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CONFESSION OF A MUG PHOTOGRAPHER

Sometime happy sometime sad and sometime just plain incorrigible.

For every image I have in flickr, I have at least another 100 that are only fit for the trash can.

I am on Facebook

View my gallery at Red Bubble

View my Explored Images

I am ugly, dull, victimised and abused.. LOL. When I am not sitting in front of the computer browsing Flickr, I write books on Asterisk PABX and Clinic Management System Software. In between I'll take time to learn about digital photography and even go out from time to time to take lots of street photography and landscapes just to get one that can be considered semi acceptable.. however, it is just the simple things in life that I enjoy so much.

I started Digital Photography in January 2007 when I was given a Canon 400D.

I am not a photographer of any substance instead I am just a happy snapper trying to do what I like doing - that is taking and processing photos as a mean of relaxation. Since my photo skill is not up to scratch, many of my images were post processed and some are even unabashedly corrected and reprocessed by the humble tools readily available, to make them semi acceptable.

Tools:
Lightroom
GIMP
Paintshop Pro
Picasa

(although I admit that I am struggling with them).

Real photographers dont edit their photos or use tools or... so I was told. .. yeah sure - if you believe that, I also have a bridge to sell you.

Some self proclaimed photographers mock those using tools (that is before they know how to use the tools themselves), but I have to use picasa and paintshop pro to make adjustments and enhancement to many of my photos ( I don't know how to use PhotoShop otherwise I would have used it too, but am willing to learn). I use the tools to make up for my severe lack of photographic skill. Many of us do.. even those who would not admit to using them (I am sure you know a few of the kind that I am talking about).

Either you use tools for your images or you don't. It is like pregnancies - either you are pregnant or you are not. There is no such a thing as only just a little bit pregnant.

I am sure that the best photographers in the world spent hours in their dark rooms adjusting exposures, chemical mix, temperature, dodging and burning and breathing chemical fume to get the best prints (as I used to do in my dark room) but that was before the digital revolution. Now that we can do it digitally, I make no apologies for doing so in software. What's the difference? Instead of using chemicals I use digital process. It's cleaner and less hazardous.

My Images

I am a shallow happy snapper and therefore I dont pretend to convey any subliminal messages in my images and neither do I pretend to have any meaningful reason for taking the shots. I took all my photos on a whim and nothing else.

Many world class photographers wrote many books about the art of photography and all of them basically tell you the same old cliches and technique that my pea brain cant understand, thus I have stopped reading them. In its place I prefer to read Playboy and Penthouse (at least I can understand the pictures LOL) instead for relaxation and try to learn about photography from my more accomplished mates. Reading those books are fine but I will still be a lousy photographer if I cant convert what I read into reality. They are the great photographers while I will still be the delusional wannabe. I am happy just to be a wannabe as long as it relaxes me.

ALL my images are copyrighted and no unauthorized use allowed. If you think my images are worth using you may use it with prior permission. Its not difficult. Just ask. My contact number is +61400364780.

CONTACTS - My view.

I like interaction with people and therefore I welcome all those who made me their contacts as I would make them my contacts as well. However please don't feel obliged to praise my work because most aren't that good (some of them are down right horrible).

Feel free to provide me with constructive criticism, I welcome them just as graciously as I welcome songs and praises - don't we all?. I am a realist, a constructive criticism is the only way I can improve my work.

When you visit my stream and make comments on my work, I will certainly reciprocate, and I welcome, respect and enjoy your views (positive and negative) and your friendship. I would prefer to get an honest negative and constructive views rather than no opinion at all..., I can only improve from your criticism.

Those, whom I have reciprocated and made my contact, and if there is no interaction will be removed.

My weapons of choice:

I just use whatever is at hand, a P&S or DSLR camera with just 1 lens... and that lens is a 18 - 250 Zoom. I just cant afford to have all sorts of exotic "L" or "Limited" type lenses because sharpness is not my objective if the image concept itself is fuzzy (not strictly true but that's how I comfort myself for not having that "L" lens). However I would love the IQ of those wonderful lenses. Until I can afford them I will just have to look at yours with full of unbridled jealousies and drool :)

My view on cameras

It does not matter what camera you use as long as you can take photos with it. The only reason I have a mid range DSLR is so that I can print my mediocre photos a little bigger and crop a little bit more, that is all... It does not make me a better photographer just as driving a Ferrari does not make you a better driver - but it feels nice though if I have a Ferrari and I do feel a little jealous of you for having one :)

I am on Skype - ben.sharif

Facebook

Facebook

This park is not far from my home in Penrith.Australia. When I feel the need for peace and solace, this is where I go just to be by myself.

....otherwise I comfort myself by going to photo shoots with whoever is willing to come with me..

Countries I have been to..

create your own visited country map
or check our Venice travel guide

Photos of CrazyNotion (Still In Asia) (33)

CrazyNotion (Still In Asia)'s favorite photos from other Flickr members (14,627)

Contacts (697)

LorraineB52 Lorraine
ashishkoirala Ashish Koirala
MTphoto © mohd taufiq
Bruce Kerridge Bruce Kerridge
sunshine:-) No real name given
mal-J No real name given
Trip In My World Connie Van Cleve
Montenegro Luis No real name given
Matthew Post No real name given
Robert Lang... Robert Lang
Celestial Surfer Alf
Loco Moco Photos James S

Groups (50 50)

Pentax K-5 Photographers 73,227 photos, 2,582 members
The Twelve Apostles 281 photos, 146 members
★★★Shutter Bug - 3 years old★★★ 858,308 photos, 22,774 members
Oloneo PhotoEngine Talk 6,885 photos, 792 members
Australian Shorelines 10,941 photos, 635 members
Australia All Over 11,058 photos, 739 members
Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury 3,211 photos, 185 members
Sapphire Awards *POST 1 - AWARD 3* *Sweeper Active* 120,120 photos, 8,039 members
VIAJANDO POR EL PLANETA~~Global travel 4,993 photos, 332 members
My Gear and Me #1 - (Post 1 - Award 5) - Sweeper is ON 367,373 photos, 13,850 members
Customs and Cultures (Moderated) 680 photos, 49 members
Canon EOS 7D Photogs 93,229 photos, 2,598 members
"A-Z of Digital Editing" (Invited Images Only) Comment on 2 2,152 photos, 1,537 members
*Flickr's BEST* - SERIOUS Photographers - Post 1/Comment 3 125,655 photos, 5,388 members
Perfect Click Group: (P2 C1) Just Enjoy ! :) 22,524 photos, 1,677 members
Bedazzle 1,510 photos, 152 members
Flickr FRIENDS - P1&A1 27,948 photos, 968 members
Australia's Best Reflections (Invited Images Only) 1,078 photos, 188 members
BEST OF THE BEST (Invited Images ONLY--POST 1, AWARD 2) 15,445 photos, 2,717 members
Paw Award! (Gold, Silver & Bronze) 7,985 photos, 405 members
Pentax K-7 Australia 1,049 photos, 36 members
Canon EOS 7D - Australia 1,887 photos, 38 members
"World Nature & Wildlife Closeup" Post 1/C3 216,752 photos, 8,957 members
*The Master Photographer* Post 1 Comment on 3 SWEEPER NOW ACTIVE 36,760 photos, 2,034 members
ANIMALS Art-Gallery !! "INVITED Only !!" - AWARD on 2. 14,004 photos, 2,204 members
Love: Expression Through Connection! 502 photos, 61 members
Bridges and Rivers (( Post 1 - Comment 2 )) 6,010 photos, 1,061 members
Canon EOS 7D Users Group 123,040 photos, 4,807 members
PEACE took over my heart ❤ A PAZ invadiu meu coração ❤ 66,271 photos, 2,081 members
*Golden Apple Award* (Post 2 & Award 3) 52,700 photos, 2,778 members
**♥**WORLD HEART Award**♥** (Post 2 / Award 3) 162,672 photos, 8,045 members
Canon EOS 7D Owners 136,425 photos, 5,292 members
Top Seven ~Free Post~ Post 1 Award 3 30,133 photos, 3,158 members
Tutorials and Process 0 photos, 1 member
Official National Geographic Group 334,917 photos, 13,177 members
Taken with PENTAX K100D Series Digital SLR 82,265 photos, 2,001 members
A Gold Seal Of Quality ✢ Admin Invite ✢ Sweeper ✢ P1/A3 2,854 photos, 624 members
**TODAY´s BEST!** Post1-Comment3-Invite5 Contacts 63,806 photos, 5,084 members
ABSOLUTE GOLDEN MASTERPIECE (Admin Invite) P1~ C1 4,986 photos, 1,366 members
Amazing+Photography 10,288 photos, 1,157 members
THE NATURAL WORLD OF NATURE P1/A4 101,516 photos, 8,370 members
This is called photograph (minimum edit/Post 1*Awards 2*)OR BAN 9,784 photos, 824 members
The World Through Your Eye 3,116 photos, 348 members
Pentax K-7 54,291 photos, 1,815 members
Architectural Beauty ! 65,861 photos, 2,176 members
World Masterpiece Award " Win Pro Account - NEW EASY RULES" 44,721 photos, 4,850 members
Landscapes, flora and fauna of the world 98,358 photos, 4,513 members
!★ Lucky ★ Post 1 , Award 7!!! 26,525 photos, 2,103 members
You've Been Explored! 'Explore' Photos Only! Post 1/Award 2 4,648 photos, 1,371 members
Photography on the Web 521 photos, 99 members

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Galleries (38)

The World's Landmarks 1 photo
More B&W magic 8 photos
Poetic Images 13 photos
The magic maker 18 photos
Images of Choice 18 photos

Testimonials (17)

Nina Matthews Photography says:

"What can I tell you about Ben ,he has a awesome sense of humor and is a truly wonderful photographer we all could learn something from him indeed .He has a great eye for photography !!OOh and I love his jokes too they rock !!"

11th August, 2009
~T.Lynn~472000~Soft Images~ says:

"I truly think CrazyNation photo's r very beautiful and iam honored to have him as a friend here. BRAVO to ur work."

7th August, 2009
Anoop Negi says:

"A most impressive eye that captures the essence of a story. He has the ability to keep on giving us an unending series of beautiful images frmo wherever he is at any given moment.

Right now I have seen terrific images of his from China which is a visual delight of composition and colors and story telling."

9th June, 2009
Helen Beresford says:

"Ben is an amazingly talented photographer and I can highly recommend a wander through his photostream! His diversity is brilliant, from landscapes to portraits to nature and I love how he has introduced me to a range of stunning places I may never see for real!
Furthermore, all of Ben's photos are beautifully processed and presented - a real pleasure to view. I love the colour and energy in his stream!
Keep them coming my friend, I love your work :0)"

6th June, 2009
CountryG.U.R.L. says:

"...Although I've just discovered his stream not long ago, but his shots are always eye-catching, especially when it comes to his way of processing.

Keep it up! I'm waiting for more Uncle Ben. :)""

20th January, 2009
L Plater says:

"Ben is a photographer with talent (although he steadfastly denied it), style and humour (yes humorous photographers do exist). I like his straight talking no nonsense style and that in many ways is reflected in his work. I also like the wide range of subjects that Ben photographs, and his honest admission he doesn't know how to use photoshop (imagine how his photos will look like once he learns the tool). I'll take this opportunity to thank Ben for writing me a colourful testimonial. I also have to thank Ben for his regular visits, invites and constructive comments. May the force be with you."

20th January, 2009
pksingh_family says:

"""""Well dear friend..
I have to say that for a moment now I have enjoyed your photos
and your joy and passion for the creativity in life. CrazyNotion has a unique vision and a real talent in photography and he is obviously willing to work very hard to make his vision come to life.
He has a terrific sense of humor combined with a great visual sense."
He has an incredible eye and is truly gifted! His photographs stream full of beautiful snapshots and photos make you feel like you are standing right there. I look forward to his photos . Thanks so much for sharing your world.""""""""""""

24th September, 2008
Chucky1988 says:

"Ben has fantastic talent in his photography and shows a different perspective of a lot of photographs. He has taught me a lot about photography and how to experiment with photographs in different ways...

Ben is also a great mate to go out on a photo shoot with..."

14th August, 2008
Paul Murat says:

"Out of the thousand of photographers posting on Flickr, there is something about CrazyNotion’s photo stream that always pleases my eye. Ben is a talented photographer, with exceptional post processing skill. His city-scape photographs are exceptional; the colour and lightning are mystical and I am always inspired by his work."

13th June, 2008
_davidh_ says:

"I agree with SirCam. Crazy is a fantastic photographer and I'm totally in awe of his photostream. One day I sincerely hope to be 'not all that good', just like Crazy is now!!
And for someone so talented, he is modest and more than willing to give advice and encouragement to a learner. Keep it up mate, you're a real gem."

12th May, 2008
ahk3n says:

"Uncle Ben is one of the most interesting person i've ever met in my little career as a tour manager. perhaps it simply was the common interest in taking nice photos, or perhaps it was just him who has been such a nice, chatty and young at heart old man he is. it was my pleasure to have the chance to "discover India" with him because it was him that i rediscovered my love for Canon and i've gotten the first hand tips from him, now guys, don't show your greeny eyes.. wish you all the best, uncle ben, and i can't wait to see you and go for shootings with you."

30th December, 2007
daniel.ch says:

"Ben is one of the most interesting photographers in Flickr. His hability to "see" everything is simply brilliant. It's usual to fascinate yourself with his post-processing!! He seems like a good man by his comments in your photos... Good luck in this life Ben and keep going with the photography!!!! Regards, Daniel."

24th September, 2007
asis k. chatt says:

"CrazyNotion (Ben) is anything but crazy! On the otherhand, people who look at his photos become crazy by the freshness & the realistic touch of those. He exudes a quiet confidence. His use of light is really fantastic. The subjects he chooses are highly interesting. As a whole I personally am a fan of his. I wish him more success in life & as a photographer."

1st September, 2007
classic perfection says:

"Ben, Ben, Ben... One of the sweetest, kindest, friendliest & most talented people on Flickr. I'm yet to meet a photographer (yes thats what you are Ben) who creates mood and atmosphere as effortlessly as you do.

Every single image takes my breath away. Keep up the good work my friend.

Sarah"

31st August, 2007
Sir Cam says:

"Psst -- don't tell him but CrazyNotion is a serious photographer! He may confess otherwise in his humble way, but don't you believe him:-) His dedication and hardwork is plain to see: just have a look at his stream, which is full of quality work. I think he's trying to catch glimpses of the humanity and beauty around us. I always look foward to his new uploads."

27th August, 2007
Nucleus Motaro says:

"Ben Aka CrazyNotion

Ben work is really Crazy :) he always capture the pictures that show his very own style, all his picture have great composition and the lighting just blows you away, his work totally inspires me, and not to mentions he one cool dude :)

Thank You Ben for everything you have done.

Laurence"

12th August, 2007
Just1Thing says:

"Ben is one of those friends who doesn't live in your pocket and who sometimes you don't see for months on end but who you know will be there when you need them. We go back a long way and have both been through some good and bad times but every now and again we touch base and share our interests and always manage to have a laugh.

Ben's enthusiasm is infectious and when I found he was into photography then it was full speed ahead and we're now enjoying going on shoots together around where we live. Ben is a great photographer and has a fine eye for detail and composure. I'm jealous of course but then again, as is always the case when you are around Ben, you never stop learning and we have fun along the way.

Thanks mate for making life interesting."

19th April, 2007