Artefact Studio Blog

Photo Ephemera

2008-08-08T07:40:00.005-06:00

I wanted to share a great treasury of vintage, photo-related ephemera that a very fastidious collector has posted in flickr.
Thank you Jane McDevitt of Maraid Design for making my day!

Look Around You

2008-07-18T16:08:00.011-06:00

As I am wrapping up the week, I have learned that one thing often keeps us from taking the photos we really want ... making a living. For me, I would love to travel all the time taking photos in Italy or France and exploring the old buildings that make up each enchanting city. But let's be honest, it's expensive to travel often. So yesterday I decided to do two things.

1) Take a journey back to some of my favorite places-browsing old photos

2) Exploring the area around where I live and finding the beauty within

I must say looking through my photos was the easiest part. With the click of a mouse I was in Siena, Italy and Paris, France. The real challenge for me was to look around to discover the beauty in my city. I was inspired by a blog I found from a fellow Mac lover. He went through New York City, capturing photos with only his iPhone. Check out what Greg found on his iPhone quest.

Here's what I discovered with my iPhone.

Though they aren't perfectly retouched and aren't photos of the Eiffel Tower, however they each capture a place that has significance to me. Instantly I can look at each photo and feel the mood, remember the people around me and the smells of the place I visited, just like my photos from Europe.

I say all of this because if you are in a rut and feel like you take the same "style" of photos, jump on your bike (face it gas prices are high) and head out to discover the world around you. You may not set the world on fire with the images you capture, but you can flex your creative muscle and look for new ways to express yourself with your photography.

Next week, I will be starting to create an Artefact photo book that will incorporate many of my photos from this venture. It should be a fun journey and I welcome each of you to join me and check back to see how the creative process goes in the construction of my photo book.

Happy Shooting!

Daly Dose

Attract A Crowd of Clients

2008-07-14T13:23:00.007-06:00

Ok. So you may not know this, but I am a bit of a Mac geek. Yet, not to the extent I would sit outside an Apple Store and wait for the new release of the iPhone (like many of my friends did), but I just dig the brand. So last Thursday afternoon I had to drive by the Apple Store to see how many "loyal Mac lovers" were perched on their lawn chairs awaiting the new iPhone release the next day. To my dismay, only one person was seated outside the store. I found out later that day, that things really changed and by the time Friday rolled around, the line had snaked itself past the store and turned onto the next street.

I bring this up because it got me to thinking. What is it as photographers that we do to get the "buzz" out about our product? Many of us don't have a huge marketing budget to create a spectacular "dog and pony" show, but most of us know which customers we want to target. But how do you effectively target your clients and get them to become repeat business?

That's where Artefact is really making it easy on professional photographers. Not only can you create photo books and actually store them on their secure server (making reprints of the book a snap), you can manage your product promotions and actually target specific customers with special giveaways. Like 2 for the price of one, or buy one photo book, get the other free .... (you get the point) I like to call it Photo Marketing.

Take for example one of my clients. They are a family of four, with two little kids under the age of 5. So, they call on me because they want to capture their children as they grow. One way I can provide a nice selection of items for them through Artefact is to offer book options that won't cost them their entire savings. Their needs are not exquisite, they just want a book that is functional and will last. So, the Artefact Portfolio would be the perfect product for that particular client.

In the same vein, I have a friend who is a wedding photographer. Her needs for her clients are totally different. The brides and grooms she captures through the lens want books that are leather bound and highly-styled. That's where Artefact's Heritage book is the perfect fit.

I say all this because as you know, we don't just take photos, we have to market ourselves too. Get to thinking about your client base and how you can offer new products like Artefact photo books and cards to increase your company's bottom line. You might not be Steve Jobs, but you can still make a resounding impact on your audience by putting your hand on the pulse of your client's needs.

Get in the habit of talking to your clients and discovering exactly what they want. I keep a client journal on my computer and record what each customer wants. Then at the end of the month, I am able to go back and see what the majority of clients need. It's an easy way to jump-start your promotional engine. Take a ride for yourself, you'll be amazed what you learn around the bend.

Happy Shooting-

Daly Dose

Read All About It

2008-07-09T15:39:00.012-06:00

Some exciting things are going in the world of Artefact and you can read all about it this month in After Capture's July edition. In the Hot Pics section, you'll see what one photography magazine is saying about the professional quality photo books Artefact Studio builder is creating. I must say it's pretty exciting to see.

In addition to a blurb about Artefact in After Capture magazine, here's part of what one of our newest Artefact customers had to say about their Artefact experience.

"The first time I saw the Artefact Studio booth at WPPI in March and fell in love with your products. I loved how simple and elegant everything looked.

When I signed up as a member I was unable to "attend" any of your online trainings. When I called support with questions, I talked with Nicole who was happy to walk me through the entire process of designing my product and placing my order.

I just wanted to send you this note and let you know that I am thrilled with and so very grateful for the fabulous customer service I've received. I look forward to creating many more products through Artefact in the future. A big thank you to all of you, keep up the awesome work!"

Thanks for that feedback, we appreciate it. And if you haven't had a chance to see what Artefact can do for you, check it out for yourself. I am already reaping the benefits. It's easy to use and I love that I know I am getting a professional quality book, every time.

Have questions about Artefact? Contact their customer support team, they'd be happy to help.

Happy shooting!

Daly Dose

Only as good as the picture

2008-07-07T12:54:00.006-06:00

I'm returning from a 2 week journey to Ohio where I attended a small reunion of my classmates at the University of Cincinnati(go Bearcats!) While driving from through Central Ohio, I stopped at a great nursery and garden center called A Proper Garden, located just north of Columbus. While leisurely window shopping, I saw the cutest idea ever ... miniature gardens! I'd never heard of these things before. Tiny little gardens complete with real plants and props. I know it seems a little grandma-ish, but the designer in me started getting really excited. It reminded me of how much fun I had in the my set design class (who knew they would let you play dollhouse in college.)

While my pictures are disappointing, these gardens were a delight. I spent way too long crouched down trying to get a shot that would do these cute little landscapes justice. It gave me whole new respect for product photography. In the next month, I will be directing a photo shoot of our products and I'm excited to see a professionals at work. Tabletop photography isn't as easy as it looks.

Celebrate Independence

2008-07-03T17:31:00.003-06:00

First of all, I want to wish each of you a Happy and Safe 4th of July! In the spirit of the up-coming holiday I wanted to share a little tidbit of inspiration I found this week.

Many of you have probably heard of The Soldier Portraits Project, but if you are not familiar with Ellen Susan's work, then you have to take a peek at something awe-inspiring. Not only is it a wonderful tribute to the men and women of the 3rd Infantry Division (currently serving), it's also a interesting study in photography.

Ellen's images are all made using a 150 year-old collodion wet plate process which is the same process used to document much of the Civil War. During this time period, this process was also used for portraiture, landscape work, art photography and architectural photography. And it truly is a beautiful work of art.

What's really cool about this project is that each solider that is photographed receives their image on either a glass or metal plate to display in their home/office. And, since the project has been so successful, Ellen, is now open to photograph any soldiers who are interested in becoming part of the project.

So as you salute past and present soldiers this holiday weekend and ponder what freedom means to you, take a few minutes to see what just one of your comrades have done to show her respect with her talents. I am sure you will be touched, just like I was. Enjoy your holiday weekend.

Happy Shooting-

Daly Dose

Just My Type

2008-06-27T07:08:00.008-06:00

Every one has a weakness. For some it's shoes, for others chocolate, reality TV or the latest and greatest gadget. Personally, my guilty pleasure is fonts. Not that exciting to most, but for me the addition of a new font to my type library is pervertedly satisfying.

Here are samples of my latest purchases...

Archer from Hoefler & Frere-Jones (you may recognize this font from Martha Stewart Magazine)

Archive Antique Extended, Archive Harlem Title and Archive Lightface Extended, all from Archive Type.

Jolt Your Visual Inspiration

2008-06-25T08:45:00.006-06:00

Every time I get back from traveling I vow that I will incorporate one "good" habit into my daily routine. It seems like getting away for awhile is a renewing process for me and a great chance to do something new.

Last year when I traveled to Italy, that habit was to learn how to cook various Italian dishes. Strangely enough, it has stuck and cooking provides another creative outlet besides writing and photography.

This year I have decided my "new habit" will be to start each week searching for inspiring visuals, stories and people, anything that can spur an idea. I have a folder that I keep them in so when I need an idea boost, it's a quick reference. I find these pieces of information become the high-octane, caffeine-heavy beverage that jolts my creativity.

I began that process this week and I have to share one of my findings. It's an amazing photographer that I have heard of many times, but just didn't take time to really "look" at his work. It's the work of Andrew Zuckerman and he seems to capture it all. His studio projects are amazing. Check out the portrait section. Recognize anyone? I didn't realize some of those celebrities had such natural beauty, Zuckerman has captured it all.

I bring up Zuckerman because even though I might not ever create masterpieces like his, it got me to thinking. In the creative industry it's easy to get in what I call the "blank page blues". It's easy to write familiar words, photograph the same angles, heck we even find ourselves saying the same phrases ... over and over and over ... not to mention loosing our mind when it comes to staring at a blank page! Thank goodness Artefact Studio offers templates!

So what's this all mean to you? I guess I am challenging you to do something new. Whether it's brainstorming shots as you sip on a frothy cup of joe, a jaunt to the art museum or bribing one of your photo buddies to go on location with you so you can discover how they "see"everyday objects, do something different. Challenge your inner creative and see where it takes you.

Are you up to the challenge? Hope so. Happy Shooting!

Daly Dose

Reflection

2008-06-18T15:56:00.007-06:00

As I am finishing up the day I thought I would look back on some old photos. I ran across some oldies, but goodies. They were shot on an old film camera my grandpa gave me. He was an avid photographer and taught me to see beauty in all things in the world and it stuck.

How times have changed since I began working with the old trusty Canon AE-1. It was my first camera that wasn't a "point-and-shoot" and I must say, it took pictures like no other. Sure, the photos it produced were grainy, the camera leaked a little light ... but it was good to me. I stood breathless as I witnessed how amazing it was for a simple lens to bring the mundane old barn I passed by on my way to school everyday, to life.

Today there are so many other things to think about in the age of digital photography. Most of the darkrooms we once knew are gone, but there's some amazing software and web-based applications that do a lot of the same things, without the smell of developer!

That's what I love about Artefact Studio I am able to take my favorite images that are touched up and ready to go and place them into a magnificent layout, no scissors, paste boards or toxic fumes required. It's downright amazing and did I mention fun? Yes, work CAN be fun!

But the coolest thing I think about Artefact Studio is that it has everything I need to run a photography business, all in one place! From the marketing to the archiving to the photo book development, I can do it all in one web-based program. Try doing that in that old darkroom.

While I still journey to my basement at times to hang out in my old darkroom and do some black and white developing, after all, I am still a photo purist at heart, I must admit, sitting at my computer and doing all that I need to in one place with Artefact Studio is pretty remarkable. They even have prebuilt templates for some of us that aren't so great at design! Wink. Wink.

As I begin to put the photos away, I begin to wonder what my grandpa would think of this digital age. Maybe he would like the ease of being able to take scads of photos to capture the right image without "wasting film" or maybe it just wouldn't be the same to "wait for a happy surprise", I'm not sure. Bottom line, it's amazing where the world of photography has already taken me.

Tell us about your photo journey. Drop me a line. I would love to share your story with our blog readers!

Happy Shooting!

Daly Dose

You've come a long way baby

2008-06-17T16:39:00.012-06:00

As Artefact's creative director, it's my job to always be on the lookout for new materials and inspiration for our product line. I so appreciate the feedback we've gotten and I've taken special notice of a request for new ways to showcase baby and children's photography.
The great news is that the mainstream consumer seems to be much more design savvy and is open to less traditional products for kids and babies. As proof, I went perusing the web and found some great examples of off beat design for little ones.
I'm in baby mode now - we'll see if I can deliver some new ideas in less than 9 months!

1, 2: illustration from Jill McDonald
3: nursery rug from IKEA
4, 5: cute crafts from marthastewart.com
6: vintage inspired clock from Land of Nod
7: baby shoe from etsy seller quirkycraft
8: diaper bag from Petunia Pickle Bottom
9: wall decal from Land of Nod

Green Goo Sea Monsters

2008-06-13T13:28:00.011-06:00

I just got back from Oregon. What a trip. I am tired, but it's a good exhaustion. I sat down to look through the photos I took over the past week. That's the first thing I always do, before washing clothes, stocking up on groceries, I have to download my photos and peruse! Some picts evoke great experiences, some recall funny stories and yet, they all do one thing, take me back to Oregon, with just a simple visual cue. I guess that's what got me so hooked as a photographer in the first place. Photos just plain make me feel good.

I already have many favorites that I plan to touch up and frame. However, some of my most treasured photos from this trip have to be those of the sea monster and it's habitat. I know what you're thinking, "A sea monster in Oregon"? Sure it wasn't Nessie, but it was pretty close.

As I stepped out of my car to walk along the beach one last time before heading back to Portland, I noticed two yellow school buses parked at the beach rest stop. I immediately began to think, this would not be the relaxing 10 minute walk down the beach I had planed.

The closer and closer I got to the water I began to hear kids screaming over the smashing of waves about how "IT's going to get you!" I wasn't sure what IT was, but thought I would endure the screaming kids to get a closer look. As I turned the corner, I saw kids all up and down the coastal line, but no IT. Then, the IT came into focus. A mop-top rascal of a boy was swinging seaweed and running at people. As soon as someone was in range, he'd hurl the twisted mass of "green goodness" at them and laugh deviously as he searched for the next person needing a new green accent piece.

It was hilarious and I couldn't help but take a picture. And then I realized, the seaweed and jagged terrain that was his "scare" tactic, was actually beautiful. I got lost in the scenery for about an hour. It was great. I guess it is just another lesson in really taking time to notice your surroundings and finding beauty in the world around us. That's what photography is all about for me.

What beauty have you captured this week? I'd love to see photos of the sea monsters that lurk in your environment! Drop me a line.

Wear It Well

2008-06-09T11:57:00.025-06:00

I am probably one of the last die-hard Sex and the City fans who has yet to see the movie. So until my schedule allows, I have the June issue of Vogue Magazine to pore over (and over.) I can't stop looking at the gorgeous photos of Sarah Jessica Parker and Chris Noth taken by Annie Lebovitz.

I'm not a photographer, nor am I a fashionista, but I am inspired none the less.
Fashion is certainly a powerful force. I was shopping over the weekend and saw some interesting parallels between fashion and design.
I noticed lots of flirty details in casual wear like ruffles, pleats and embellishments.

From J. Crew...

From Banana Republic....

and from the Gap...

I've also noticed a simliar trend in design with extra attention to details. Less angle and minimalism, more pattern and ornamentation. A few quick examples...

Beautiful packaging from Duffy Design. (image from thedieline.com)

Interesting design from Comm Arts featured designer/ illustrator Catherine Lepage

Lipton Tea Website

Pacific Coast Personalities

2008-06-09T10:01:00.006-06:00

Many of the Artefact bloggers have been traveling this past week. I am one of those lucky ones. I journeyed to the Pacific Northwest ... Oregon baby! What a amazing place, especially for a photographer like me. Never have I seen a place with such diverse terrain and outstanding people.

Spending a few days in Portland, I realized that it was a photographers paradise the second I stepped off the plane. It was like going back to college, hanging out with a best friend and discovering the finer side of life all in one place. And the people were cool, exciting and very diverse, my kind of place! And the best part, since I am a total book geek, Powell's City of Books!! This place gives you a map to their store. That's right a map! Let's just say, if you're looking for a book, you'll find it there as they have everything!

After Portland, we headed to the central part of Oregon. There, we meet a wonderful group of people who live off the land. Hazelnut farmers, berry pickers and yes of course, winemakers. In fact, as we left the wonderful bed and breakfast, where Laren the inn keeper who was an amazing host and cook, we actually got to tour some of the wineries and interact with the actual winemakers. It was this interaction that was amazing for me as a photographer. Here I have wonderful personalities to capture and amazing vistas to reflect. So as I was sitting in the barn of one of the winemakers, I pondered, how in the world will I give these photos and the stories they unfold, the proper coverage and attention that I feel they deserve? I kept thinking and hoped for a solution before the trip was complete.

Yesterday, we headed toward the Oregon coast. Never have I seen such a place with not only pine trees as far as the eye can see, but a beautiful coastline, sprinkled with jagged rocks and playful seals. I think I might even have seen a whale, but that's another tale. We toured the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Equipped with a 136-year-old cast iron staircase. Amazing and once at the top, we had a chance to take in the vista, and then it hit me. Not the vista, but an idea on how to capture the beauty of my photos. I have decided to create a photo book on our trip to Oregon, with my pictures of course, but through Artefact Studio, I can add captions under the pictures of each unique place and person I have met. With Artefact Studio, I can go in, choose the photo I want and add a caption underneath it so that I don't forget the person's name, what they do and how they touched my Oregon experience.

Stay tuned, I will share more photos from Oregon in the days to come, for now, I am headed to the local coffee shop, another little passion of mine. Oh yeah and for lunch some FRESH seafood, can't wait!

Daly Dose

Good. Old. Book. Stuff.

2008-06-04T14:57:00.004-06:00

If you are inspired by or interested in vintage and antique book design, I've got a cool resource for you. The University of Notre Dame has a database with tons of images of old bookplates, embossings and stamps from old books. There are some fantastic examples of very beautiful monograms and ornate period typography.
You can almost smell the musty paper as you turn the virtual pages!

Welcome to the Artefact Blog

2008-05-18T18:30:00.008-06:00

Artefact is an innovative, digital printing and web-based solutions company that elevates the value of your visual images. Whether you’re designing a wedding photo book or looking for a simple archiving solution, this is the place where you can add your own personal flair.