toy camera play

ToyCameraPlay Blog is moving to Boxfotos.com!

2011-08-30T22:05:00.000-04:00

It's time to let you all know that I'm moving ... moving to our new website Boxfotos where Becky and I have created a new business website for our art and it's a website and blog all in one. We're consolidating so we can better manage and create something new, better and more interesting.

HOME PAGE

ABOUT US

BLOG

All future blog posts will be done on our boxfotos site. Becky's blog posts will also be done out of our Boxfotos site. With that said, we would appreciate all of our followers to jump on over and follow us on boxfotos.com. There you'll know all the latest news and happenings about us. So what are you waiting for?

OPEN STUDIO "SAVE THE DATE"

I want to say thank you for the "follow" of ToyCameraPlay.blogspot.com ... it was a blast to do and will always be special to me. ToyCameraPlay will live on as my name and I'll still have toycameraplay.com as my official website.

I hope you'll follow US on Boxfotos.com as we team up on our new adventure and seek our mobile Airstream gallery ... Alternative works. Alternative spaces.

This is not good-bye but HELLO on a new and exciting site that will take us to new heights!

So, I leave you with Hello!

Matt
boxfotos.com (blog & happenings - all the cool stuff)
toycameraplay.com (website to see works & purchase art)
twitter.com/toycameraplay (follow me on twitter)
toycameraplay.tumblr.com/ (follow me on tumblr)

2011-08-27T22:10:00.000-04:00

Holga Pinhole Wide Angle Camera with frames removed

I really like my new Holga Pinhole Wide Angle camera. Above is a shot I did today a few miles up the street at a local park. I shot two rolls of film for I wasn't sure how how far to advance the film. The first roll tested that issue, while at the same time dialed in my exposure and possessing time. I really think I'm going to be shooting with this camera more often now. This was shot in bright sunlight around 2 p.m. and you'll never know it ... looks like early morning fog. If you haven't tried this camera yet ... you may want to check it out at HolgaDirect. This test took all day for I had to run to the local and only photo store in Tampa for some chemistry. This was a very satisfying day!

Hongkong Post from HolgaDirect!

2011-08-22T17:16:00.001-04:00

I received my package today from the Hong Kong Post! Three new Holgas to play with and test. I really can't wait to test these cameras and share the results and photos with you guys! This order is from HolgaDirect.

Hongkong Post

I ordered 2 Holga-120 PCs & 1 Holga-120 WPC

Right out of the box the cameras are screaming at me to take them on a shoot. Hang on guys, soon enough.

Holga-120 WPC

The Holga-120 Wide Pinhole Camera

I'm so impressed with the quality of these cameras! Wow, seriously well made at first appearance.

Bottom view of the Holga Wide Pinhole Camera

Nice tripod mount on the bottom of the 120-WPC--it has a small mounting plate on the bottom so that the camera can easily be mounted on a tripod. And the shutter action is so smooth and designed to take a cable release ... wonder where mine is?

Top view of the Holga Wide Pinhole

The top is designed and gives you a shooting "angle of view" so that you'll have an idea of what will be in the frame. I'm surprised to see a bubble level opposite the film winder on the top of the camera. I don't use levels but I'm sure someone will find that handy.

I have to go shoot some film and I'll let you know how it performs ... I'll do a little review.

Closeup of the Lens without the cap (f/135)

On the inside, the pinhole lens is not just glued into place like I thought it would be. It's on a mounting board and has little screws so that you can take it off. It appears, one could easily add their own if needed with a larger or smaller aperture.

Exciting stuff ... I just wanted to share some photos right away with you guys and stay tuned for photos and a short review! So far, I'm really impressed with the cameras I received today and I hope Becky likes the new pinhole Holga I got her!

Until later ... I've got to go mail my next set of blocks off to Art-O-Mart now.

I wanted to also give a shootout to Rick B at HolgaDirect ... thanks Rick! Nice stuff!

Survived the Sleep Test

2011-08-16T13:45:00.001-04:00

iPhone Hipstamatic + AutoStitch Apps

So last night I checked into the local hospital to take my Sleep Test because someone says I'm impossible to be next to while in sleep mode. I don't believe it, but so it goes.

As all of you know, where Matt goes ... so does his iPhone. So, what an opportunity to make some images. Here's one I'll share showing me all wired up. Yes, it's awful but I did survive. The second exposure is of my wonderful cott bed and yes, it was totally brutal. Awful. Uncomfortable and anything else horrible you can think of ... and squeaky too.

I learned last night, while being wired up ... it appears there can be some serious medical issues if sleep problems go unchecked. So I'm proud to have had the opportunity to take care of something that should have been checked off the list long ago. How about you?

This is my public service announcement to bring sleep issues to the forefront--even if they don't effect us (me, that I know of) but instead our loved ones. Do yourself a favor, if you have issues, breathing, not breathing, snoring and just plain not being able to sleep. Get it checked. Next week ... the colonoscopy! (kiddin') More on the sleep photos soon ... and the cheerful results.

ToyCameraPlay Reviews PhotoForge2 on f295

2011-08-15T12:09:00.002-04:00

For an overview of the Photoforge2 app for your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch ... check out my latest review over at f295.

FROM f295:
I’m the kind of guy that carries his iPhone everywhere and often it’s my primary camera of choice. If not an iPhone in my hands, its a Holga or Diana. I enjoy making images from toy cameras, and I love the look the plastic lens gives the images I create.
It probably goes without saying that I was excited to hear about PhotoForge2 and its capabilities for mobile, on-the-fly, high-end image editing. There’s plenty of about this new app and rightfully so; it’s the most powerful photo editor I’ve seen for the iPod Touch, iPhone, and/or iPad. ... for the rest of the review

Boxfotos Redesigned

2011-08-09T23:23:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy month for Becky has been working hard redesigning boxfotos. Check it out and let us know what you think! As you'll see, lots of new offerings in the coming year. Sneak peak ... look for our open studio date--mark your calendar!

My New Birthday Present! The GoPro Video Camera

2011-07-26T22:17:00.003-04:00

BOXFOTOS: Blind Print Exchange at f295

2011-06-25T22:21:00.000-04:00

BOXFOTOS: Blind Print Exchange at f295: "Recently Rebecca and I participated in a blind print exchange at the f295 Symposium in Pittsburgh, PA. It was one of the highlights of our..."

A Short Walk to Pittsburgh Filmmakers

2011-06-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

Pittsburgh has some great old homes with lots of character.

"Now Playing" right in your backyard.

Ivy covered yard.

Beautiful house. Great sky.


New growth on old tree.

Digital Scans from 35 mm color film (ASA 200)

We visited Pittsburgh a few weeks ago for the f295 Symposium. It was a great time and Becky and I got to meet all of our web and social media friends--people we've known for a couple of years now but some we've never met.

These images were shot with my Mini Diana on our short walk from the hotel to Pittsburgh Filmmakers. It's a great art center for Pittsburgh and well done too. It was the location where all the workshops were held.

The Mini Diana never fails to disappoint me. These are simple one-hour scans and toned in Aperture.

See more and a writeup on the f295 Symposium

conference on our Boxfotos site.

A Conversation with Sally Mann & Dan Estabrook...

2011-06-03T12:56:00.000-04:00

...at f295 in Pittsburgh. Terriffic insight into Mann's work and the gallery world. http://f295.org

"Journey" Accepted Into Permanent Collection

2011-05-15T09:49:00.012-04:00

I'm excited to report that another one of my Holga toy camera images has been accepted into a museum's permanent collection. The Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland, Florida just recently notified me that the donation has been approved by the Collection's Committee.

Journey, 1998

Image size: 6" x 6", Paper size: 11" x 14", Framed size: 20"h x 19" w

Edition size: 15, B/W toned silver print, Forte Polygrade V paper

Collections: Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa

(In Honor of Fred E. Larson)

Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland

(In Honor of Daniel E. Stetson)

I wanted to offer one of my iconic toy camera images (the one that started it all for me--my first body of work entitled Environmental Portraits) in honor of the outgoing director Daniel E. Stetson whom will be moving on to another museum, the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, TN.

Dan is a wonderful, passionate art-loving person that has a wealth of knowledge of ART and the ART WORLD and can hold you captivated with personal stories of his personal connections and interactions to many contemporary artists that we all know. I'll never forget the opportunities we've had being invited to the Museum's after party dinners because he thought it would be someone we would either enjoy or should get to know (as he would put it). Artist we've had the pleasure of meeting: Radcliffe Bailey, Herman Leonard, Joyce J. Scott, David Handschuh, Donald Sultan, Clyde Butcher, Joshua Mann Pailet, Bernice Steinbaum and a few others. So many times I would just pinch myself at those dinners where often we would get to converse with the artists, curators or gallery owners on a personal level. It was insightful, educational and inspirational for us and I'm so thankful for those evening hanging out with Dan and Todd Behrens (his curator at the time).

So with that said, I want to say thank you Dan for all the good times at the Polk Museum of Art and I'm glad I can honor your tenure with this donation. Good luck Dan and we hope we stay in touch!

Our new site is LIVE ... Boxfotos

2011-04-30T14:38:00.002-04:00

If you haven't already found our NEW Boxfotos site, please take the opportunity to check it out. We would appreciate you "following" Boxfotos as well. I just posted a new article, "Conversation with Corey Hengen." Let me know what you think!

Matt

National Portrait Gallery!

2011-03-28T21:59:00.004-04:00

Well, my little project has taken me (aka ToyCameraPlay) all the way to Washington! Below is an email I received today from a new collector, John Wachtel. Thanks John for the email! I love hearing stories from folks that have purchased one of my pieces. Very cool indeed.

"You can add another city to your list! Washington, DC at the National Portrait Gallery A co-worker of mine told me about the Art-O-Mat and said there was one in the National Portrait Gallery, which happens to be a couple blocks from our office. Three of us stopped over during lunch and each purchased "an art". I have mine at my desk to spruce the place up. It also serves as a little reminder during the day that there is a whole world outside my cubicle wall, even if I don't see it. My particular photograph is of a ship's mast with a blue sky and clouds in the background. Thank you so much, we were all inspired!"
John Wachtel, Washington D.C.

BOXFOTOS Launches This Month!

2011-03-24T07:37:00.006-04:00

Rebecca and I have had a vision for several years now about having our "own space" where we could exhibit works of photography that we thought were relevant to the genre of alternative works on paper in contemporary art.

Our growing collection was the spark of it actually in that we realized we were basically curating our own exhibition in our home/studio. As collectors, we learned early on to buy what we liked and buy what we could afford. Our works are small in nature but solid, strong works by regionally and nationally known artists (photographers, print makers, etc.).

It was a gathering at our house with a local museum's collectors group that confirmed to us we were on the right track. It was a wonderful evening and we realized our "home exhibition" was just that to the group -- an exhibition. We returned to our sketch book of ideas for our future gallery and BOXFOTOS was launched a month later.

Boxfotos will be "a space" and that space will change over time (we have some fun ideas down the road), where we will share with our readers and followers art (works on paper) and artists we enjoy having on our walls. You'll get to see exhibitions, be able to purchase the works from the exhibitions, get an occasional book review, meet an artist we feel you should get to know, discovers our LOVES, go on a photo trip with us and much, much more. For this alternative space can be so much more than a physical space. That in itself is exciting!

So we hope you FOLLOW our new Alternative Space and see and enjoy exciting works of art from our colleagues and artist friends. Subscription is FREE and you don't have to get a baby sitter, get all dressed up, fight for parking or pay an admission fee to visit us. So sit back and come on over to our space for a visit ... wear what you have on. Just click here!

BOXFOTOS

Alternative Works.

Alternative Spaces.

Thanks!

Matt Larson

Chris Newham Gets My Print Offered by HolgaDirect for Retweeting the Post!

2011-03-18T11:32:00.004-04:00

"I recently purchased a Holga for Nikon lens from Holga Direct and have been enjoying experimenting with it. I have been reading all the interesting articles in the Holga direct blog which recently featured an interview with Matt Larson at the end of the interview was a competition to win a print from Matt." Chris Newham

Te read the rest of Chris Newham's post click here and check out his work while you're there!

Thanks Chris!

A Day at the Strawberry Festival

2011-03-14T21:29:00.015-04:00

All images (c) Matt Larson, 2011

Mini Diana
1 Hour Process Digital Scans

Inhale & Exhale

2011-02-20T15:09:00.005-05:00

More Blocks for Art-O-Mat

2011-01-26T23:05:00.009-05:00

... how I spent my weekend.

Past POSTS about the Art-O-Mat Project

Original B/W Silver Print Offering by HolgaDirect & ToyCameraPlay

2011-01-23T14:44:00.012-05:00

Quote: Matt Larson (a.k.a Toy Camera Play)

HolgaDirect

Tweet about this article (on HolgaDirect site) for a chance to win an Exclusive Matt Larson Fine Art Print, ‘Peaceful’ valued at USD 500 !

NOTE: Must be Tweeted from HolgaDirect page.

Infinicam iPhone App

2011-01-23T08:14:00.002-05:00

New iPhone App discovered this morning ... Thanks Twitter friends! Really like it so I thought I'd share.

Click here on your iPhone/iPod/iPad to use this same camera (GLK-FBY4) in Infinicam.

Pinhole Big Boy

Rebecca Sexton Larson / Florida Museum of Women Artists

2011-01-17T23:49:00.005-05:00

Rebecca Sexton Larson in her Studio
(c) Matt Larson, 2011

Just made a video short of Rebecca giving a brief talk on her salt print in an exhibition at the Florida Museum of Women Artists. Check it out. CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE

Make sure you "subscribe" to our YouTube channel for there are more videos in the works!

Welcome HolgaDirect!

2011-01-12T23:01:00.017-05:00

I would like to welcome HolgaDirect to my blog rail (look for the graphic above on the left side on the rail, scroll down a bit and click it to go to the site).

If you're looking for a Holga to purchase, this is a great place to get one. On the site you'll see features, product, resources, a glossary of terms and how to choose which Holga to buy. All good stuff. There's even a section on the history of the Holga.

I like the interview feature too HolgaDirect put on their site ... right now check out the one on Jeff Dojillo introducing you to his work. And coming later this month or early February, I'll be the next feature! Yep, ToyCameraPlay will be in the HolgaDirect house. Sorry, too much sports talk radio for me! I'm juiced up on this one! Must be the hurt the Tampa Bay Lightning put on the Washington Caps tonight. Ouch. Go Lightning ... 1st place in the division.

Anyway, check the HolgaDirect site often for I'm not sure of the date my interview will go live, but I can give you a hot tip as a blog follower, they'll be a great surprise Rick and I will be offering our followers! You'll have to visit and stay connected to find out ... until then ... Check it out!

Inside the Dali

2011-01-11T20:20:00.002-05:00

Shot with my Hipstamatic for iPhone
Lens: Salvador 84
Flash: Off
Film: Blanko

ToyCameraPlay Spotted in NY Times Video!

2011-01-08T08:03:00.003-05:00

ToyCameraPlay makes the NY TIMES VIDEO! I love the Art-O-Mat project ... best marketing I've ever done as an artist! Check it out around the 2 minute mark of this video ...

POST FROM ART-O-MAT Matt Larson via Art-o-mat® - Don't Go 'Round Artless!
matt larson [ toycameraplay.com ] gets "art-o-vended" in key west. re: check the 2:00 min mark. sarah wildman from the new york times - 36 hours ...

Vic's Classic Bikes

2010-12-29T18:57:00.001-05:00

Portrait, Nikon D7000
Output Lo-Mob

My Old Kentucky Home

2010-12-28T01:58:00.000-05:00

iPhone, Lo-Mob App

Cemetery Berea Kentucky

2010-12-28T01:57:00.000-05:00

Tennessee Roadside Landscape

2010-12-27T12:15:00.000-05:00

iPhone 4

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T21:34:00.002-05:00

" ... to all and to all a good night!"

Christmas House, Central Ave., Tampa

Table Still Life

2010-12-24T16:43:00.001-05:00

(Uploaded via iPhone to Blogger)

Thanks for your Support!

2010-11-29T07:24:00.003-05:00

Backyard pano - the weather was PERFECT!

Works by Matt Larson, b/w silver prints and Polaroids

Works by Rebecca Sexton Larson

Art work was all throughout our studio home

View of flat file room looking into darkroom

Guests enjoyed the Patrons Lounge - big screen to watch the big game

B/W silver prints by Matt Larson - Holga works

View of backyard deck

Hallway looking into library

Tintypes on wall cubes by Rebecca Sexton Larson

Polaroids by Matt Larson & book signing

Dining room entry with table offering small works

SextonLarson.com
ToyCameraplay.com

Goodbye October Nights

2010-10-30T23:07:00.005-04:00

Channelside Tampa Skyline, (c) Matt Larson, 2010 (iPhone)

Full Moon, (c) Matt Larson, 2010 (iPhone)

Cinema, (c) Matt Larson, 2010 (iPhone)

October Night, (c) Matt Larson, 2010 (iPhone)

ToyCameraPlay.com

Studio Open House & Online Sale

2010-10-28T20:19:00.003-04:00

LARSON + LARSON OPEN STUDIO

SATURDAY NOV. 27, 5-9 PM

TAMPA, FL

ONLINE PREVIEW - ALL OF NOVEMBER FOR THE OUT-OF-TOWN FOLKS

This year's Larson + Larson Open Studio Event will take place Saturday, November 27th from 5 - 9 p.m.

Can't make it in person? Then take the opportunity to shop online. Feel free to take a few minutes and review the various projects on our web site sextonlarson.com + ToyCameraPlay.com.

All works on the website are available for purchase through PayPal, just click on the RED button marking the price. If credit card is preferred, we can now accept credit cards as well, just email us and we'll make those arrangements with you.

If you have any questions, feel free to email at matt.larson@mac.com

Art-O-Mat Project

2010-09-27T20:26:00.007-04:00

Just wrapped up another 50 blocks and dropped them in the mail today. A few weeks ago, I heard from Tina Agullar, a writer in Dallas who purchased one of my blocks. She ended up doing a nice interview with me for an online site called ArtAndSeek.org. Very flattering and I feel lucky to get that kind of exposure from this fun project. I thought it would be a great way to promote the blog here and it's been just that.

Art-O-Mat Piece from ToyCameraPlay, (c) Matt Larson, 2010

I really enjoy hearing from all the Art-O-Mat collectors. On my insert that comes with each one of my pieces, I put a mention for folks to let me know where they've purchased their piece. I'm amazed at the number of folks that I've heard from via email. Last week I heard from yet another collector who writes,

"I'm attaching some photos of the whole experience. I actually chose the Random Fun option and was pleasantly suprised. Thanks from Dallas, TX." --Margaret Barajas

Attached to the email was six photos that showed the whole experience from the first look at the Art-O-Mat machine to her purchase of one of my iPhone images taken at Bok Tower & Gardens in Polk County. Thought I would share her email with you guys ...

Photo #1 from Margaret

Photo #6 from Margaret
Courtesy of Margaret Barajas

To all of you that have made a purchase from the Art-O-Mat machines ... thanks so much for sending the emails and becoming fans and collectors! And oh, keep the emails coming ... always good to hear from you!

Collodion Workshop in Rochester, NY

2010-09-12T14:35:00.016-04:00

Lake Ontario - Pier 45, Rochester, NY

iPhone,Plastic Bullet App , Photo by Diana Bloomfield

This past week, Becky and I took a week vacation to study the collodion image making process with France Scully Osterman in Rochester NY. I called it going old school. We gave ourselves some time to see some of the sites in Rochester.

High Falls, Rochester, NY, iPhone, Autostitch, (c) Matt Larson 2010

We hooked up with Diana Bloomfield a good friend of ours and wonderful artist from Raleigh, NC for this special private workshop with France that she arranged. I know what you're thinking ... why would Matt (aka ToyCameraPlay) attend this? ... and I thought why not, it's photography isn't it and it's a great opportunity to learn more about the craft. This trip was awesome from every aspect and one of the many highlights was a trip that Mark Osterman arranged -- a private tour of the Eastman Kodak House collection with Joe Struble (archivist/photo collection). What a moment we had for Joe had pulled out 12 or so prints of Alvin Langdon, Gertrude Kasebier and Frederick Evans. Big thanks to Mark and Joe both for giving us such a wonderful opportunity to see this work and for taking their time to visit with us! I tell them enough how much the three of us appreciated that tour. And no, I didn't introduce myself as ToyCameraPlay - but it did cross my mind. Just think, ToyCameraPlay was in "the house." With that said, here are some pics ...

Eastman House Gardens, Rochester, NY

iPhone, Autostitch, (c) Matt Larson 2010

Eastman House & Gardens, Rochester, NY
iPhone, Plastic Bullet App , (c) Matt Larson 2010

Eastman House , Rochester, NY

Argus Bean (toy camera), sepia mode , (c) Matt Larson 2010

The Eastman House was exciting, interesting, inspiring and a MUST see if you're into photography ... I had no idea Eastman House collected all types of photography outside of the Kodak brand. As a marketing guy I have to question their marketing strategy on getting the word out. I'm just saying, I would have been there much sooner than later. Here are are some iPhone and Argus Bean photos of the Eastman house.

During the two-day workshop with France, we were given the opportunity to do both Ambrotypes and Tintypes. Below are our portraits we did of each other.

Note these two ambrotypes are basically raw scans (sizing and toning only) and the lack of touch-up is intentional to be true to the final image represented on glass.

Portrait of Matt, Ambrotype (glass)

Portrait of Becky, Ambrotype (glass)

To see some of Becky's wonderful still-life images from the workshop, check out her blog, boxfotos.blogspot.com.

Heart Walk Fundraiser 2010!

2010-08-18T19:39:00.005-04:00

Heart in the Sand

Supporting the American Heart Walk, Nov. 6

Diana image, (c) Matt Larson 2010

It's time to kickoff my fundraising efforts for the Heart Walk. If you have $25 dollars to spare, please take a minute to click on the link above or on my rail and make a donation. The walk is in November ... trying to get an early start!

2010-08-01T17:10:00.000-04:00

The Polaroid Project by ToyCameraPlay.com | Make Your Own Book

Holga Images from Savannah, GA

2010-07-30T23:25:00.006-04:00

Savannah, SC

Holga w/Fisheye Attachment

Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant

2010-07-21T07:29:00.003-04:00

Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin
Tampa Stadium, 1977

What were you doing when you were 17? Me, I was trying to be a professional rock & roll photographer ... dreaming of shooting for Rock Scene and Rolling Stone. Not toy camera work but a peak at my wonderful early years! This show lasted only three songs before the rains hit the old Tampa Stadium and the show was canceled. A mini riot ensued and stadium shows were forbidden for many years afterward. Those were the days ... to see a few more shots, check out my FaceBook Fan Page and become a fan!

Pond

2010-07-21T07:24:00.004-04:00

From the rediscovered negatives series.

Pond
Holga Camera
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

Great Smoky Mountains

2010-07-18T10:07:00.005-04:00

More Diana work from the old negatives that were never printed until now. This is a trip through the Great Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, TN.

Smoky Mountains National Park
Diana Images
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

Blueridge Parkway

2010-07-18T09:47:00.009-04:00

I spent yesterday going through my old negatives and found a few jewels I really like these images of the Blueridge Parkway shot more than 10 years ago. I guess at the time these images didn't fit the current body of work I was doing. It pays to revisit the old negatives every now and then and rediscover NEW images. All these were shot with a Diana camera.

Blueridge Parkway
Diana Images
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

The Polaroid Project

2010-07-11T23:01:00.007-04:00

I'll keep you all posted on this project ... my first Blurb book will soon be upload and available for purchase! Amazing how a fairly simple project took me so long to get off the ground. On a positive note, I'm ready to start the next book!

Here are a few images that made the book.

ALL POLAROID IMAGES (C) MATT LARSON, 2010

FREE POLAROID! FROM THE POLAROID PROJECT

2010-07-05T09:39:00.004-04:00

4TH OF JULY SPECIAL

FACE BOOK Fan Page Special Offer! BE THE FIRST to direct mail me your snail mail address and I'll send you this framed Polaroid that will be featured in my first ever Blurb book, The Polaroid Project. First come, first serve!

RULES:
1) Must be a follower of this page
2) Must be first to email me matt.larson@mac.com

Starting now!

THANKS FOR FOLLOWING TOY CAMERA PLAY!

NEW Art-O-Mat Blocks Shipping Tomorrow

2010-06-06T00:47:00.006-04:00

Return to the Darkroom

2010-05-02T22:13:00.005-04:00

Environment Portrait
Lana Aquarelle, 140 lb.
Salt Print, 2010

After many months of avoiding the darkroom, I've found a process that has me all fired up again--making salt prints. Thanks to F295 Studio! Lots of testing to make a digital negative dense enough for the process, but I think I'm getting closer. This one, the exposure got a away from me but in good light, it shows really well. I normally wouldn't print that dark but I'm liking it a lot the more I look at it. This is from my favorite spot to shoot on Gandy Blvd. on the St. Pete side ... a place we used to call "The Rocks." More testing, more to come ... soon, very soon.

Calotype Workshop at F295 in Pittsburgh

2010-04-19T22:11:00.009-04:00

Becky and I had a wonderful long weekend in Pittsburgh this past weekend! We both took a Calotype Workshop with Dan Estabrook. Check out the link.

What a blast. as the link mentions, it's a difficult process and the one that Talbot used and perfected more than 100 years ago--the beginning of photography folks ... that's pretty cool.

Tom Persinger who runs F295 Studio puts on some incredible workshops--be sure to check out the site and become a fan.

Below is a setup I did of three leaves on fishing line in a doorway. It was hailing in Pittsburgh last Saturday and it was cold--so my shot involved shooting from the inside to the outside. I was thinking of "falling leaves" and the woods in the distance ... thought it would make a good setup.

My still life setup of "Falling Leaves"
4x5 camera is inside, leaves in doorway suspended on fishing line

Calotype Paper Negative, 2010

Calotype Paper Positive
"Falling Leaves", 2010

Salt Print from Calotype Paper Negative
"Falling Leaves", 2010

In the weeks to come, we plan to make more Calotypes and Salt prints ... the ideas are coming too fast for both Becky and me. We're letting it all soak in ...

A Day at the Beach

2010-04-12T07:12:00.007-04:00

All images (c) Matt Larson, 2010

iPhone (AutoStitch & TiltShift Gen Apps)

Sunday morning I took a little drive to my favorite spot to shoot--just over the Gandy Bridge on the north side here in Tampa. I was working with my white Diana+ camera but took these iPhone shoots for some instant gratification. Can't wait to see the film from my Diana+. And oh, I didn't realize the Diana+ had a pinhole aperture. Happy surprise. So I had to go back around and shoot everything.

Art-O-Mat Sales

2010-04-05T07:29:00.005-04:00

I'm really enjoying my Art-O-Mat experience and this past week received my first check!

I've also been receiving emails from customers (now friends) letting me know where they purchased my work shot from all my various cameras. It's fun, if you're not promoting your work through Art-0-Mat, you might be missing an opportunity to promote your blog or website. Check them out, Art-O-Mat, they're a great group to work with and extremely professional.

Matt Larson, Holga Images on blocks

Printed on Polaroid Zink Printer

Activity Report showing sales

My activity report above shows I've sold at the following locations:
COCA, St. Louis, MO
Miami Universities, Miami, FL
Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland, FL
Tennessee Performing Arts, TN
MOCA, LA, CA
Art-O-Carton (collector set), NC

So, if any of these locations are near you, pick one up for just $5 and start your own collection. Don't forget to shoot me an email if you get one of mine.

Thank you for all of you who have purchased and let me know! Much appreciated.

Biennial V, Museum of Florida Art

2010-03-10T20:17:00.010-05:00

Museum of Florida Art
Biennial V

April 9 - May 30, 2010

Received a GREAT email today! Entered two pieces in this year's Biennial V at the Museum of Florida Art in DeLand. The piece below was selected. Some of you may remember this image was used on my blog header a while back. I should have the my Polaroid book completed by the time the show opens. Congrats to Becky too (Rebecca Sexton Larson)--we're both in!

Polaroid #72, #73 & #74

Museum of Florida Art
600 N. Woodland Blvd.
DeLand, Florida 32720
P-386.734.4371 • F-386.734.7697
www.museumoffloridaart.org

Nancy's Oak Tree

2010-03-10T17:21:00.002-05:00

iPhone, AutoStitch
9 photos Stitched Together
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

Sunday in the Park

2010-03-07T21:24:00.005-05:00

Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, iPhone, AutoStitch App
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

Hillsborough River, iPhone, AutoStitch App
(c) Matt Larson, 2010

An Evening at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

2010-02-20T22:53:00.010-05:00

We had a wonderful evening at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art tonight for the Dean Mitchell opening. Thanks to C Gary Moyer for turning me on to this crazy cool iPhone app that I decided to take advantage of tonight and use--it was the perfect opportunity.

Dean's exhibition titled "Visions with Heart and Soul" is a retrospective covering 38 years. In addition, there are other exhibitions that are worth driving over to Tarpon Springs to see. As you can see from the photos, the museum is absolutely stunning from any angle.

Museum Lobby, 5 Photos, Auto Stitch

Dean Mitchell, View of Gallery Wall, 5 Photos, Auto Stitch

Interior View of of Gallery, Dean Mitchell, 4 Photos, Auto Stitch

Interview, Floor to Ceiling, 5 photos, Auto Stitch

Exterior Lobby Outside of Library, 5 Photos, Auto Stitch

View of Focus Galley Installation, 6 Photos, Auto Stitch

All Photos (c) Matt Larson, 2010

A Walk Through the Park

2010-02-07T22:06:00.013-05:00

Circle of Water (top) and Green Squares (bottom)

iPhone, Camera Bag

The FORMER Tampa Museum of Art

2010-01-31T20:20:00.007-05:00

The art community is waiting for the opening of the NEW Tampa Museum of Art this Saturday ... we've waited long enough, the drama is over and now Tampa finally has its new museum. From what I've seen so far, it's going to be FANTASTIC for it's a beautiful space!

It was during my Polaroid Project that the former museum was set to be torn down, so on Saturday I went down to make some final photos of the building. I was not the only one, Mic Knight was there too and had the same idea. We said hello and went about our way. I made a few shots that day and simply put them away. This weekend, is probably the best time to share my final image. Before I left I went back to check on Mic, I really liked what he was doing. After talking about his "rubbings" I asked if I could take his portrait. Thought I would share that shot of Mic Knight again too.

Polaroid Project, 2008
(c) Matt Larson, 2008
VIEW ON TOYCAMERAPLAY (DOT) COM

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of taking a group tour with architect, Stanley Saitowitz ... and you know me, I will never pass up the opportunity to make a portrait.

Architect Stanley Saitowitz
iPhone Portrait
Camera Bag, Helga Effect
(c) Matt Larson, 2009

So this weekend, for all of you in Tampa, show up and show your support for our new museum--you won't be disappointed. Promise. I'll see you all Saturday at the opening!
http://www.tampamuseum.org/

Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa

2010-01-27T23:37:00.006-05:00

The ribbon waits.

New Curtis Hixon Park

Looking west toward the Tampa Museum of Art

Detail of the new Tampa Museum of Art

Opening to the public on Feb. 6, 2010

Glazer Children's Museum Opening Oct. 2010

All images (c) Matt Larson, 2010

Mini Diana Toy Camera

Photos From Last Weekend

2010-01-23T22:11:00.007-05:00

Please welcome ... toycameraplay.com

2010-01-18T06:30:00.005-05:00

http://toycameraplay.com

Coming very soon ... launch of new website!

2010-01-17T09:43:00.004-05:00

Very close to launching my new website that will support my blog.

Stay tuned. It will be a place where I can group my photo projects so that they can be viewed as mini portfolios. Images will also be for sale through Paypal--think of that, an easy way to contact me and inquire about purchasing so that you can add to your personal art collection.

I think of it as a way to peak in my flat file to view a completed body of work (like the image below titled, "Flight") ... an online gallery. I think and hope you'll like it. Let me know ... stay tuned.

Flight
Holga Toy Camera
B/W Toned Siver Print
Edition of 15, starting at $500
(c) Matt Larson, 2000

Polaroid 600 Image to Photogravure

2010-01-01T21:57:00.010-05:00

Today was a special treat and an awesome way to start the new year. We visited Bleu Acier this afternoon for a demonstration by Erika Greenberg-Schneider on the photogravue process. The treat was not only that, but Becky has passed on two of our images for Erika to use in the demo. Wow! I'm hooked.

It was great to experiment with image-making and see an image extended in such a way to become so much more than what it was originally.

I've always professed it's not all about the quality of the camera and the camera was a tool in which to make the image. At least this is usually the talk I give when doing the Great American Teach-In. The kids always get a kick out of learning I shoot with plastic cameras or just an iPhone. Their faces are priceless.

Initial Test Print, Polaroid 600 Image

Printed as a Photogravure

Anyway for today, a special ToyCameraPlay thanks for Erika for taking the time to show me the ropes this afternoon on the photogravue process, seeing the press, the plate polishing, etc. Becky says I looked like the amazed little kid. Love that!

Here's a little bit from Bleu Acier's website below ... make sure you check it out! Specially if you're a collector of works on paper--it's the best around!

Atelier Bleu Acier, a collaborative and contract studio owned and operated by Erika Greenberg-Schneider, supports the following techniques in printmaking: Intaglio, Photogravure, Lithography, Photolithography, Relief and Monotype. As a collaborative Master Printer, she has worked with artists such as Matta, Dubuffet, Pierre Alechinsky, Dominique Labauvie, Max Neumann, Bernar Venet, Beverly Pepper, Georg Baselitz, Chuck Close, Paula Scher, Sylvie Eyberg, Jovi Schnell and Robyn Voshardt/Sven Humphrey.

Erika, thanks so much for this special day! And we can't wait to get our Dominique Labauvie print we bought from your last opening!

Portrait of Jet

2009-12-26T17:25:00.009-05:00

The other day, Jet and I went for a ride and she was nice enough to pose for me. This was shot with a Mini Diana using 100 speed print film. (c) Matt Larson, 2009

The Art-O-Mat Project

2009-12-17T23:00:00.010-05:00

Well, I'm almost ready for my first shipment to Art-O-Mat.

I think this is the perfect fit for ToyCameraPlay and it has been a fun one to work on this past week. I'm printing select toy camera images shot with the various cameras mentioned here on my blog and sizing the images to 2" x 3", which is the image size of the paper for the Polaroid Zink printer and the Art-O-Mat blocks. They were made for each other.

All and all, this isn't going to be a money maker but I think it's a great way

to promote my blog, get more followers, market my images and build a new collector base. I also plan to have buyers e-mail me and tell me where they bought their piece of art and which piece they bought.

I think it should make 2010 a fun year! Let me know if you find one in a machine next year (they won't be until late January before these are available).

Holga Image, cropped for Art-o-Mat Project.

Polaroid Image, cropped for Art-o-Mat Project.

iPhone Image, cropped for Art-o-Mat Project.

Mini Diana Image, cropped for Art-o-Mat Project.

All photographs (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Larson & Larson Open Studio

2009-12-12T23:19:00.009-05:00

I was thinking of doing a little take tonight on our 2nd annual Larson & Larson Open Studio but then before I could even get started, Frank (TAMPA DAILY PHOTO) beat me to the punch. Well, he beat me to the eggnog and Kentucky Bourbon too--geeezzz that was good. Anyway, he's more of an accomplished writer, so I'll just send you to his words on his wonderful blog. If you haven't friended or followed Frank's daily work on his blog, you should, for he's Tampa's true Daily Photo Laureate.

Thanks Frank for you words, great company, your lovely wife and friendship!

Rebecca Sexton Larson Frank's other blog and comments on Becky

Tampa Florida Photo: Matt Larson: Professional Photographer Plays With Toy Cameras

tampafloridaphoto.blogspot.com

New Work, New Toy Camera (Mini Diana)

2009-11-24T23:15:00.023-05:00

While in Charleston this past weekend, I somehow ended up at Urban Outfitters (go figure) and stumbled upon the Mini Diana. So I bought it and three rolls of film. We had really cloudy weather, light rain all weekend so I had to buy ASA 800 color print film. What a fun little guy!

I think I'm back to film finally! This little jewel is now my favorite camera and I won't be anywhere with one! If you don't have one. Buy it.

Below are some selected pics I couldn't wait to share. I hope you like them as much as I do ... let me know what you think. These are toned scans off the one-hour processing disc--a few of them, soon to be prints for sale. Stay tuned on that!

Becky (a.k.a. Boxfotos) at Middleton Place

Sailor's House

American Flag on Charleston Home

Night Walk in Church Street

Cemetery Headstone Topper

Garden Statue at Middleton Place

Courtyard Fountain at Mills House

Cemetery Oak

Leaves on Horizontal Headstone

Swamp at Middleton Plantation

Bridge at Middleton Plantation

Three Headstones with White Petals

Church Steeple

Iron Spikes for Protection

Cemetery Birdbath

Church

Church Gate

Cemetery Headstones in Need of Repair

Cross and Berries

Cemetery at Night or Exploding Ghost

All images shot with Mini Diana toy camera

Middleton Place Plantation, Charleston, SC

2009-11-24T18:14:00.007-05:00

We took a little road trip to Charleston over the weekend. Took the Argus Bean and my new Mini Diana on a hike around the plantation. What a nice day we had to enjoy and to make some images. Thought I would share a few with you. If you ever get to Charleston, take a half day and tour one of the plantations--it'll be worth you time. All images shot at Middleton Place Plantation.

Garden Statue

Bridge Over Pond

Original House with Tree Root

Landscape with Twig

Ashley River

All images shot with Argus Bean

Friday Night! A Walk Around Channelside.

2009-11-06T23:07:00.003-05:00

Saturday Drive Through the Park

2009-10-31T20:37:00.009-04:00

Upper Tampa Bay Park

All images, (c) Matt Larson 2009

Lensbaby on Nikon D100

New Book Coming Soon ...

2009-10-26T23:25:00.003-04:00

Finally got my submission off for the the 2nd Edition of Michelle Bates next book on the subject of Toy Cameras (above is her first book). Although I struggled on which body of work to enter ... iPhone, Diana, Holga, Roadside Crosses, Argus Bean, etc. I went with my Environment Portraits (Landscapes at 4 feet). After looking at the first book, I felt it was a really different take and one not explored in depth. I hope I'm not too late having waited to the last minute. Geezzz. I'll keep my fingers crossed and "just believe" this year can't be all bad. Lord knows Boxfotos and ToyCameraPlay has had a lot of drama going on in our families this past year. For all my toy camera friends that entered, "Good Luck!" Either way, when the new book comes out, it will surely be a nice edition to our collection.

Yep! It's me! ToyCameraPlay

2009-10-24T22:57:00.004-04:00

Both Photos, (c) Rebecca Sexton Larson, 2009

Lensbaby Portraits of Matt Larson

Bok Tower Revisited

2009-10-24T22:24:00.004-04:00

All Photos (c) Matt Larson, 2009

iPhone, Lolo Filter

Boo!

2009-10-23T21:28:00.004-04:00

Beach Scenes

2009-10-23T21:21:00.004-04:00

All Images (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Dusk to Night

2009-10-23T21:11:00.007-04:00

Dusk

Night

All photos (C) Matt Larson, 2009

2009-10-20T07:39:00.004-04:00

I was able to find a good angle to remove all the shell paths leading to one of the Grottos at Saint Leo.

On this day, the gates were open giving me access to the inside. Beautiful when the candles are lit. Very peaceful too.

Prayers are written on pieces of paper and placed within the rocks.

All Photos (C) Matt Larson, 2009

iPhone

Thought I would share a few photos I shot this past weekend at the Grotto in Saint Leo, Fl. Below is a written clip from the website of Saint Leo Abbey, Benedictine Monks & Retreat Center.

"On December 8, 1916, Father Augustine Feller, OSB offered the first Mass on the altar in the grotto. It is reported that 'the whole village of San Antonio, Florida made the first pilgrimage on foot-men, women, young and old, and the little Children." The annual custom of making this pilgrimage lasted for many decades."

Lettuce Lake Park, Tampa

2009-10-17T20:41:00.007-04:00

Wild Berries

iPhone, Camera Bag, Helga Effect

Pine Needle Portrait

iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Effect

Tree Bark Portrait

iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Effect

It was nice to get out of the house today and take the Mini for a ride. Becky and I went up to Lettuce Lake Park up by the Univ. of South Florida. Beautiful cool weather day! We took a walk on the boardwalk and enjoyed the Winter day in a wonderful park that I had never visited. After that it was off to Dade City for lunch at one of our favorite places, Lunch On Limoges.

Finally! A Toy Camera Printer!

2009-09-20T20:20:00.003-04:00

Wow! A toy camera printer! Life is complete.

So I spent the afternoon testing this little POLAROID jewel for I have an idea for a project I've been wanting to do with my toy camera images. In my hand is an image of wall art shot with my iPhone. This image is painted on the back wall of my favorite breakfast place--First Watch in DT Tampa. Exiting the printer is one of my favorite Polaroid 600 images of some man-made oyster domes in Old Tampa Bay that was cropped to fit the format of this printer ... to the right is an image recently shot from my Argus Bean on a trip to Kentucky. And below is a Holga image of an old church in Santa Fe, while on a trip to hear Keith Carter many moons back, one of my all time favorite photographers . Anyway, can't spoil the surprise yet, but I'm testing, testing, testing and have high hopes for this fun blue tooth toy polaroid printer.

Toy camera images printed with toy camera printer

New Holga & Diana Images!

2009-09-16T22:55:00.008-04:00

Old Church--Santa Fe, New Mexico--Holga Camera

(Raw scan of negative on flatbed scanner)

Lighthouse--St. Augustine, Florida--Diana Camera

(Raw scan of negative on flatbed scanner)

Leaves--Tampa, Florida--Holga Camera

(Raw scan of negative on flatbed scanner)

Sneak Peak--It's nice to finally see some of my upcoming Diana and Holga images from previous trips. I think it's time to hit the darkroom. More to come soon.

All images, (c) Matt Larson, 2009.

iPhone, Parking Lot Abstract

2009-09-03T10:57:00.002-04:00

Abstract, iPhone, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Photos From the Week

2009-08-30T07:57:00.007-04:00

Jet, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Big Leaf, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Twisted, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Dining Room, Still-life, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Weave, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Dining Room Table Leaf Still-life, iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Filter, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

Ball of String

2009-08-22T07:43:00.003-04:00

BALL OF STRING, iPhone, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

You know what I like about having a camera phone on me at all times? It's the ability to stumble upon little jewels like this one. This ball of string was just sitting like you see it on the desk right next to me. It was being used to tie goody bags together to make sets of 25. This was a true 5 second shoot, did not touch, did not light it. However, it was run thought my favorite APP--camera bag, used the Helga filter.

Artist Instalation at Hotel 21C, Louisville KY

2009-08-09T16:01:00.003-04:00

Text Rain, 1999
Artist: Camille Utterback & Romy Achituv (American/Israeli)
Guest participant: Matt Larson (aka toycameraplay) with an iPhone
Permanent Installation by the Elevators
21C Museum, Louisville, KY

Working on cleaning up my photos today and came across this video I thought I would share with you guys. Shot last month at my new favorite hotel on the whole planet, hotel 21 C Museum in Louisville, KY.

Not sure if it's going to happen, but this interactive was planned to be part of an exhibit at the children's museum here in Tampa, but the folks at 21C informed me that the artist has sold out this piece. I sure hope not for it's a really cool interactive piece.

Crazy, Busy Week ... TGIF!

2009-08-07T20:43:00.014-04:00

It was a very busy work week for we're trying to get a handle on the numerous events we sponsor in the community. It's like trying to organize someone's house and they've been living in it for 15 years!

Times are changing in the newspaper and television industry as we and our readers discover the many ways we consume information ... so many ways and so many choices. Think about it, over the past 200 years we've changed a lot in the way we communicate. First it was newspapers ... books ... phones ... then radio ... then TV ... computers ... cell phones ... the internet ... cable ... direct TV ... digital radio ... smart phones (iPhones and Black Berries) ... now we have blogs, Twitter, Facebook, it just goes on and on. In all this technological madness, especially this past decade, our business of gathering and producing NEWS is evolving.
Not dying, but evolving.

We're in a period where we're (even in marketing) having to look at ways to keep doing what we're doing with the means and tools we have ... hence the work, I mentioned above that we've been doing on how to handle, offer, and provide sponsorships without being a financial burden on the enterprise (TV, newspaper and online).

This leads me to today, where I was fortunate to attend an event where we are one of the many sponsors. We're (industry) evolving so our sponsorship is more about the whole business and not just about one of its entities. The event today was the Topping Out ceremony for the Glazer Children Museum here in Tampa.
This museum is going to do so much for the kids and families of Tampa Bay and that is why it's one of our key partnerships and one that I'm proud to be a part of. Even though the week was crazy, this particular sponsorship made it all worth while.

Here are some photos from today's Topping Out ceremony.

Crowd listens as speakers explain the significance of this ceremony.
The event was mostly attended by sponsors and the workers on site.

Sandy Murman opens the event and later introduces the other speakers.

I couldn't pass up this hardhat worn by one of the workers! Too cool.

Everyone got to make a handprint on the banner.
Except me, I forgot and was busy taking photos.

As I was walking away, I looked back and notice the TREE for this Topping Out celebration. It was the best tree topping I've ever seen and I've been in this town long enough to see every building get one. Sad but true. If you're not a FAN of the Glazer Children's Museum on Facebook yet, do it now. It's time to get involved and give your support.

Flickr--iPhone Uploads to Blog!

2009-08-01T18:00:00.003-04:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

So now, I'll be able to shoot from the road with my iPhone and post to this blog. Yes, it's exciting.

iPhone Shots from the Road

2009-07-18T23:01:00.019-04:00

(Top L) David Fireworks, (Top R) StandSpace
(Bottom Left), (Bottom Right) Alien Florida Palms

All photos (c) Matt Larson, 2009

iPhone, Camera Bag, Lolo Effect

4th of July on the Riverwalk

2009-07-06T21:32:00.002-04:00

Tampa's Riverwalk, iPhone, Camera Bag, Helga
(c) Matt Larson, 2009

iPhone Captures Plain White T's!

2009-06-25T15:14:00.006-04:00

Sound Check!

It was great meeting the members of Plain White T's Wednesday in the studio of Daytime! (NBC, News Channel 8) in Tampa. The band did two songs and were a huge hit. Great guys too! I gave Tom Higgenson my Flickr card so hopefully he'll stop by the blog and leave a comment. I didn't know they were coming to visit Daytime! so all I had was my iPhone with me.

One day soon, I'll post my old rock photos of some great 70 & 80s bands (Kiss, Frampton, Mother's Finest, Led Zeppelin, etc.) ... I sure miss those days of going to concerts and taking pictures.

The Plain White T's were great all around ... their personality, putting up with numerous sound checks, the delays, etc. It was during those times their true good nature and character showed ... truely a great group of guys and I wish them well. Going to get the CD this weekend!

Those of you in Tampa, Watch Daytime! today (Friday) ... you won't be disappointed.

Live! taping for Daytime!

(c) Matt Larson, 2009
iPhone Photos
Camera Bag, Helga Effect

Windsor Toy Camera $4.50. Priceless.

2009-06-04T18:06:00.004-04:00

So Becky's Uncle Steve took us for a ride up in the hills today to see their hunting cabin. It was a good hour's drive from Berea. See Boxfoto's post of that ...

Once back in town, we hit our favorite antique store in Berea, Todd's Antiques. I was so tired I almost didn't go in--glad I did. Look what I found, a Windsor (Diana) camera for $4.50! And it came with the box and instructions. What a find!

Great trip so far, heading back in the morning so we can get the two dogs out of jail. See you home soon!

Road Trip--Cave Hill Cemetery, Louisville, KY

2009-06-02T22:15:00.012-04:00

We thought we would take the Mini Cooper for a spin to see family in Kentucky. What a fun ride it has been so far. Today we took a ride through a cemetery that was highly recommended to us. It's located in the center of Louisville--if you go, plan to spend a day. It's worth it.

Unique statutes are everywhere ... many icons we've never seen before. The grounds are well kept and beautiful sitting with rolling hills.

The weather was perfect for us all day.

This is the largest concentration of Civil War soldiers we've seen. Pictured above is just one of at least three areas within the ground dedicated to Civil War veterans.

The Mini was a good spotter and was the perfect size to navigate the tight turns.

(C) Matt Larson, 2009
Argus Bean toy camera
Sepia Mode

iPhone & Tourist Telescope (pier telescope)

2009-05-31T21:59:00.009-04:00

(c) Matt Larson, 2009
iPhone and Pier Telescope

Not the first time I've pulled this off (see one of my very early posts). This is from the tourist telescope on the Louisville side of the river--shooting down river. I put my iPhone up to the viewfinder to make a really super powerful lens--probably equivalent to a 500 mm lens.

Video Short--Mammoth Cave Hike

2009-05-31T21:37:00.004-04:00

TITLE: MAMMOTH CAVE HIKE (Matt Larson)
(c) Matt Larson, 2009
Toy Camera Video Short
Shot with Augus Bean Toy Camera
(original raw footage shortage)

2009-05-31T19:35:00.006-04:00

Mammoth Cave Hike
(C) Matt Larson, 2009
Argus Bean Toy Camera
Shot on Sepia Mode

Door -- Toy Camera Video Short

2009-05-24T15:15:00.003-04:00

TITLE: DOOR & SPIDER
(c) Matt Larson 2009
Toy Camera Video Short
Shot with Argus Bean Toy Camera, Sepia Mode
(original raw footage short)

LEAK. Water Drops. More Rain.

2009-05-23T21:10:00.014-04:00

iPhone, Camera Bag, Helga Effect
(c) Matt Larson, 2009

So we go to this really nice opening at Bleu Acier tonight to see the works of Dominique Labauvie and I come across these water drops on their outside table. It had been sprinkling all day here. The only camera I had with me tonight was my iPhone, so I went to work. I love the looks I get when I do this ... like "what in the hell is he doing?" Oh well, I just can't help myself.

If you're here in Tampa, please stop by and see Labauvie's prints and sculptures. You won't be disappointed!

BANYAN TREES. Toy Camera Video Short

2009-05-15T20:20:00.003-04:00

TITLE: BANYAN TREES
(c) Matt Larson 2009
Toy Camera Video Short
Shot with Argus Bean Toy Camera

ToyCameraPlay at Work

2009-05-15T19:27:00.004-04:00

Here I am with Diana, iPhone and Argus Bean! What a day of image making.
Thanks to Boxfotos for the production stills.

The making of another video short with the Argus Bean.
Photos by Rebecca Sexton Larson (aka Boxfotos).

Remember Pong? Toy Camera Video Short

2009-05-15T18:11:00.006-04:00

TITLE: PONG
(c) Matt Larson 2009
Toy Camera Video Short
Shot with Argus Bean Toy Camera

Much Needed Rain Today!

2009-05-13T20:28:00.003-04:00

Rain, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

iPhone, Camera Bag App, Lolo Effect

Backyard Studio for Boxfotos!

2009-05-09T22:33:00.010-04:00

NEW BACKYARD STUDIO--CONVERTED SHED

Here's my documentation of the shed conversion into a painting studio.

I love this little trailer I have ... I think I actually use it EVERY weekend.

Home Depot had everything I needed to get started. Yes, there were multiple trips.
Below is a view of the inside before I started this little project.

... full of frames and extra furniture.

I used regular insulation and then this 1/2" board insulation for extra sound proofing. The studio is close to our back fence and the neighbors have a couple of loud kids that like to scream when playing in the pool. I have to say, this extra step has proved to be very effective. It was tested good today.

I'm proud to say, it's done. I've converted a storage shed into a painting studio for my wife. This has been a dream for us for some time and we just decided to do it. I can't believe how nice it's turned out--considering it was me (the photographer) doing it. Special thanks to brother Tony and good friend Paul for assisting me on key days when I was about to snap. It took three weekends longer than expected, but it was well worth the time! And my wife, Boxfotos, deserves it! Enjoy Becky. Now go make some art!

Inside view, showing drafting table and shelving. And her favorite naked mannequin boy.

ALL PHOTOS, (C) MATT LARSON
TOYCAMERAPLAY

"Roid Week 2009"

2009-05-08T20:27:00.007-04:00

All Polaroid 600 images, (c) Matt Larson, 2009

ToyCameraPlay is participating in "Roid Week 2009"

Fence Cross

2009-05-03T21:22:00.002-04:00

Nebraska Ave., Roadside Cross on Fence
(c) Matt Larson, 2009
Argus Bean Toy Camera

toy camera play

ToyCameraPlay Blog is moving to Boxfotos.com!

Hongkong Post from HolgaDirect!

Survived the Sleep Test

ToyCameraPlay Reviews PhotoForge2 on f295

Boxfotos Redesigned

My New Birthday Present! The GoPro Video Camera

BOXFOTOS: Blind Print Exchange at f295

A Short Walk to Pittsburgh Filmmakers

A Conversation with Sally Mann & Dan Estabrook...

"Journey" Accepted Into Permanent Collection

Our new site is LIVE ... Boxfotos

National Portrait Gallery!

BOXFOTOS Launches This Month!

Chris Newham Gets My Print Offered by HolgaDirect for Retweeting the Post!

A Day at the Strawberry Festival

Inhale & Exhale

More Blocks for Art-O-Mat

Original B/W Silver Print Offering by HolgaDirect & ToyCameraPlay

Infinicam iPhone App

Rebecca Sexton Larson / Florida Museum of Women Artists

Welcome HolgaDirect!

Inside the Dali

ToyCameraPlay Spotted in NY Times Video!

ToyCameraPlay makes the NY TIMES VIDEO! I love the Art-O-Mat project ... best marketing I've ever done as an artist! Check it out around the 2 minute mark of this video ...POST FROM ART-O-MAT Matt Larson via Art-o-mat® - Don't Go 'Round Artless!

Vic's Classic Bikes

My Old Kentucky Home

Cemetery Berea Kentucky

Tennessee Roadside Landscape

Merry Christmas!

Table Still Life

Thanks for your Support!

Goodbye October Nights

Studio Open House & Online Sale

Art-O-Mat Project

Collodion Workshop in Rochester, NY

Heart Walk Fundraiser 2010!

Holga Images from Savannah, GA

Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant

Pond

Great Smoky Mountains

Blueridge Parkway

The Polaroid Project

FREE POLAROID! FROM THE POLAROID PROJECT

NEW Art-O-Mat Blocks Shipping Tomorrow

Return to the Darkroom

Calotype Workshop at F295 in Pittsburgh

A Day at the Beach

Art-O-Mat Sales

Biennial V, Museum of Florida Art

Nancy's Oak Tree

Sunday in the Park

An Evening at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

A Walk Through the Park

The FORMER Tampa Museum of Art

Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa

Photos From Last Weekend

Please welcome ... toycameraplay.com

Coming very soon ... launch of new website!

Polaroid 600 Image to Photogravure

Portrait of Jet

The Art-O-Mat Project

Larson & Larson Open Studio

New Work, New Toy Camera (Mini Diana)

Middleton Place Plantation, Charleston, SC

Friday Night! A Walk Around Channelside.

Saturday Drive Through the Park

New Book Coming Soon ...

Yep! It's me! ToyCameraPlay

Bok Tower Revisited

Boo!

Beach Scenes

Dusk to Night

Lettuce Lake Park, Tampa

Finally! A Toy Camera Printer!

New Holga & Diana Images!

iPhone, Parking Lot Abstract

Photos From the Week

Ball of String

Artist Instalation at Hotel 21C, Louisville KY

ToyCameraPlay makes the NY TIMES VIDEO! I love the Art-O-Mat project ... best marketing I've ever done as an artist! Check it out around the 2 minute mark of this video ...

POST FROM ART-O-MAT Matt Larson via Art-o-mat® - Don't Go 'Round Artless!