If you'll have me...
 

...then I guess I'll join in on the fun. :D

I'm just starting out, but I have made a few posts here so I feel that I should introduce myself. Mostly I just lurk around and absorb information from the talented artists that are willing to part with their secrets. ;) Every now and then you'll see a post from me, but I haven't been brave enough (and I don't have a digital camera) to post a painting for critique.

I've lived in Iowa all my life (all 24 years of it, that is). I've taken a few little art classes at the community college and the art guild in the city where I used to live. I even got to go to the British Isles for a couple weeks for an art class. We went to England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales and toured their art museums and castles. It was wonderful! So, other than some high school, community college and small art guild classes I am self-taught.

I don't have much time to devote to becoming a serious artist right now, but I'm trying to squeeze it in as much as possible. I am quite serious about becoming a professional artist and welcome all the help I can get.

You might not hear much from me right now, but I'm here! I'm sure I'll be posting some pics of artwork of my daughter, who is currently 9 months old and is a beautiful model for her mommy. Keep up the great work everyone; it gives me something to aspire to!

Susan

Welcome Susan!

Long ago when my children were small, I took lots of pictures of them and have a wonderful box of memories...but alas, none of them are "paintable" picture resources.

Had I known then to use a single source of light to photograph my children (and NO flash) I would have enough material for many great paintings now. Rats. If I only knew then what I know now...

:oops: Hint. Hint.

You don't need a digital camera. All you need is the ability to scan any normal photograph. Before I got a scanner I was able to take my photo's to Kinko's. You can either use their computer yourself or ask them to scan your pic and send it to you (jpeg format) in an e-mail. Then you've got it! As for the bravery to post, that's another topic.

Its not scanning the photo that is my problem, its getting the photos developed! Right now I have several rolls of undeveloped film sitting around. :sunnysmil

Susan

Well, I for one would love to see some of your work! I am not that brave either, but hey! I have learned alot by posting my stuff! You will too! Plus, you make many friends here, all with the same interests...that is the most important. :-) Get that film developed!! :-)

Hello Susan

Welcome and I agree with the others, but would love to see your work. I am quite new at this forum too but have to say that it is the most wonderful thing to be part of it. I am not camera savvy nor a member of the computer elite and cannot (dare not) critique as great as Steven, Cynthia or Karin nor any of the others, but I certainly enjoy being in their company (even if it is via the internet).

As for the pics, I do just as Mike has suggested. I have an old Canon AE 1 Program 35mm. I photograph my art and then scan the photos and save. As I am sure the others can note, it shows that I am not the best at photographing yet but I try (now for the Bozo Button to wear).

Be brave, we are all here to share; none of us stop learning as life is ever evolving and changing. I thank all of you for sharing your knowledge and wish I had found you years ago.

Bye now and Susan, hang in there.

Patt

Thank you for the warm welcome!
 

I haven't been able to reply lately, been quite busy with my (ugh) retail job. Thank you everyone for welcoming me! I did finally post a critique, although its only a pencil sketch. (I believe I posted it as 'first critique.) It looks quite pale in comparison with everyone else's work, but then I'll always have something to aspire to I guess! :D

I'm only 24, so I've got years to work on it all. I'm just really glad I found this place, it has been such an educational experience as well as an inspiring one. Don't worry, I've been taking lots of pictures of my daughter for future use (although I don't think that my pictures outnumber those taken by her grandma's!).

Susan