Prep Time

I am one week away from my second year as the official photographer for Fandom Fest. In 2015 I signed on to work directly for Fandom Fest, as opposed to just covering it for some other reporting outlet. A lot can change in a year. In this case, I went from photographer to taking lead on a full media coverage crew, including live broadcasting. I have been blessed to have worked with some of, if not the best coverage crews in the state. Even more blessed that almost all of them were available and happy to sign on. We are now the official media coverage team, including broadcasting live from the event. While I had a blast photographing Fandom Fest with Harley Morris in 2015. There is an immense comfort level that comes from working with my team. A team I have worked with in one capacity or another for several years. Also having absorbed Harley into the team, as well as new additions of Chelsea Skalski, and my Dad, Lou Tingle. While the people in charge, during some breakdown in good decision making, decided I should be any form of leadership. I have full confidence that my team can do what they need to do without ever hearing any appalling bad ideas I may have on the fly during the con. Poor Jerry, our department head and fearless leader, is in for a noteworthy weekend. Hope to see you next weekend.

Lemonade Stand

I've been blessed with being able to photograph many diverse subjects. One subject which always tugs at your heart is benefit for a kid with cancer. Yesterday I photographed Sam's Lemonade Stand, with Heros For Higher, the local garrison of the 501st, and the Blue Moon Clan of Mandalorian Mercs. Sam, a very brave, selfless little boy held his lemonade stand to raise money for his medical expenses in a battle with cancer. Held at The Nerdy Planet, the event was a great day of fun for everyone. Sam and his brother were adopted into the Blue Moon Clan, by a teary eyed Dar Kyram, leader of the clan.

Sam posing with his favorite hero, The Incredible Hulk

There are many people suffering in this world. Some, like Sam, are fighting battles which are vehemently unfair. Sometimes, all we can do is use the gifts we have to help them and make their lives as enjoyable as possible. Never underestimate the power of a small gesture.

Starting a blog

It would seem, that being a photographer these days, also means being a writer. The large majority of photographers with any form of web presence, has a blog to go with their web site. And that is along with whichever forms of social media the photographer uses. So here I am on a Sunday morning, checking social media, making final design adjustments to my portfolio site, and making a blog. I'm not sure how regular this will be, hopefully weekly. Covering my photography and my personal life.

This week we attended a beautiful wedding, celebrated the 4th of July, finalized the crew for Fandom Fest, and celebrated my good friend, Melissa Majors', birthday with a big surprise party. I have my portfolio site finished and live on the net. And spent a lot of time with my family. To say it's been a great week is an understatement. Despite it shaping up to be quite busy, July is going to be great month. Ending with one of my closest friends getting married.

www.bobbytingle.com