Hooksett | The SMUGS Blog

SMUGs are looking for speakers!

December 16, 2011 5 comments

The SmugMug User Groups (SMUGs) are putting out a call for speakers for our 2012 monthly speakers series.

A SMUG is a place where you can learn, teach and meet up with other photographers who share your passion. It’s also how we can tell you what’s happening in our world and discover what’s happening in yours. SMUGs are a great way to connect with other photographers and add a few weapons to your creative arsenal. There are over 90 SMUGs worldwide. Rain or shine, it’s always a great idea to come to your SMUG’s monthly meetings. This way, you have a great collection of photos in every season!

We are looking for presenters that can speak about various photography related topics. Examples: Business topics, software, lighting, fusion, camera usage, portraits, photojournalism, sports, nature/landscape, commercial, boudoir, sports and weddings.

All types of photographers are welcome to present.

If you are interested in speaking, please send a short bio and course description and let us know why you would be great for our groups. We really want people with something interesting to say so let us know why this is you. These presentations are not sales-oriented so while you are more then welcome to mention products and workshops at the end, the bulk of the presentation should be on the chosen topic.

This is a great opportunity for anyone to get in front of a large, active group of photographers.

You will also receive a free SmugMug Pro account as a special thanks from SmugMug (for as long as you are a speaker).

To submit your presentation or if you have questions, please email Rocky Bowles at rocky@smugmug.com. Once we receive your email, we will send out a manual that explains all of the details for speaking at SMUGs.

All submissions will be kept on file and we’ll contact you if we choose your presentation.

SmugMug cannot thank you enough for your participation in becoming a speaker. It is the people like you that give SMUGs such a great reputation!

The Hooksett SMUG “Got the Shot” with Ricky Libby!

July 11, 2011 Leave a comment

“That passion inside is a big part of what’s going to keep us all going forward as we pursue our love of taking pictures.”

Rick Libby, or “Moose Man,” spoke with us at the Hooksett, NH SMUG as our first guest speaker! He discussed both his journey as a photographer and some of his photographic journeys. The underlying message Rick “Moose Man” Libby conveyed was what it takes to get the shot.

Rick Libby doesn’t take photo walks; he escapes into nature for many days at a time, because that is the dedication it takes to take moose photos. “Being out in the wilderness,” he explains, “everything slows down for reasons of safety and preparation.” Armed with patience, and having a deep understanding of his subject, Rick Libby is able to be the Moose.

For example, he explains how he first surveys the area from a kayak. He listens for key sounds, such as dripping water or splashing. This is a sign that a moose could be nearby feeding in the water! He also keeps his paddle perched across his kayak, instead of leaving it suspended in the water, to reduce the risk of unnatural noise.

The “Moose Man” also explained the importance of keeping a journal. He uses it to identify moose and learn about his subjects. Through detailed notes, he is able to point out specific moose he has photographed over the period of years and tell their stories.

This was a great meeting to attend, because it opened the eyes of those who do not usually photograph wildlife. It’s always nice to learn about new types of photography, which is why I love attending my SMUG!

Submitted by the Hooksett, NH Scribe: Evan Wilson