Renata Contini's Page

Hi Renata,

Thank you for the kind words about my work. I so appreciate the work of others and often find inspiration in seeing the world through the lens of others. Then when they show how they percieve their intimate suroundings, via their images, fills me with awe and wonder giving me hope and encouragement to continue my search for new and exciting images that hopefully will cause those wonderful emotional responses in those who view them. I've always had a bit of a different take on the world then most people and find a closeness to nature as well as the supreme-being in my photographing that which inspires me.

I've been doing photography for over fifty years years now and learned through an apprentise-ship in my youth then landing my first studio job in 1958 in Portland, Oregon. From here I studied with who ever I could find to teach me any aspect of photography and still today I have several mentors, yes we're never too old to learn. I've had my own portrait studio now for well over thirty years doing seniors, weddings, families and products. I also teach photography and Photoshop at the college here in my town and find it rewarding and educational, I sometimes learn as much as the students do.

I asked if I could comment negatively on one of your images and you have generously agreed to this. But first I want to say that criticism is always meant (from my point of view) to help those who's work is being critiqued, to grow and become a better artist. As to the image in question, I would like to say that from an amatuers point of view this is very good, however from a professional stand point this what we would call a "up the nose" shot. Unfortunately I'm from the "Old School" so this concept probably won't hold much water with todays current modes. Other than this one minor point, your work is very stunning and shows you have been studying hard and trying to make your mark in the industry, kudos to you - keep up the good work.

If I may be so bold as to offer you a piece of advice? When you show your portfolio to a client, remember three things; 1. always show your very best and only your very best. 2. "less is more," in other words it's better to show a few excellent images then to show lots of images that are mediocre. In doing this you will gather more clients, have a thicker wallet, and your work will at some point preceed you - hence you'll gain a positive reputation. And 3. Charge well for your work, don't be bashful or shy about asking a good price for your labor and your prints, as these images you create are priceless to your clients.

Peace be with you my friend.

Bob