Introducing Ed Wilson from Cave Creek, AZ

I have had a brief and long distance relationship with the SL7 group. However I've known Kent Miles since forever. I remember we talked about going to Art School together. And, how exciting it was when Kent actually had the guts and self confidence and family backing to actually go to one of the best schools around at the time. I remember just prior to his leaving for school he bought a brand New Calumet 4x5 view camera and set it up in his living room. We walked around it in awe and wonder, neither of us having a clue as to how to use it. I really wanted to go too, but, well, parents being parents I ended up staying home at the U of U.

Anyway, I've been an admirer of the Miles clan since I met them some 40 plus years ago.

As far as photography goes, I've been doing it since I can remember.

I am now a professional photographer in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area and a coat-tail member of the SL7. When Kent told me about it I couldn't wait to become involved. I shoot weddings, portraits, and some wildlife. My vast preference is portraiture. I operate a small free lance studio in a 2 horse village by the name of Carefree a little north of Phoenix.

I am including a recent portrait that I like very much. It is difficult to balance the mercenary requirements of photography as a business, and the personal expression and passion of creating art. The hardest thing is to not start repeating yourself and taking an overly formulaic approach....

I want to participate with the SL7 group to the fullest extent possible with a nod to the obvious distance and logistic impediments of living 500 miles away. If you are curious as to my current work, you can visit me at www.bridephoto.net (currently being redone) and www.ed-wilson.blogspot.com


Edward Wilson, Principal Photographer

www.BridePhoto.Net
www.ed-wilson.blogspot.com

ed.wilson@BridePhoto.Net

Photograph: Tianna, ©2009 Ed Wilson

Fascination & Motivation

I have always had a fascination with cameras. However, my ability to get good images has not always equaled my fascination on the mechanics of the device. With the advent of digital photography and my need to use this tool in my work, I have experienced a renewed interest in learning to move beyond snapshots towards creating more refined images. It is amazing that with a minimum investment in a camera and a computer and anyone can have an opportunity to learn to produce great photographs. While I have great admiration for those who develop and print using traditional methods, for me the technology has brought more convenience and ease of use. The photographs we use everyday on the job are critical in our mission to provide 24 hour a day /365 days a year connectivity to those we serve.

My friend and neighbor Bill Patterson approached me about joining the Salt Lake Seven Group. If I remember right he said: “we get together once a month and discuss and show our work. Its not a competition just conversation about our passion for photography”. For about 18 months I have been attending the monthly presentations and discussions. I find the opportunity to meet with others and share work of great benefit on a couple of fronts. First, it is motivational because in order to have something to discuss you need to take pictures. That in and of itself requires one to get out and do some work, try new things, learn new techniques. By doing this you can’t help but improve--experience becomes a great teacher. Secondly, participating in the discussions at the meetings gives one more insight into the processes to become a better photographer. In reviewing the work presented each month we are all able to see differing perspectives. That will make us all collectively better. Looking forward to March 10………


Steve Proctor

Photograph: Requiescant In Pace, St. Mere-Eglise, France
©2008 Steve Proctor