As the world continues to sink deeper into an economic crisis, with the U.S. government bailing out banking monoliths and oil prices struggling to stabilize, the challenge to survive in business continues for everyone. At the same time, Americans are preparing for a presidential election, which is sure to have a profound impact on our collective future, whatever the outcome.
In this tempestuous atmosphere, the photography world recently reconvened for the biennial Photokina exposition in Germany to discuss the latest groundbreaking advances in photo technology. Most notably, the introduction of high-definition video capability in the high-end still-camera market is empowering photographers to express themselves creatively, conveniently and affordably in the motion-picture medium. This issue’s expanded Electronic Market and On the Market sections include a sampling of many of the products that were introduced and that received attention at the show.
Our studio photography theme in this edition of PhotoMedia is explored through the work of two of the more successful photographers working in the industry today: San Francisco’s Stan Musilek and Los Angeles’ Kate Turning. Each has managed to carve out a niche in a competitive market with creative and original work that is sure to impress.
Additionally, we are pleased to present our 12th annual PhotoMedia Photography Person of the Year, Julia Dean. Her establishment of the highly popular Julia Dean Photo Workshops in Los Angeles, as well as her individual efforts as a photo instructor throughout the country, illustrate her commitment to photo education. In addition, Dean spearheads photo projects with a socially conscious emphasis, often involving groups of other notable photographers. Her passion and dedication to the industry make her a most worthy addition to our list of honorees.
To fill out this issue’s coverage, we present a selection of winning images from the International Conservation Photography Awards Photo Contest and also offer two perspectives from photo experts about the controversial “orphan works” bill currently being considered by Congress.
Finally, I am delighted to announce that PhotoMedia has been honored once again with the APEX Grand Award (for the sixth consecutive year and seventh overall), as well as another APEX Award of Excellence.
Now more than ever, please let our advertisers know that you noticed their ads in PhotoMedia – our future depends on it. They deserve the utmost appreciation for supporting this publication throughout our history and enabling us to continue bringing you in-depth coverage of the world of photography for free. We welcome your opinions and encourage you to share PhotoMedia with others who love photography.
Happy holidays ahead!
Sincerely,
Gary Halpern, Publisher
