Occoquan Photographer Enters Prince William County Tourism Contest

Boyd Alexander entered photos of Occoquan.

Occoquan photographer Boyd Alexander has entered a Prince William County tourism contest, and is asking local residents to vote for his photos of Occoquan. To vote for Alexander's photos, first like the Prince William County & Manassas Virginia Tourism Facebook page. Only those who like the page may vote in the contest. Then check out Alexander's photos, including a shot of the Occoquan Town Hall.  Whichever photo receives the most votes on Facebook wins. Voters can vote for more than one photo. To enter the contest yourself, provide your email address, photo, and caption at this link. "Both skilled and novice photographers who have captured the historic sites, quaint towns and natural beauty that make Prince William & Manassas a unique …

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Capturing Great Holiday Photos

Get the most out of your digital camera for those picture-worthy holiday moments!

I'm a little photo crazy- my family has come to expect this, and therefore tolerate the multiple poses, Mommy following them around with a camera in their faces, saying, "Smile! No, a nice smile," and "ok, just one more time."  A few years ago I received a digital SLR camera for Christmas, and have been using it and getting fabulous results, but I've been stuck in "AUTO" mode for two years. It's like getting a foreign car with a big engine and only driving 40 miles per hour. A waste of a great piece of machinery. So, I found a local photography workshop, (a shout out to photog guru, Kristine Pringle) and three hours later, felt like I could take off my training wheels and take photos like a big girl. The holidays bring twinkle and …

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Weekend Planner: Adopt a Kitten, Sleeping Beauty & Bingo

Want ideas for how to get out of the house and get involved in the community this weekend? Woodbridge Patch is here to help with your weekend planner.

1. Cats & Kittens Adoption Event Where/When: PETCO, 4167 Cheshire Station Plz, Saturday June 11, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Why Go: Want a feline friend? There are many cats and kittens for adoption and you can have your pick at this adoption event. All the animals are spayed/neutered and up on shots (unless too young).  Come give a cat a new home. Pricing: There is an adoption fee and a contract to sign to make sure each cat gets a good home. 2. Beginner Kayak  Where/When: Lake Ridge Park, 12350 Cotton Mill Dr, Saturday June 11, 12:00 p.m. Why Go: If you are at least 14 years old and interested in learning how to kayak, then head out to Lake Ridge Park for this beginners class. Participants will learn how to control their kayak and get an …

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Tackling Technology

Ask the Techie: Where can I find photography classes?

A reader writes in to ask "Where can I find photography classes for my daughter?"

Editor's Note: Have a question for our Techie Jean? Send your questions to laurenj (at) patch.com by Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Woodbridge Patch reader Snow wrote: "I am looking for a class this summer for my daughter to learn about her Nikon D 3000. Do know of anyone who offers such a thing?" Digital photography is a great hobby for teens as it will not only be a lifelong skill to capture memories of friends and family, it also gives them a means of personal expression. Photography can also help develop someone's artistic eye so that they have a new way to approach and appreciate the world around them. We are lucky to have a wealth of resources in the Northern Virginia area to learn new skills and develop our talents. Following are some places to…

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Staying on Beat

Aspiring Photographer Captures Local Talent

Photographer Trevor Marshburn snaps local bands.

Every up-and-coming band needs to be building their press package. Directing your vision requires a strong relationship with the one behind the lens. Live videos and promo-pictures all comprise good digital stock. While a judging lens is relentless, a clever clicker can remedy any band's insecurities. On their behalf, local photographer Trevor Marshburn comes to their calling. "It's exciting and raw," Marshburn said, describing the electric atmosphere of local venues. Citing Harold Edgerton as a hero for his advances in flash and stroboscopic photography, Marshburn utilized what he knew to bring out the best of his surroundings. "I grew up in Woodbridge and the surrounding towns," Marshburn said. "I like the area and love the music scene. …

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