The first photographer that I want to call attention to is James Insogna, The Lightning Man. Besides his gorgeous landscapes of Colorado he specializes in capturing lightening strikes. A collection can be seen here http://www.flickr.com/photos/thelightningman/sets/72057594091174189/ and on his web site http://thelightningman.com

The second photog you will enjoy is Markus Reugels. His high speed liquid splashes, both stills and videos, are like none other. View them here http://www.flickr.com/photos/maianer/sets/72157623895392262/

The 2013 NECCC Conference [July 12-14] is history. By my count there were 6 CCC members in attendance plus a few friends I recognized from other clubs and photography meet-ups. It was an intense 3 days with more info than my little brain can absorb. Highlights included the featured speaker, Nevada Weir, who spoke on her journey from Outward Bound instructor to world class documentary photographer. What a life she's had! And what incredible images she's made! Instructional sessions included some truly inspirational lessons in Long Exposure, Macro, Wide Angle, Night, Travel and Wildlife photography. I also enjoyed sessions on Composition technique, Alternative printing and Print Output with an emphasis on color management. Photographing Children got good reviews too. Attendees had the opportunity to borrow phenomenal lenses. There were 8 sessions devoted to the digital darkroom including HDR and portrait retouching. Plus much more on technique, cameras, lenses, flash & lighting. There was no lack of gorgeous presentations that let you just relax and look at inspiring images. And of course as you see in the photo, the ever popular model photography shoots were well attended. [A Lensbaby shot if you're wondering about the blur!] Even the speakers were impressed with the size and scope of this conference, and they've spoken at a lot of venues. Next year's conference is scheduled for July 11 - 14, 2014. Mark your calendars and make plans to attend. It's great value for the $. And early next year I'll be canvasing the CCC members for a first time attendee on which to bestow free registration. 

We can all identify with a lot of these "pains"! What are your worst Pains of Photography?http://www.dslrbodies.com/essays/the-pain-of-photography.html

A very interesting read on whether or not mirror lock up is necessary.
http://improvephotography.com/9442/mirror-lockup-is-a-conspiracy-sort-of/?awt_l=NM.To&awt_m=3c8T53Vxi7nd.Qc