Final Blog Post and Forum Catchup

Hello again. While my next step in my journalism career will be more related to text than images; I will not forget the impact they have in my work.

Apart from the photographer of the week I covered; I would have to say that Robert Capa left the biggest impression on me with his style; which I took part in all term. Essentially, he took shots as they came; rather than waiting for one. I effectively did the same with my 3DS.

Regarding my goals: I did improve my ability to shoot certain angles somewhat; as well as my editing ability.

On the subject of this class: I feel that we should keep taking all the shots we can to enjoy the process of photography. The photographer of the week I found to be difficult; so I can say I would not miss that. What could be added in its place is greater emphasis on the photo blog; given how that's something I enjoy out of the classroom as well.

I hope to enjoy photography even further in the future. I'm Steven Pryor; and I have been round Linn.

Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Launch is Unbeatable!

The time has finally come for the highly-anticipated Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. The games launched this past Friday to massive success. I ventured to Gamestop in Lebanon to pick up my reserved copies and cover this launch.

They'll never win, but they sure can try!

The store had plenty of copies in supply to meet the massive demand; and it also turns out the same day saw the launch of the just as anticipated Super Smash Bros. Wii U and the Amiibo trading figure game, as shown in this store display.

Now you're playing with power!

So, to the victor go the spoils; as I arrived home successful from this launch; as everywhere was packed that had these games in stock.

This dream will last forever! This dream will never die! We will rise to meet the challenge, you and I!

As of this writing, I have logged a combined 30-plus hours into these games; and I will continue to do so long after this term ends. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be round Hoenn. Gotta catch 'em all.

Forum Catchup 2: The Sequel

Hello again. While Moodle's new upgrade has been less than desirable, I am glad I have been able to use this blog as a workaround. So, let's get to work on the forum catchup.

While Karl Masdaam may not have been the most interesting guest speaker for my money, he did have a sense of enthusiasm for what he talked about, even among a person like me who just is not a sports fan. As such, I have no photos of his field to post; as I do not share that enthusiasm.

However, I can honestly say that the biggest challenge for my round town assignment was finding willing subjects, as per usual. The increased police presence in recent months does not help. Even so, I was able to find one in my English teacher, Jodi Howell.

This is easily my favorite photo from this assignment.

Regarding my round town assignment, I would probably make more of an effort to cover more ground for subjects; both people and places.

On the subject of my recently-posted action shots, they were of cars during my commute this past Monday.  My close shot is of a school bus, my overall shot is of a black sedan; and my medium is of a red truck. You will find my Twitter post about everything in moments. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn.

Life in the Fast Lane, Sure to Make You Lose Your Mind

The commute of my Monday/Wednesday/Friday trips to class is often fraught with surprising peril. Apart from fellow passengers who behave stranger than I do (leading me to take new tactics to compensate) and smell of cheap cigarettes, lousy alcohol and overpriced cologne; there is an alarming amount of other drivers feeling the need to always gun their engines like they're playing a game of Grand Theft Auto V.

This past Monday saw a school bus that was in every it a rush as the  Linn Shuttle was.

Yes, it seems speeding is quite a common problem, to the point where regular drivers seem to be trying out for auditions of Furious 8. I am even delaying getting my license because of how aggressive people have been on the streets.

Despite prominent cases such as the death of actor Paul Walker, many drivers continue to regularly speed.

What might be even more disturbing is the lack of enforcement of traffic laws. It even got so bad that someone in Sweet Home managed to gun their engines and the police drove the other way instead of pursuing.

In the freeways of Linn County, every hour seems to be rush hour for trucks like this one.

Until there is a time when the drivers of this state will realize that their safety and that of others is more important than the fear of being late; I shall continue to be defensive on my regular use of mass transit. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn.

Steven Pryor's Day Off

This past Veteran's Day was as good as any day off I've had for shots; and I made good use of that time with a lovely day trip to Corvallis with my family.

You can't spell LBCC without "Linn-Benton."

One of the destinations that was near where we were was one of the medical marijuana dispensaries that will benefit from the legalization passing as a result of this past election.

So, feel free to break out the Cheez-It and put on The Big Lebowski.

Perhaps some of the most enjoyable things were simply on the car ride there and back again. While it may not be an antique roadster; our Mercury has proven reliable with its routine maintenance. The next check will be in the coming days.

Who's gonna drive you home tonight?

You have to seize each day of life. If you don't, it just might pass you by.

A Day In the Life in Sweet Home

When I moved to Sweet Home in 2005, I had no idea that I would be spending 9 years there; to the point where I'm still taking classes here. Yet, I can easily find good shots in the simplicity of day to day life.

A beautiful sunrise greets me on November 5.

There are many locations that I might go on a typical day. Ever since I started this class; I have been practicing with various locations around the county. I have generally been known to frequent the local 7-Eleven after class.

I'm no Kevin Smith; but the clerks and customers have had some amusing banter, nonetheless.

As a special bonus; I will share another class I had that day; Writing with Professor Jodi Howell. I managed to meet her to briefly discuss an assignment I had, and even managed to get a photograph of her.

Professor Howell typically has a busy schedule, but is more than willing to speak with those who need help.

A typical day in the life has many facets to mine for photos; and I will be posting many more over the course of the remaining term as early as the next assignment. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn this term.

Halloween Round LBCC

This past Halloween was another memorable one. Throughout the week, there were many events throughout the county and the campus; such as selling decorative pumpkins in the courtyard this past Wednesday.

Ones that I enjoy are the day of the dead, Pokémon, and Iron Man ones.

On the day itself, however, was a real big event celebrating the harvest with an assortment of baked goods; notably a very tasty pumpkin cheesecake among other offerings.

Other flavors included traditional New York and berry cheesecakes.

While I regret I was unable to participate in the zombie run, I did manage to snag a photo of Samuel Beckett helping apply makeup to one of the participants.

Samuel Beckett applies zombie makeup to student John.

I would also like to thank my best friend since I moved to Oregon, Jordan Hagle, for the fine work he and the rest of the DAC have done this month; especially with the SLC to put on this event.

Jordan waves hello as I take his picture.

I certainly hope next Halloween can be as fun as this one was. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn this holiday season.

Week 5 Forum

Hello again. As Moodle is still not cooperating; I shall be doing this week's forum on my blog. With that in mind, let's begin.

My favorite photo story had to be the one on page 94, with the late John Lennon of the Beatles embracing his wife, Yoko Ono. While it may have been a challenge to photograph such a complicated musician; the composition tells how much the two loved each other all on its own from the way it was framed and lit.

The contrast showing John nude and Yoko clothed is a particularly unique method; as it show's how the photographer captured their creativity as well as her own. Annie Leibovitz managed to make one of the most iconic shots published in the history of the Rolling Stone and its tenure.

Next time, I hope to have Moodle working; and I will have plenty of shots of the holiday occurring this weekend. I am Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn.

Forum Catchup

Hello again. As Moodle has not been cooperating lately, this post will be a forum catchup over the past week's prompts. I shall keep things brief; and cover the second topic on the third week post.

Regarding the worst photo I've taken so far: I am not too proud of the crowd shot I took for my post regarding the financial aid office. I often have to take shots as they come; but this one needed a few more angles.

My best photo, however, was one of the bookstore and its staff member that helped me. It is highly satisfying that I'm learning to improve these shots in such a short time.

I hope that I can rectify this issue with Moodle soon; as my grief is shared by a great many students at this time. Until then, I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be round Linn.

Bookstore Campus Photos

The bookstore has typically been a key part of the experience here at LBCC for just about everyone. Don't take my word for it-just look at our friend; Trent!

Trent just happened to be one of the many helpers that was on hand at the bookstore to suit demands. However; he is the lucky one that was willing to have his photo taken! Generally, I have had my subjects willing to; with only a few exceptions.

Even after the initial mob has died down; the bookstore remains a popular destination. It even has many wares, snacks, and beverages in between studying.

The bookstore is typically open morning to afternoon on weekdays.

If you ever need or want something in a pinch; you just might find it at the bookstore. I'm Steven Pryor, and I will be Round Linn.

Photographer of the Week: Ralph McQuarrie (1923-2012)

 

While not specifically a photographer; the art of Ralph McQuarrie managed to become

iconic as the production design stills of the “Star Wars” saga. Throughout his work; he managed

to help define the distinct visual style of the entire franchise through the many paintings he

made.

There are at least 20 design stills that helped determine the initial look of the first film

before filming even began. Notable ones included concept art of the droids, C3P0 and R2D2

amongst the sands of Tatooine (filmed on location later in Tunisia, Africa). Another key still is

an early concept of Darth Vader overlooking Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia Organa; and Han

Solo; which often got used for book covers as well as early posters. One design that often stood

out was an early lightsaber concept which had them being wielded by the stormtroopers; before

it was decided that they would be weapons unique to the Jedi and Sith.

 

Despite his death in 2012 at age 89; Ralph McQuarrie's concept art remains highly

influential in the franchise. For the new TV series; “Star Wars Rebels,” the animation staff

studied many of his designs to determine the look and feel of the series. JJ Abrams, when he

began filming “Star Wars Episode VII,” decided to limit CGI unless it was absolutely necessary;

in order to capture McQuarrie's touch in the form of physical sets and costumes. Even though

McQuarrie may be gone; his work shall remain strong with the Force...

Finding Financial Aid

Financial aid is among the key processes needed for any student, regardless of income or background.

While it may be time-consuming to continually check in; it does pay off, as the financial aid office does contain many a great individuals and areas around to photograph if they are asked.

Marie helps me out and others at the financial aid office at 8:30A.

It did take some time to find a subject who was willing to be photographed; but I discovered that the staff is actually quite willing to have their picture taken for the most part.

Jani provides a smile and a cup of a refreshing beverage after a long time dealing with financial aid.

This post was much harder to get good shots for; but I ultimately managed to get the last shot I needed faster than you can say "Ralph McQuarrie." A very nice overall shot of the many individuals that are near the office.

Even after the initial two weeks have passed, the financial aid office and surrounding areas remain crowded.

As such, the time around the financial aid office has been less fruitful than I have imagined; but not entirely wasted given the nature of these shots. I'm Steven Pryor, and I'll be Round Linn.

Introduction: A New Year, A New Record

Another year has come for the students of Linn county; and another record has been set for attendance. According to the Albany Democrat-Herald, a record 1,700 students are registered for this fall term.

Library, September 30, After Class

As per usual; the library is crowded with students starting off another term of classes. With more and more students coming all the time, just about everything is backed up for days at first.

Financial aid office, September 30

The financial aid office is typically backed up for quite some time, regardless of progress students have made in getting their processes done. I myself will be making an attempt to check on my progress by the time you see this.

Library, September 30, Alternate Angle

With everything rolling along nicely as of this first week, I welcome you to my new blog for Professor Rob Priewe's Introduction to Photojournalism; JN 134. This is Steven, and I will be Round Linn this term. Take care, everyone.