Sidewalks Chalk

Calvin Finley– Fine Art Photographer.

I did several shoots with this innovative cutting edge photographer. We were united when I was in grad school for Dance at Temple University in the 1990’s. There was a posting for a photo shoot for dancers with strong bodies called a go-see.  I had my 4-year-old son Jordan in tow as it was snowing that day. I believe it was Sunday and got to Temple University late.  Calvin’s assistant Sally said, “So sorry, we do not have any more film left.” I replied, “Oh OK I understand.”  I proceeded to get changed in the bathroom on the 2nd floor of Pearson Hall.  Sally came in, observed my somewhat naked physique and said, ” I am going to get more film, I will take Jordan with me please stay.” Oh OK. Calvin and I did two rolls of 35 millimeter film (no digital) and got two black and white prints from that shoot. That was very unusual. But Calvin and I clicked as I was a linear choreographer/dancer.  We were both into the angles of images and Calvin’s lighting technique was very unique. My fine art photography career as a model had begun.  What a wonderful journey it was.

I believe as a person you must constantly reinvent yourself. When opportunity knocks, never be afraid to open the door.

My photos made the Cooperate Gallery of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

The last shoot we did live at the International Photographers Exhibition at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. I trained for six months for that gig as I was a model. I literally was jumping out of my skin, very nervous.  But I have been to larger stages as a professional dancer. Calvin explained how he lights me as I posed. It was the last professional gig as I was in my 40’s.  Calvin is not only a photographer but an amazing person.

Calvin came to my home yesterday and brought prints that I received for doing the shoots in the 1990’s.  Calvin surprised me and gave me many more prints than I was owed. One below, well, I became very emotional and cried, and praised God as I have never seen it before. Calvin asked me if I could dive. Of course as I was a Philly little girl and went to the local rec center to swim.  There wasn’t anyone in my neighborhood that could have a pool. We had cement 2 ft by 4 ft concrete yards.  Also, I became  a Physical Education teacher at Temple University and taught in the Philly school system for a couple of years.  It was a four-hour shoot in a 50 degree outdoor pool. Calvin was in an Oxygen tank  with camera below at the surface of the pool.  I dove into the pool, hit bottom, arched up with a chiffon scarf.  Calvin capture only one photo worth printing.  It is below.

I was so elated I went to my gym and brought the print. I went up to Chris, manager and also displayed it many other members. They were very impressed. Yes, I was that happy.

I now have to get them framed and lights above the photos.

God sent Calvin yesterday. God sees and hears everything.

Thank you Calvin.  Praise the Lord.

PS. Calvin, I forgot to ask you what you named this Photo below?

PhotoPlus Expo will be held Oct. 23-26, 2013 at the Javits Center in New York City.

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