The Apprentice...West Ashley

No, I am not the Donald and no, I do not have a 16" wraparound combover that could house a family of chipmunks. I am, however, interested in an apprentice program so I can learn a few things.

As a photographer, your work has to have a "wow" factor or you have to make it "real purdy". I am working on the "real purdy" technique. I use matting and frames  to dress up my photos. Some sizes of pre-cut matting or ready-made frames are available but may be expensive.

If you open a business and purchase a retail license from the State you can buy wholesale. This is the way to go if possible. It is less expensive especially if you cut your own mats and build your own frames.

So, you are probably wondering where the apprentice part comes into focus (a highly technical photography term). As you can imagine, tools and equipment can be fairly expensive. Hopefully, most of it will last a long time and over time you can save a lot. You also don't have long waits. Not only does it require the capital, but it also takes up a fair amount of room. In a perfect world I would cut my own mat and build my own frames.

Since I gave up a job, where I had a steady income to do my photography, income has been a bit thin (not a technical financial term). Add that to being frugal and disliking waste, I have had to watch where the pennies and dollars go.

So, I had this great idea. Why not get someone who has a framing shop or does matting and framing to bring me on as an apprentice. In my case, my definition of an apprentice is someone who gets a few days experience and then bolts. Oops, did I say that out loud.

Another area where I could use some tutoring is learning Photoshop Elements 10.  I bought it thinking, how hard can this be? Well, it be kinda hard. I have a book Photoshop Elements 10 for Dummies. I think I need to wait for the sequel, Photoshop Elements 10 For People Dumber Than a Hammer.

If you want to show a starving artist how to cut mat, frame, use Photoshop or just want to give me your equipment, I am your guy. I guess Apprentice West Ashley isn't as glamorous as the tv version but I am working on it. Call me with your offers.  Oops...gotta run. I forgot to feed the chipmunks in the Donald's "hair masterpiece". 

It's all good.

Michael Kaynard is a local photographer who lives in West Ashley.  His photos can be viewed at http://kaynardphotography.webs.com.  He can also be reached at mkaynard@gmail.com or 843-412-2299.