Focused On The Point » Blog

Focused On the Desert?

Tom — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 06:01:33 +0000

Until some time early next year I am deployed to the desert as part of my service as a Chaplain in the U.S. Air Force. I desperately miss the people, places, and things of Pittsburgh, but as they say “distance makes the heart grow fonder.” Even though I’m away from my favorite photographic subject, I continue to work on my photography. If you would like to see just a small glimpse at what I’m shooting until my return to the Steel City click here. I appreciate all the support and look forward to getting back home to continue the work of Focused on the Point Photography.

More Cookies!!

Tom — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 21:08:35 +0000

A friend of mine is putting together a book of cookie recipes and asked me to photograph some of the “subjects.” Working out the fee for a shoot like this is pretty much a no brainer. Mmm!

To see the entire gallery, click here!

Alright, Pittsburgh…it’s time to be heard!

Tom — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:39:50 +0000

mmmm…cookies!

Tom — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 17:03:56 +0000

A friend asked me to photograph some of his mom’s famous cookies for a book of recipes he’s putting together. Never in my photographic journey have I been tempted to eat the subjects of my photography. I’m sure you can see why.

Improve the Vue

Tom — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 20:10:49 +0000

I enjoy photographing pretty much anything, but there’s nothing like photographing people voluntarily working to improve their community. Hundreds came out to Bellevue’s “Improve the Vue.” Sadly I was only able to stick around for a few hours, but here’s a sample of the shots I was able to capture in the little bit of time I was able to be there.

To see the rest of the gallery, click here.

Gone for the Summer…Already Looking Towards Christmas!!!

Tom — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 17:27:51 +0000

Between the Air Force calling me out for three months, my “real job” getting a bit busy, and some gear breaking down I have not had the time or energy to get out shooting recently. However, I believe the tide has finally turned. I am no longer on active duty orders, my “real job” is somewhat back to normal, and I am slowly getting my gear repaired and/or purchasing upgrades.

To start a new season of Pittsburgh-focused photography (both freelance and events) I am very excited to announce that my photography will soon be a published in a new, local publication called Verdure Magazine (verduremagazine.com). Verdure Magazine is a publication focused on helping Pittsburghers make better environmental and sustainable decisions. It’s a great new venture that I am very excited to be a small part of. Over the past few weeks I have been working on my first photoshoot for the magazine. I shot some images to be used as part of an article by the Green Grandma (thegreengrandma.blogspot.com) titled “A Green Christmas.” Below is a small sample of the images that I’ve submitted. The issue will be released sometime this fall/winter. Be sure to get a copy and tell all of your friends about Focused on the Point Photography, The Green Grandma, and Verdure Magazine!!

That Just Happened

Tom — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:21:58 +0000

Today’s posted image is one of many examples I have of photographs that “just happened.” There are some images that take much time and planning. Between deciding the creatively correct aperture, shutter speed, sensor speed, etc. and then finding the best composition, some photographs are simply calculated to come out well. However, on occasion, there are those photographs that just happen and remind me that I just need to squeeze that shutter button regardless of my current settings and just “see what happens.”

This particular image occurred while walking across the Roberto Clemente bridge towards the north shore. I spent the majority of the day in town photographing the buildings, when a Gateway Clipper boat crossed underneath me. Not having the tripod set up, I initially hesitated to photograph the boat, however, I’m glad my hesitation didn’t win the battle and I followed my gut instinct instead. If I say so myself, I think the shot turned out fantastic.

What say you?

Haiti Relief Art Show/Concert

Tom — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:06:08 +0000

I’m lucky enough to have been invited to display some work at this amazing event being put together by the folks at Emmanuel Christian Church in the Brighton Heights community of Pittsburgh. Between the art, music, and food that are being offered, this should be a fantastic evening and to support a great cause.