Salon de Maria Blog

I've lived in San Diego for fifteen years, and although I do love this city, there another city that's at the top of the list of favorite cities in California...

San Francisco...

Call me weird if you want, but I love San Francisco's cool, overcast weather!  I love walking through China Town and finding bargains...and I love hanging out in Union Square - especially the multi-level Borders bookstore.

Here is a mosaic of pictures I took during a recent trip to the city...

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The last time I voted in a U.S. election was back in 1992 when Bill Clinton won the presidency.  I remember that day because I had just turned 18 that year and was very excited about being able to vote ;)

I failed to vote in elections following that year because I for whatever reason I didn't feel very inspired to vote.  Until now.  In the most historic election in U.S. history, I voted because I was full of hope.  I was inspired!  For the first time in 16 years I felt that my vote would count.  I wanted to put out those good vibes.  For the first time in weeks I actually got up early (7:30 a.m. is early for me!) to go vote. 

Oh, change is all good!

To document this historic day, I took a few pictures...

It's been awhile since I've stepped into a Starbucks, but I received an email from them saying that they were giving away free cups of coffee to people who voted.  Even though I've been trying to cut down on coffee, I couldn't resist.  This Starbucks in Lemon Grove, CA was busier than usual...



I picked up this little "newspaper" called GOOD, a website and magazine doing good things...



It was a rainy day on election day...The first rainy day in San Diego in months...

And yes, I wore my "I Voted!" sticker all day...

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I was at a fashion event the other night and there was a great deal of press there with their fancy cameras and I really, really want one of those cameras!  As much as I love painting, I think I love taking photos more.  I have tons of folders full of photos on my computer and I've been thinking of different ways that I may be able to make money with them. 

I've been hearing about photographers making money through stock photography companies that sell photos.  If you're a blogger or online business owner, these are great places to find royalty-free stock photos for your blog or website.  One company that I know of where you can sell and/or buy images is 123rf.  They also have a collection of free images as well.  Right now the company is having the 123RF Search and Win contest where you can win a Wacom Bamboo tablet and credits for photos.  You may recall that I bought this tablet awhile back and I'm having so much fun with it!

I'm still amazed at all the things you can do with Wacom tablet.  Wacom Bamboo recently had a contest on Facebook where artists were able to showcase their talent.  Check out these works of art that were created with the tablet...

Click here to see the creative process of this ocean picture...

Click here to see the creative process of this art piece...

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The flower is the poetry of reproduction.  It is an example of the eternal seductiveness of life.  ~Jean Giraudoux

I find much inspiration in taking closeup photos of flowers.  Sometimes I feel like I'm channeling Georgia O'Keefe, the famous artist who was known for her paintings of flowers.  I think it started when I did an interpretation of one of O'Keefe's paintings for a drawing class in college. 

Another reason why I'm so fascinated with flowers is because they have so many things to teach us about life.  For instance, every flower is unique in its own way - as we are - and yet they are all beautiful...every single one of them.  There is no such thing as the "perfect" flower because in essence, they are all perfect. 

Pictured here are just a few of my latest additions to my flower photo collection...

Buy flower photo prints at my online shop!

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Ok, so one project down. 99 more to go!

After looking at this mosaic, I realized - I mean really realized - just how abundant my life is! The vibrant colors...the gorgeous scenery in San Diego...I'm very grateful for eyes so that I can see all these wonderful things.

Read more about my abundant life over at The Good Life.

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I must admit that I engage in mindless TV watching at times and one of the shows I've watched is The Girls Next Door featuring Hugh Hefner and his lovely ladies.  From a psychological and moral perspective I find it interesting to watch because I wonder what the attraction is to being a Playboy Playmate.  People judge these women for taking off their clothes for money, but you have to wonder if it's any different from a woman taking off her clothes to pose for a painting or drawing.  In a drawing class I took in college my professor hired a nude model and we had to sketch out a drawing of her.  Nobody seemed to object.

Anyways, during a recent The Girls Next Door episode, the girls visited Alaska where Hefner's girlfriend Holly Madison is from.  After seeing all the beautiful Alaskan scenery, I started thinking about possibly going on an Alaska cruise tour.

Here are some beautiful photos of Alaska that I came across at Flickr... 

Photo Credit: LizMarie


Photo Credit: Shellie Raney

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Continue reading "Lovin' the New Digital Camera..." »

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And the quote I'd like to share comes from Heidi Klum. Definitely some food for thought:

"Success is...to be happy in life"

Shopping for gifts? Buy artsy gifts at my CafePress store or visit my greeting card shop for Christmas cards!

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Question:  What's the one thing every blogger should carry with them at all times? 

Answer:  A camera!

This is one of the tools I recommend every blogger should have.  You just never know when you'll come across an event or incident worth blogging about and adding a picture adds more interest to each post.  Here's a great page with tutorials on how to add photos to your blog.

Right now I'm using an old Sony Cybershot, but I'm ready to go big-time!  I want to start selling some of my photography, so my pictures need to be crisp, clear and very professional looking...I've been browsing around the ShopNBC website because I know that you can buy electronics and high-end items through their "value pays", meaning I can buy something and pay in installments. 

I currently have my eye on this Canon PowerShot A650 IS 12.1MP Digital Camera.  Oh, yes, that's the dream camera and I'm adding it to the Christmas gift wishlist ;)

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I believe that every artist should take time out to explore and see other beautiful sights.  As for me, well, I’ve been away in Chicago all last week and I’m just now able to recover from my travels!  I took so many photos, a few of them I’ve posted here.  These are only three of 100+ photos I took of the beautiful city of Chicago.  It was my first time visiting and I was in awe of all the tall buildings and the architecture - absolutely stunning!  I don’t know what it is about tall buildings that catches my eye…perhaps it’s the linear lines. 

My first day there my friend Karyn and I visited the Art Institue of Chicago.  We probably only saw about ¼ of the museum before my feet started giving out.  The place is just way too big and there is soo much to see!  I was quite fascinated with the French art of the 1700’s because it seemed like the artists were either very perverted or women back then just felt that showing their breasts was the in thing to do. 

Anyways, I will be posting most of the pictures over at my Flickr album within the next few days…stay tuned! 

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Photoshop Elements is my new best friend!  I’ve been discovering new ways to digitally alter photos.  On my daily walk with the dog, I found these little things that fell from a tree.  I have no idea what they are, but they have an interesting shape. 

I took a picture with my digital camera.  This is the original…

Very boring and dark, right?

In Photoshop Elements the first thing I did was rotate the image 90 degress. ("Image">>"Rotate">>"90 degrees left")  Next I lightened the photo (“Enhance”>>“Adjust Lighting”>>“Brightness/Contrast”)  Then I went to the “Filter”>>“Artistic”>>then chose the “Poster Edges” option.  Voila!  Something totally different in less than five minutes…

I printed it out and may add it to the new painting that I’m working on…
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I was browsing some photography websites tonight and came upon the Edwardian Delights website.  These vintage postcards of women caught my attention…and I thought I’d share one in particular - just for fun and giggles.  What this lady needed was a San Jose laser hair removal specialist ;)  

I wonder if people back then found underarm hair to be ok to photograph?  Or maybe it’s just a shadow?  If I was the photographer, I would have probably just had her keep her arms down…

For great photography tips, check out Digital Photo School.  I also discovered these groovy (aka "awesome" or "off the hook") Photoshop video tutorials over at Luv2Help.

I use Photoshop Elements which is great for those just starting out, plus it's much cheaper than regular Photoshop!  Too bad they didn't have Photoshop back in the days, huh?

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I think it’s so important for people to discover their own creativity - after all, we are all creative individuals.  Every time you have an idea you’re creating, right? 

As for me, I haven’t been feeling the full creative energy that I’ve been craving for.  Perhaps it is from writing all day every day.  My writing mojo could be running on empty.  However, the cure for that was to take a walk first thing today instead of hitting the keyboard ;)

I came away with some gorgeous shots from the garden and the neighbors’ gardens.  It’s something about looking at nature that is truly inspiring.  The flowers - especially the yellow daisies - are so colorful and full of energy.  It’s funny, I’ve noticed that whenever I take pictures of flowers, they always start dancing in the wind - like they’re so happy to get the attention and having their picture taken!!  Check out all of the individual photos at my Flickr album.

What is your creative passion? Have you discovered it yet?  What kinds of things do you do to get inspiration and creative energy? 

One book that has helped me discover my creative side is The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron.  This book will definitely challenge your beliefs and attitudes toward the creative process. 

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As you may well know, one of my hobbies is photography.  My favorite subjects are things we find in nature…flowers, trees, landscapes, leaves, etc.  However, I do find beauty in just about anything.  Inspiration is constantly out there and sometimes it comes when you least expect it. 

One website where I have found inspiration is Mark Oristano’s photography website.  Mark is a Dallas photographer who has been blessed to be able to combine two of his life’s passions - acting and photography - into a business that he loves.  I always say that you should do what you love! 

Mark does portraits for actors, executives and he even offers family photography.  His portrait studio is based in Dallas, Texas.  If you ever need a photographer in Dallas or a headshot in Dallas, Mark Oristano is your man!  Now through the end of May 2007 you can get two 5 x 7 prints for free…

Taking good pictures of people is something that I’m currently working on.  I like going into public places to take pictures of groups of people.  One tip I have for those of you who like doing this as well - especially if you take a clear shot of a person’s face - ask permission from that person!  Would you like it if someone was making money off of your face?  

Have a photography tip to share?  Email your tips to maria [at] salondemaria.info and I will post your tip and link to your blog or website in an upcoming post! 

**Sponsored Post

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There's nothing like spending some time in Balboa Park here in San Diego.  I took a stroll through the park during spring break and the place was bursting with energy...

 Here is a view as you walk down the main pathway. On both sides are various museums...

 

 

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In the world of business they say that you should find a niche and with so many websites popping up all over the place, I think this is a great opportunity for photographers to cash in.  As a problogger, I love to use images in my blog posts.  I take advantage of websites like MorgueFile because it offers royalty-free images.  Photographers can upload their pictures and get more exposure.  I personally use Flickr to upload my photography for the world to see.  

Well, back to finding a niche...if you’re a photographer and haven’t used the internet to sell your work, what are you waiting for?  There are so many businesses looking for clipart and photographs to use on their website - from real estate agents to rhinoplasty surgeons.  Even fashion has become a very popular niche.  This photo here is the Coach Store in San Francisco which I took when I visited last December. 

One website that I know of where you can sell your photos is iStockphoto.com.  Becoming a member is free and you can also purchase photos at some great prices.  

Here's a great resource:  Marketing for Photographers and Photography has some articles on photography niches...

Another resource:  Profitable Photography in Digital Age: Strategies for Success

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Just had to share this picture of my best friend’s dog, Milo, who I have grown very fond of ;)  It’s an adorable picture and I caught it right when the tip of his tongue had hit his nose!  Funny ;)  Now, if I can get him some dog training so he can do some other funny poses for me...

I’ve been playing around with the black and white photography and actually love it more than color photography.  The other picture here are some roses that I bought for the kitchen table.  Sure, colorful roses are fine, but it’s just something about black and white.  I just like the contrast, perhaps.

For another great resource for photography visit Darren Rowse’s digital Photography School blog...

**Sponsored post

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A couple weeks ago I went to the San Diego Auto Show to check out my dream car, the Audi A8.  With digital camera in tote, I was ready to get as many shots as I could of the car....Check out the photos of the Audi A8.

As my boyfriend and I were checking out the collector’s cars including a Bentley and some other fancy cars I can’t remember the names of, I noticed all these guys with their big cameras taking pictures of these cars.  I was enamoring their big, fancy cameras and wishing I could have a camera like that to take photos with.  No doubt that these guys were professionals who probably sell these photos online or to exotic car dealers. 

For those of you who like taking pictures of cars, I came across some resources and tips to help you out:

• Photographing Classic Cars
• How to Photograph Car Shows

Books available at Amazon.com:
How to Photograph Cars by James Mann
How to Photograph Cars: An Enthusiast's Guide to Equipment and Techniques by Tony Baker
 

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Off into the blogosphere I went today to find other San Diego artists...I browsed around the San Diego Bloggers website and found the San Diego Daily Photo blog. Felicia posted a few photos of clouds and for those of you who know me, you know my love for taking cloud photos (just browse my "Clouds" photo set at my Flickr album).

Speaking of photos...Here’s a black and white I took a few weeks ago when I was flying back into San Diego from my San Francisco trip. I love that my digital camera has a black and white option!

The San Diego Daily Photo blog is part of a network called the Daily City Photo Blog. If you love taking photos around your city, you may want to consider joining their community of photographers! 

On a random note, for those of you into celebrity pictures, I came across this blog too...Yeah, it’s a guilty pleasure. Sometimes I just have to see what Paris Hilton is lookin’ like these days. I can be random at times

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I love going to Balboa Park on Free Tuesdays. Every Tuesday some of the museums have free admission and my favorite museums to visit are The Museum of Photographic Arts and the Museum of Art.

However, today I’m not able to make it down to Balboa Park, so instead I wandered around the blogosphere to find other interesting art bloggers. Via the Art News Blog I came across Art & Perception which has fascinating thoughts and pictures from different artists.

There’s a post about being an artist and having a “day job”. One of the day jobs I had in the past was working in the kids’ shoe department at Nordstrom. I love kids and I took the job because I knew it paid well, but boy was it exhausting! Kids can be quite particular about the shoes they wear ;)

Anyways, fast forward to now and I’m doing everything that I love. Making jewelry and writing are my passions and fortunately I’m making enough money to live comfortably! A dream come true...What about you?

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I've been taking quite a few pictures this past month - which I need to go ahead and upload to my Flickr photo album...I'll have those ready sometime this week.  However, I was able to upload some pictures taken by my four-year-old God-daughter, Emma.  I gave her free reign on the digital camera while we were at the park one day.  It was really interesting to see some of the pictures that she took.  She is quite the artist - this I do know.  I was impressed by the compositions that turned out. 

Pictured here is the park where we hung out which is down the street from where we live...

Check out more of her pictures here...

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Maria, oh, Maria, where for art thou?

I am here!

Yes, folks I’m back ;) I know, I’ve probably let you down by not honoring my commitment to post often. I take full responsibility and have nobody else to blame but me....

With that said, I’m back in creative action and have been taking pictures. Pictured here is a gorgeous sunset here in San Diego - my little piece of heaven on earth. More pictures will be added soon to my flickr album.

This weekend called for just a little rest and relaxation, so I took time off from blogging yesterday and ventured into the other creative endeavors in my life - mainly taking pictures of my jewelry and playing around with the Photoshop Elements that I bought a couple months ago. I’ve always wondered how other jewelry artists get their pictures to look so professional using Photoshop and the answer came through Crafty Like a Fox. At first I thought that the process was too tedious, but with a little practice I’m getting a little faster at it - and yes, it is worth it! Check out the new jewelry listings I have at Etsy...

Now I just need to work on updating my website...Part of me is saying to heck with it and just hire someone to do it for me, but I tend to have a hard time giving up creative control to someone else. Plus, I really do like making websites when I have the time to devote to them.

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I made a "date" with myself yesterday and visited Balboa Park.  Nestled in the north-east corned of downtown San Diego, Balboa Park is home to a myriad of museums, artist studios (Spanish Village), and the famous San Diego Zoo.

I found much inspiration in the architecture of the buildings and enjoyed the colorful flowers, lily pads, and coi fish.  Sometimes you'll see artists out drawing and painting in the park, but on this particular day it was pretty quiet.

On Tuesdays some of the museums are free, so I visited the Museum of Photographic Arts wherein is the current exhibit, "Breaking the Frame: Pioneering Women in Photojournalism".  I have much respect for these women who often leave the confines of their comfort zones to travel and capture the lives of others.  Some of their photographs were very heartbreaking and few times tears welled up in my eyes.  For instance, there was a photograph of a Muslim women praying with her little boy about three years old standing up beside her looking into the distance.  You can see the sadness and anguish experienced by the war that this toddler is facing - something a boy so young shouldn't be witnessing. 

What I like about photojournalism is the photographer's ability to tell the truth through pictures.  They often show what traditional media is not showing.  They tell stories that you can't get anywhere else. 

For more pictures of Balboa Park, visit my Flickr photo album...

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A great deal of time was spent today building a homemade light box to take better pictures of my jewelry to add to the website. 

Pictured here is one of my newer pieces that will be posted to the website in the next day or two.  However, I may just submit them to my auction booth and start all the auctions at $0.99.  Still debating! 

I had a grand ole time taking pictures of my jewelry.  Now I'm going to start playing around with the photo software....Be on the lookout for new jewelry on the website soon!

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As a writer and an artist, it can be quite challenging to find a balance between doing both.  For me, I'm beginning to find a writing rhythm and my thoughts come out more freely when I focus on writing for a set amount of time versus trying to switch off between the two throughout the day.  It used to be that I would write for a little while, then make jewelry for an hour or two, and then go back to writing at night.  However, lately it seems that I've been doing writing more than anything. 

I did make it over to Alotta Jewelry the other day to buy a few beads and some sterling silver.  Even though I did the bead shopping, it still didn't spark any inspiration to make jewelry for some reason.  

My passion for photography is growing and I'm having a blast taking pictures of nature during my travels around town.  I've created a couple "albums" over at Flickr.  I've also discovered a great photography tutorial and tips website called "Digital Photography School".  

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I've been in more of a picture taking mood than anything these days.  I didn't quite get around to making jewelry or painting this weekend, but basked in the sunshine instead :)  However, I did do some doodling, which I wanted to share here, but my scanner is on the fritz...quite a moody beast, I must say!

Anyhow, I'm really loving spring because of all the flowers that are coming out to play.  Thank Goodness for my digital camera...

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I've always been in love with the color purple...ever since I was a little girl.  On my way to the post office the other day I had to stop and take a picture of these flowers.  The color is so refreshing and peaceful to me.  The colors certainly inspired a few jewelry pieces in the same color, which I'll post as soon as I take the pictures.

I've been researching techniques on taking photos of jewelry.  I want people to really see how beautiful the pieces are....

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Well, the weather seems to getting pretty warm here in San Diego, so I thought I'd walk to the bookstore today and on the way capture the signs of spring!  I saw these flowers in the front of a shopping center and they were calling me to take a picture of them...so here I share with you!  Wish you were here :)

And for a new addition to the jewelry collection.  This is a stark contrast from the picture above, but it seems like the fashion colors for this spring are black and white.  So in the spirit of art and fashion, I present this black three-stranded bracelet which is available at a special introductory price of $15! This one is made of hematite, glass beads, and quartz.

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I celebrate my upteenth birthday today!  And of course, I celebrated with a chocolate birthday cake - my favorite :)  Thanks, Cruz Family!

We also celebrate the first days of spring.  Down here in San Diego it's been quite warm, so I've been out and about taking pictures in my travels around town. 

I say goodbye to winter here with a picture of these colorful leaves....

And say "Hello!" to this cute three-stranded pink and purple bracelet!

A great spring accessory :)

I'll have this bracelet available soon on my website!

Subscribe to receive updates and notices of sales on my art and jewelry...

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I wasn't quite sure whether or not I should start another blog being that I have so many blogs right now to keep up with, but somehow I feel the need to do an art and jewelry blog.  In the long run I think it will be beneficial for me and for you, my friend, customer, and reader, to be able to track my growth as an artist. 

With that said, it's been quite rainy here in San Diego and has made for some great photographs of clouds and blue skies in between the rainy days.  Here's a view of the sky from beautiful La Jolla, California.

It's also been a great week for making jewelry as well.  This is a fun retro-geometric-looking piece in my favorite color combinations of brown and blue. 

You can check out the details of this necklace in the new necklace studio of my website.

Well, it's 2 a.m. and it's been a long day of writing!  Time to catch some z's :)

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