My mother absolutely adores pictures! There is not a room (or handbag) that is not completely filled with photos of her children and grandchild. I haven’t been home since Jodi and Brett have posted the ultrasound of our sweet Audrey, but I can guarantee that the first photo of soon-to-be child is already printed, framed, and hung somewhere in the house, proudly displayed as her first black and white glamour shot. 
I on the other hand don’t put many photos out. Personally I find it a bit cluttery. I’m a bit more minimalistic. I do love photos of family and such, but I would prefer to hang only a few favorites—therefore enjoying the artistry as well as the subject. Since moving, I have not made time to do this yet. I choose instead to put pictures on my Facebook, blog, or my computer wall. These are surfaces I see everyday.
As proof I will now post the first picture of my niece.
Connor was the first grandchild on both sides. And Jodi has a pretty large family. This being the case, my parents’ home is not the only Connor gallery in existence. There are several in Pennsylvania as well and a few others are scattered across the country. His picture can be seen everywhere. And Mr. Connor notices this. One of his first questions when entering my apartment was, “Where are Connor pictures?” I looked at my mom and said, “Poor thing. He’s never been to a place where his face isn’t plastered on every surface.” My mom proceeded to carry him over to the refrigerator and show him that his Aunt Kelly isn’t as horrible as he may have thought.
The child was born into a family that never neglects to carry around one’s digital camera. This “camera-gene” has definitely not skipped a generation. It is alive and well in this little boy. He has his own digital camera that takes real pictures. I was very impressed with this little toy. He loves it. However the camera is not quite as impressive as the photographer. Let’s take a look at a few of my favorites from this trip. (By the way, notice Connor’s hoodie. Is that not hilarious!)
Connor (a.k.a. the next Ansel Adams) shares photos from his trip to Texas
The Load We Carry
I really love the darks and lights in this picture and how they contrast each other. The values of color really allow the bag to pop out. I believe he was trying to illustrate the baggage that we all carry around in our lives. And that slight diagonal of the zipper right down the middle shows the separation of our inner darkness from the struggles that we carry around. Quite profound!
Father Figure
Oooo! This one is good! A father is a boy’s idol growing up, and this relationship is no different. Do you see that light coming in from behind his father? Connor really captured the admiration he feels toward this gentleman. I also love the grasping of the hands symbolizing the connection of a father and his son. The blue bracelet is a nice touch drawing the audience to the conclusion that the hand with the bracelet represents Connor’s hand clinging to his father’s guidance. Moving!
Mommy Reclining
Obviously this is the second in the series, but this isn’t just a repeat. Wow! Do you see how the pastels soften the entire image? And the subject of course is an expecting mother adding a whole other dimension of motherly love. The gaze of the model with the slight smile and twinkling eyes is reminiscent of Mona Lisa. You can certainly tell the connection between the model and artist. Plus the rule of threes is definitely strong in this one! Classic!
Monkey Business
Ah yes, this one gave me chills when I saw it! The richness of the colors used makes me feel like I am right there. Only Connor knows exactly what was involved in the action that he shot, but the expression that he caught on Curious George’s face sends a shiver up my spine. I can’t help but think the poor thing is in trouble. That face says it all, doesn’t it!
Cousin Addie
Don’t you love when a motion shot is done well! I know I do. It takes a lot of skill and practice to capture a subject that moves quickly before you—especially a four month old strapped in a baby seat. Yet Connor has quite the natural talent! The way those colors blend together. I swear I’m looking at Monet’s Waterlilies! It’s Captivating!
La Primavera
I’m . . . speechless. But let’s be honest. How can you go wrong with that model.
Eye of the Beholder
Ahh . . . yes, this one is quite controversial. But only a true visionary could make such a masterpiece. Some might criticize that Connor left the top of the head out of the frame, but you see . . . that is soooo conventional. Notice how he was able to focus on the eyes. The eyes! Yes, they are the windows to the soul. I tell you, he captures everything that needs to be said in this shot about the love his granddad has for him. *tear* Extraordinarily moving!
Heart Throb
This is one artist that isn’t afraid to try different perspectives! I remember my photography professor saying, “You can’t be afraid to get on the floor and find that perfect shot.” Connor didn’t need someone to instruct him in order to go for it. What a natural! I really love the balance that he created with the angle of the cabinets in the background. Such drama! It really brings you into the shot! He was truly able to illustrate just how much he looks up to his granny.
Study in White and Black
I think this is my favorite! What gorgeous lines and values! And the irony of trash being pictured in mainly whites. How clever! I think I may put this one over my fireplace.
Every Animal is Equal
I love the message he states in this last one! It was one of the few pictures that he took in the zoo. My nephew could have taken a picture of the apes or lions or bears, but instead he took a photo of a squirrel that scampered along the path. It is as if he is saying to the Man, “Every animal is equal in God’s eyes, Dammit! Yes the King of the Jungle is an amazing site, but so is the Scavenger of the Forrest!” Wow, I tell you . . . What a radical statement!
NOTE: Remember that these images are copyrighted. If you would like to purchase one, email me, and I’ll put you in contact with his agent. Please don’t steal.
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