biscuit's space | The blog of photographer Katherine Carver

Jun 17

Have a Lovely Weekend!

What are you up to this weekend? The weather here looks beautiful this weekend! We’re celebrating Father’s Day, attending a neighborhood party, and plan to make it to the pool for some relaxing and reading time! Victory is all ready with her gifts to give to her Daddy on Sunday! We can’t believe that summer officially begins on Monday, and Doug and I are currently working on our ‘Summer Bucket List!’ Hope that you have a great weekend, and here are some fun links from around the web…

Comfort dogs are helping Orlando victims.

The new issue of Four & Sons is now available.

Why you need a true hobby and not just a side-hussle.

Guide for making a gallery wall.

Loving these comfortable shorts.

Love this blog, filled with very interesting content!

Fun mugs! I especially liked this one.

Some fun summer recipes.

How to overcome worry and be a friendlier person.

Are you right-brained or left-brained? (I use both sides almost equally.)

The importance of to-do lists.

“And if you are alive and in relationship, you do vulnerability. If you are alive and in relationship and in business, you do it hourly.” – Brene Brown in a Fast Company article from a few years back.

Finally, my friend’s book just came out this week!

Jun 15

Fostering Creativity

Below are some ways you can foster more creativity into your life, which have helped me when I have felt stuck creatively.

1. Set a Schedule – Setting and sticking to a schedule to work on your creative endeavors is really important. Otherwise, too often, time slips by with little work completed. Take advantage of little bits and chunks of time, even if that is all you are able to work into your schedule. Small, incremental progress adds up over time, and you will be amazed how much you can get done in a small amount of time, if you put your mind to it!

2. Dedicated Work Space – Having a dedicated work space frees you from distractions, while providing a place where you can surround yourself with items that inspire you and make you feel the most comfortable. It also helps to separate work life from personal life, a mix that can often leave some people overwhelmed. Also, don’t be afraid to mix things up every now and then — working from the deck on a nice day can be a refreshing break in the routine, particularly when your creative juices have stalled.

3. Discuss Your Creative Endeavors — Share your work with others that you trust, and talk about what is going on in your work. Having someone/some people to share ideas and discuss hurdles, is vital to keeping an open mind and developing creative solutions.

4. Explore Other Creative Interests – Working everyday on the same project or types of projects can become a drain, at times. It is easy to get stuck in a creative rut and fall into patterns that you may not even realize exist. Exploring other creative interests, can provide you an outlet that is different enough to keep your mind stimulated, while still keeping you thinking about your creative work from a different perspective. Thus, it is a good idea to pursue other creative endeavors that you enjoy.

5. Get Ample Sleep – Sleep deprivation can make it difficult to focus on anything, let alone your creative work. When you are tired, you are not going to have many creative insights; and when your body is not at its best, neither is your mind. Thus, it is important to have ample daily sleep to help you continue to steadily pursue your creative projects.

6. Take Breaks – If you find that you are in the “zone,” and you find yourself working for hours, then embrace it. During these times, you often can produce your best work. However, a couple of regularly scheduled breaks, throughout your work day, can serve as a great way to re-energize. When you get stuck, it is a good idea to take a break, as it forces you to stop and step away and, during these breaks, you are more likely to see the problem you are trying to solve in a new light.

7. Regular Exercise – Daily exercise is a great way to get your creative juices flowing. It provides space and many people devise ideas while they are exercising that they would not otherwise discover. So, if you are stuck in you creative project, go take a walk or run, and you will be likely to solve the problem or road block that you are facing.

Happy creating!

Jun 13

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Perspective on Time

“Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.” — William Penn

Sometimes it feels like I never have enough time to get everything done on my ever growing to do list. I believe one of the reasons we feel like we do not have enough time is we get caught up on what others are doing instead of focusing on what we can actually be doing. Often, we feel rushed, busy, and unaccomplished because of comparison. Comparison is the worst game because nobody wins. I feel better and much more productive when I focus on what I can accomplish versus comparing myself to what others are doing. The lesson to having more time: focus on your goals and dreams!

Additionally, I really like the idea of a “Stop-Doing List,” coined by Jocelyn K. Glei, which has changed my perspective in relation to time. Glei states, “In this Age of Distraction, we’re all dodging and weaving between so much incoming information that what you don’t do on a daily basis has become as important—if not more—as what you do execute on.”

Below are two lists that Glei follows, which also might help you create more time and space in your daily schedule.

Here’s a list of the things I don’t do while working:

I don’t schedule meetings in the morning.

I don’t listen to music or radio that has words.

I don’t look at my email until I’ve done 90 mins of deep-attention work.

I don’t treat emails from people I don’t know as urgent.

I don’t look at social media until the afternoon, and then only on breaks.

I don’t tweet live. (I schedule almost everything in advance.)

I don’t over program my daily schedule so that there is no downtime.

I don’t work more than three hours without a break.

I don’t answer my phone or texts in the morning.

I don’t read the news.

I don’t eat at my desk.

I don’t work past 6:00 p.m.

And here’s a list of things I make sure to do:

I do make my to-do list for tomorrow the night before.

I do focus on deep-attention before hyper-attention work.

I do regularly identify and update my goals for the next 6 months, and the actions I need to take to meet them.

I do always have a variety of projects on my slate so I can shift tasks based on my mood and energy level, while still getting important stuff done.

I do meet (or catch up with) one interesting person a week.

Jun 10

Listening: Podcasts

I enjoy listening to podcasts while I am working. Below is a list of my current favorite podcasts, that you might be interested in checking out!

1. Good Life Project Radio – Good Life Project Radio is hosted by Jonathan Fields. Good Life Project Radio comprises in-depth, unscripted, deeply-inspiring conversations and insights from artists, entrepreneurs, makers, and world-shakers. You can also view Good Life TV here, to watch past interviews.

2. Elise Gets Crafty — The Elise Gets Crafty podcast is hosted by Elise Cripe. The focus of this podcast is discussing creative small business.

3. The Lively Show — The Lively show is hosted by Jess Lively. The Lively show is designed to uplift, inspire, and help you add a little extra intention to your everyday. Episodes relate to various aspects of our lives including possessions, personal habits, relationships, and career.

4. The RobCast — The RobCast is hosted by Rob Bell, a storyteller and former church pastor, who explores the idea that everything is spiritual.

5. Design Matters — Design Matters is hosted by Debbie Millman. In this podcast, Debbie Millman interviews all types of designers, artists, writers, and educators, and the conversations during the interviews are fantastic and very thought-provoking.

6. The Minimalist — At age 30, best friends Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus walked away from their corporate careers, jettisoned most of their material possessions, and started focusing on what’s truly important. In this podcast Joshua and Ryan, known to their millions of readers as “The Minimalists,” discuss living a meaningful life with less stuff.

Happy Friday! Wishing you a great weekend. If the weather holds, we plan to go to the Eastern Shore with our little fur girl!

Jun 7

Prints Matter: Printing Your Images

We live in a digital age, and most people today no longer print their images regularly, but they have thousands of images housed on their digital devices. However, it is really worth printing the images that you like and enjoy, as it brings so much joy! With the amount of images from our cameras and iPhones, computers, and those taken by friends and family, it can be difficult to keep up with all the digital images you have taken. I do my best to stay on top of my images by editing them soon after shooting (and upon receiving images from others); then, I pick my favorites and have them printed: to place in albums; frames for around the house; and frames for our walls.

On my computer, I organize my personal images in main folders and sub folders, by chronological date. You can also organize by the type of event, date, person, etc. Whatever works well for you to keep track of you images.

1. Edit – First, edit your images to your desired look, using Photoshop, Lightroom, and other photo based apps.

2. Back Up – Additionally, I always back up my images in two additional places for safe keeping.

3. Printer – Next, depending upon the cost and quality of printing you prefer, find a printing service you are satisfied with, and then start printing your images in the desired sizes, while keeping in mind: (1) the size of the image file and your desired resolution (the larger the image file, the larger you can print your image at your desired resolution); and (2) how you want to present these images — in a frame, on the wall, in a custom made frame with a mat, etc. This will help you determine what size image you should print, etc. There are many places online where you can have your images printed as well as having archival fine art prints made, which last much longer than a traditional print, if protected and cared for properly.

4. Presentation – Next, find albums (made with acid free paper) and frames that compliment the image(s). If you go the custom frame route, make sure you are using an acid free mat and use a framer who specializes in archival framing of photographs.

5. Frame – Finally, frame those images and place in your desired locations!

If you get into this habit, it is much more manageable than sifting through thousands of images while trying to organize a massive quantity of images at one time. Working a little at a time, is much easier to manage and keep up with.

Importantly, after printing and framing images around your home, you will likely find that your home looks and feels better and, most of all, brings you joy!

Additionally, if you want to easily bring some personal images into your kitchen, I highly recommend the Sticky9 magnets — you can have many images on your fridge, and you can continually update your images using these magnets very easily! We currently have over 100 Sticky9 photo magnets on our fridge! You will never have to worry about images falling off or getting damaged this way!

I also like making yearly calendars and photo books of significant events and of our trips that we take each year, and I recommend using Artifact Uprising.

Happy printing and framing!

*Images are courtesy of Pinterest.

Jun 3

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Photographs: Baby Liam and Family

While we were recently visiting family in Michigan, including meeting our nephew, Liam, I did a photo shoot for my sister, Kassie, to forever capture this special time with her little family. Several of my favorite images are shown below.

Wishing you a great weekend!

Jun 1

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Snapshot: Baby Liam

We recently spent several days in Michigan where we met our sweet and good-looking nephew, Liam! He is simply adorable! He is a really good baby, and Victory loved meeting Liam, too. Victory was very gentle with Liam and, while Liam was nursing, Victory gave Liam multiple licks on his tiny toes and the bottoms of his tiny feet, and Liam did not seem to mind! Victory did really well on this trip and she had a great time at her Grandma and Grandpa’s house and her Autie Kassie’s house! Also, while in downtown Ann Arbor, Victory enjoyed her first ‘pup-cake’ from the Cupcake Station!

My sister, Kassie, is doing well and she is a wonderful mom, very at ease; and Liam loves his Mama very much! While we were visiting, my parents and Doug and I all took turns holding little Liam and feeding Liam his supplemental bottles! Kassie and I even gave Liam his first full bath. Doug was a natural with Liam, whom he coined, ‘Little Dude!’; Doug even held Liam for over an hour and a half straight without any fussing from Liam! We also took Liam to Eastern Market for the first time and he did really well.

We wish little Liam lived closer to us. We look forward to our trip together next month, where we are spending time together at a lake house on Lake Michigan! We can’t wait to hold precious Liam again! I already miss his wonderful baby smell and his velvety soft skin! Thank goodness for FaceTime!

A few snapshots are shown below from our recent trip to Michigan meeting baby Liam, who is a month old in these images! (As you will see, ‘Uncle Nick’ is still getting acclimated to little Liam!) Additional photos from our trip are forthcoming!

Happy Wednesday!

May 25

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Around Here: May

We have been enjoying some warmer temperatures recently but, some days, it still like spring has not fully arrived, as we have had so much rain during May. Below are some items that have occurred around here in May!

-continuing to work steadily on my long-term photography project, and I hope that I have a few more months to go to finally finish!

-attended Pups in the Park! We had a great time together again this year!

-we are soon on our way to Michigan to meet our nephew, Liam!

-burning spring scented candles in our house!

-opening our windows and letting fresh air into the house!

-we have been doing some spring cleaning this month, including: cleaning our decks and getting our decks finished for the warmer months; finishing our gardening and planting; and cleaning the interior of our cars! (Due to the rain, we had to reschedule our window cleaning, which desperately needs to be done, for next month.) Next, I plan to tackle cleaning our closets and attic, while keeping in mind this mantra! It always feels so good to let go of items that you no longer need or bring you joy.

-enjoying long walks around the neighborhood and dinners together outside! Victory still very much loves going for rides in her Hound About!

-getting tickets to see Bruce Springsteen in September!

-began reading Consolations by David Whyte — a really good read so far.

-watched the first season and started the second season of Bosch.

-started the miniseries, The Night Manager.

-still using my Fitbit and I’m hitting 10,000 steps per day most days.

-continuing to make incremental progress on our ever-growing to do list!

Happy Wednesday! Wishing you a great week!

May 23

Interview: Josh Bryant, Photographer

Interview with Josh Bryant, Photographer

Recently, I had the opportunity and pleasure of interviewing Josh Bryant, a London-based photographer who observes the bond between man and dog, as well as the similarities of the two, which Bryant explores in his series entitled, “Companions.” According to Bryant, “I believe when individuals look for a dog as a pet, at some level, largely subconsciously, one will look for something that mirrors something about oneself. Someone’s choice of dog therefore could reveal hidden personality traits that would not immediately become apparent when an individual is observed or whilst listening to them speak.” Bryant says, “with confidence of the dog at their side, people offer you a glimpse into their lives that they would not normally allow; making private become public, where once they would feel vulnerable and uncomfortable.” A selection of Josh Bryant’s work is displayed below. Please visit Josh Bryant’s website to view more of his wonderful work.

KATHERINE CARVER: What were your beginnings as a photographer and when did you realize it would become your chosen form of expression?

JOSH BRYANT: Photography was a big part of my childhood. My dad would frequently be taking photos or documenting the family via videos with the use of the camcorder. Sometime around secondary school, I got really into photography, while using my camera as an excuse to go on adventures or take photos of live music to gain access to gigs. I think after school, I knew there was not much reason for me to try to do anything else, it seemed the only thing that suited me at the time.

KATHERINE CARVER: Did you study art formally?

JOSH BRYANT: Yes, I studied an Art foundation followed by a degree in photography, which I earned at the Norwich University of the Arts.

KATHERINE CARVER: How do you describe your style?

JOSH BRYANT: Elegant, yet informative and truthful.

KATHERINE CARVER: Can you describe the time when you first realized that creating photographs was absolutely something that you had to do?

JOSH BRYANT: Though I have been taking photos for most of my life, I don’t think it really felt right until a couple of years back. I purchased a Hasselblad 500 c/m and completely fell in love with it. This camera uses medium format film, which forces the user to slow down and actually makes one think about the image one is taking. I felt this encouraged me to take my subject matter far more seriously, along side the notion of having a physical negative of the image made the whole process feel far more organic and rewarding.

KATHERINE CARVER: What was the impetus that inspired you to begin creating your series entitled, “Companions?”

JOSH BRYANT: I wanted to recreate a project that struck close to home. Dogs have been a main focal point throughout my family. My grandmother was a corgi breeder and a judge at Crufts, while my auntie is a life-long dog trainer. I wanted to discover whether these people, and people alike, share the same interest and love for dogs I do, while also examining how their relationship with their animals work.

KATHERINE CARVER: How do you believe dogs and their humans are connected?

JOSH BRYANT: As I documented in my “Companions” series, I believe all dog owners are subconsciously drawn towards different types of dogs depending on their lifestyle and character. I believe we tend to match ourselves with pets that we feel we share something in common with.

KATHERINE CARVER: How have your own dogs/animals influenced your artwork?

JOSH BRYANT: Since birth, I was living alongside a wildlife Heritage Foundation in South-East England, which bread endangered cats, both large and small. While growing up, my sister and I rode horses and of course we always owned a family dog. Photography soon brought me to London in search for work; however, I believe you never escape your childhood roots and I felt myself combining my love for photography and animals, especially dogs.

KATHERINE CARVER: What does “being creative” mean to you?

JOSH BRYANT: I believe everyone has their own personal way to output creatively however it may suit him/her. For me, it’s about seeing an idea and acting upon it with determination, faith, energy, and passion to bring forth, that which does not exist into something that does.

KATHERINE CARVER: What is the most challenging aspect of being a photographer?

JOSH BRYANT: For me personally, right now, the most challenging aspect is the competitiveness, especially being in a city like London. You have to eat, live, and sleep photography, or you will fall behind. That being said, I never forget the reason I fell in love with photography, and to make sure I don’t drift away from that.

KATHERINE CARVER: What inspires you to keep going and what keeps you motivated?

JOSH BRYANT: I guess as humans we always want to feel that sense of accomplishment and worthiness. I’m always striving to improve my work and myself. When I was younger, I was largely motivated because I wanted to impress my grandparents and parents; however, as I have become older, I work harder for myself.

KATHERINE CARVER: What are the most rewarding and satisfying part about being an artists and creating art?

JOSH BRYANT: I would have to say the most rewarding aspect is the making process, bringing your idea to life.

KATHERINE CARVER: What kind of patterns, rituals, and routines do you have while making your art?

JOSH BRYANT: I don’t particularly have any specific routines or rituals. Although, I do surround myself with images on a daily basis, and the Internet is such a great tool for this.

KATHERINE CARVER: What are you working on now?

JOSH BRYANT: I am currently working on two personal projects: a documentary project capturing the variety of different hairdressers in London; and the other project involves house plants, however it is still in the very early stages.

KATHERINE CARVER: What artists inspire your work?

JOSH BRYANT: Alec Soth – I love the large-scale projects he undertakes, creating stories behind every image. Additionally, my favorite animal photographer is Tim Flach.

KATHERINE CARVER: What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

JOSH BRYANT: Find what you enjoy doing and get extremely good at it. Keep creating even if you think the idea isn’t going anywhere and stay happy.

KATHERINE CARVER: How can people view and purchase your art works?

JOSH BRYANT: You can visit my website; and instagram users can follow @joshbryantphoto.

Please note that all of the images contained in this blog post are courtesy of Josh Bryant.

You can read additional interviews here.

May 20

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Moments: Victory

We love our little fur girl, Victory, so very much! It is difficult to believe that we have already celebrated two birthdays with our Victory. The time is going by really quickly! I thought that I would capture some moments here, on the blog, about our fur girl!

I love waking up with Victory in the morning with her furry head abutting mine.

I love having a little furry friend waiting for me to finish showering so she can potty and have her breakfast!

I love how Victory loves to play each night before ‘night-night’ as she jumps around making growling noises, along with an occasional bark!

I love how Victory love her Daddy — giving him kisses in the same place on his face each night before bed!

I love taking long walks with Victory in her Hound About, which she loves!

I love how Victory is always laying at my feet as I work through the final portion of this long-term photography project!

I love ‘Waffle Cone Wednesday’ at TCBY with Victory!

I love how Victory is always up for an adventure!

I love how Victory travels with us, as our trips and vacations would never be the same!

I love how we are able to take Victory with us out to dinner during warmer months!

I love how Victory looks adorable in her Ergo, which she loves!

I love how Victory is so loyal and is always by my side, especially, when I am feeling sick.

I love how Victory loves routines, as do I!

I love how Victory is always promptly at the dinning room table waiting for some ‘human food,’ while kindly nudging me for more food with her snout!

I love how Victory loves to eat popcorn, and she has gotten so particular that she refuses to eat plain air-popped popcorn — she wants it to have cheese sprinkled on it — such discerning taste!

Most of all, I love how Victory is an integral family member. We cannot imagine our lives without her. What we give her, she returns one-hundred fold! We are also the lucky ones!

Happy Friday!