Richard Cox Photographics LLC and Orchid Hill Photography Studio Raleigh NC

Why you need to buy portrait prints -and- taking the printing process into our own hands

2012-01-27T11:41:00.004-05:00

Over the Chistmas holidays, a family's home was broken into while they were visiting out-of-state friends. All of their high priced electronics were stolen; iPods, Ipad, HD-TV, laptops and even their desktop computer. Being a fairly well-to-do family, they we initially shocked, but soon felt OK knowing that their insurance would cover replacement of all of the items.

Comfort quickly turned to sorrow when they realized that ALL of their digital photos were stored on those devices. Pictures of newborns, children's birthdays, graduations, holidays, travel and grandparents long deceased were gone ... FOREVER.

How will you lose your digital images? Theft? Computer virus? Crashed hard drive? Scratched CD? Software changes?

Well, there's an easy solution and it's not new - print your images. At Orchid Hill Studios, we have invested in state-of-the-art printers that produce outstanding archival (long lasting) prints. If the family in the above story had simply ordered prints, all of their memories would be stored in albums or books, or hung on the wall for generations to admire.

Don't take a chance. When you have professional portraits taken, get prints from the photographer. Still want to share your images online? No problem! We'll include an appropriately sized image file of any print you purchase so you can put them on Facebook or email around the world.

Here are our latest professional-grade printers, the Epson R2000 and the Epson R4800. These allow us to have complete control over the creative process from the time we open the shutter until we deliver your custom print. Unlike discount store prints that can rapidly fade, Epson Ultrachrome inks and professional grade papers provide prints that you'll be proud to hang on the wall and to hand down to future generations.

High School Senior Portraits (Raleigh, Durham, Warrenton, Wake County, Warren County)

2012-01-27T10:56:00.000-05:00

We are available for in studio and location high school senior portraits. The run of the mill, school contract photography studios will say you need to use them. But you don't!
Contact us today for an exclusive appointment. Richcoxphoto@gmail.com.
You won't be disappointed...you'll love your images or we reshoot free.

Family and newborn photography - Raleigh NC

2011-07-26T22:02:00.003-04:00

Newborn Photography

2011-07-26T22:00:00.000-04:00

The Lazy Blogger/Busy Photographer

2011-05-13T15:06:00.002-04:00

I've been too busy with photography lately to update my blog!

Writing some new ones this weekend!

Now Accepting Credit Cards for Our Photography Services

2011-04-13T12:30:00.000-04:00

We've always wanted to accept credits cards for our products and services, but it was either too expensive or too complicated. Not anymore! Now that we've signed on with Square, it couldn't be simpler. The Square app is installed on our phones and iPads so we can swipe your card just about anywhere.

Remember, man, that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return.

2011-04-06T20:51:00.007-04:00

As a photographer, I sometimes come in contact with some pretty interesting people. Even though I took his picture in 2007, I didn't really know Clark Wang until this past weekend. You see, Clark died last week and a friend of his contacted me for a copy of this photograph to show at his funeral. He was only 49 and died from complications of s stem cell transplant in an attempt to cure the lymphoma that ultimately consumed him.

Digging into a Google search, I learned what an amazing person he was ... cellist, Duke-trained psychiatrist, folk dancer, and one of the strongest advocates of the green burial movement. Unembalmed, he was waked at home and buried in a casket made of recycled wood and built for him by his friends.

Green burials make a lot of sense. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde, a major component of embalming fluids as a Class 1 Carcinogen: "the agent (mixture) is definitely carcinogenic to humans." Despite best efforts, a formaldehyde laden body will untimately corrupt the ecosystem. When a persons body is buried in a green way, their molecules return to the earth's natural cycle of life instead of rotting in a crypt.

Animoto Video - Band Together After Work Social 15

2011-03-26T11:21:00.004-04:00

Here is a special fusion video we put together for the Band Together After Work Social featuring Lizzy Ross that was held at the Southland Ballroom in Raleigh NC.

A fusion video combines still images with HD video to create a really cool production. We now shoot 1080p video with our high resolution digital images.

These videos are one of our feature products at Orchid Hill Studios and Rich Cox Photographics. Not only do they make a unique way to feature an event or wedding, but they are an eye-catching way to present your business, band or property.

Band Together for Alliance Medical

2011-03-25T21:29:00.003-04:00

One of the charity organizations I heartily support is Band Together NC. I've been shooting their main events with my son, Andy, every spring. This year, Band Together has set the big hairy audacious goal of raising $500,000 for Alliance Medical of Raleigh. Next year, the recipient will be Urban Ministries (where I work and volunteer).

Take some time to get to know Band Together and attend the Last Band Standing at the Lincoln Theatre on April 8. Then buy a VIP ticket for the Main event on May 7, featuring Third Eye Blind.

Here's a shot from our Band Together After Work Social last night at the Southland Ballroom. It's a shot of the Lizzy Ross Band in the mirror over the bar.

Professional Photographers of America - Raleigh NC

2011-03-12T11:47:00.004-05:00

This video explains the reasons why you should hire a Professional Photographer when planning you important portraits and events. Professional Photographers are members of PPA. In North Carolina, they are also members of Professional Photographers of NC (PPNC) and Southeastern Professional Photographers (SEPPA).

I am a member and have recently attended educational seminars at the PPNC Convention. Through the PPNC I've trained under Tim Kelly, Don and Nancy Emmerich , and Fuller Royal.

Relaxing - NC Beach Portraits

2011-03-01T10:20:00.005-05:00

I got a weekend off and we went to Wrightsville Beach for some relaxation and a beach fix. It was a picture perfect day! It reminded me that it's never too soon to start thinking about some portraits at the beach!

Portraits and Headshots - Raleigh NC

2011-02-18T23:36:00.003-05:00

I've been going through older images and selecting some for special printing and exhibition. This is one of my favorites from a couple of years ago.

Band Photography - Rock Group Photography

2011-02-16T21:47:00.002-05:00

Mister Mustard came to the studio last week for some new promo shots. We decided to do a few side-lit shots of each band member in preparation for an emulation of the "With The Beatles" Album first released in 1963.

Raleigh North Carolina Child Portraits

2011-02-15T12:37:00.005-05:00

Whether it's a newborn, a first birthday or just time for a new portrait, Orchid Hill Studios will create a unique portrait of your child. We recently photogtaphed Ruth at her first birthday party, Mom had an elephant themed party and dressed Ruth in a very cute costume. We used our portable studio to make some formal images before the party.

Following cake, Ruth made a quick change into an authentic Korean outfit. We captured a wonderful picture of Ruth and her Mom that they will chersih for years to come.

Blue Ridge Parkway Photography

2010-10-25T23:40:00.010-04:00

Last weekend I participated in the Professional Photographers of North Carolina (PPNC)Western Guild Meeting. It was a great occassion for fun, learning and comraderie. I even managed to walk away with a door prize (cool new Photoshop textures from Scott and Adina Haynes' No Rules Workshop).
After the meeting, I spent a few extra hours touring Rt 221 and the Blue Ridge Parkway. There were a couple of sites I've been waiting to photography under the right conditions as well as a few new ones I discovered that day.

Duke Gardens Photography

2010-10-18T08:14:00.002-04:00

Orchid Hill Studios is a proud photographer member of the Duke Gardens. In return for our support, we are permitted to conduct photographic sessions at Duke Gardens. Fall is a great time of year to plan a family portrait on the Duke Gardens grounds.

There are many beautiful locations within the Duke Gardens and Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year to get those family portraits updated for winter holiday cards and gifts.

Vashni and Roberto - Durham Wedding Photography at the Greystone Inn

2010-10-18T07:56:00.005-04:00

The Greystone Inn in Durham NC is a beautiful location for wedding photography. I photographed the wedding of Vashni and Roberto in August. Their ceremony was held on the lawn with dinner and dancing on the expansive porch.

We are available for 2011 and 2012 wedding photography bookings. Whether you plan to be married in the Triangle area, the Western NC mountains, or on the NC Coast, keep us in mind for your wedding photography.

Round Rock - Austin Texas Wedding Photography

2010-10-18T00:12:00.015-04:00

Orchid Hill Studios frequently travels to destination weddings. Based out or Raleigh NC, we can travel to Austin, Boston, Blowing Rock, Hendersonville, Asheville, Wilmington or other locations for your special wedding day photography.

We photographed the wedding of Jimmy and Wan at Clark Mansion in Taylor, Texas. This is a fabulous old mansion with Victorian era charm that is sure to be the ideal romatic location for your Texas country wedding. Contact us today as you plan your 2011 wedding photography whether you need a photographer in Raleigh or any other location.

Orchid Hill Studios

Jenny & Shawn - Hendersonville NC Wedding Photography

2010-06-18T00:03:00.012-04:00

Although we are based in Raleigh, we will travel to shoot weddings. A couple of weeks ago, we shot at Jenny and Shawn's wedding in Hendersonville a small town in western NC near Asheville. As we typically do, we attended the rehearsal to get to know the people, the venue and the flow of the ceremony. The wedding was held at Jenny's parents' 1920 brick home in downtown Hendersonville.

In accordance with town traditions, the bridal party and guests strolled down to Hannah Flanagan's Pub for a few brews before the reception.

Raleigh Wedding Photography May 15, 2010

2010-05-29T10:54:00.002-04:00

Raleigh Engagement and Wedding Photography

2010-05-20T12:20:00.013-04:00

Did you get engaged on Valentine's Day? Capture the bliss in an engagement portrait. An engagement portrait session is a good way to get to know a photographer in anticipation of your wedding day. Contact Orchid Hill Studios to schedule a session now!

Orchid Hill Studios photographed the Raleigh wedding of Lindsey and Nathan.

Midtown Magazine - Band Together

2010-05-07T19:50:00.004-04:00

We hope to see you all at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh for the Band Together Benefit Concert May 22 featuring Michael Franti. Here is a composite of the publicity shots from Midtown Magazine.

Custom Portraits - Raleigh Photographer - Photography

2010-04-30T11:25:00.001-04:00

These types of portraits can be created in any style. Babies, children, seniors. No two are ever alike. Backgrounds are selected to fit the subject.

Raleigh High School Senior Pictures - Portraits for Raleigh High School Seniors

2010-04-25T00:40:00.002-04:00

Raleigh High School Senior Pictures - Portraits for Raleigh High School Seniors

2010-04-23T22:57:00.000-04:00

Customized Sports Portraits - Raleigh - Eastern NC - Photography

2010-03-30T09:21:00.000-04:00

You can have a customized sports portrait too! Whether it's a modern creation like the one below, or a classic portrait, we can create it for you.

http://richcoxphotographics.blogspot.com/

Singer Chris Chappell - Musician Promotional Photography Raleigh

2010-03-28T17:10:00.000-04:00

Chris is a singer/songwriter from eastern NC.

Chris Chappell

Pet Photography Raleigh NC - Dogs and Their People

2010-03-21T22:06:00.001-04:00

We had two great photoshoots on Saturday with Stacey & Charlie (shown below) and Will G. with his pup Pixel and adult dog Lupine (not showing those yet).

Call today to schedule a formal portrait with your pet! 919-264-9577

http://www.orchidhillstudios.com/

http://richardcoxphotographics.blogspot.com/

NC Museum of Art Grand Re-Opening

2010-03-17T22:55:00.000-04:00

The NC Museum of Art is hosting a grand re-opening in April. As part of the celebration, they have invited photographers to submit images for the Faces and Places of North Carolina exhibit. I've been asked to submit high resolution files of the four images shown below. Click on the title of this blog to go to the museum's website and get some free tickets for this awesome event!

First Communion Portraits - Raleigh NC

2010-03-05T14:10:00.001-05:00

Book your First Communion portrait session! This is a special day to be remembered.

Orchid Hill Studios

Liam is 9 months old - Raleigh Child and Baby Photography

2010-03-02T22:34:00.002-05:00

Wow! 9 months goes by fast! I first shot Liam when he was only a month old and now he's sitting up, standing with help, and grasping objects. I think he has a real future in Major League Baseball!

I've been inspired this week by the images I've seen at the Professional Photographers of North Carolina Convention being held in RTP. This is one of my custom creations. If you want a unique portrait of your child or even yourself, contact me!

My Blog

Orchid Hill Studios

Band Together with Michael Franti - Raleigh Band Photography

2010-02-15T20:10:00.012-05:00

We got the news today that Michael Franti will be headlining this year's Band Together Fundraiser at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh. The event will be on May 22, 2010.

Michael is now touring with John Mayer and is slated to appear at Bonnaroo in June. His platinum hit song, "Say Hey!", is featured on the soundtrack from the movie "Valentine's Day." We've been following Michael since we first saw him at the Asheville Music Jamboree and his current fame is well deserved.

I suggest that you consider buying a VIP ticket when they go on sale. The proceeds from this year's concert will benefit The Step Up Ministry, an interfaith community that partners with over 500 program participants each year in the shared goal of self-sufficiency (stable job, stable home, stable family).

Andy Cox and I took these shots the last two times we saw Michael Franti and Spearhead. Watch my blog for more news.

Remodeling Green - Interior Photogaphy Raleigh

2010-01-29T11:11:00.004-05:00

We have had a few pictures published in a recent article in New Homes and Ideas magazine. The kitchen was designed by Ann Sun of Common Ground Green Building Center in Durham. Read the article to learn about the unique eco-friendly design features incorporated into this remodel.

NEXX FAZE - Band Photography Raleigh NC

2010-01-18T12:13:00.011-05:00

Great photoshoot on Friday night with the guys from the band Nexx Faze.

Check out their MySpace for a schedule of their upcoming shows: Nexx Faze

See more of Nexx Faze and other band photography at My Webite

High School Senior Portraits Raleigh NC

2010-01-04T11:05:00.007-05:00

We're looking for Raleigh High School students to be our Class of 2011 Models. Send us a message if you would like to be considered. We need a diverse cross-section of students as we build our new 2010 portfolio. Student models will receive a digital file and credits toward photo products in exchange for their tme and for each referral they send us ! Invite your friends to add us as a friend on Facebook

If you are not a high school student, but know one, please pass this on. We are aways looking for new models to promote new poses, backgrounds and looks. Models get specials and rewards for every referral.

Orchid Hill Studios

Richard Cox Photographics LLC
Raleigh, NC

Getting Our Hippie On! Music Festival Photography

2010-01-01T17:45:00.009-05:00

Although it's still winter, behind the scenes, all of my music festival promoter friends are in high gear getting ready for the 2010 season.

Floydfest is a great festival right on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Southwest Virginia. I'll be posting on several others soon.

I made a litle collage of some of my favorite scenes from 2009. The single image is one of my personal favorites. A thunderstorm knocked out power for a little while, but Floydfest is People Powered so the show went on. This group of performers was singing acapella by the light of a single Coleman lantern. I wasn't sure about getting the shot, but I tried and was really excited about the result.

Check out Floydfest

Rich Cox
Orchid Hill Studios

Click on images to view larger.

Favorite Shots & Sessions 2009 - The Finger Puppets

2009-12-30T00:58:00.012-05:00

My first band promo session of 2009 was with Eric and Melissa of the Finger Puppets. Our goal was to capture a wide range of looks over one or two sittings. So we stared in my photo studio, moved to the streets and then did a few more at the recording studio a few days later. Some of the shots ended up in the jacket of their first CD. We especially like the chair at the Third Place Coffee Shop (Glenwood Ave, Raleigh) and thank the owner for allowing us to shoot there.

Some of My Favorite Shots in 2009 - Raleigh Child Photography

2009-12-26T18:55:00.003-05:00

Kaylee's mom asked for a monocolor version of this image. I like the way it works.

Some of My Favorite Shots in 2009 - Raleigh Child Photography

2009-12-25T00:56:00.004-05:00

The Aitken girls (and their parents) came over in December for some portraits.

Some of My Favorite Shots in 2009 - Raleigh Child Photography

2009-12-23T11:23:00.007-05:00

Their grandmother brought this little beauty and her sister in for portraits this Fall. She was as spunky as she looks so I let her do her thing while I fired away.

Some of My Favorite Shots in 2009 - Raleigh Photographer

2009-12-21T23:52:00.003-05:00

At this time of year I like to review my work and pull some favorites. I'll be posting more over the next two weeks.

Visit us at Orchid Hill Studios or Rich Cox Photographics

Portraits - Children's Portraits Raleigh

2009-12-09T23:01:00.002-05:00

I did some portraits of Cassidy today to match some that I have of her sister.

Technical info: Single strobe light camera left in 3' x 4' softbox. White reflector camra right.

Children's Sports Portraits Raleigh

2009-12-03T22:27:00.003-05:00

Currently working on a series of children in various sports. I'll be using a variety of background and lighting styles.

Liam - 6 month milestone - Raleigh Baby and Family Photography

2009-12-01T23:34:00.005-05:00

Liam has reached the half-year milestone. I started photographing Liam when he was just a month old. This is one of the multi-session series we are doing for his family,

If you're intersted in a time series of your child or children, contact us today. Special pricing availble. Inquire about books and albums.

Brightleaf - the band - Band Photography Raleigh Durham Chapel Hill

2009-11-28T12:05:00.009-05:00

Members of two local bands have joined forces to become Brightleaf. Last Saturday we did a 3 hour photoshoot in the studio and on several locations.

Someone made a comment that the woods shots (taken at Umstead Park in Raleigh) looked a bit llike the Twilight Saga New Moon posters so I couldn't resist a bit of Photoshopping to enhance that effect.

If your band need promotional or live performance shots, drop me an email at rcox2@nc.rr.com

Picture That Sound - Product Photography Raleigh NC

2009-11-26T13:00:00.019-05:00

Picture That Sound is a unique product created by a friend of mine, Jenn Furr. We completed the product shots over the past few weeks.

This is a cool way to combine your pictures with your personal sound recording of the event. Check out the Picture That Sound website!

The Aitken Family - Family Photography in Raleigh

2009-11-26T13:00:00.018-05:00

We've been super busy with family portrait sessions. It's a great time of year to update your collection with family portrais for gifts, cards or display.

We recently had a great session with the Aitken girls and their parents.

It's always fun to work with creative people. Sean and Katie are musicians and we've photographed their bands. We started with some formal individuals and sister shots and ended with the whole family jumping!

The Getdown - Music and Festival Photography

2009-09-12T10:20:00.003-04:00

The first GETDOWN was held Labor Day Weekend on 30 rural wooded acres a few miles north of Chapel Hill, and featured many of the region’s most renowned jam, groove, funk and reggae artists.

We had fantastic shaded on-site camping, great food, cool arts & crafts and other activities including a disc golf course! Late night jams, drum circles, bonfires, and good vibes under a full moon added to the communal festivities.

Everyone who attended is eagerly looking forward to GETDOWN 2.

Camp Barefoot 3 - Music and Festival Photography

2009-09-11T23:11:00.004-04:00

Camp Barefoot 3 .... wow, more fun than I ever expected. Big, big campground. Multiple lakes. HOT SHOWERS. Non-stop music. Benevolent Peoples. HOT SHOWERS. The Breakfast, Funkaponya, Zegg, Shazzam...HOT SHOWERS ... PGroove, Lotus X 2 Nights.

Oh Yeah. Can't wait for CB4.

Child Portrait Photography- Orchid Hill Studios - Child Photography Raleigh

2009-09-01T22:39:00.009-04:00

These are just a couple of test shots of Jacquie using our new background. Now is the time to schedule a Fall portrait session. Call us today as spots are filling up quickly.

Baby Portraits - Raleigh Family Photography

2009-08-31T11:15:00.007-04:00

It's been a busy week in the studio and the Fall looks even busier. Now is the time to book a baby, child or family portrait session!

This is Liam at his 3 month session. Ask us about creating a portrait series to capture your child's image as he or she grows from infancy to childhood.

Fall Children's Portraits - Orchid Hill Photography Studios Raleigh

2009-08-31T11:10:00.008-04:00

We're currently booking Fall portraits. It's a good time to make an appointment so that you'll have your portraits in time for the holidays. In studio or on location.
Contact us today! Time slots are filling up fast.

This is Cassidy. She's 11. The Tween years are often overlooked for portraits. It's a wonderful time to have us create a portrait of your child as he or she begins to mature.

www.orchidhillstudios.com
rcox2@nc.rr.com

FloydFest 8 - Festival Photography

2009-08-11T22:40:00.004-04:00

I got the chance to document FloydFest 8 - "Revival" - during July. This is one of the best music festivals of the year. The incredible venue is just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Floyd, VA. I intentionally spent a lot of time away from the main stage this year and captured some great stuff, especially on the Workshop Porch stage.

We were blessed with an amazing multi-arched rainbow during Donna the Buffalo's set.

Clik on the title to see all the images.

National Geographic - sort of

2009-07-08T01:19:00.002-04:00

One of my images has made it to the Daily Dozen (July - week 2) in National Geographic. Could make it to the print version if I clear another hurdle.

Baby Portraits - Raleigh Baby Photographer

2009-07-02T23:57:00.008-04:00

I got a chance to photograph a brand new human this past weekend. A little poop, a lot of pee and some tears, but we got great shots.

My American Princess

2009-07-02T22:00:00.004-04:00

There's been an old banjo hanging on my wall for years. I think it belonged to my grandfather. I finally decided that I'd like to try to play it, so it needed to be restored. It had corroded steel strings and was missing it's bridge. After several phone calls, I hooked up with Jim Collier of Raleigh who restored it to it's glory. Jim carved a new bridge, restrung it with gut strings and cleaned everything except the head (I like the original dirt).

The banjo is an SS Stewart American Princess. From the serial number, I determined it was probably built in ~ 1895.

Jim played it for me before I brought it home. That's the first time she's sung in many years.

Jim has his own group, Big Medicine, and recently played on Garrison Keiler's Prairie Home Companion.

Corn Holing for MS

2009-06-24T21:35:00.007-04:00

A couple of weeks ago my oldest daughter Jennie (yellow shirt, lower left) and her husband Dave (Carolina blue upper left) hosted their annual cornholing event for MS. As always, they raised big bucks for this worthy cause. My son Andy and daughter Cassidy (stuffing their faces above) kicked some butt on the first round, but had to concede because Andy and I were due at the Band Together Event.

Off the Grid

2009-06-17T23:34:00.003-04:00

We got to spend a week off the grid in the Shenandoah National Park on the Blue Ridge Highway in Virginia. There were thunderstorms everyday, but we were still able to hike between the storms. The Dark Hollow Falls were streaming beautifully. The wildlife was icredible! We saw a black bear inside the campground!

During the storms I finished the third book in the Twilight series and started a book about Thomas Merton.

Band Together Benefit with Rusted Root

2009-06-17T11:47:00.006-04:00

Band Together raised $125,000 for the Lucy Daniels Center at a concert held several week ago.

The concert was held at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh and featured 4 renowned bands: Chatham County Line, The Rosebuds, HOBEX and Rusted Root (shown in the picture).

My son Andy and I were once again honored to be official photographers for the event which was attended by more than 2700 generous supporters.

Cardinal Gibbons High School Graduation 2009

2009-05-26T21:50:00.007-04:00

I had the opportunity to be part of the photography crew this past weekend at the Cardinal Gibbons High School graduation that was held in Meymandi Hall at the Progress Energy Center in Raleigh. CGHS has been educating high school students for the past 100 years. Thanks to fellow photographer, Greg Mintel, for adding me to the crew.

This year is the 40th anniversary of my own graduation from Cardinal Spellman High School in Massachusetts. I must say that high school seniors have certainly become more sophosticated over the past 40 years.

Click on the title of this entry to get to the gallery. (If you're a graduate or a parent, send me a note with the student's name and I'll share the password)

Carolina Bluegrass Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary

2009-05-21T10:32:00.007-04:00

My friends at Hey-Bro Productions produced the The Second Carolina Bluegrass Festival last weekend in Cary at the Koka Booth Amphitheater. Despite a morning of torrential rain and chilling temperatures, hundreds of faithful music fans endured the elements to hear 9 hours of the best bluegrass around. Performers for the day were Al Batten and the Bluegrass Reunion, No Strings Attached, IIIrd Tyme Out, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, The Tony Rice Unit, and The Del Mcoury Band.

The festival raised money for Stop Hunger Now. If you get a chance, stop over at their website and make a donation.

Jamie Dawson of the Kickin' Grass Band and NoStrings Attached fame did a great job MC'ing the event.

Thanks to Scott Mclain and the Hey-Bro Crew for a great day!

Watch for their next big event Camp Barefoot 3

World Beer Festival - Stone Age Romeos

2009-05-07T23:50:00.008-04:00

I had some fun shooting my friends from Stone Age Romeos at the recent World Beer Festival in Moore Square. I thought I'd sample a few brews before the show, but quickly found out that the beer tents were not only mobbed, but HOT! I did manage to try 3 beers and they were all good.

See all of the shots here: BEER

The musical talent was booked by Viavant Productions who will be putting on the GETDOWN! on Labor Day Weekend 2009. See you there - I'll take your picture!

THE GETDOWN

Ground Blessing @ St Francis Raleigh

2009-03-24T01:19:00.005-04:00

Last Sunday, Bishop Emeritus Joseph Gossman and Bishop Michael Burbidge presided over ceremonies blessing the ground for new construction at St Francis of Assisi in North Raleigh. Following the ceremonies, the Knights of Columbus held their largest ever BBQ Fair.

Groundbreaking at St Francis of Assisi Raleigh

2009-03-20T22:50:00.004-04:00

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church broke ground on their new buildings yesterday. Eventually, a new community center, a small chapel, and a life long learning center will be added.

Zero Excuses, Get Yer Funk On

2009-03-19T22:35:00.013-04:00

I had the pleasure of seeing and listening to two great Raleigh-based bands last night. Funkaponya & ZEGG co-headlined at the Pourhouse Wednesday night. Each band was graced by sit in horn players who were outstanding! If you haven't had a chance to see either of these bands, make it a point to check their schedules!

Funkaponya

ZEGG

The Pourhouse

More pictures

UNC Chapel Hill Tarheel Publications

2009-03-14T01:02:00.009-04:00

Some of the many shots we did last year for UNC Chapel Hill are finally coming to print. These materials are sent to prospective and incoming students.

Hunger...No More

2009-03-03T11:37:00.004-05:00

This past weekend I documented the Hunger No More conference sponsored by the Franciscan Coalition at St. Francis of Assisi Raleigh.

Raleigh Real Estate Photography

2009-02-27T13:39:00.004-05:00

A piece of new property that I shot this week. Staged by the folks at Professional Home Staging & Design.

Professional Home Staging

Real Estate and Homestaging Photography

2009-02-09T14:23:00.008-05:00

We get a lot of calls to do real estate and staged home photography. A good home staging and a set of high quality photographs can do a lot to to sell your home.

Champions

2009-02-01T16:31:00.005-05:00

We did the team and individual shots for the competitive gymnastics team at a local gym. These youg ladies put in a huge effort every week to ensure that they are in top shape for their competitive season. Every one of them is a champion in her own right.

2009-01-13T14:31:00.003-05:00

Joe Lies - 2009

2009-01-09T00:34:00.009-05:00

Joe Lies. An almost all girl band from Raleigh NC.

One of these things is not like the others.

www.myspace.com/joeliesband

2008 Retrospect - Someone's Sister CD Shoot

2009-01-01T23:13:00.008-05:00

One of my most satisfying photoshoots in 2008 was a photoshoot I did for the Greenville-based group Someone's Sister. I got a call from Georgia Winfree asking if I could do a concept shoot for their new CD. She put me in touch with her band-mate Katherine Jones and we took it from there. In our first conversation Katherine says something to the effect that she wants to do a shoot with a child playing in the road with a semi-truck barreling down on her. So of course I said, "Sure, no problem!"

It all went better than any of us could have expected. The band had it all planned out and even blocked off a rural road in Ayden NC. The weather cooperated and the sunset lighting was exquisite. I was assisted by my son Andy who is a rising star in photography in the Greenville NC area. Andy has some shots on the new Kelly Bell CD/DVD.

I did all of the editting from the road while I was in Boston. Katherine and I exchanged emails and images until we got it right.

I got to see the finished product when the CD debuted in October.

The CD cover is a tri-fold and the long image in the attached composite is the inside of the CD. The shot of the child is the cover & the shot with the band in the sky is the back cover. You can order a copy from CD Baby by clicking on the title of this blog.

2008 Retrospect - FLOYDFEST!

2008-12-30T22:58:00.008-05:00

Floydfest 2008 - A Family Affair.

I don't do big music festivals. I typically like events at Deerfields near Asheville, NC. I also like Camp Barefoot in Gore VA. So I was a bit nevous about going to Floydfest which is a bit larger. But, I had a VIP ticket and snagged a Photo pass and was looking forward to meeting an online photographer friend, Roger Gupta. Well, I was not let down. Floydfest is one of the best organized and family friendly festivals around. I got a lot of great pictures and am excited about going back this year. I'll let the pictures tell the story. Click on the title of this entry.

2008 Retrospect - Part 2 - April - HEYBRO - Pickin' for the Pets

2008-12-28T19:07:00.011-05:00

My friends Scott & Jenn from HeyBro supported by their fabulous crew put on a fundraiser in April for the Wake SPCA. They had a bunch of great bluegrass groups play for this great cause. HeyBro usually puts on Camp Barefoot in the summer, but it was on hold this year for Jenn's & Scott's wedding. So, in 2009 we're looking foward to not only Camp Barefoot (August 2009), but also a super bluegrass event at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in May to support Stop Hunger Now.

http://www/.carolinabluegrassfestival.com

http://www.myspace.com/campbarefoot myspace.com/campbarefoot

http://www.hey-bro.com/

2008 Retrospect - Part 1 - February - Banff

2008-12-28T09:53:00.014-05:00

2008 goes down in my books as one of those landmark years. There were many very good events and a few that still need to be sorted out.
For me the first big event was going to Banff, Canada, in February. I was there for a major conference on the biology of appetite and obesity. At the time, I was still working as a scientist for GlaxoSmithKline, but it was already evident that some big changes were coming. I went to Banff a couple of days before the meeting and rented a big pickup truck with 4 wheel drive. One morning I got up long before dawn and headed north along the Icefields Parkway that runs from Banff to Jasper. There were several inches of ice on the road, but since I basically had the road to myself for several hours, it wasn't a big problem. I drove for an hour or two and found a spot where the first light of dawn would strike distant mountain tops. I was able to set up my tripod in the middle of the road and get some nice shots. For breakfast and some hot coffee, I stopped at the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge at Bow Lake. After reaching Jasper, I gassed up and returned using the same route. It got quite warm that day, melting the road ice and kicking off many avalanches. Near Lake Louise, I spotted the moon rising over the mountains. On the next night there was a total lunar eclipse.

Merry Christmas !

2008-12-26T00:40:00.003-05:00

New Project

2008-12-08T19:53:00.004-05:00

I've started photographing the life and history of St Francis of Assisi in Raleigh. Greg Mintel, me and several others will be capturing the community of St Francis in photographs. Here's a recent image of Father David.

Trying to Find Beauty in the Apparently Mundane

2008-12-03T00:18:00.006-05:00

I did a real estate shoot today. At first it seemed mundane. Then I realized that my pictures might be a major factor in helping someone sell their house in these very hard economic times. So I did my best, I tried to make this place look really good. In doing that, I saw some details that I really liked.

UNC CH Intramural Sports

2008-11-26T14:12:00.011-05:00

I worked with the Admissions Office at UNC Chapel Hill last month. They are building an entirely new website. I was particularly happy with some of the shots I got with Chelsea. She's played all but one intramural sport at Carolina! Quite an accomplishment. Chelsea and her friends were all high energy and lot's of fun to work with!

Some Photoshop Techniques

2008-11-21T22:57:00.005-05:00

I've been trying to learn clipping masks in Photoshop. Nice effects with edges.

Someone's Sister music and images

2008-11-16T00:38:00.005-05:00

We did a photshoot several months ago for Someone's Sister's new CD. Check it out.

Jacquie Gymnastics

2008-11-16T00:07:00.004-05:00

I started playing with some new video formats for displaying images.

Handstand

2008-11-10T07:34:00.004-05:00

Local gymnast Jacquie in a straddle press handstand

Getting Some Air

2008-11-08T18:33:00.002-05:00

We did a bunch of young gymnasts this week. Gymnastics = motion. So no boring poses.
This is the set up for our iPod commercial syle silhouettes. Great stuff for composites.

My Assistant

2008-11-04T23:35:00.006-05:00

I'm blessed to have some dedicated assistants, expecially Cassidy & Jacquie. Here's Jacquie as a stand in today while we set up the lights for a gymnastics shoot. We are on location for 6 days. The gymnasts are just amazing. I especially like working with the little ones !

Recent Wedding - One of My Favorites

2008-10-26T22:57:00.003-04:00

Every event presents opportunities to capture special images. This picture is one of my favorites from a recent Raleigh wedding at the Long View Center. The three kids are siblings and they are ringing the church bell after their aunt's wedding.

Something new is blooming

2008-10-22T11:34:00.006-04:00

We are about to spin out our wedding and portrait entity to a new identity. Commercial work, performance imaging, musicians and headshots will still be under the name Richard Cox Photographics, LLC. Weddings, children, family shots and individual portraits will be taken under the Orchid Hill Studios brand.

Watch for more information and a new website in the coming weeks.

Julie and Landin

2008-10-20T23:47:00.009-04:00

On Sunday, I shot engagement pictures for Julie and her husband-to-be Landin. Julie and I worked together in Neuroscience research until recently. She's now at the NC State Vet School studying the genetics of cancer and Landin is an engineer. We had a perfect Fall day for taking some great pictures. I should have all of them ready by this coming weekend.

Feeling the Love - Weddings and Engagements

2008-10-19T22:32:00.015-04:00

This weekend I shot a wedding on Saturday & engagement pictures on Sunday.

My Friends Chris & Lynn got married on Saturday at the Longview Center in Raleigh. They had their recepton at Caffe Luna. How many weddings have you been to where the bride and groom rock out at the reception? Chris and Lynn are both fantastic musicians and songwriters. Chris is a member of Zegg. Lynn has her own group called Joe Lies. In addition, Lynn is a writer who is currently publishing her first novel.

I'm working on their pictures and hope to have them ready by this weekend.

On Sunday I shot engagement pictures for Julie and Landon. I'll feature them in the next blog.

Loki Festival

2008-10-13T15:46:00.007-04:00

The first Loki Festival was held last weekend at Deerfields just south of Asheville. We tried to focus as much on the attendees as we did on the bands.

It was definitely Fall in the mountains and we had a great time!

Many more images on my website. www.richardfcox.smugmug.com

UNC Chapel Hill part 2

2008-10-05T23:33:00.004-04:00

I just finished editting about 500 images from the UNC CH shoot. Now I understand the guys who lament just dropping off the film at the lab.
BTW, the attached shot is of Meredith Gellman who assisted me. The pressure was on for us because her Dad is also a photographer.

UNC Chapel Hill Photo Shoot 30/72

2008-10-02T23:20:00.008-04:00

I just spent about 30 of the last 72 hours shooting at UNC in Chapel Hill. The Admissions Department is updating its website and wanted some new images.

I am in awe of the talented students from all disciplines at Chapel Hill. I even got to meet and shoot basketball player Marcus Ginyard! Sorry...can't post those pictures here.

Someone's Sister CD Release

2008-09-28T23:20:00.006-04:00

Last month my son, Andy, and I did a photoshoot for the band Someone's Sister. The CD, "calm in the chaos", was released on Friday night & I got my first look at and listen to the finished product. I was knocked over! This is our first front to back CD project. The CD is wonderful and I cannot say how much I enjoy the music. Katherine Jones conceived a moving set of images that we were able to deliver on.

The first shot above is the back cover. I merged 2 images in Photoshop to create that composite. The second image is the front cover. Our little model started crying because of the noise from the big truck but we kept shooting because her sad face seemed to convey even more emotion.

This was a great project from us and we are grateful to have contributed to this CD.

You'll have to get the CD to see the 3 page fold out.

http://www.myspace.com/someonessister

Gymnastics Photos & Photoshop fun

2008-09-25T10:25:00.003-04:00

I'm gearing up for a big gymnastics shoot and needed to make some posters and composites. Jacquie was my model and we got some cool shots last night. I'm constantly working on my Photoshop skills and got to apply some things I recently learned.

Back Home from the Coast - Work & Play

2008-09-20T20:46:00.012-04:00

I just returned from a week on the coast. I worked three days at a corporate event in Myrtle Beach, SC. This meeting is a favorite of mine because of the great people that work for the organization. The venue was the Marriot Grand Dune Resort. However, this year, the humidity almost did me in. I had a hard time moving in and out of the building during evening events because my lenses would fog up every time I stepped outside. At one point I could see fog inside my zoom lens. Despite this, I caught a really nice moonrise on Sunday night.

After the meeting I spent the rest of the week relaxing at Emerald Isle, NC. We saw dolphin and [large] sharks from the fishing pier. A 24 pound barracuda was caught one day while we were fishing.

Stanton Moore Trio & Funkaponya

2008-09-11T22:06:00.006-04:00

My friends in Funkaponya opened Tuesday night for the Stanton Moore Trio. This all went down at the Pourhouse in Raleigh, NC. Very cool stuff. Both groups had their funk on. Click on the title of this blog entry from more pictures.

Zory & Abel Gomez 10th Anniversary - sneak peek

2008-09-10T22:33:00.005-04:00

What a weekend! Hurricane/Tropic Storm Hannah threatened to disrupt the 10th anniversary wedding re-enactment of Zory & Abel. However, by noon on Saturday, the sun was shining and it was hot!! We were even able to get some nice outdoor shots on the way to the reception. I know the 'newly weds' are eager to see some shots so here are a couple to hold them while I do my editing.

NC Coast and Piers

2008-09-01T20:33:00.005-04:00

I had a client contact me a few weeks ago regarding a shot I'd taken of the Iron Steamer Pier in 2004. After a couple of weeks I found the original and it brought back memories of a beautiful series of images I took at sunset. I'll be heading back to Emerald Isle in a couple of weeks after a 2 year hiatus and hope I can do as well this time.

Cornetta Kids

2008-08-29T07:13:00.007-04:00

I spent most of Wednesday afternoon playing with my niece's three kids, Noelle, Anthony and Benjamin. Ben is three months old and we wanted to get a picture of the 3 of them before he gets much bigger.

We shot natural light in the shade and the results were good. Several, like the one on the left, required some photo manipulation to get a nice expression on all three kids. In this case we brought Ben in from a sequential shot.