Shea Riggenbach Photography

I see some very nice shots here. Congratulations on being self-taught, and for making do with the equipment you have rather than putting your hobby and passion on a credit card. I got by for a long time with a Canon digital Powershot, and now I'm going to see how far I can go with a Canon A1 film camera. An expensive camera can do nothing for someone who does not have the eye for composing a shot, or the knowledge to work the controls, or the imagination to experiment. Best of luck, and I hope to see more of your work soon.

Shea... You have the beginning of a very nice portfolio. Thanks for commenting on my iris shot. Yes, it was taken on a light box. Becky

Shea Thank you for your opinion of my photograph. Your bio sounds alot like me. I have played with photography off and on for a while. I really enjoyed your photographs. Like you I am only here to learn. I do have several other types of photographs (all varities). I do plan on posting more. I would appreciate your opinion. I was going for human heat in its more rare form. Expressing emotion without a face. I must say the models heart was broken by some of the comments(not yours). I tried to explain they were directed at me and not the body in the photo. I have sold a few, but they are mostly portraits and landscape veiws. Again thank you and look forward to hearing from you again. S.Daniel

I like your dreamy color shots, where the color starts to smear. The gold one in your portfolio is outrageously decadent.

I am primarily self-taught also - and one book I found challenging and insightful was Criticizing Photographs. That and going to museums to see photography exhibitions. One photographer I have studied with most (Charles Gatewood) has me go through an exhibit and explain for each photograph why I do or do not like it - *and* analyze the lighting used to make the image (shadows, reflections in eyes, etc.). You can certainly do that on your own with a notebook. Nothing can replace making the time to look at great photographs in print! Books pale in comparison.

Good luck!

Jenny said it all so well! the word "passion" is in my opinion...the most important word in your bio. if you truly have a passion for photography (or anything for that matter...), and I'm sure you do...the rest will take care of itself. the passion will compel you to learn all the basics that are essential if you are to advance in your craft, to shoot when the weather keeps everyone else indoors..., and unless you're more responsible than me...to occassionally neglect family and friends in favor of taking a few more shots when you have "good light". ;) hope to see more of your work ...and don't be a stranger! let's keep in touch. i'd like to watch you grow! i'm just a "baby" myself... an old baby, but a baby... john

Passion fuels the creative process like no other. Technique, equipment and masterful post processing can only take you so far. Ultimately a picture must touch the heart and connect on a plane beyond the aesthetic to be truly great. Keep at it for you have the fundamental ingredient. All else can be acquired. Thank you very much for your comment on Amazing Grace.

A camera, similar to a computer or most any other tool, is just that, a tool to master. Some of the best woodwork is created with hand tools, with the most perfect machined wood left looking plastic. Anyway, just remember, "garbage in - garbage out" :-) Work at producing what your eye sees! Good luck!!

Hi;

Pretty collection I hope that you are adding more photos to be able to enjoy them.

A greeting.

Thanks everyone! I just realized I had been neglectful in responding. I really appreciate everyone's comments and suggestions.

I love your gallery! Thank you for stopping by my gallery and commenting on my photo. I truly appreciate it! :)

Shea, Thanks for your comment on my "quick shot" image. mood is often tough to critique, to analyze. you have captured some great emotions in your own portfolio. "Joy" is especially nice- imaginative. best of luck, and light. mmwhite.

I really like your use of color and your impressions of N'Orleans.

Jim Phelps

... Good Portfoli... Congratulations.

Thank you SHEA...

Shea, you have the eye , the devotion, and the love for the visual world that makes a great photographer ! Now just concentrate on the themes that appeal to you most. Restrict & focus your energies you will not be disappointed ! Best wishes.

I really like your way of taking pictures.You have a nice portfolio.Thank you for stopping by my gallery and commenting on my photo. I truly appreciate it! :) Ciao Andrea :)

I particularly like your flowers works. Not only do you have you developed an original style for portraits and flowers.. you have grown what many aged photographers lack, the ability to draw peoples attention with an original touch. Keep up the good work.

P.S. I appreciate your words about my portfolio.

Hi Shea, thank you for critiquing my photo, "Tender Plea". When a shot doesn't turn out like I wanted, I always turn to photoshop and see if I can salvage it. Your portfolio is pleasant, quaint if you will. I like the flowers and your macro abilities are good. Stop by anytime, we can learn from each other. ~Mali

Self taught is as good as it gets, There are no real rules, when you see it you shoot it, if you like it ,,,, you share ... and thanks for sharing I love your eye ..... JOE

Thanks everyone! I appreciate you stopping by and I really appreciate the advice and comments.

per il tuo commento,con l occasione ho visitato piacevolmente il tuo lavoro,complimenti ! ciao Paul

Thank you Shea.

Best regards.

Noel

Good morning Shea. Thank you for your kind words re "Green Grass" I used PhotoShop requiring 4 photographs, a variety of layer adjustments and blending. I am happy to pass on the step by step process. (if I can remember how I did it)

Kind regards

Noel

Yeah the film required for this process is called Polaroid Time Zero film, and they no longer make it so it's hard to come by! All work is hand manipulated, hope you read my Bio. Hey I love your Bio. statement, you don't need a pedigree to love taking pictures and your Biography shows your desire and love for picy=ture taking and that's half the battle! Save your dollars and get yourself a halfway descent camera and you'll really get addicted!!! Stay in touch. Matthew.

Hi Shea. Thank you for your kind comment on my photo. I visited your portfolio and I am so happy to see such talent. You are great in capturing life! It's quite inspiring to see others who see the beauty in simple things and turn them timeless.

Best regards, Liz

Hi Shea,

Thank you for your comment on my Paris picture. You have a wonderful sense of color and design. You do not need to apologize for your lack of equipment. Your enthusiasm/passion for photography more than makes up for it.

Best to you,

Robert

Thanks a lot for your comment on one of my shots, I see that you like flowers too, congratulations you have an outstanding, wonderful and colorful portfolio, well done, keep in touch and happy shooting , best regards //Salvador

Thanks for commenting on one of my photos. I like your portfolio very much. Hope to see more of your work.

Great Portofolio.. Especially I like your macro photos.. I want to say you're master of flowers.. :)

I like you portfolio -- esp the Powell Gardens series.

The photo you asked about is of Christmas lights, out of focus, with color drained and re-added in selective spots.

all the best with your work.

Paul Coren

Thanks Paul. I thought thats what it was. I have a very similar picture.