Posted by Richard C. Kessler (Rick) on November 05, 19101 at 11:05:42:
I am a Computer Consultant somewhat specializing in UNIX and tele-communications. After 20+ years in the business I keep learning about how a computer system's most vital component is the people using them.
My interest in photography really started when I began scuba diving about 15 years ago. I was driven by the need to share the wonders I was seeing. My certification in diving was earned in Bonaire, an island 50 miles north of Venezuela, next to Curacao and Aruba. This island has strong laws protecting the surrounding environment, making it a great place for divers, snorklers, underwater researchers and photographers.
On my trips to Bonaire I was lucky enough to meet professional underwater photographers and marine biologists who where very generous with advice on how to capture images under the water.
When critiquing my first rolls of film a few of the photographers mentioned that I had 6 great pictures from each roll when they themselves usually consider themselves lucky to get 1 or 2. Always easier to stand upon the shoulders of giants or however that saying goes.
The marine biologists were extremely helpful in their advice about the animal behaviorism lending to me some insights in how to be relaxed with the animals, making them relaxed with me.
Since I usually forgot to bring film in for developing and due to my familiarity with computers and technologies the digital photography world really appealed to me. I started with one of the first digital cameras available and went on from there. It seemed I could take a picture of anyone and would likely capture the feeling of the moment, had plenty of ugly shots along the way to.
After starting singing lessons a couple of years ago I have became involved with Barbershop singing. Due to my photography interests some of the Barbershop quartets have me taking photos of them for promotional purposes.
I also re-engineer audio Barbershop practice tapes onto CDs, consolidating 30 practice tapes onto one CD. This increases the ease of learning this art for the newer people like myself. Also I have learned to produce and edit digital movies, which may allow me to produce a Barbershop DVD in the future.
Always a student,
Rick