Author: Roger

We recently returned from New Jersey and the 2008 Buckner Family Reunion. This was the inaugural reunion for the New York chapter. It is also the 1st of two reunions for me this week.

It was memorable as we traveled late Thursday to arrive at our hotel in New Jersey. Since we left late in the evening, we avoided most of the traffic jams. However, we were immersed in the throng of Big Apple’s traffic the next day as we traveled from Hasbruck Heights, NJ to the cookout in Hempstead, NY.

We traveled across Manhattan Island and it was amazing as people used their cars jockeying for lane positions. The labyrinth of bridges and ramps is quite intimidating for out-of-town guests. Technology truly helps navigate one through the maze of roads that make up the city. One must shift lane positions from the left to the right and back to the left again or you risk missing your desired exit. I cannot imagine driving through the area for the 1st time as you attempt to read paper directions without an assistant to guide you. The on-board GPS truly helped me as it forewarned me of upcoming turns. Even with that assistance, I chose wrongly as we got to a fork in the road. Despite the GPS’s warning, I took the express lane instead of the local one and we ended up missing our exit. Nevertheless, the two areas merged and I was able to exit, turn around and head in the right direction.

The next day was exciting. We woke-up early and caught the NJ Once we arrived, we took the girls to Times Square and showed them the bright light in the big city. We managed to do some “light” shopping. However, the highlight was supposed to be the two-hour cruise around Manhattan Island. I wanted the girls to see the city and the Statue of Liberty. A storm came and the rain caused us to close the boat’s windows and this hindered some of the sight-seeing. Nevertheless, they saw Lady Liberty, the Brooklyn bridge and other memorable landmarks. Ironically, as soon as we left the island and arrived at our hotel, the sun came out and it was a beautiful day.

Later that evening, we attended the banquet. This is always the highlight of the reunion. This is a time where we reflect on Buckner ancestors and pay homage to those who laid the family foundation. The eldest man and woman are honored along with the youngest. Also, those who have passed are remembered. Afterwards, a keynote speaker provides a timely message. Lastly, we eat and conclude with dancing and celebrating our togetherness.

The final day, which is Sunday, concludes the reunion. This includes a Sunday morning message and a prayer for everyone’s safe arrival to their various destinations.

I always enjoy the reunions and I especially look forward to next year’s. It’s in Michigan!!!!

-Roger

I originally posted my images on the Internet so family and friends could view my images. Being a person that takes so many pictures, I didn’t want to email my family and friends every time I have a collection to share.

I created a Smugmug account two years ago as my online gallery. It worked well. Whenever I created photos, I’d send an email and people had access to my images. As a matter of fact, some even purchased my photos since I had the pro account. I began to grow as a photographer taking classes and improving my craft. The results were manifested in the responses to my images and, most importantly, my own personal satisfaction in the images I created. As I read books and articles from other photographers, I learned the importance of sharing the story behind the image. However, I typically did that in my emails and I didn’t send emails very often.

The next step was to create my personal blog and share my thoughts as they relate to photography. The main challenge was getting out the message. I could have the greatest stories. However, if no one knows about them, what value is it. That is where Facebook enters the picture. I created an account to begin networking with other individuals. It has been a work in progress. However, I enjoy connecting with family and friends. It has brought an instant connection to individuals I lost contact with some time ago.

Yet, my original purpose is still left wanting–increase my photographic exposure. During this time, I created a Flickr account for my images as well. I originally considered this the website for the casual photographer taking snapshots with their Point ‘n Shot camera–not meeting this sophisticated criteria I sought. However, I got off my pompous high horse and realized there were great images at this site. Now, I’ve joined two groups (Night Images and Washington DC/Metro Area) and added my images to them as well.

Will this be the avenue for greater exposure? Only time will tell. However, I look forward to the reviews. With that said, I know greater exposure opens myself to greater criticism. The generous reviews from family and friends will not be readily provided by a larger viewing public. In conclusion, I must be careful of what I wish for because I just might get it.

-Roger