Photography with Joe

The Psychohistorical Collapse: How China’s Economic Overreach Triggers a Global Reset The Discovery of the Equation History is not chaos. It is a sequence, a pattern, a predictable arc written in data long before it manifests in headlines. Few recognized this inevitability early, and fewer still attempted to quantify it. One such attempt emerged in an unpublished 1991 paper written in Toronto—an amateur exploration of psychohistory, but one that uncovered something deeper. The author, Scholz, discovered an equation—a minor component of a larger, unspoken calculus—that, when applied, revealed an unavoidable outcome: collapse. Not just any collapse, but the one we now witness in 2025. The end of China’s economic overreach. The failure of a debt-saturated global system. The final, inexorable step in a sequence that scholars ignored, but the numbers never did. Gibsonian Hyperreality: The Collapse in Real-Time The collapse is not an event but a sensation—a slow-motion implosion ...

Secret Club: Lady Gaga So Lady Gaga, right? The same Lady Gaga who once showed up to an awards show inside a giant egg, like some kind of avant-garde omelet. She’s got this beauty brand, Haus Labs, and now she’s teaming up with Klarna—the bank that turns "I can’t afford this" into "I can’t afford this, but slightly later." Together, they’ve opened The Studio in L.A. It’s meant to be a space for “creativity and self-expression,” which could mean anything from making groundbreaking art to filming yet another “Get Ready With Me” video where someone talks about their trauma while applying concealer. But Gaga’s into it. She and Klarna picked two creators—Biddy and Tavaris 'Vari' Jefferson—to kick things off. Each gets ten grand and mentorship, which, in corporate-speak, means "Here’s some cash, now please be interesting online." Gaga says she’s always cared about young artists, which is very Mother Monster of her. As for how they picked the crea...

  This site VSCO was introduced to me by  Alexis , a talented photographer in her own right and a full-time academic in  psychology as a random link in her instagram bio . A chance encounter with  street photography  opened doors to an entirely new world—one that reshaped my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the art form.  She is a photographer and university student off to so her Masters in England, in science.  Amazing memory of her childhood back to early grade 1 days and the snow days in Collingwood, her childhood home. https://joe-average123.blogspot.com/2025/02/alexis-talented-photographer.html The Street Photography was my on going Temporal Photography, in this case my childhood elementary School, almost unchanged!  vs.co/v4oc2yrr @alexissreynoldss VSCO: History, Economic Model, and Cultural Impact History VSCO (Visual Supply Company) was founded in  2011  by  Joel Flory  (a photographer) and  Greg Lutze ...

  Six Months with Michelle: A Friendship Beyond the Screen For the past half-year, I had the rare privilege of developing an online friendship with Michelle Trachtenberg. It’s a strange thing, getting to know someone who has already lived in the public imagination for decades. To most, she was a familiar face—whether as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer , Harriet in Harriet the Spy , or, perhaps most famously, Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl . But to me, she became something else entirely: a presence beyond her roles, a person whose complexities couldn’t be captured in a script. The details of our conversations are private, but one thing was clear—Michelle was nothing like Georgina Sparks. And yet, she played that character with such conviction that it was easy to believe otherwise. Georgina was chaos incarnate, a woman who thrived on manipulation and disruption, always two steps ahead in a game only she knew she was playing. She wasn’t just an antagonist—she was the unpred...

  The concept of oligarchy, as it's often discussed, deals with a system of governance where a small, elite group holds power over a larger populace. In psychohistorical terms, we could analyze this as the long-term patterns of power consolidation, where elite groups manipulate societal structures for self-preservation. Trump tariffs, when analyzed through the lens of this "small group domination," may also act as tools of economic control, designed to solidify the power of certain factions while limiting the mobility of others. #Oligarchy: At its core, oligarchy is the political domination by a few. These elites often control the economy, influence major industries, or have sway in governmental decisions, forming the backbone of a system that keeps resources and power tightly in their hands. In history, this has played out in many forms: aristocracies, plutocracies, or even modern-day corporatocracies, where wealth equals control. #Psychohistory: This is the theoretic...

 Before embarking on a journey from Canada to Japan, there are several key preparations that will enrich your experience and ensure a smooth trip. Here are some crucial steps, along with the importance of each: Reserve Your Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): One of the most critical preparations is securing a JR Pass. This pass grants you unlimited travel on Japan’s extensive rail network, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), which is incredibly convenient and cost-effective for tourists planning to travel between cities. Buying it in advance (only available for purchase outside Japan) ensures you can travel freely without constantly purchasing tickets for each train journey. Book Accommodations Early: While Japan offers a range of accommodation options from traditional ryokan inns to modern hotels, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially in popular areas such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Japan is a well-traveled destination, and rooms at prime hotels or unique stays like c...

 This site "VSCO was introduced to me by Alexis , a talented photographer in her own right and a full-time academic in psychology as a random link in her instagram bio . A chance encounter with street photography opened doors to an entirely new world—one that reshaped my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the art form. The Street Photography was my on going Temporal Photography, in this case my child hood elementary School, almost unchanged!  VSCO: History, Economic Model, and Cultural Impact History VSCO (Visual Supply Company) was founded in 2011 by Joel Flory (a photographer) and Greg Lutze (a designer) in Oakland, California. It began as a mobile photo-editing app offering high-quality filters and presets that mimicked the look of film photography. Over time, VSCO evolved into a social platform where users could share images in a curated, aesthetically pleasing environment without likes or public comments—differentiating it from Instagram. Key historical mome...

 Japan has long been a place where cameras arrive first, sometimes never leaving. Even as the world moved toward uniform releases, a few models still stayed home. They were built for the local market, designed with a sensibility that didn’t always translate. Some were special editions, others just quiet experiments. Ricoh GR III "Diary Edition" (2020) The GR series has always had a cult following. Small, sharp, built for the street. The "Diary Edition" was something else—warm metallic tones, a leather-like grip, a camera that felt like a tool and a keepsake at once. It was released mostly in Japan, a nod to the country’s appreciation for cameras as objects, not just instruments. Fujifilm X100V "Tokyo Limited Edition" (2020) Fujifilm knows nostalgia. The X100V already felt like a throwback, but in Tokyo, they made it even more so. A special edition, available only in certain stores, marked with engravings, wrapped in colors the rest of the world wouldn’...

  [Press Release] Vought International Announces: Paris Olympics 2024 – A Celebration of Unity and Vigilance As the world eagerly anticipates the Paris Olympics 2024, Vought International is proud to stand with athletes and fans alike in celebrating this grand event beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower. This year, the Olympics not only promise to showcase extraordinary talent and sportsmanship but also reinforce our unwavering commitment to safety and security. Eiffel Tower View and Festivities: The heart of Paris will come alive with vibrant Olympic festivities, offering breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. Spectators can enjoy a unique blend of cultural exhibitions, fan zones, and live screenings, all set against the backdrop of this historic monument. Our dedication to enhancing the Olympic experience ensures that every visitor feels the magic of Paris. Ensuring Safety Amidst Threats: In light of global concerns, Vought International, in collaboration with French auth...

  Photo Poem Cleo Scholz and Bond Photo by Dr. Scolz Candid moments caught Natural light guides the way Street portrait art. Depth in composition Black and white adds the mood Street portrait magic. City essence found Reflections in the shot, depth Street portraits come alive Crowded spaces abound Interesting backgrounds seen Street portraits unique Environmental Elements add to the story Street portrait’s charm.

  The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is known for having surprisingly good optics for its price point. Here's a breakdown of the glass quality:     Sharpness: Center Sharpness: It's generally very sharp in the center, even wide open at f/1.8. This is a strong point of the lens. Corner Sharpness: Corner sharpness is decent but not exceptional, especially at wider apertures. It improves significantly when you stop down to f/2.8 or f/4.   Other Optical Qualities: Chromatic Aberration: Chromatic aberration (color fringing) is generally well-controlled, especially compared to its predecessor. Distortion: There might be a slight amount of barrel distortion, but it's usually not noticeable in most situations. Bokeh: The bokeh (background blur) is generally considered pleasing, especially with the updated 7-blade aperture design in the STM version.   Overall: For a budget-friendly "nifty fifty" lens, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM offers excellent optical performan...

 You're looking for an upgrade from the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM? Here are some excellent high-end options in the 50mm focal length: 1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: Pros: Wider aperture for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. Faster autofocus with the USM motor.   Generally sharper than the f/1.8 STM, especially at wider apertures. Cons: More expensive than the f/1.8 STM. Can exhibit some softness at f/1.4.   2. Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art: Pros: Exceptionally sharp, even wide open. Beautiful bokeh. Solid build quality. Cons: More expensive than the Canon f/1.4. Can be heavier than other 50mm lenses. 3. Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM: Pros: Extremely fast f/1.2 aperture for incredible low-light performance and shallow depth of field.   Unique rendering and bokeh that is highly sought after. Professional-grade build quality. Cons: Very expensive. Can be challenging to focus accurately at f/1.2. Known for some focu...

  Year Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Events World Events Notable Artists (Models, Photographers, Art Directors, Designers, etc.) 1995 First Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show held at the Plaza Hotel in New York. O.J. Simpson found not guilty in his murder trial. Models: Stephanie Seymour, Veronica Webb. Photographer: Russell James. 1996 Show gains traction but remains a small, invite-only event. Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal, is born. Models: Tyra Banks, Karen Mulder. Photographer: Herb Ritts. 1997 Naomi Campbell walks in one of her first VS shows. Hong Kong returns to Chinese control. Models: Naomi Campbell, Helena Christensen. Art Director: Edward Razek.

  Contest Name Website Theme/Subject Deadline Entry Fee Prize Notes Photographer of the Year Award (Anthology 2021) https://anthology-magazine.com/awards-awards/awards/photographer-of-the-year-award-anthology-2021/ Not specified Past Deadline (2021) Unknown Unknown Seems decent (your note) World Nature Photography Awards https://www.worldnaturephotographyawards.com/ Nature, Wildlife June 30, 2021 Unknown Unknown Prix de la Photographie Paris 2021 https://photocontestdeadlines.com/photo-contest-list/prix-de-la-photographie-paris-2021/ Not specified June 2021 35 USD 2000 USD Requires email Praxis Photo Center Street Photography https://www.praxisphotocenter.org/calls-for-entry Street Photography Not specified 35 USD for 5 images, 5 USD each additional Not specified Monoawards monoawards.com Black and White Not specified 15 USD per entry Not specified Cover Art Awards (Anthology 2021) https://anthology-magazine.com/awards-awards/awards/cover-art-awards-anthology-2021/ Not specified Pa...

The LensCulture x MPB Discovery of the Year Award culminates in exhibitions that showcase the laureates' work. In 2025, the winning photographers will be exhibited at Photo London, a prestigious photography fair that unites leading galleries, publishers, and collectors. Additionally, top winners will have their work showcased at the renowned Leica Gallery in New York City. While specific dates for these exhibitions have not been announced, Photo London typically occurs in May, and the Leica Gallery exhibition is anticipated later in the year. For the most current information, please refer to LensCulture's official exhibitions page I hope to win and be there!

Joe is a man cloaked in the ever-present shadows of thought and creativity. As a polymath tutor and photographer, he bends the world to his will, capturing fleeting moments of beauty and melancholy alike. His camera serves as a vessel through which he channels the deepest recesses of the human experience—unseen, yet profoundly felt. His photography finds beauty in what is imperfect and uncovers the truth in what is often ignored. A student of history and economics, he gazes into the darkness and finds meaning in the void, illuminating the paths that others dare not tread.

  Fujifilm X-T4 vs. Sony A6700 & Other Sony APS-C Cameras Fujifilm’s  X-T4  is often compared to  Sony’s A6700 , as both are  APS-C mirrorless cameras  aimed at  hybrid shooters . However,  Sony’s autofocus system and video features are ahead , while  Fujifilm offers superior ergonomics, color science, and in-camera aesthetics . 1. Fujifilm X-T4 vs. Sony A6700 (Direct Rival) Feature Fujifilm X-T4 Sony A6700 Sensor 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans IV 26MP APS-C BSI CMOS (better low-light) IBIS (Stabilization) ✅ 6.5 stops (stronger) ✅ 5 stops Autofocus Good, but  not Sony-level Best-in-class AI autofocus  (like Sony A7R V) Burst Shooting 15 fps (mech.), 20 fps (elec.) 11 fps (mech.), 120 fps (AI tracking mode) Video 4K 60fps, 10-bit 4:2:2 4K 120fps , 10-bit 4:2:2 (no crop) Color Science Excellent,  film simulations Neutral,  better for post-processing Ergonomics Classic dials, great feel Small grip, but good layout Battery Life 500-...

 In the year of our Lord, 2025, Rebecca Hardy's name stands emblazoned in the annals of the fashionable world, a beacon of perseverance and fortitude. How the winds of fate did conspire to raise her from humble beginnings! From the modest employment in a factory, wherein she toiled through the late hours, handling the raw meats of industry with naught but her resolve, to now striding the glittering catwalks of international renown—Rebecca’s tale is one that might make the heart swell with admiration and hope. It was in the year 2015 that the world, or at least the realm of fashion, first glimpsed the striking figure of this young woman from Mannheim. A mere 22 years of age, she had garnered the coveted title of Canada’s Next Top Model through no mere accident of fate, but through grit, determination, and an unwavering self-belief. The final challenge saw her and her closest rival, the gracious Sinead, strut upon the catwalk for the renowned designer, Lucian Matis. The judges, with...

  My dear Dan, friend so true, In a bar filled with Japanese hue, We met, and our bond did start, On this day, let us not part. Twenty years have flown by fast, Our friendship, built to last, With laughter, joy, and endless cheer, I'm grateful you're always here. In this bar of Japanese delight, Our bond took flight, so bright, With intelligence, kindness, and care, You always show you're always there. So on this birthday, let's raise a glass, To a friendship that will surely last, Wishing you all the joy and cheer, My dear friend, happy birthday this year.

Disillusionment and Housing Crisis @Scott-W :  "My parents bought their house worth 1.5x the average annual wage. That same house today is worth 50x the average annual wage. But just work harder." @griffin1366 :  "Doesn't matter how hard I work, how many hours I work. Housing isn't affordable. Boomers and their 65 investment properties talking down on us saying to 'just work hard bro.' The irony in that." @MozziesArt :  "Thirty years ago they would have been absolutely kicking butt and already have houses. Today they are doing just okay and every one of them rent." @OUpsychChick :  "So many of the opportunities I had are gone now, offshored to other countries, and I can't even imagine trying to buy a first home today." Commentary : These comments encapsulate the widening chasm between past and present economic realities. The generational divide is stark: Boomers experienced affordable housing relative to income, while Millenni...

 June 2020. College Street stood in an unusual stillness, yet life carried on. With fewer people and open spaces, the city felt different—but not empty. The sun cast long shadows over storefronts, restaurants adapted to new rules, and those who ventured outside embraced the moment. Capturing street photography during this time meant documenting a rare chapter in history. The absence of crowds, the subtle expressions behind masks, the contrast of normal routines in an abnormal world—each frame told a story beyond words. Looking back, these images offer more than nostalgia. They remind us of resilience, adaptation, and the quiet ways people found joy amid uncertainty. They show how cities evolve, how communities endure, and how even in solitude, human connection remains. #GreatguyTV, #Scholx, #Scholz, #StreetPhotography, #TorontoLockdown, #LifeInAFrame, #UnseenStories, #ThroughMyLens, #Love, #Instagood, #Smile, #Happy, #Life, #Music, #Movies, #TV, #Celebrities, #PopCulture, #Motivati...

  DaVinci Resolve is a professional-grade video editing software, often praised for its powerful color correction, noise reduction, and upscaling capabilities . It has a free version that includes many advanced tools, but some of the best enhancement features (like AI-driven noise reduction) are only in the paid Studio version . How DaVinci Resolve Can Improve Your Grainy 2017 Video 1. Noise Reduction (Studio Version Only) The Temporal Noise Reduction feature helps smooth out grain without blurring details. The Spatial Noise Reduction tool cleans up noise by analyzing individual frames. Best Approach : Use a mix of temporal and spatial reduction to maintain detail while reducing grain. 2. Sharpening & Detail Recovery Use the Midtone Detail slider in the Color panel to enhance edges and recover lost sharpness. Sharpen Node can refine details without making the video look artificial. 3. Upscaling to Higher Resolution The Super Scale feature (Studio version...