WILLOW PAULE PHOTOGRAPHY

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2012-01-06T05:56:00.000-08:00

Adventures in Mobile Food|Jogjakarta Documentary Photographer

2011-12-22T23:16:00.000-08:00

For a week, I only ate from mobile food vendors here in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. I allowed myself unlimited water from my house and one tea or coffee in the morning, but otherwise all my foods had to come from mobile vendors. (I did cheat with fruit once or twice, some chocolate and an extra tea or two. But all in all I stayed loyal to the cart.) My goal was to only eat from people who circulate all day selling food but I soon found that to be difficult. Sometimes there were long spells with no one passing by or rain sometimes made things scarce. Periodically, the same food rolled by incessantly; there is only so much siomay (dumplings) or bakso (meatball soup) I can eat. I changed my rules to only eating from carts or mobile structures, but they could be in one place selling.

Day 1

I got to try school vendor’s foods. These vendors wait outside elementary and middle schools. The foods have to be quick to prepare and cheap. I tried “tempura” which was weird processed meats that were deep fried in old oil and slathered with sweet chili sauce. Not my favorite. I also had siomay, a dumpling covered with peanut, chili, and sweet soy sauce.

I went to the beach and some beautiful waterfalls this day with some friends. I couldn't find any cart food for lunch and so I was starving by the time I ordered sate for dinner. I got two portions, which were pretty small anyway. But it was the best sate I have had in a long time because there was no fat, the peanut sauce was fresh and not greasy, and it had spicy, sliced red chilis on top. Yum!

This is ronde. Ronde is a ginger drink served in dainty miniature bowls. Besides the sweet ginger liquid, there are lots of assorted yummy things floating in the bowl, like bread and roasted peanuts. I only had one bowl; the other belongs to my friend.

Day Two

Rujak is mixed fruits and veggies with a pungent sugary, shrimp pastey, spicy dipping sauce.

Bakso for lunch. Meatball soup but I requested mine with no meatballs :-).

Got too hungry and forgot to take a photo for dinner. I ate nasi kucing (cat rice--which refers to the portion not the contents, usually with sambal or a tiny amount of noodles or tempe on top, all wrapped in a banana leaf or brown paper and newspaper, tofu, tempe and limeaide).

Day 3

I ate at angringkans a few times, carts that usually set up shop in one place all night but all the food is placed on top of their cart, which they use to wheel everything to and fro. I also ate from foot vendors, like the es dawet (coconut mild with palm sugar and glutinous droplets) seller. She sets up by the immigration office and always stays very busy with people waiting for indeterminable periods. She carries her supplies in the traditional way, with two pots evenly balanced with a stick over her shoulder.

Es Dawet, yum!

After not eating many veggies for a few days, I was excited to find this cart with many mixed vegetable stir fries!

I had some sate from the sweetest moving food vendor who comes through our neighborhood. Also I had an extra packet of "nasi kucing" from the night before.

I was hungry. Five minutes later:

Day 4

Bakso again, but bakso free with fried wantons instead. Pretty good as bakso goes.

Es dawet again. This one had fancier ingredients but wasn't as good as the stuff by the immigration office.

Gorengan "friedness." This is fried tempe and fried pineapple pastries.

Bakpaw or we call it baw in the US. This one was filled with a chicken stuffing and very yummy.

Fried rice and orangeade.

I had great exchanges with the mobile vendors. Everyone was happy that I was buying from them and wanted to cater to my tastes. I noticed that their prices were a bit higher and I wasn’t as full as say buying from stationary places, which tend to use more vegetables and complex ingredients. But they work hard for the money! At the end of the week, I was missing vegetables and feel carbed-out. I was also very proud of myself for pretty faithfully sticking to the diet and lasting the week!

Day 5

I tried “kue lekker” something undoubtedly from Dutch colonial days, it’s like a miniature crepe with sliced banana and chocolate sprinkles inside. The salesman was shocked when I said I had never tried it; he had assumed I was Dutch and craving comfort food.

This is chicken and noodle soup with a bit of green veggie and a fried wanton. You can see all the accompanying sauces and the orangeade.

I was starving by dinner time because I went to watch some documentaries first. I stopped at an angringkan to eat nasi kucing with fried tempe.

After those simple carbs, I didn't feel full. So I picked up some "grilled bread" or roti bakar on my way home. It's a big commitment because you have to buy the entire loaf of bread which has been slathered with various ingredients and some staples: margarine and condensed milk. I always get chocolate. I had some that night and throughout the rest of the week. I kind of felt overwhelmed and vowed never to buy roti bakar again if it was only me eating it.

Day 6

More bakso. Feeling the MSG. Also wondering if my continual intake of MSG has anything to do with my headache that won't go away?

Excuse the blur. This was super yummy. Grilled chicken, coconut milk rice and spicy eggplant with sambal, yum, yum, yum. I bought 2 portions of rice thinking I could save one for my first meal the next day but I ate both for dinner because I was starving. (That meant I had to eat more grilled bread for breakfast the next day, sigh...)

Day 7

The final day!

The first cart I could find had fresh coconut water with coconut flesh and palm sugar. It was such a pretty setting to drink under the big roots of the trees by the side of the relatively quiet road.

Then I had some nasi campur, which was a mix of stir-fried noodles, tempe and some broth from another dish. It was exciting to eat rice.

By dinner time I was starving again and went out, feeling disloyal to carts and looking for any food I could find. Luckily, a cart passed by just in time. I wanted to order fried rice. The cart owner had just made some and it was all ready to go. He had another customer that disappeared, so I got that fried rice.

I made it!

Below are a few photos of vendors from other days.

This lady comes by our house often. She and many other older women like her carry the snacks around in a large basket on their back, fastened with a sarong.

This is another rujak seller and his tools:

Does this give you an idea of what's available from mobile street carts in Java? Although, I felt annoyed by the excessive carbs, it's really amazing how available and convenient food is here. It gives take-away a whole new name. We can bring out own dish and have get some food right in front of our house.

Jatilan, Javanese Trance Dance

2011-12-17T23:19:00.000-08:00

In Kajawen, the original spiritual practices in Java, trance dancing plays a part. For a wedding that was held in a village near Yogya, I got to see one of these dances. The dancers' bodies were entered by spirits who danced and ate flowers and incense. The air was intense and I imagine it takes a lot to trust to allow your soul to leave your body. After dancing the souls are brought back to the dancers body, and the spirits are cast out. Jatilan has it all, men in garish makeup reminiscent of women, alligators, people getting whipped and eating weird things, etc. Check it out.

Own a Piece of Recycled Wearable Art, Stunning, Handcrafted Batik Sarongs Now Available Direct from Java

2011-12-17T22:58:00.000-08:00

The Javanese city of Yogyakarta in which I live is the cultural hub and art capital of the island. Batik, the ancient art of painting designs onto fabric using wax as a resist, still flourishes here. The outdoor markets offer lovely used sarongs that incorporate traditional designs and techniques. These photos are typical of what's available:

Before heading back to the U.S. in mid-February 2012, I plan to purchase a collection of used sarongs that I will be offering for sale. These sarongs typically are 40 x 80 inches and they are all 100% cotton. Since they are used, they all acquire a wonderfully soft hand and some have an attractive, aged patina.
They are perfectly suited for creating clothing such as skirts, tops, and jackets as well as bags, quilts, cushions, hair adornments, and wall hangings. Please note the dimesions when ordering.

If you would like to reserve your sarong(s), I would be happy to include such orders in my shopping expeditions to the markets. Each piece is $15 plus $5 shipping. (If you're in the Phoenix AZ or Medford, OR area, I can deliver your order personally without a shipping charge. All sarongs will be delivered/sent by mid-March.

To order your sarongs, please email me here. If there's a particular color emphasis you would like, please let me know and I'll try to oblige. Having studied batik and being familiar with the local marketplace for used sarongs, I will be seeking out the most beautiful pieces that will lend themselves to your projects.

To order or learn more, please send me an email at willow paule @ gmail dot com.

willowpaule at gmail dot com

Lombok Family | Indonesia Documentary Photographer

2011-10-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

Faces...get yer faces here! | world portrait photographer

2011-10-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to do a recap of faces I've encountered at Willow Paule Photography. Which one is your favorite?

What does your face say about you? What to find out? Schedule a session with me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

Technology training for women in Lombok | Travelling photographer

2011-10-02T04:40:00.000-07:00

In the end of September, I spent time shooting for Kopernik, a nonprofit that brings brings affordable, innovative technology to the developing world. Kopernik has partnered up with an organization named PEKKA (Women Headed Household Empowerment). Kopernik was looking for a photographer to capture images from the women’s training event in West Lombok. The training covered sales methods and techniques to aid PEKKA members in selling various household products to customers in the area.

PEKKA members in Lombok have recently begun selling biomass stoves in their community as a means of making a small profit for themselves and their family and bringing valuable technology to their neighborhood. These stoves only require a tiny amount of gas to start and can use many materials for fuel including wood chips, coconut and corn husks. This PEKKA chapter’s most successful member managed to sell 68 stoves in the last 2 months.

Although PEKKA was established in 2000 for widows who lived in conflict areas in Aceh, a growing segment of Indonesian women are becoming heads of household. Indonesian marriage law only recognizes men as head of a household. Because of this inconsistency there is a real need for PEKKA programming, which has since spread to other parts of Indonesia to aid disenfranchised women heads of household.

PEKKA members were also introduced to new products including home water purification systems and solar LED household lights over the course of this training. The women can get all products on consignment. Once they sell a product, they earn a small commission and pay back the cost of the item to Kopernik. They have also developed a credit system for customers who can’t afford the products up front. The customers have to pay only a bit more (about RP 5000 more per month) but can still get the product they want.

The women practiced their sales techniques and got hands-on advice and tools for small-business accounting and goal setting.

I felt so honored to be able to make images of the women of PEKKA. Many of these women have struggled greatly for themselves and their family but have stayed motivated to make positive changes for themselves and their communities. The women stayed focused throughout the training, barely anyone glanced at cell phones and every one took advantage of freshly-made coffee throughout the long days. They also started each afternoon session with fun songs, dances and activities to keep everyone engaged.

fun exercises together to warm up before getting into diffcult material again.jpg">

The last day of training, I visited some of the villages where PEKKA members had sold biomass stoves. I got to make some photos of the families and their kitchens. (I’ll save that for another post.) At the end of the training, I felt sad about leaving these women, whom I had only just begun to know. I hope I get another chance to visit them.

To learn more about PEKKA, check here:

To learn more about Kopernik and their technology initiatives, look here:

Hire me for your own event; send an email to willow paule at gmail dot com.

Surgery|Jakarta Documentary Photographer

2011-09-05T23:09:00.000-07:00

It was a sweltering day in Jakarta and I was struggling to keep my eyes open. We had just stopped by my friend Esther's aunt's place to wish her luck for an upcoming surgery. After about 25 years with diabetes, she was also having kidney issues. She was all ready to have surgery when her surgeon had second thoughts because he was worried about the results.

Esther's brother and sister-in-law were in town visiting from Singapore with their son and they thought it would be a good time to drop by.

Esther's brother led a prayer. Hopefully this energy aided in her recovery.

Esther's aunt lives in a house with interesting furniture and little-kid drawings all over the walls.

Esther's mom and her sister. Let's hope she feels better.

Jakarta Post photo essay|Jakarta Documentary Photographer

2011-09-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was an extra in an Indonesian film called "Di Bawah Lindungan Ka'bah, which is in theaters now. When I wasn't on camera, I had free reign to take photographs. A photo essay was published in The Jakarta Post with my writing and photographs August 13th.

Check out the article online.

To see some of the other photos from behind the scenes, check out these (1 and 2) photo posts.

No Struggle to See the Cuteness | Jogjakarta Portrait Photographer

2011-07-17T00:32:00.000-07:00

Juang=cute 6-month-old boy whose name means Struggle.

Niken=patient mommy of said cute boy.

Setting=office, yard and home of Juang and Niken. What else to say?

Well, I have more; below:

I loved the pace of this shoot. We took our time, migrated from one family house another, searched out interesting walls, fed Juang milk, found another interesting location, took a break for nap time. More photos then bath time. More photos then time to hang with grandpa. What a fun, relaxed way to get varied looks for this session.

Speaking of looks, I am more interested in unique moments then smiling baby photos. Not to say I like sad babies, but I do like to celebrate the multifaceted natures of human beings! I didn't just want to pick the smiling photos from this shoot because I feel like there are so many other interesting and important expressions Juang makes, like most babies.

Niken's parents were going to a wedding. They stopped to get a little love from Juang before heading out.

The photographer [i.e. moi] even got a chance to pose with the boy! What an honor!

To schedule your own shoot contact me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

Khadir and Tucker, 1960's Holden | Jogja Portrait Photographer

2011-07-10T03:26:00.000-07:00

Channeling Bryant Terry and his cool vegan soul food cookbook in which he lists songs that go well with his meals, I'm gonna do the same for this collection of photos.

I recommend D'Angelo's cover of the Prince song "She's Always in My Hair." (This version is not with video but you don't need it anyway since you'll be looking at this collection of images.) Enjoy viewing and listening!

Khadir and I took Tucker to a decorated wall near the Taman Budaya (cultural center) and parked her for some shots.

Khadir's friend Kukuh came to lend his charm to our project.

He's got the moon in the palm of his hand.

After shooting here, we headed out to Jl. Solo, where a group of Holden afficionados hang out on Saturday nights. As traffic whizzed by this major road, I got out my umbrella and camera equipment and took a few quick portraits. Khadir's Holden is the oldest of their group. There was one bright pink Holden from the 70's. Fun stuff.

To schedule your own session with a classic car write me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

T+D=Senang Hati | Asia Wedding Photographer

2011-05-31T17:41:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I got to join my friend Gatot, a talented photographer as he took photos of his close friends Trias and Diana for their engagement, near Kaliurang Mountain at Diana's family house. What a beautiful setting; there were lots of great outdoor locations!

Diana came up with an ingenious way to cross the creek by her house, plastic bag feet!

Trias and Diana were a really relaxed couple to photograph. They seemed almost immediately comfortable behind the lens, probably due to their relationship with Gatot, their photographer. I always think it's a good idea for people getting married to get to know their photographer by doing engagement photos first. That way you can be even more comfortable when he or she is documenting your wedding.

Trias and Diana actually just got married a few days ago! I am wishing them lots of luck. They get to party on own this weekend with TWO receptions on both Saturday and Sunday.

These beautiful bamboo groves were right out behind Diana's house.

Good idea for people who hate wearing rings on their fingers, like me.

Wishing these two lots of happiness in their marriage. And thanks, again Gatot, for letting me tag along! If you would like to book engagement, pre-wedding or wedding photography in Southeast Asia or the USA, please contact me at willow paule at gmail dot com with details. Thanks for viewing!

Part II of Di Bawah Lindungan Ka'bah, Indonesian Film

2011-05-25T01:16:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken by Photographers Aldi Reynaldi and Erik Wirasakti. Big props to them for sharing them with me!

These are the real stars.

It's hard having the camera turned on me, as a photographer, but luckily Aldi and Erik did a good job.

Me at the post office, handing over some Dutch money from the 1920s for a parcel I was sending home to Holland.

Our compartment on the train to nowhere. We rode that train back and forth all day. The smell of a steam train is quite overpowering, especially for a Dutch noble-person like me.

The post office employee actually had three different parts as an extra. Not fair! We had fun making up little dialogues while we were filmed over and over.

Me and my hubby, according to the script. He was 59, he said.

On the Set of the Indonesian Film Di Bawah Lindungan Ka'bah | Documentary Photographer

2011-05-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

I was lucky to be asked to be an extra in this film, set to release around Ramadan. My part was a "Dutch noble-person" and my job was to wear a dress and pearls and ride a train back and forth. I almost got a speaking role (in Dutch!) but it was stolen from me by a very cute 8-year old boy.

The casting process for Indonesian extras was this guy yelling a lot about the characteristics he needed and people rushing forward with arms raised.

Many of the extras worked at the train museum as vendors and became vendors in the movie! That meant they were old hands at acting out their roles.

I got some time to talk with the still photographers documenting the film. They had already been with the project for a couple months of shooting in other parts of Indonesia. They were very open and friendly and I told one I was a photographer and that I wanted to take photos behind-the-scenes if it didn't disturb them. He said it was fine as long as my camera settings were set to silent--he thought I wanted to shoot the actual scenes as they were rolling. I thought that exemplified how generous they were. I just meant I wanted to take photos of the goings-on around the set, and he thought I wanted to be right next to him taking photos as the cameras rolled.

This post is pretty large so I will add the photos I got from the photographers on set to the next post. Check it out, too!

Patrick was a fun expat from Scotland who lives here in Indonesia now. He's an engaging storyteller and sought me out often because he said he missed speaking with people who spoke English as a first language. It was funny that he said that because I was having trouble understanding his thick (to my ears) accent. He's a foodie, too and makes his own pasta among other things. Pretty impressive in Indonesia! It seemed surreal to be talking about feta and ricotta cheese here. He is the father of the cute 8-year-old who stole my speaking part. But it's okay.

This was supposed to be my husband in the movie. I decided he was my uncle instead. He was from Semarang and his mother was German; he had been an extra before.

Some of the makeup crew.

This is the hunky Indonesian equivalent of maybe Matt Damon and the star of this film. He had to wear lots of makeup so he looked darker. He is actually from Sumatra originally so that part was accurate but I guess this generation spends more time indoors than they did in the 1920s. I was amazed that his makeup didn't get all over everything.

The film takes place in Padang, Sumatra and this is what they wore there back in the day.

We had to ride a steam train back and forth. For the good parts, this is what we saw out the window.

My friend Ashley got to wear mustache. Ash's stache. Good times.

My hubby, looking dashing.

This guy's jacket reminds me of that musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, even though I've never seen it. I was amazed that he was comfortable wearing that in the heat, although I am continually amazed by warm-clothing-wearing here.

This guy is not acting. He is really sleeping on a pile of bags.

Sympatico Clothing Session with Lauren | Jogjakarta Fashion Photographer

2011-05-09T04:18:00.000-07:00

Check out these images of Lauren, made for Sympatico Clothing. These were taken in Topanga, California on the beach with Lauren. What a fun place to shoot. In my opinion, misty beaches are great to light with a simple umbrella and off-camera flash.

I’ll take you there | Indonesia Documentary Photographer

2011-04-24T00:49:00.000-07:00

A few images from the paths I’ve followed in Java, Indonesia for the past two months. Food I’ve eaten, people I’ve met, things I've seen.

The images above show rubber trees. Khadir and I could not figure out why they were all bending the same way. Any ideas, anyone? Oh and there didn't seem to be any wind.

Mmm, gado-gado. This store was the scene of an odd incident but I choose to remember the gado-gado only.

And gorengan, ie fried-ness, a mainstay of Indonesian cooking.

My friend Khadir sitting by a giant canvas.

Love street, wanna go?

Celebrating the Earth | Jogjakarta Documentary Photographer

2011-04-22T06:49:00.000-07:00

In a place where everything is packed in plastic over and over and over again, it was nice to be part of an event that remembered Mother Earth if only for just a moment. I am posting these photos in honor of Earth Day as well.

To raise awareness about saving electricity, for one hour the city turned off the street lights and the lighting for Tugu Monument, a very well known spot in Jogjakarta, Indonesia.

Participants used re-purposed plastic water cups to fashion a candle holder.

The event was largely attended by high school students, some from an all boy's school who very much enjoyed chanting loudly. But mostly, it was nice seeing young people engaged in an important event.

On a personal note, it was a fun excuse for me to get out my 50mm 1:4 lens to try shooting in low light.

To book me for your own events or portraits in Southeast Asia, contact me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

A Note about Purging...(Stuff, Not My Dinner)

2011-02-12T17:40:00.000-08:00

I recently got rid of many things that were weighing me down in my lifestyle, which is one of frequent moves. Getting rid of old papers, old clothing, old jewelry, and other things has really felt freeing. I also enjoyed getting rid of old correspondence that made me angry or sad, gifts from people I was no longer close with and things I had never liked. That is not to say that I don’t honor those things and those times but it is officially time to move on. I remember reading somewhere about a culture (maybe Maori?) unlike ours that teaches the moment you give a gift you release the giftee to do with it what they like! If that means regifting, repurposing or disposing in some other way, that is the giftee’s prerogative. What a freeing way to think about belongings!

I trashed a huge quantity of photos that span from when I was a teenager until my college years. They documented so many friendships, struggles, new approaches and ideas about photography I was learning in school, and of course a lot of boring stuff and outtakes too. To purge, I have to be in the right frame of mind. I often feel a wrench of the heart when I throw a stack of photos in the trash. Emotionally it’s hard. I think picking the right time to do it is important. After other emotional setbacks in my life, I tend to cling to the things that give me comfort and that is not an ideal time for purging belongings. However, throwing things away, giving things away and selling things I don’t need anymore has started feeling like making space for the new to come. That could be material things, ideas, or even people. I’m making space for the new, baby.

What do you think about purging? Do you have a different point-of-view?

A Recap of Pretty...

2011-02-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

When I need a dose of pretty, I go through my boudoir photos. Winter weather has made me miss seeing bare skin, I suppose. Big up to Lindy Drew; these photos sessions were in creative collaboration with her. Enjoy this collection of images!

This may be a new genre. This photo happened organically as the dog wanted to get in on the fun. Being a trendsetter is difficult but I'm sure any day now I'll start getting emails to set up pet boudoir sessions. Or maybe not.

I love getting your comments. Press the button below and let me know what you're thinking! To see more images, check out my other posts or Like my Facebook page (Link to the right on this page). Thank you for looking!

Phoenix Seniors | Senior Portrait Photographer

2010-12-27T00:13:00.000-08:00

These images show some great seniors from schools in Phoenix. We had limited time to get these images and some of the students told me they were not crazy about getting their photos taken. However, after a few minutes every one of them acted like a natural! I try to make my shoots fun, laid back and not too stilted.

I love the contrast of A's shirt with the green, green grass. FYI-green, green grass is still such an odd phenomena for me to see in the desert of Phoenix.

A. surveys the autumn colors...what?! Autumn colors in Phoenix? Again, amazing! But look at those leaves!

This photo shows P's response to my corny jokes.

Look at this beautiful evening light bathing P's face.

If you are one of the seniors in these photographs, check out my Facebook fan page and Like it to tag yourself and have these photos available for your own profiles. Thanks to you all! I had a great time capturing these images--enjoy.

Art teachers create legacy...| Portrait Photographer

2010-12-26T23:27:00.000-08:00

I got to know this couple in Banjarnegara, Indonesia. They both recently began teaching their own art classes after meeting in college. Their house was filled with artwork they had made. Now, I'm happy to report their child has been born, and it's a girl. I look forward to meeting her in the future!

Thank you for your hospitality, Hari and Al. I can't wait to photograph your family again!

Phoenix Sunset Girl | Phoenix Portrait Photographer

2010-12-06T20:01:00.000-08:00

Phoenix sunsets are amazingly dramatic.

Una Ganesha, i.e. One Cute Baby | Family Portrait Photographer

2010-11-29T22:02:00.000-08:00

What a sweet girl! I took these images when Una was 4 days old.

After sleeping contentedly, she woke up and expressed herself.

This is Una with her dad, Galang. Una's does amazing things with her fingers! Check out the series of movements she makes.

Westside!

Dad, please!

Una and her mom ChaCha.

This is Una's grandfather. It's hard sleeping through photo shoots, but Una is pretty talented.

Bebex | Documentary Photographer

2010-11-27T14:08:00.000-08:00

Bebex's name means "duck" in Indonesia. Bebex has an art teacher's degree and does drawing, batik and performance art. You can see documentation from one of his performances on facebook here.

One of Bebex's pieces. His work is varied, however; he uses many different materials.

Bebex with his friends, all interesting contemporary Indonesian artists. This was at an exhibition for Pak Beng, the man to Bebex's right with the beard. Pak Beng is a great influence to Bebex and a very interesting man.

Joko | Documentary Photographer

2010-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

This post is about Joko-painter, sculptor and tattoo artist. Joke is interested in politics and social issues and much of his work revolves around those things. Currently, much of his work talks about his relationships and family. He's one of my oldest friends in Jogja and introduced me to to almost everyone I know now.

I love receiving comments! Don't be afraid to give feedback. To schedule your own session, please email me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

you've been flagged

2010-11-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

Bowo

2010-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

Bowo is a screen printer and lives in Jogjakarta.

Getting a printed design from his storage area to begin making a screen-printed t-shirt.

This is Bowo's studio. A tight space that he makes work.

At Bowo's place, there is a whole separate building with this fabulous couch and painting of a Javanese myth.

Bowo is really involved in the punk scene in Jogja.

Bowo has a close relationship with his dad; they talk philosophy often.

This tattoo was made by our mutual friend, Jekek.

Technical Difficulties Over! | Asia Documentary Photographer

2010-11-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

So sorry for the lack of updates for the past few months, readers! I want to share what I have been to with you. I hope you'll join me once again, as things are about to get updated right about now. I am posting a series of portraits of friends from Jogjakarta, Indonesia. So stay tuned!

Braden and Blie Full Post | Wedding Photographer

2010-07-24T02:25:00.000-07:00

And without further ado, photos of Blie and Braden a few days before their wedding this summer.

Don't forget to leave me comments--it's inspiring to me to hear what you think.

All about town | Documentary Photographer

2010-06-21T02:25:00.000-07:00

Anyone know what's going on in this photo?

boy | portrait photographer

2010-06-20T23:54:00.000-07:00

Braden and Blie's Pre-Wedding Shots

2010-06-07T00:32:00.000-07:00

I had a photo shoot today at Golden Gate Park in anticipation of my brother Braden and his fiance Blietek's wedding scheduled two weeks from now! We shot in front of their apartment, by the bus stop as we waited for a ride to the park and of course at our destination. They plan to hold their wedding outdoors at the Golden Gate, so the photography location had special significance. The weather and clouds kept shifting--bright, dark, windy, cold, warm. It was a fun challenge to figure out the lighting every five minutes.

Enjoy this preview:

We will be doing some documentary photography tomorrow capturing their day to day routine. I imagine this will include lots of nuzzling but I am up to the job.

I will hopefully have time to upload more photos from our session in the next few weeks. In the meantime, leave me a comment and make my day!

on the pursuit of happiness| photographer

2010-05-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

John D. Rockefeller said, "I can think of nothing less pleasurable than a life devoted to pleasure."

What's wrong with a little hedonism, John? People forget that pursuing pleasure can actually affect the greater good. I would much rather do business with someone who considers their personal needs and stays centered instead of someone who devotes their entire life to work. It makes me more comfortable to think about a truck driver who got enough rest before heading out on his journey instead of what's sometimes the norm: sleep-deprived, meth or energy-drink laden drivers.

I'm not joking when I say I spend a lot of time trying to more closely emulate my cats. Sure they go outside, exercise, explore, chase birds and bugs, but they also have time for relaxation, naps and for loving each other. My cats spend time grooming and cuddling each other every day.

I think Americans got off course somewhere. What's really important? The acquiring of of material goods, or actually living in a happy, healthy way? Does having material goods always make you happy, or more aptly-does striving for material things make you happy?

As I try to find my path, I want to keep my cats in mind. This quote by Oscar Wilde rings more true to me:

"Pleasure is Nature's test, her sign of approval. When man is happy, he is in harmony with himself and his environment."

So-what are you doing to create your happiness?

Desert Shoot with Chadwick Fowler and Corvus

2010-05-06T20:38:00.000-07:00

Recently I got to tag along on a sunrise shoot in the desert near Buckeye with fellow photographer Chadwick Fowler. He was shooting the band Corvus. It was fun to see the way Chadwick and his assistant Eric work together. I enjoy observing and helping other photographers because I learn so much. Also, Chadwick really knows how to light a dramatic sky! You can see a little of his lighting setup in the time-lapse video below--he's a big fan of beauty dishes.

Oh-and the video. Chadwick set up a camera on a tripod and used his intervalometer to automatically take a photo every 30 seconds. He then strung the photos together to make this video. You can see me (look for yellow shoes), Eric, Chadwick and the band. Plus the sky changes so much! Enjoy. Check out Chadwick's website if you want to see more of his work.

running in circles--preview|tempe family photographer

2010-05-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel like running in circles like M. He decided it was the best thing to do at that point. I think he was right.

To schedule your family session, email me at willow paule at gmail dot com.

remember the time? | Tempe Portrait Photographer

2010-05-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite locations in Tempe. What can I say? I have a thing for peeling paint. In fact, you've probably seen me lingering by a peel-y building with my cell phone--taking photos to remind myself to come back later with clients!

Darlenia having an intense moment:

Darlenia and Jesse were excited to see the light rail pass over our heads.

Email me at willow paule at gmail dot com to book your session. Now booking sessions for May and early June.

Metal Yard | Phoenix Portrait Photographer

2010-05-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

Portraits with D | Phoenix Portrait Photographer

2010-04-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

A Need for Donations!

2010-03-08T12:18:00.000-08:00

"...the most grandiose result of the photographic enterprise is to give us the sense that we can hold the whole world in our heads—as an anthology of images."
-Susan Sontag

I am excited to tell you that I'll be teaching a photography class for 6th-graders at Phoenix Collegiate Academy, a new charter school in South Phoenix. The principal's vision is that kids in South Phoenix will be academically and emotionally prepared to attend college and university, something that has not happened on a large scale in the past in South Phoenix. He actually walked door-to-door to recruit his student body, and what they have is a great new learning environment. They plan to add new grades each year.

We are doing the difficult work of trying to find cameras and supplies for the class and only have 1 week left before it begins. We would love to have your used digital cameras for our class. We would also be equally happy to receive monetary contributions, which could be a tax write-off for you, as the school has non-profit status. There are about 25 interested students, and we need cameras, memory cards, and funds to buy class supplies such as DVDs, batteries and print enlargements.

Please, please write me with any questions or if you have any inkling of helping out. I've taught photography and art classes in the past and see that the classes foster curiosity about the world and increase self-esteem in my students. Photography is also an important skill, as some basics of good composition may be useful in whatever career students eventually choose. To put it simply, photography can enrich lives, and I want to bring that gift to students at Phoenix Collegiate Academy.

To donate, send checks to:
Phoenix Collegiate Academy
5610 S. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85040
http://www.phxca.org/Donors.html
602.268.9900

Specify that your donation is for the photography enrichment class. To donate supplies, please email me or Akshai Patel, (apatel@phxca.org), the principal, for more information.

I am happy to do a trade as well. Write you an article, do a portrait session--you name it!

Beauty Dish Fun | Tempe Portrait Photographer

2010-03-04T14:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Rachel, I got to practice with the beauty dish.
The lighting can get pretty dramatic with a black background...if you want it to.

Look at that hot orange velour couch. Oh, and Rachel looks good too!

We took the beauty dish outside for these shots. I like the mix of natural and studio lighting. It was fun to experiment.

A Few More Sympatico Images | Phoenix Fashion Photographer

2010-03-04T12:06:00.001-08:00

Sympatico Spring Shoot--Preview 2| Phoenix Fashion Photographer

2010-02-24T14:20:00.000-08:00

A couple shots from the latest Sympatico Clothing Shoot.

The Month of February

2010-02-10T11:19:00.001-08:00

For the entire month of February, we'll be offering boudoir photography for the discounted rate of $85 which includes a session with two fun female photographers, 10 high quality, retouched image files on disc and the satisfaction of knowing you look damn good. Plus extra files and custom prints are also on sale for this month. Book your session today as they are expected to fill fast. willow paule at gmail dot com.

Valentine's Special at Ragtops Day Spa!

2010-01-28T23:00:00.000-08:00

Ragtops Day Spa is located in Tempe. Call for your session today! 480.274.0295

Won't you be my valentine?

2010-01-22T10:32:00.000-08:00

Boudoir photography is for anyone. Email me now to schedule your very own Valentine's Boudoir Shoot with two professional, female photographers. willowpaule at gmail dot com. Don't delay, limited sessions are available and Valentine's Day is quickly approaching.

Weddings...Mariage...Menikah...Matrimonio...| Phoenix Photographer

2010-01-06T23:54:00.000-08:00

Images from weddings I've shot lately. They were fun gatherings of friends and family and I enjoyed being part of that environment. Hoping you'll take a look, and let me know what you think! Oh, and my "follow" button is working again. If you click on the top right of my blog where it says follow, you'll be updated every time there is a new post on my blog.

Call Willow Paule Photography at 480.274.0295 to schedule your portraits, wedding, or other event.

Hummingbirds Overhead|Phoenix Area Photographer

2010-01-03T16:08:00.000-08:00

Most of these shots show the hummingbirds like I saw them, little, frantic, balls of raw energy over my head. At least one shot shows a more traditional, stop-action view. I preferred seeing all the blur and movement of their feathers...

I love this one, it looks like a plane:

Blue Men, San Francisco|Phoenix Portrait Photographer

2010-01-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

A few shots in front of a great blue wall in San Francisco.

Sam carries that book around just in case he needs to color coordinate with blue walls. I'm glad he was prepared.

I couldn't decide whether I liked the last shot in sepia or color better, so you can see both.

Sympatico Spring Shoot--Preview!|Phoenix Fashion Photographer

2010-01-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this shot from Sympatico Clothing's Spring Line.

This is the first shoot of two and the photos will be on Sympatico's website in the next couple months. I enjoyed some of the behind-the-scenes shots I captured on this shoot. Many showed our model, Ana, in a sleeping bag warming up between shots!

Mini-Sessions for the Holidays | Phoenix Area Photographer

2009-11-21T14:38:00.000-08:00

Mini-sessions are a great, economical way to take a few photos and get a DVD of the images for your own personal use. Consider buying a session for someone else as a present for the holidays, or taking some photos to give to family and friends. They can also be a good way to periodically update your online photographs without spending too much money or time.

Mini-sessions range from $25-50. Contact Willow Paule Photography at 480.274.0295 if you want more info.

The face of things

2009-11-20T12:39:00.000-08:00

Notice (or don't) the misspelling of my blog address...whoops! I hope you'll come check it out anyway!

Willow

Purdy Things for Sale |Tempe Photographer

2009-11-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

In time for the holidays, I have:

Greeting cards $4, 6 for $20
Decorated light switch covers $8-10 each, quantity discounts
Magnets (small and large) $4-8 each, quantity discounts
Small framed prints $10-$30

These things make super-cool presents! Contact me for more details or to order: 480.274.0295

Desert Girl | Tempe Portrait Photographer

2009-10-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

Boudoir, Part Deux...une fille et une photographe... | ASU Boudoir Photographer

2009-10-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

To book your boudoir session, call Willow at 480.274.0295, you'll be glad you did.

Boudoir, Un Petit Peu | Phoenix Boudoir Photographer

2009-10-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

Some images from a recent shoot with a lovely girl. Just a few shots from the more lighting-centered portion of the shoot.

It's fun, sometimes, to see the lighting umbrellas.

Thanks to Lindy, my photographer friend, for all the lighting help! We've been collaborating and it's been great fun!

I'm enjoying Boudoir photography. I want to shoot more. I'm not sure whether to lump those photos in with the photos on this blog. Any opinions? Thanks!

To see more boudoir, please email willow paule at gmail dot com and I'll send more examples. The great thing about boudoir is how liberating it is and how anyone can look really great in a natural, sensual way.

Sympatico Clothing Shoot |Phoenix Fashion Photographer

2009-10-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of shooting Sympatico Clothing's new line with two great models. Some of the photos I picked for the blog are more portraits than images that show the clothing. Sympatico Clothing is using some different shots, which you'll see if you follow the link above.

Ana practices her barbie hands.

More to follow...

The Friend's Wedding

2009-09-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

Mary and Kris had an eclectic wedding by beside a red rock on the other side of a little stream in Sedona. Guests took their shoes off and waded through the water... and were glad they made it for a small gathering of good friends and heartfelt vows. Willow Paule Photography was hired to capture the party afterward, atop a house (on the roof, in fact) made of all sorts of interesting trees and built into a beautiful hillside.

Mary and Kris spent a month sampling different drinks and champagnes and what they came up with were delicious--mojitos and mixed fruit sangrias just to name a couple.

Mary talks about the arduous trip through the sand to the wedding site.

Mary's hair was Audrey Hepburn-inspired.

Their DJ friend Troy had everyone rocking out to 60s-70s soul!

Mary had an amusing incident...

The jig was up and Kenny knew it...

But they're happy.

Threads that glow

2009-09-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

Dramatic Arizona Sky

2009-08-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

Dog Days a' Summer

2009-08-13T23:02:00.001-07:00

To celebrate the {slow} passing (?) of a sultry, everyday-over-normal-temperature-Phoenix-summer, Willow Paule Photography is offering $50 off 2 hour photo sessions. Portraits, senior photos, boudoir, everything is game. You tell me what you want, photographically and your wish is my command! Take this opportunity; you're worth it. I've got secret methods to keeping you cool in front of the camera-both literally and figuratively. Offer ends the first day of Fall, September 22, 2009 at 5:18 pm EDT. Okay, I won't turn you down if you call at 6pm, but you get the gist. Call me! 480.274.0295

(photo order)

The Artful Dodgers

2009-08-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

A hot day in Steele Indian School Park with two cool three-year-old twins. Yes, it's Arizona. Beautiful clouds, wind and grassy hills. The boys were agile, quick and wily but they did slow down for a few photos. I enjoyed their inherent exuberance.

He looks so charismatic here; car salesman in the works?

A bit of a self-portrait, this one:

I am still figuring out blogger, so bear with the color issues. I wish you all could come by my place and see these photos in person.

Mini-Session Deux

2009-07-27T23:48:00.001-07:00

Another mini-session from Oregon. Kate is a junior in high school and, as you can tell, she's very photogenic and comfortable being in front of the lens. It was cold and rainy but Kate was a great sport. She was lookin' good!

Mini-sessions are a great, economical way to take a few photos and get a DVD of the images for your own personal use. They can also be a good way to periodically update your online photographs without spending too much money or time. Contact Willow Paule Photography at 480.274.0295 if you want more info.

Highly-Anticipated Update;-)

2009-07-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

What with a move, a trip, and other assorted craziness, I have been busy and not posting. I am spending this independence weekend imaging photographs like mad, though. So, here are a few nature shots from my recent trip to Medford, Oregon.

New Blog Address, New Blog Design

2009-07-26T19:01:00.001-07:00

Hello Blog Reader Friends,
Welcome to my newly designed blog! Thanks for taking the {virtual} hop, skip or jump over. Kristy of Wreckless Elements created my new blog-look and I'm excited about it! Let me know how you like it and enjoy the new posts! Don't forget to follow this blog or subscribe in your RSS/feeders.

2009-06-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

Enjoy a sampling of photos from a mini-session in Jacksonville, Oregon. We took these photos at the Jacksonville Museum. You will probably recognize the Justines from photos on my website. They switched it up; last time they wore shades of pink and this time, as you see, they're wearing blue. The museum was once the local courthouse in the 1800s. The interesting architecture and green surroundings made for a different look than I'm used to shooting in Arizona. The buttercups are everywhere here.

And yes...bribery was used to motivate the three-year-old.

Mini-sessions are a great, economical way to take a few photos and get a DVD of the images for your own personal use. They can also be a good way to periodically update your online photographs without spending too much money or time. Contact Willow Paule Photography at 480.274.0295 if you want more info.