I look at a lot of photos everyday. We all do, whether we seek them out or not, images are everywhere. It’s easy to get jaded because of that saturation, especially as a frustrated photographer (and trust me, if you’re a photographer and not frustrated, you ain’t trying hard enough).
Lo and behold, I opened up The New York Times Magazine this Sunday, expecting to see some decent celebrity portraiture with, ultimately, little nutritional value. Then, I see this essay on Jeff Bridges by Peter van Agtmael, nine days, nine freaking days, following Lloyd’s son as he navigates the trail leading to a possible Oscar for his film, “Crazy Heart.” That’s cool enough, no one does picture stories like this anymore. But, but then I see this image or Mr. Bridges. This photograph kicks more photo-ass than any I’ve seen in a long time. This is a Chuck Norris roundhouse. And, it’s real, organic. It’s not a portrait. It’s not staged. It’s not a composite. It’s not yet more Photoshop sleight of hand. Yet, somehow, it has everything. I would have required a diaper had I seen this moment in front of my camera. I applaud Mr. van Agtmael for for keeping his cool and, more so, for his substantial and absorbing work. He pushes light and pixels farther than they probably want to go.
by Mark
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Allow me to introduce the latest addition to our once-quiet and carefree household. Mickie is a schnoodle. Yeah, that’s right, a schnoodle. She’s a schnauzer/poodle mix. Forgoing boring commands like sit or fetch, I’ve already trained her to go straight for the jugular so don’t belittle her or me.
It’s been a couple of decades since I’ve had a puppy and my son is 9 so, naturally, I forgot what a challenge the first few weeks could be like with a very dependent creature. Throw in about 2 feet of snow, 2 kittens and a household that is, shall we say, unaccustomed to the way of the dog and you can easily imagine the sitcomesque possibilities. Some might say we’re about one goldfish short of “Jersey Shore”. Not me, I think it’s 2 goldfish and a rabid hamster until someone gets hurt.
Nevertheless, Mickie is settling in nicely. Our cats, Sueño (aka Clooney) and Miss Mittens the Avenger, who are ridiculously affectionate, have warmed quickly to Mickie. So happy for any kind of attention, Sueño gladly rolls over and allows Mickie to chew on him. If puppies and kittens can get along so well, I have to think there’s hope for us all.
Now that it’s warmed up to 10 degrees, I’m going to Nanook up and go for a walk with Mickie all the while cajoling her to poop or walk in a absurdly sing-song voice and love every minute of it.
BTW, if you’re in the market for a pooch of your own, I highly recommend Mickie’s breeder, eSchnoodles, in Caledonia, Minnesota. Good folk who make good dogs.
by Mark
4 comments
February 20, 2010 - 3:19 am
Mark,
I just stumbled across your work in my search for a wedding “photo-ninja” as you so aptly put it. I love your stuff, and from the associated verbage on your site, I suspect we would get along famously. Thus, I am heartbroken that you’re apparently booked on Oct. 2. Foiled again! Should something change, though , and you miraculously become available, give me a holler. I would love to give you some business. Best wishes, Ann
February 20, 2010 - 3:15 am
Mark, I just stumbled across your work in my search for a wedding “photo-ninja” as you put it. I love your stuff and from the associated verbage on your site, I suspect we would get along famously. Thus, I am heartbroken that you’re apparently booked on Oct. 2. Foiled again! Should something change, though, and you miraculously become available, give me a holler. Best wishes, Ann
February 5, 2010 - 3:04 pm
Adding to the nobility of the breed, the schnoodle once served as the primary source of sled dog power in Northern Minnesota. Giant caravans, hundreds of schnoodles strong, pulling sleds commandeered by voyageurs were regular sights during the French fur trading era two centuries ago.
Yes, you’ve made a fine choice for a dog, Mark. This does not surprise me one bit.
Welcome to the cult of the schnoodle, my friend. It’s warm in here.
January 28, 2010 - 9:19 pm
Dude… I can’t believe you finally posted photos! I actually more shocked at how well they all get along. I’m usually not a sucker for animal photos, but damn, these kids are cute!
by Mark
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