December 2024

“It’s not the camera. It’s the artist behind it.” - Rich Taylor richtaylorphotography.com | FB: richtaylorphotography | IG: richtaylorphoto u s i n g A n L E D s L i m L i g h t t o c r E A t E A m A g i c A L s t o r y Creating this look is simpler than it might seem. All I needed was a single LED light, a large book, an expressive model, and some moderate post-editing skills. I started by selecting an oversized book and taped an LED light to its center using painter’s tape (which was gentle enough not to damage the pages). The LED light emitted a strong beam, so when the model held the book up, I had to be mindful of any ‘hot spots’ or overexposed areas on her face. After taking a shot, I reviewed it and adjusted the positioning of the light to get the perfect balance. My goal was to create a silhouette effect with the front and back of the book in shadow. At the last minute, I decided to switch on the Christmas tree lights in the background for some bokeh. Once everything was in place, I just needed the model to express wonder and amazement, and I captured a few shots. When I was happy with the final image, I moved on to the editing stage. Post-editing this kind of photo requires both time and patience. In Photoshop, I began by adding a Levels Adjustment Layer and fine-tuned it to my preference. Then, I added a Vibrance Adjustment Layer to boost the colors, followed by a Selective Color Adjustment Layer for more precise control. To finish, I added a Photo Filter Adjustment Layer with a warm filter to give the image a glowing feel. Once the colors were right, I flattened the layers. Next, I added dodge and burn to intensify the contrast between the highlights and shadows. I paid special attention to enhancing the glow from the book (dodging) and darkening the areas around the model (burning). To create the illusion of sparkles and dust drifting out of the book, I used brushes from a set I purchased called “Fairy Land Brushes.” On a new layer, I chose my color and carefully brushed in the sparkles and dust, adjusting the brush sizes, opacity, and spacing for a realistic effect. I also added a little sparkle in her eyes for dramatic catchlights. Once I was happy with the result, I flattened the image, and voilà—magic! If you don’t have access to specific sparkle brushes, you can achieve a similar effect by using a soft round brush. Just create a new layer, draw different-sized circles at varying opacities, and overlap some for an added touch of depth. So see more, please visit www.richtaylorphotography.com Camera : Nikon D750 | Lens : Sigma 85MM 1.4 | Light : Promaster LED-320SS Plus Super Slim | C amera settings : 1/125 sec at f / 2.0, ISO 100 The expecTaTions Theory by rich Taylor coaching What to do when someone says, “You expect too much within this relationship” Throughout my life, I’ve often been told that my expectations of others—particularly in friendships—were too high. But over time, I realized the issue wasn’t my expectations within the friendship; it was my choice of friends. This revelation became especially clear when a close friend—a person I regarded as a brother—shared this insight with me. His words sparked a profound journey of introspection and self-discovery, leading me to deeply examine the role expectations play in relationships. navigaTing expecTaTions in relaTionships Relationships shape the standards we set for ourselves and others. When someone suggests that our expectations are “too high,” it’s an opportunity for real introspection. The key question to ask yourself is: Are my expectations reasonable, or are they unattainable? Honest self-reflection can help clarify whether your expectations align with the dynamics of the relationship or require adjustment. If your expectations are unrealistic, it’s an opportunity for personal growth. Being honest with yourself is essential— without it, unproductive patterns in your relationships are likely to persist. A skilled life coach can help you identify and adjust your expectations to better align with reality. This shift can lead to healthier, more effortless, and stronger connections with others. However, if you determine that your expectations are reasonable, the focus turns to the other person. It’s important to consider two key factors: are they genuinely unable to meet these expectations due to limitations, or are they unwilling to put in the effort? Distinguishing between inability and unwillingness is crucial for navigating and understanding the dynamics of any relationship. Some people genuinely want to meet your reasonable expectations but are held back by personal limitations. In such situations, empathy and open communication can foster mutual understanding and help establish common ground that honors both parties’ boundaries and capacities. Patience is essential when working with someone whose limitations are beyond their control, as it’s unfair to fault them for simply being who they are. However, if you find yourself continuously struggling despite your efforts, it may be time to reflect on whether this connection is truly right for you. On the other hand, if someone consistently demonstrates a lack of effort or willful disregard for meeting reasonable expectations, it may indicate a deeper issue. Setting boundaries is essential to protect your emotional well-being. However, if the pattern persists despite attempts to address it, it’s important to reassess the relationship and consider whether it aligns with your emotional needs and values. Remember, walking away isn’t a sign of failure but an act of self-preservation and prioritizing your values.. sTriking a balance Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, understanding, and realistic alignment of expectations. They thrive on open communication, empathy, and a willingness to adapt while remaining true to your personal values. This often requires self-reflection to identify and address any unhealthy expectations or desires you may hold. If you discover such patterns, it’s an opportunity for personal growth. However, if your expectations are healthy, it’s not about lowering your standards to suit others but about fostering a balanced dynamic where both parties feel valued, understood, and respected. By embracing introspection, we gain clarity about our relationships and ourselves. This clarity allows us to foster deeper, healthier connections and grow as individuals. My hope in sharing this insight is to encourage you to explore your own expectations and approach relationships with a sense of balance, communication, and authenticity. if you’d like to gain deeper insights into expectations or need guidance navigating challenging relationships, i’d love to help. contact me for a complimentary session to discuss your situation and the goals you want to achieve. Fb: @richtaylorcoaching ig: @richtaylorcoaching TT: @richtaylorcoaching www.richtaylorcoaching.com rich@richtaylorcoaching.com (516) 749-9340 “Despite Experiencing Childhood Trauma, A Person Can Still Forge A Path To A Rich, Meaningful, And poWerFUl life.” 22 The Expectations Theory by Rich Taylor Coaching T hroughout my life, I’ve often been told that my expectations of others— particularly in friendships—were too high. But over time, I realized the issue wasn’t my expectations within the friend- ship; it was my choice of friends. 24 How I Got The Shot C reating this look is simpler than it might seem. All I needed was a single LED light, a large book, an expressive model, and some moderate post-editing skills. I started by selecting an oversized book and taped an LED light to its center using painter’s tape... 26 Queensryche Show Review I went to the Queensrÿche concert not knowing what to expect, given that Geoff Tate is no longer the frontman. honestly, who could replace the phenom- enal Geoff Tate? But to my surprise, Todd La Torre absolutely blew me away from the very first note. 28 Behind the Lens: A December to Remember with Ryze-Up Magazine A s the winter season rolls in, Ryze-Up Magazine is turning up the heat with an electrifying photoshoot for the December edition. The vibe? Sophisticated, urban, and effortlessly chic. We got content from a dream team that transformed the iconic Grand Bohemian Hotel in Uptown Charlotte.... I went to the Queensrÿche concert not knowing what to xpect, given that Geoff T te is no longer the frontman. honestly, who could replace the phenomenal Geoff Tate? But to my surprise, Todd La Torre absolutely blew me away from the very first note. I knew he could hit the high notes, but I wasn’t prepared for the sheer vocal powerhouse he brought to the stage. his control, precision, and energy were next-level. Michael Wilton’s guitar playing transported me back to when I first saw Queensrÿche at Jones Beach in 1995—just as sharp and mesmerizing as ever. eddi Jackson remains an exceptional talent, and his backing vocals are stellar. The two newer members, Mike stone and casey Grillo, were fantastic additions. The entire band was so tight, and I could feel their camaraderie radiating throughout the performance. While I deeply love and miss the original lineup, everything evolves. Geoff Tate’s current band is phenomenal—I had the pleasure of seeing them in Denver, cO, and they delivered an outstanding performance. It was incredible to journey down memory lane with an amazing setlist that spanned most of the albums. At the same time, th new Queensrÿche lineup left me awestruck. Hearing their first two albums performed live in their entirety was a real treat. As a fan of both eras of Queensrÿche, and now with both bands touring, I feel incredibly fortunate. It’s like having two Christmases with divorced parents. We, the fans get to enjoy the excitement of two incredible concerts!— Geoff Tate’s and QueensrÿCHe’s —and celebrate all that this incredible band has given us. how fortunate are we to be part of this journey that is all Queensrÿche? - rich Taylor EP: QuEEn of thE REich nightRidER BlindEd thE lady WoRE Black thE WaRning: WaRning En foRcE dElivERancE no SanctuaRy nM 156 takE hold of thE flaME BEfoRE thE StoRM child of fiRE RoadS to MadnESS EncoRE: PRoPhEcy EMPiRE EyES of a StRangER TODD LA TOrre eDDIe JAcksOn MIchAeL WILTOn MIke sTOne cAsey GrILLO 3