while i'm gone for the weekend: a modern bird studios/shutter sisters giveaway!
Today I'm going to meet a bevy of life-list-lovin' bloggers in California, for a quick getaway. I won't be returning until Tuesday (when I hope to share with you some pictures of distinctly Californian things, like redwood forests and, you know, wine), but while I'm gone, I thought I'd offer one of the best giveaways I've ever done on this site, consisting of, not one, but two ridiculously cool items.
Seriously.
First: some time ago, I was contacted by Modern Bird Studios, who kindly invited me to be a featured photographer on their site. Modern Bird Studios does this very cool thing -- you send them a photograph and favourite colour combinations, and they take your shots and turn them into original modern art. Since I love photography and I love art, I happily agreed. (You can read my interview here.)
Megan and Gregg are so gracious, in exchange for doing the interview, they offered to turn one of my photographs into one of their cool modern art pieces. I was really excited, because in addition to Marcus and I collecting art, we've also started collecting art for Alex, so that when she moves out as an adult, she'll have her own collection started for her first place. For this reason, I thought that I'd choose a photograph that she might think is fun when she's an adult.
So. Remember this photograph?
Check out the crazy-cool that Modern Bird Studios did with it:
Isn't it awesome? And this is some substantial art, too -- I was really shocked at the heft and quality of it when it finally arrived. Really beautiful work, and it's currently in a place of honour in my little home studio, being saved and enjoyed until Alex is ready for it.
Even better, Modern Bird Studios offered a $250 gift certificate (exclusive of shipping) to one of my readers, for one of you to turn one of your own favourite photographs into modern art. So I have that to give away, which is pretty fantastic.
But that's not all.
About a week ago, the brand new Shutter Sisters book, Expressive Photography: A Shutter Sisters' Guide to Shooting from the Heart arrived in my mailbox. And even though I am admittedly one of the contributors, having written one of the chapters (and other chapters were written by some of your favourite online photographers), I have to say: this is a beautiful book. Unlike most photography books, this guide isn't just all the technical mumbo-jumbo on how to use your camera: this book also gives you tips on how to approach your subjects, from everything to photographing children, to nature, to horizons to tables, for goodness' sake. I'm going to cherish my copy for a long time.
And I have one extra copy.
So! Here's what we're going to do: simply leave a comment below before midnight Monday night/Tuesday morning (September 21st), and I'll pick a commenter at random to receive both the $250 gift certificate (shipping costs will apply) for Modern Bird Studios AND a copy of Expressive Photography (which I'll happily sign and ship to you myself). That's right, both. You can even keep one bit of fabulousness for yourself, and give one to someone else, making you the best friend ever. Also? This contest is open to everyone, wherever in the world you may be. Which is all kinds of awesome.
I arrive back home late on Monday night, so I'll announce the winner in my Tuesday post. Remember, just leave a comment -- it could about anything, like your favourite colour, what you're planning on doing this weekend, the most disgusting thing you've ever eaten, or even your personal opinion on whether chocolate is actually enhanced by nuts, or if the nuts detract from chocolatey-goodness. Whatever works.
I can't wait to read your comments.
And with that, have a great weekend, everyone. See you when I get back.
Song: American Boy by Estelle