. I've since move permanently from San Francisco to the countryside and have had the great fortune of commuting in to my job in the city, one day per week. I would like to learn to operate a 4x5 deardorf or land camera again, set up a darkroom in my barn and figure out where to buy film sheets! I never took well to the digital medium. In some sense, the endless amature captures have taken the dignity from this artform. Still, I enjoy it and am curious about what's next here for myself. Thank you for asking ! Best wishes, Susan
Hi Susana. I was also in the Bay Area and have since moved to Solano County, just outside the Bay Area. I started with film over 20 years ago and currently in the process of getting back into it and building a darkroom. If you are near Solano Community College, they have a great darkroom class.
Hi Andy, nice idea. My name is Wouter. I work in economic diplomacy by day and do photography at night. Through my job I’m fortunate to be able to live in different countries. In 2020 I published a photobook about Hanoi, Vietnam, a city where I used to live. Currently I’m in Mumbai, but leaving for Seoul in a few months. Sense of place, and transformation, are some of the themes I try to explore through photography. I particularly enjoy urban photography at night. For those who are interested, this is my website: www.woutervanheesphotography.com
Hello! I was introduced to photography at around age 12. As a result I became enthralled, curious and desperate to know more about the world around me. My Aunt bought be photo books which I would spend countless hours studying. Working on farms, in rural Ontario I always had my camera and a job. I saved up and backpacked around North Africa and Europe for a year. When I returned I was met with a strange curiosity, fear mixed with paranoia. I later studied photography at school and after, started a portrait series I call RELATIVE inspired by Avedons “in the American West” series, travelling to different countries when I had saved enough, setting up a white sheet in back alleys, parks and street corners. It’s been ongoing now for a long time (30 years) with about a dozen countries to date. It is my way of celebrating “those people”. Like so many, Photography has given me a wonderful opportunity to engage rather than just observe. Thanks for the opportunity to share.
And the website is www.relativeproject.com and my Instagram for this “work in progress“ is @eardleypics
Hi Andy! My name is Kathleen Sanker, most folks call me Kate. I have followed your news letter and social feeds for a long time. I am a Professor of Art - Photography at St Charles Community College just outside of STL. Many of your musings have come up in classroom discussions over the years. I am a book lover too. http://kathleenmsanker.com
Hi KAthleen your series I 'pass through you.' is a facinating concept. I love the us film media.
Thank you! I really appreciate your comments. :)
Hi! I'm Zach Hodges, avid lover of photography, founding member of VSCO, wearer of many hats over the years. My website is very much in-progress here: https://zachhodges.com, my VSCO always has my latest work at vsco.co/zach.
Found your newsletter recently and it's been great, thank you for doing this!
Hey, Zach! Great to meet you. I'm looking forward to learning more about you and your projects. Thanks for reading!
Great eye! Some lively images on your website. Well done. I find your abstractions particularly strong!
We’ve chatted, Andy, so perhaps a flavour of things you don’t know about me. I’m Barrie, living a life of curiosity in rural France. I was five months out of my teens when I became a dad. I’m lucky to now be a pretty young Grandpa. I ran a marathon and turned 50 the day after. Five years of owning a coffee shop and mastering some barista skills means I am reduced to one (very good) coffee a day (heartburn is a kicker!). I miss the camper van we sold last year. It is nearly a year to the day that I got brave enough to start sharing my fiction here at ‘Just Write, Right’. Love the way you build community, my friend.
Hi Barrie,
Nice to meet someone from France too! Moreover a coffee barista.
In which region are you based ?
I’m going strictly ‘retired barista’! Waving from over in the Vienne. Where are you?
Oh, haven't been near Lyon for a wild while. Have you been able to meet people from Substack there ?
Near Paris, with some long stays in Toulouse and Reims.
Ah, we’re in the Vienne Department, not Vienne south of Lyon (we love Lyon and visited when we were touring in our camper van). This is a very quiet agricultural area … no Substackers immediately to hand. Plans to meet Samuél Lopez Barrantes in Paris are emerging though.
It does seem tranquil indeed.
If not mistaken, Samuel recently published a new book, and his wife Augusta is hosting her first solo photography exhibition starting on the 5th of May.
I’ve read both Samuél’s books … there is a handful of copies in Shakespeare and Co - you have the bag, of course, for conversation starters ;) - we’re planning a mini trip to Paris to coincide with Augusta’s exhibition; hoping it’ll work out.
Hi, Barrie, just followed you, great to connect with you. I own a farm with my husband, a Cherokee and a Physicist, on his family farm founded in 1902. I'm an artist-writer-poet-photography lover-nature lover-advocate with a mission to fix problems for good. Here is my recent pub: https://robinmotzer.substack.com/p/food-farming-and-freedom
Oh gosh, notifications failed me. Looking forward to reading more of your story. Thanks for saying hi, Robin
Heyo! My name is Chaya and I'm a daughter of Mark Rico (Minesis Kinesis?)! I like sunshine, friends/family, laughter, and smiles! I think I'm still figuring myself out because I've published stuff about food, Misty Copeland, and something like the Ugly Duckling. I'm hoping to start writing more about ballet dancers in history. I love reading poems but I don't write them.
Hi Andy! My name is Ryn and I'm a fine art photographer/artist from Cleveland, OH deep-diving into composite photography since Covid days. My work spans concepts from beautiful floral composites to environmental issues. You can see some of my composite work on my website: www.rynclarkephotography.com
Thanks for doing this, Ryn
I'm John from Maryland USA. I'm a retired mathematician and serious lifelong amateur photographer. I got into photography as a youngster via Life and Look magazines and Steichen's "Family of Man" book. I'm primarily into environmental portraits, street and landscape photography. You can see some of this work on my website:
https://johnpetro.zenfolio.com
and in my self-published blurb book (link on my web site) "Unnoticed No Longer". I thank you Andy for your newsletter and for introducing me to some great work, e.g. that of Jessica Todd Harper.
Hey just spent a while savouring all your work! Really enjoyed exploring your journey! Great images.
Thank you Wayne.
Hi Andy. I’m a former photographer who for years now has enjoyed looking at photos rather than taking them. Not much to say about myself other than I really, really love art.
Hi Andy. Thank you for your conversations and observations. I’m Laura and I live in North Carolina. My first camera was a Brownie and I can still feel the way it felt in my hands. I think I was 5 or 6. One of my first photographic impulses was wanting to document the felling of a tree in my front yard. I took several photos as it came down. The images were blurry and dark and I wish I still had them. I love photography because of its energetic exchange--and the vast possibilities of emotional communication.
Hi Laura! Where are you in NC? I split time between Hatteras Island and Seattle.
Chapel Hill
Beautiful town!
Hello. My name is Nancy. I currently live in Portland, OR, but lived 30+ years in the Midwest (6 yrs in Columbus, the rest in Minneapolis). I've been a film/video/photography curator (late 70s-90s) and have written on film and photography. I also collect photo books, and I worked in a dye transfer lab.
Hi I'm Angus and I just enjoy looking at folks images.
I take lots of landscape images on the Scottish hills most weeks and I love garden scapes and floral images.
Looking forward to seeing lots of amazing images
Hello all,
My name is Kevin McSpadden and I am a photography hobbyist. I take photos mostly using film and my Nikon Fe2. You can find my work on instagram with the unsername kevinmcspadden.
I also run a newsletter called A6, which you can find here: https://kevinmcsa6.substack.com/
Thanks!
Thanks for the invitation to share on this vibrant thread! I'm Niquelle. I've dabbled with photography for years, and am finally take a proper class this summer. I've also recently begun sharing some writing here on substack (niquelle.substack.com) and have been grateful for the space to experiment creating with words. It's been a refreshing "social media" experience and I'm eager to read and see what everyone is making. Cheers!
Peggy here, writing with Char about Grief at Grief101 here on Substack. I'm a frequently published full time writer - fiction and non-fiction - and very interested in photography from an amateur's point of view. Also love manipulating images once I take them. I've also loved images all my life - from chooing what goes into a book cover to reading children's books.
Hi everyone, I am Asha.
I am a political immigrant from Russia, since 2022 living and working in Italy. I am still trying to find my ground here, working on different projects and collaborating with art residences, theatres and museums. I also have a PhD in antropology and work with universities.
My areas of interests are narrative photography (something between art and documentary, romantisizing everyday life) and portraits. I have spent several years researching themes of racial and cultural discrimination, abuse and bullying, perspectives of diversity and acceptance of others; shot several big portrait projects regarding these themes. Now I am working on some new visual research, collaborating with immigrant artists around the world.
To be honest, the idea of sharing my projects is quite new to me. I always thought of photography as a profession and concentrated on commercial aspect of the job, while doing the actual artistic research in my spare time. Now I am trying a different approach and home it will work.
My website is here: keleene.com
Writing saved my life. But photography helped.
I recently received a private message of concern from an old friend (who once led laughter sessions for dementia patients in Santa Barbara), a good soul. After reading my chapter entitled “Love is a Mad Dog from Hell” he gently entreated me to move on from my childhood. “Put your past into the past where it belongs,” he’d written. I’d like to share my reply, in part:
“Dear sweet man,
Your kindness is palpable... and your advice is well taken. What's so gratifying about this latest creative effort of mine on Substack, is that at this point in my life, and for the many years since I put together my multi media memoir, it's become clear to me that I have, in fact, freed myself from that history.
My friend Daniella says she sits down to write and opens a vein. I’m an artist. I never thought of myself as a writer, but I was compelled to write my story, take back my narrative. Writing is what enabled me to untangle it, to move on. People often want to skip the hard, painful part. I can understand why. But there is no moving on until you come to terms with your past or, on a certain unconscious level, it will grab onto your guts and grow until eventually it controls your behavior. Ernest Hemingway said, “Write hard and clear about what hurts.” Writing that saved my life.
At this stage, I'm so much more aware of what's going on for those around me. More empathy, more compassion, more appreciation for the light lasting longer, and the explosion of crocus coming up through the snow. When I was younger, I was consumed by my own experience. I'm no longer drinking water from a fire hose.
Recently, a subscriber asked me how she could find forgiveness for her own childhood. She was so tired of being angry. And I said, I've come to the conclusion that if we really want to feel forgiveness, and we don't keep running away from the pain, eventually forgiveness comes. It can take a very long time. But if that’s what we really want and we stay with it, it comes. I consider it a kind of grace.
My life is good, great, in fact, my dear, concerned friend. My Substack is about sharing the story of how that life got itself worked out (adding photography, graphics, videos, animation and hard-earned perspective this time.)
There are fathers out there; there are daughters out there. I’m reminded of the lyric in a John Mayer song, “You are the God and the weight of her world. So fathers, be good to your daughters.”
And at this point, though it sounds antithetical, the predominant feeling I have about this writing effort is: not devastated by the shock of what I recently discovered, but thrilled that it gives me a bombshell ending to my story…so, I’ve added a new final chapter to the final chapter. And perhaps a final chapter after that."
Hi! I´m Nicolas from Uruguay, a small and very nice southamerican country. Really love to take photos in concerts, underground concerts. We have a really eclectic scene and I hope you discover music that you like because of my photos ;) https://www.instagram.com/salohacecosas/
Hello, I'm Adrian and I've been passionate about photography since way back in highschool, but abandoned it after a couple of years as everyone around me was being discouraging at it being a "real job". However, I'm glad to be back at it (as a hobby), and I'm going through some hard times so it's a very welcome distraction! Here's my Instagram in case you're curious: https://www.instagram.com/eydryan?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Hello! I’m Clara, a visual designer, photographer and museologist. I enjoy walking on the streets and photographing the graphic-visual landscape, as well as capturing the visual culture of a time and place. Currently I’m a master’s student in visual arts with a thesis about street photographers (especially women photographers) in Manhattan/NYC and I’m investigating if these photographs could be documentary record and/or art.
Hello! My name is Dan Pal and my Substack site is PalCinema, Television, & Music. I teach film and television at DePaul University in Chicago. In addition to film reviews, you can find my Top Ten memoir on my site. I am recounting every year of my life through stories and favorite ten songs of each year! Check it out, if interested! https://danpal.substack.com/
Is it okay for someone who isn't a photographer to say hello?
Of course!
🙌
Hey Andy, as mostly said previously, I live in Spain and Wales, shoot b+w only on an old Leica with a single lens, one type of film and no flash, filters or anything else. I studied business, art history and photography at university and am both a collector of books and prints, as well as a maker of photographs. I struggle with the digital manipulation, prefer 'straight photography' most of the time, though there are exceptions. I am not on social media, but you can find my stuff at http://harbel.com/ where I have some images in a few galleries as well as some of my thoughts posted.
I had an opportunity to recently connect Shelby Lee Adams - a grand photographer of Appalachia and its people - with a publisher, as well as a gallery in Paris and am going to go see his show at the end of May and collect a signed copy of his book! Can't wait.....
In short: b+w, darkroom, silver prints, photographers' monographs, dinosaur. (and not necessarily in that order!)
Hello, I'm a recent Substack member, hoping to have a better experience than I have had on the Facepage, the Chirp Machine, and so on. I recently moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Barcelona with my husband and our dog, and am having so much fun wandering around taking pictures here. I'm not a professional photographer, but lately I have started wanting to get my photography in front of other people as it seems a waste to have it all just sitting on my hard drive. So here I am, on Substack!
Welcome!
Hi, Les, following you- nice to connect- we have lived in some of the same places and I love Spain! And, have lived in Cincinnati, Tucson, and various other places, now am a nature nomad and a Poet with a Purpose, Restoring Soils and Souls: https://robinmotzer.substack.com/p/food-farming-and-freedom
Wow, I don't often meet people who have lived in Cincinnati! I have not been back for.... 15 years? I'm not even sure now. Part of me is very curious to go back and see how it's changed, but I'm not sure I'm curious enough to fly across the ocean just for that. 😆
I like what you do, but I can only keep up so many conversations. Wishing you all the best, Maueice
I get it. Take care, Maurice!
Hi, I'm Chen alias April, via my very talented friends I realized at some point, probably too late in my life, that photography is art. I love art. I love architecture, and design, cultures, and languages, and, overall, people and their relationship with world and each other fascinate me.
I love to read. Prose and poetry alike.
I don't photograph myself, I'm just a person who looks, and learns, and is breathless and stopped in his tracks sometimes-by great art.
Thank you for the delightful Substack(I don't like the word "delightful" but will have to do for now, 'cause I can't find a better one)
Hello All-
I'm an Artist/Photographer with a BFA in design and an MFA in art. In the 1980s I worked as a book cover designer in NYC, continuing my personal artwork. Later, I joined the faculty of Northeastern University & Art & Architecture for 12 years and then taught at MA College of Art & The Art Institute of Boston. As a documentary photographer, I have worked in Europe, Morocco, Central America & throughout the US. Moving to Falmouth,MA in 2002, I opened Jon Moore Photography and in 2014 founded the Cape Photo Collective. I am now focusing (no pun intended) full time on Contemporary Art Photography, drawing and art books. My art Website is jmoore-photo.com.
I also have a new Website, nothingphoto.com The purpose is to post the work of other photographers who are sharing the same or similar interests in their work. A small community of sorts. I’m inviting photographers to visit the site, take a look and send my some pics. Please do!
PS: I hope I don't sound too self promoting. I'm actually very bad at it and posting my bio was a challenge!
Hi, I'm Nika Belianina, Toronto-based fine art photographer and a filmmaker. I love exploring themes of escapism and longing and wrapping them in mystery of magical realism. I am genuinely inspired and often work with nature and use self-portraiture, movement and various in-camera techniques. My images often have a painterly feel to them. I've exhibited my work thru North America, and my films have travelled around the world. My insta in @lifeasnika
Hi, Andy! I’m Jack, a teen writer obsessed with high fantasy, dystopian literature, and everything about nature. I’m a passionate Christ follower and am fascinated by almost everything, especially science, history, and philosophy. I look forward to reading what you post on this newsletter and Notes. Keep up the good work 🙃
Nice idea.
I am a entrepreneur and life coach and love photography since I was 10 years old, when I received my first camera - then with film rolls. When I was 15 I bought my first camera, a Minolta SRT 101. After that I bought all the dark room equipment from Durst and made this for some years.
Timeshift.
Meanwhile I'm digital, use most of the common programs and have several cameras.But I use the most the phones, where I use the latest iPhone and Pixel. I prefer the Pixel (stripped of all the Google cr*p with a custom ROM) way over the iPhone, the camera is lightyears better for my understanding. Especilly the color temperature is much more natural and the sharpnes outperforms every other phone.
Beside of this I teach people to LIVE WITHOUT LIMITS.
Hi there, I'm Alex, residing in Northern Ireland. While I currently dabble in portraiture and wedding photography, it's not my full-time gig yet. However, I aspire to dedicate myself fully to it someday.
If you're curious, you can find some of my work on Instagram at www.instagram.com/alex.kudrenko. I'm just starting out there, so my portfolio isn't extensive yet.
I'm a big fan of FlakPhoto digest and always look forward to it. Keep up the great work!
Also, if you ever find yourself in Ireland or Northern Ireland, feel free to reach out. I'd love to show you around.
Hi! My name is Oleg.
I'm Oleg, a photographer who focuses on the rich stories that unfold in everyday settings. I work and research towards emphasize of the significant relationship between people and their environments, capturing moments where characters interact vividly with their surroundings. I strive to create images that invite viewers to look deeper, to notice the intricate details and consider how these elements connect to the human experience in the scene.
also I am photo-book collector :)
Hello, I'm Andrew. I've been a photographer as long as I can remember, but started taking it seriously in 2009. My wife and I run a group home for at-risk youth, so we have eight teenage girls that live with us that we care for. It can be a hard, emotionally tolling life, but photography helps me to pay attention and to find the little metaphors of life that surround us. I always have a camera of some sort with me, so I'm often capturing these moments. Oftentimes for my own journal and documentation of my family's life, but also many times to share with those who might be interested in what stands out to me.
I've found the photography community on the internet one of the most truly connected communities. I have formed true relationships with other photographers via Instagram, various photo forums, and platforms like this. I am still a believer in their ability to truly allow us to connect with other people. I am very impressed with the intentionally and care you put into FlakPhoto. Thanks for all you do and the conversations you start! It is noticed and appreciated.
Your work sounds incredible, Andrew. Thank you to you and your wife for caring when others have no one else who cares.
Hi Andy, I am a short story writer (tobythecht.substack.com) and a cancer immunologist. I started writing about 25 years ago and have published about 35 short stories in literary journals over the years. I love photography and used to really be into it when people used actual film and a darkroom to develop their creativity. Now I look at and admire other people's photography in museums, galleries, and online. Keep up the good work and build your community. Glad to be a part of it.
Hi Andy! I'm a recent graduate from France. I have a long-standing passion for outings and a budding interest in writing, which allows me to share bonding moments with both friends and strangers.
Through written notes, I aim to provide practical ideas on how to stay connected offline.
Have a great week too !
Hello Andy, I’m Nolan. I have an MFA in photography from the San Francisco Art Institute. I also create music under the moniker The Grassy Knoll. I’ve released six albums and my music has been featured in Film, TV, and video games. Most notably the theme music for the Netflix documentary series Bobby Kennedy for President.
Recently, I’ve been creating comic drawings.
I love darker themes but I also love to laugh.
I get my juice from others and I love discovering new artist/creatives. Thank you for this prompt, Andy.
Hi all- for 35 years I've been a commercial photographer, specializing in architecture, interiors and related products. I got my BFA from Art Center College of Design and live and work in Southern California. Andy, I appreciate the diversity of work you feature in your newsletter. The design world can be pretty insular and I appreciate learning about how other folks are making art. My website is www.carothersphoto.com and my IG feed is @CarothersPhoto.
Cheers!
Hey Andy, Ansh this side basically from India but currently living in Geneva.
From hating the act of 'photographing' to loving it now 10 years later, I have come a long way. From keeping my musings to myself from childhood till 2020 I have opened up a lot and started sharing my musings online on various platforms.
Here I write about the ancient Eastern wisdom and how it can make us 'whole' human beings.
How is life treating you these days?
P.S. Happy Earth Day btw.
Hello, I am Tom and live in Rhode Island. I am retired and like to shoot street photography and urban landscape, and shoot for Waterfire here in Providence.