Featured Archives - Bokeh Focus

15

Sep 2022

A Woman Leader Changing The World

Text by Yesenia Chavarria/ Photos by Yesenia Chavarria & Dedria McClure Being a mom is Dedria McClure’s number one role in the world. She captures the moments of motherhood through the lens of her camera […]

Photo of Dedria McClure taken by herself

Dedria McClure: In background is a woman with long, dark hair looking out white curtained window standing in front of white couch with back of photographer holding camera in foreground — McClure in action (Photo by yesenia

25 likes

3

Aug 2022

Kevin Liljegren: June Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/ Photos by Kevin Liljegren Kevin Liljegren, a photographer from Stockholm, Sweden, is Bokeh Focus’ June Photographer of the Month. Liljegren’s photograph received the most votes among three other nominees. He previously […]

Kevin Liljegren: Black and white image of a woman wearing a coat and hijab gathering fruit into a clear plastic bag — Kevin Liljegren, a photographer from Stockholm, Sweden, is Bokeh Focus’ June Photographer of the Month. Liljegren’s photograph received the most votes among three other nominees. He previously won Photographer of the Week during the second week of June.
He spoke of the importance in appreciate your own aesthetic, stating “Everyone has their own style, so even if your photos are not like others, there are many who will like your style.”
We interviewed Liljegren to share his advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community.
Read his full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: black and white image of two people sitting on opposing sides of a train touching their feet in the center — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: Picture of a train and the lights dragging creating strokes of light — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: Moving blue train in front of a person standing wearing an orange coat — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: A blue train in the center of the road with buildings in the background during the day time — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: Black and white image of a woman outside wearing a coat and looking down on her phone — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: Black and white picture of a woman wearing a sweater and glasses looking at her reflection while holding flowers — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: Someone walking across a wet road during the night time crossing in front of a blue street train with the street lights reflecting off of the wet street — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: A picture of a person in a platform in a dark cave that is red in front of a train that is blue — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: A picture of a train in an indoor stop. lights line the roof of the tunnel — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

Kevin Liljegren: A graphic the shows a black hexagon with a boat in it, the number "1898" and a red banner reading "Sjöexpress" an d a signature of the photographers name at the bottom — Stockholm, Sweden
June 2022
Photo: Kevin Liljegren
© Kevin Liljegren

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17

Jun 2022

Christian Gehrke: May Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/ Photos by Christian Gehrke Christian Gehrke, a photographer currently living in Kennesaw, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ May Photographer of the Month. Gehrke’s photograph received the most votes among three other nominees. […]

Christian Gehrke: daytime picture with trees of long droopy moss and a car on the side of the road — I shot this picture from my car with the intention of capturing the beauty of the trees in downtown Savannah.
Savannah, Georgia
May 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: black and white photo of people walking across the street with buildings in the background and street lights — Plant Riverside was abandoned and falling apart a few years ago before it was turned into a riverside district with nightlife, restaurants, shops, and one of the best hotels in the state of Georgia. It used to be a power plant and a factory. Now it is home to local vendors and allows people to have a fancy experience in the heart of downtown Savannah and the famous River Street.
Savannah, Georgia
December 2021
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Grey skies with a building surrounded by light snow and leafless trees — I took this shot at one of the student housing apartment complexes next to Kennesaw State University on a rare snowy day. People are enjoying a day of playing in the snow before spring semester begins
Savannah, Georgia
January 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Daytime picture of a sidewalk and tree branches handing over the side walk — This shot shows the beautiful area surrounding one of Savannah’s famous squares, showcasing the area’s architecture and mature trees.
Savannah, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Daytime picture of people at a bench in front of trees — City Market is one of the most famous tourist attractions in downtown Savannah. Home to horse tours, trolley tours, and many restaurants, shops, and coffee shops, tourists from all over the country come to enjoy an afternoon here.
Savannah, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Picture of a wall with a sunny sky and some clouds behind a tree with a wall with graffiti of a smiley face and wording — The Starland District has brought life to the lower income areas of downtown Savannah. Now the neighborhood is full of murals, art, shops and restaurants, and is home to a trailer park. The district promotes joy, happiness, and authenticity.
Savannah, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Day time photo of the front of a building with cloudy blue skies — Cohen’s Retreat is a high end restaurant, bakery, and local vendor boutique. This photo shows the front of the majestic building.
Savannah, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Black and white photo with two people standing on the side of the road with signs — While driving home on Abercorn Street, I shot this picture of two men holding up these signs for everyone to see on the busy road.
Savannah, Georgia
December 2021
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: Daytime photo with clear blue skies and a banner reading "Bradly's" and a car — Christian Gehrke, a photographer currently living in Kennesaw, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ May Photographer of the Month. Gehrke’s photograph received the most votes among three other nominees. He previously won Photographer of the Week during the last week of May.
He emphasizes the importance of remaining true to oneself. Telling photographers to, “Cling to your authenticity even when it’s easy to get wrapped up in your successes.”
We interviewed Gehrke to share his advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community.
Read his full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
On a walk through downtown Savannah, I was able to capture this alley, which has a retro and old school vibe.
Savannah, Georgia
November 2021
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

Christian Gehrke: picture of the front of a white building with three long black windows — With the best coffee in town, Franklin’s is a place where SCAD students, as well as professionals and families in the area, go to drink a wide variety of coffee products. It’s European vibe fosters a great environment and experience.
Savannah, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Christian Gherke
© Christian Gehrke

22 likes

1

Jun 2022

Jon Woodman: April Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/ Photos by Jon Woodman Jon Woodman, a local photographer from Atlanta, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ April Photographer of the Month. Woodman’s photograph received the most votes among four other nominees. He […]

Jon Woodman: small boat in a body of water during sunset — Jon Woodman, a local photographer from Atlanta, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ April Photographer of the Month. Woodman’s photograph received the most votes among four other nominees. He previously won Photographer of the Week during the fourth week of April.
He highlights the benefits of getting out of the comfort zone, suggesting that photographers struggling with creativity “Take your camera and go somewhere you have never been before.”
We interviewed Woodman to share his advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community.
Read his full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
Greece
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: view of a city in Greece from a body of water during sunrise — Greece
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: View of an orange sky behind clouds and over a body of water during sunrise — Greece
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: View of a church from above during sunset — San Juan, Puerto Rico
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: view of a home in the mountains surrounded by grass and trees during daylight with a cloudy sky — Puerto Rico
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: picture of a brown dog in on the edge of a street with grass and a railing in the background — Puerto Rico
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: picture of plantains hanging from a tree — Puerto Rico
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: picture of an old fashion cocktail with an orange slice in the center on a table next to a bottle and a white hat — Atlanta, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: a close-up picture of a marta transit sign with lights in the background — Atlanta, Georgia
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

Jon Woodman: image from the top of the mountains overlooking land during sunset — Arkansas
April 2022
Photo: Jon Woodman
© Jon Woodman

27 likes

4

May 2022

Melanie Page: A Leader From Birth

Text by Jayde Scogin/ Photos courtesy of Melanie Page Melanie Page was born to her Irish-Italian mother, Joan Ventura, in a “girls home” in Alabama. Ventura was only 17 years old at the time when […]

Young girl with dark hair smiling for a portrait photo where a tan shirt and necklace — Melanie Page in her sixth grade photo from Turner Middle School. Photo courtesy of Melanie Page.

A young woman with long brown hair holding her newborn child and smiling — Joan Ventura with her newborn child, Melanie in 1969, before Ventura gave her baby up for adoption. Photo courtesy of Melanie Page.

An young woman with dark hair wearing a multi-pattern shirt sitson a brown and white couch next to a young boy with short dark hair wearing a blue denim jacket over a yellow and black shirt, and young girl with long dark hair wearing a pink shirt — Melanie Page meeting her birth mother, Joan Ventura, and half-brother, Scottie, for the first time. Photo courtesy of Melanie Page.

young woman posing for a portrait style photo wearing a black white and red uniform — Melanie Page after the capping ceremony at Georgia Baptist College of Nursing. Photo courtesy of Melanie Page.

An older, women with silver hair pulled back, wearing a black shirt smiling wearing a black top in front of red and black background. — Melanie Page, 2021. Photo by Jayde Scogin.

34 likes

12

Apr 2022

Never Stop Following Your Dreams

Text by Vaso Poulokefalos/ Photos Caroline Stephens Miles Caroline Stephens Miles has dedicated her career to helping injured athletes. She is currently the head athletic trainer for Madison County High School and has recently decided […]

Caroline Stephens Miles with her grandmother and inspiration, Dorothy “Dot” Crunkleton, at her college graduation. Photo: Caroline Stephens Miles

a close up portrait of Caroline standing outside smiling in a field while wearing a white top and two necklace — Caroline Mills self-portrait. Photo: Caroline Stephens Miles

28 likes

1

Apr 2022

Small Town Leaders with Big Impacts

Text by Dionna Russell/ Photos Lashanna Brooks Being from a town like Savannah, Georgia opens many opportunities to learn about history and even gives you the chance to create history. When I think of a […]

Meghan Gies standing outside during daylight wearing her Marriott polo shirt making a beverage indoors — Meghan Geis showcasing drinks made at Baobab Lounge at the JW Marriott Kessler Collection Hotel. Photo: Lashanna Brooks

Meghan Gies standing outside during daylight wearing her Marriott polo shirt in front of a gate with water and town in the background — Meghan Geis at the Plant Riverside District located at the JW Marriott Kessler Collection Hotel in Savannah, Georgia. Photo: Lashanna Brooks

34 likes

22

Mar 2022

Poor Little Indian Girl from Poarch’ Becomes First Chairwoman of Alabama Tribe

Text by Kaylee Salter/ Photos courtesy of Megan Zamoro Stephanie A. Bryan is a proud wife, mother, and the first chairwoman of the only federally recognized Native American tribe in Alabama: The Poarch Band of […]

Chairwoman with President Barack Obama at President's rountable — Chairwoman Stephanie Bryan with President Barack Obama at the President’s Roundtable 2015. Photo courtesy of Megan Zamora

Picture of a newspaper article of Stephanie Bryan in between two other young girls — Newspaper clipping of Chairwoman Bryan winning Pee Wee tribal princess. Photo Courtesy of Megan Zamora

A group of children in uniform standing in front of three adults outside during the day in front of a building — Chairwoman Stephanie Bryan with Poarch Creek’s tribal princesses and the Creek youth at United South and Eastern Tribes 2016. Photo courtesy of Megan Zamora

Stephanie Bryan standing outside in a black dress with two wraps of color patterns. Standing outside during the day I front of trees and a lake in the far background — The chairwoman is photographed in Wetumpka, AL wearing native patchwork clothing. Photo courtesy of Megan Zamora

33 likes

2

Nov 2021

Amy: September Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/ Photos by Amy Amy, 24, of Atlanta, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ September Photographer of the Month. Amy’s photograph received the most votes in September. She previously won photographer of the week […]

Amy: Lookin through a light bulb close up. The background is indoors and blurry — Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: outside of a theater during daylight. Lights are under the sign that says the date of the show. — Atlanta
October 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: Red, Yellow and Green traffic light hangs on pole. Daylight and a tree in back of the traffic light. Yellow light in the middle is illuminated — Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: A pole with three street signs on it covered in graffiti. Around the pole is rubbish and a black container. — Recreated one of my favorite pictures: the same place, different edit, different day.
Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: Big Parking sign on the side of the building during daylight with a building in the background — Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: Illuminated Taco Mac restaurant sign outside on the side of the restaurant. There is daylight and a tree in the background as well as other buildings — Neon signs are always a win.
Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: A pattern of illuminated lints forming diamonds in repetition. — Atlanta
September 2021
Photo: Amy
© Amy

Amy: A bridge, trees, and light posts above a lake that reflects on the water — Amy, 24, of Atlanta, Georgia, is Bokeh Focus’ September Photographer of the Month. Amy’s photograph received the most votes in September. She previously won Photographer of the Week during the first week of September.
We interviewed Amy to share her advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community. She reminds photographers to “Be you and only that.”
Read her full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
August 2021
Atlanta
Photo: Amy
© Amy

23 likes

23

Sep 2021

Many Hands Make Lighter Loads

Text by Jessica Strickland/ Photos by Jessica Strickland Debbie Booher is an advocate for the homeless in Austin, Texas. Along with working a full-time job, Booher has dedicated her life and free time to serving […]

Homeless in Austin, Texas: Woman in yellow coat and face mask giving a haircut to a man with pink barber chair cloth on — Man receives free haircut to attend a job interview in Austin, Texas. Photo: Jessica Strickland

Jessica Strickland: Woman, who is Debbie, wearing a black shirt, red cap and blue earring. She is placing food from a larger container into plate — Debbie Booher serves meal to houseless individual
Austin, Texas
Photo: Jessica Strickland
© Jessica Strickland

Homeless in Austin, TexasJessica Strickland: Two women, who are Debbie and Laura, are under a large white tarp wearing black clothes and aprons hugging each other behind a table of food in pots . — Debbie Booher hugs co-founder Laura Ritchie in Austin, Texas. Photo: Jessica Strickland

27 likes

20

Sep 2021

Emma Walkington: August Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/ Photos by Emma Walkington Emma Walkington, 19, from Phoenix, Arizona, is our August Photographer of the Month winner. She currently lives in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Walkington competed against three other photographers and […]

Emma Walkington: a light brown and white dog wearing goggles sitting down next to another dog that is black and white also sitting down outside during daylight on leashes — Dogs sitting outside of Starbucks with their owner look ready for adventure. They could be the main characters of a story.
Georgia
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: close up of a light brown dogs eye — My dog passed not too long ago. After a week went by I was going through old photos. I stumbled upon this photo that was never edited from a few months ago.
Lawrenceville, Georgia
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: a koi fish swimming towards the surface of water — This Koi fish was in a pond and reminded me of my best friend and our matching tattoos.
Ford Museum, Dearborn, Michigan
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: clear blue skies with a bridge in the distance over a body of water — Emma Walkington, 19, from Phoenix, Arizona, is our August Photographer of the Month winner. She currently lives in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Walkington competed against three other photographers and her photo received the most votes. She previously won Photographer of the Week during the first week of August.
Regarding her photography she said, “I learned to not overlook things,” in pursuit of never missing an opportunity.
We interviewed Walkington to share her advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community.
Read her full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: two men in orange work ship attire looking over the rail of the edge of the ship — Two guys were working on a boat that I happened to pass by. They were looking over the edge to make sure the guy on the dock was tying the rope properly.
Sue Locks, Michigan
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: blurry trees I the foreground and red bird that is focused on in the background seen through a small part of the trees. — During quarantine I walked around my neighborhood a lot. This red bird was sitting just on the other side of the bush from me.
Lawrenceville, Georgia
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: Clear gradient blue sky with the moon in the distance. Telephone towers are in the foreground and middle ground. — During a Harvest moon on a road trip I captured the beauty.
Kentucky
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

Emma Walkington: a gradient sky from blue at the top to yellow at the bottom. mountains are in the distance from the perspective of standing in the middle of the street with cars parked on the sides of the road. — This is how the streets look today in a historic Arizona town that existed when the state was founded in 1912.
Arizona
August 2021
Photo: Emma Walkington
© Emma Walkington

22 likes

7

Sep 2021

An American Hero

Text by Della Sanford/ Photos by Elinor Sanford and the U.S. Army This story highlights the triumphs of an African American, lesbian soldier during twenty-two years of service in the Army, including deployment during the […]

An American Hero: Women's army Corps handbook with collage of black and white photos of women soldiers

An American Hero: Black woman in long-sleeved arm camoflauge uniform with cap — Elinore

An American Hero: Army uniform closeup of medals.

An American Hero: A black teen boy and black pre-teen girl in dressclothes stand in front of a rock wall

An American Hero: Black family sta — Elinore Sanford (center) with wife, Della Sanford, daughter Kallie and their Corgi Reese in front of their home. Photo: Courtesy Elinore Sanford

24 likes

17

Aug 2021

Survivor, Mother, Principle and Activist

Text by Maddie Hughes/ Photos courtesy Maddie Hughes When tasked with finding a female leader in our community, I searched around to find one, and realized that my own mother is a prime example. She […]

Survivor, Mother, Principal, and Activist: Blonde woman holding a Dr. Sues book sits in chair reading to group of four elementary students sitting on floor of classroom — Jennifer Laughridge teaching in a classroom. Photo courtesy Maddie Hughes

28 likes

3

Aug 2021

The Potential Within

Text by Ciana Bruce/ Photos by Charletta Cloud & Ciana Bruce Church and education sustained her passion for serving others. But her potential paved the path for a new service — leadership. Jacquelyn Ponder, who […]

The Potential Within: Jacquelyn Ponder, Black woman with short curly hair wearing a long black dress with white floral patterns and black shoes — Preaching Women Honoree 2013
Photo: Jacquelyn Ponder ©Jacquelyn Ponder

The Potential Within: Jacquelyn Ponder in a green top receiving an award from a woman in a white shirt during ceremony — Pastor Ponder being presented with an award at President Obama’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA)/ Tribute to Preaching Women Celebration Dinner Ceremony Atlanta, Georgia.
Photo: Charletta Cloud

30 likes

7

Jul 2021

Standing in the Gap: The Life of Missionary Gussie Breedlove

Text by Stephanie Breedlove/ Photos courtesy of Gussie Breedlove One of the unsung heroes of the Atlanta community is Missionary Gussie Breedlove. This story explores her life and impact on poverty-stricken communities throughout Atlanta. Missionary […]

Misssionay Breedlove at a impoverished community after a clean up event. Photo: Gussie Breedlove ©Gussie Breedlove

31 likes

23

Mar 2021

Chris Onuoha: February Photographer of the Month

Interview by Olivia Goss/ Photos by Chris Onuoha Chris Onuoha, 22, from Newcastle, Britain, is our February Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three others and his photo received the most votes. Chris […]

Chris Onuoha: People walking midday on a street in York Minster with Gothic towers rising up at the end of the street — York, England
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Gothic style church tower seen a small distance away across the treetops — February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Closeup of dock railing and shadows in water with white Whitley Bay Lighthouse and nearby buildings in the bacground — Saint Mary’s Island, England
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Neist Point - Long view of white lighthouse and lighthouse point buildings with ocean in the background — Skye, Scotland
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: A view over a narrow bay with lowhills at water's edge under a cloudy sky with sunbeams breaking through — Skye, Scotland
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: A lonely whte house reflected in a large pond backed by grass covered low hill — February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: — Skye, Scotland
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onooha: Old Drone of Storr-An ariel view of bays and low hills on a foggy day — Skye, Scotland
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Black and white aerial view of a steep-sided valley with stream under a gray cloud-filled sky — February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Horizon - Stormy dark clouds and rainstorms on the horizom of an aerial view of a broad green plainwith low hills in the foreground — February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

Chris Onuoha: Young man with dark beard and short light brown dreads stands in front of brick wall with hands in dark hoodie pocket — Chris Onuoha, 22, from Newcastle, Britain, is our February Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three other Photographer of the Week winners. His photo received the most votes.
We love the way his images capture the light, landscapes and historical architecture around him!
We interviewed Chris to get to know him better as a photographer and to share his advice for new photographers.
Read his full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
February 2021
Photo: Chris Onuoha
© Chris Onuoha

24 likes

19

Mar 2021

Syed Hamza: January Photographer of the Month

Interview by Olivia Goss/ Photos by Syed Hamza Syed Hamza, 16, from Istanbul, Turkey, is our January Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three others and his photo received the most votes. Hamza […]

Syed Hamza: Person facing away from camera in a hooded beige parka facing a snow-covered fieldand low hill with evergreen trees in the distance. The word SOLITARY in text. — Syed Hamza, 16, from Istanbul, Turkey, is our January photographer of the month winner. He competed against three others, and his photo received the most votes. Syed won the photographer of the week during the first week of January. We love his creativity and beautiful work!
We interviewed Syed to get to know him better as a photographer and to share her advice for new photographers.
Find her full interview here on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.
January 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Dark-haired man in whitet-shirt and tan pants kneels in sand with hands in lap against gray sky — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Person in dark clothing high in a gray sky in a harness with a windsail — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Sihouette of a people and and a tallsqure post in the distance standing on a mountain ridge against a cloudy gray sky. — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Person leans against glss walld building, standing in the dark night rain. — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Person stands leaning back on a glass door, silhouetted against a grassy sun-lit yard, holding his cellphone up to his ear. — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Syed Hamza: Sihouette of man faving camera against gray sky — Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

Istanbul, Turkey
January, 2021
Photo: Syed Hamza
© Syed Hamza

31 likes

15

Mar 2021

Vladimir Zuev: Featured Photographer — Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020

Vladimir Zuev was one of our eight featured photographers in our 3D, immersive, virtual Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020 — The New World: Isolation. Biography Vladimir Zuev, 36, was born and raised in Moscow, Russia. He […]

36 likes

15

Mar 2021

Andrea Klerides: Featured Photographer — Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020

Andrea Klerides was one of our eight featured photographers in our 3D, immersive, virtual Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020 — The New World: Isolation. Biography Andrea Klerides is a 31-year-old photographer living in Astoria, New York. […]

COVID-19 The New World Isolation: — Even though children were not able to physically attend school in the five boroughs, schools remained open to provide meals for those children and families in need. Astoria, Queens.
April 2, 2020
Photo: Andrea Klerides
© Andrea Klerides

COVID-19 The New World Isolation: Empty 8 lane freeway with sign flashing flatten the curve — On an always busy Grand Central Parkway at the entrance to Astoria, Queens, and the RFK Bridge which leads into the Bronx, an empty roadway with a sign that looked to be working: Save Lives #flattenthecurve.
April 2, 2020
Photo: Andrea Klerides
© Andrea Klerides

42 likes

15

Mar 2021

Benjamin Thomlinson: Featured Photographer — Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020

Benjamin Thomlinson was one of our eight featured photographers in our 3D, immersive, virtual Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020 — The New World: Isolation. Biography Benjamin Thomlinson, from Atlanta, is a 25-year-old Winter 2020 graduate of […]

Observing how creative citizens can get with their diverse collection of masks that help keep them safe every day and encourage a robust social distancing atmosphere for everyone in the New Normal
October 12, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

Some cars have car fresheners in their dashboard; others may have baseball caps. In today’s New Normal, the dashboard ornament of choice is none other … than the N95!
October 12, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

A snapshot of several locals in Atlanta, with masks embedded in their everyday routine. As of late, masks have become interwoven into the “personal essentials” that one keeps on their person — phone, wallet, keys, MASK
October 4, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

A local worker progressing through the day, adhering to clean safety guidelines while still delivering excellent customer service
October 4, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

Cleaning duty has certainly not been put on the back burner in the New Normal. Most restaurants have either doubled or tripled their cleaning protocols
October 12, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

A sign posted on a storefront, encouraging all current and future patrons to adhere to COVID-19 prevention guidelines.
October 4, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

Individuals speaking at a public community forum with Cobb County police, encouraging voting and peaceful social action.
May 31, 2020<
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

In the wake of socio-political unrest, college students band together in full support of those affected by social injustice for a safe and peaceful protest and a community forum with Cobb County police.
May 31, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

Amid recent coronavirus climate, young adults unite for a socially distanced session, consisting of prayer, meditation and conversation about the current socio-political climate.
June 28, 2020<
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

In addition to adhering to mask mandates, a couple can still enjoy a fun and safe day outside the house.
October 4, 2020
Photo: Benjamin Thomlinson
© EPN Media

33 likes

21

Dec 2020

Trevon Davis: November Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Salinah On Yeugo/ Photos by Trevon Davis Trevon Davis, 20, from Austin, Texas, is our November Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three other photographers for his title and his photo […]

Trevor Davis Photo Gallery: Girk in light vlue gymnast leotardstanding out side looking at rainbow painted on wall. — A gymnast stands outside an Austin, Tx. stadium clearing her mind before preparing to start an aerial exhibition.
April 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

Trevon Davis photo gallery: Young woman with short dark hair wearing fade blue jeans an blue top leaning against an outdoor railing against a bright blue sky. — On a Saturday afternoon a model poses outside in the town square of downtown Houston, Tx. “The sky was the perfect shade of blue and felt like I had the right shot.”
May 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

A model poses in the clothing brand TrueGeekUSA streetwear in an Austin, Tx. park.
May 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

A bystander stops to pose for a portrait photo on a hiking trail in Austin, Tx.
December 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

Trevan Davis photo gallery: Young man with short dark hair stiing in the raod with arms clasped aroun knees staring into distance. — A model poses for a portrait photo in the middle of an empty Austin, Tx. street.
December 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

In the home studio of Trevon Davis located in Austin, Tx. a model poses in the pristine light.
December 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

Jay Dior sits in his car posing for his upcoming album cover shoot in Austin, Tx.
December 2020
Photo: Trevon Davis

Trevon Davis photo gallery: Couple embracing while lying on purple blanket next to a pool. — Two models pose showing their love and raw emotion for each other outside an apartment complex located in Austin, Tx.
The inspiration behind the editing of the photo came from rapper Future’s, 2016 studio album Purple Reign.
April 2020.
Photo: Trevon Davis

Trevon Davis photo gallery: Couple embracing while lying on white blanket on park grass — In an open field located in Austin, Tx. a couple lay in the grass posing for a portrait.
April 2020.
Photo: Trevon Davis

40 likes

11

Dec 2020

Nikki Raitz: Featured Photographer — Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020

Nikki Raitz was one of our eight featured photographers in our 3d, immersive, virtual Bokeh Focus Exhibit 2020 — The New World: Isolation. Biography Nikki Raitz is 21 years old and currently pursuing a BFA […]

Art Photo: Dancer in abstract pose wrapped in red fabric against red background — During this shoot, I asked my models to work with the fabric rather than against it.
In this shot, my model has become a part of the swirling fabric around her, creating a new shape as a part of a whole.
Sept 27, 2020
Photo: Nikki Raitz
© Nikki Raitz

27 likes

17

Nov 2020

Kevin Barrett: October Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Salinah On Yeugo/ Photos by Kevin Barrett Kevin Barrett, 21, from Powder Springs, Georgia, is our October Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three other photographers for this title, and his […]

43 likes

20

Oct 2020

Jan Düerkop: September Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Olivia Goss/ Photos by Jan Düerkop Jan Düerkop, 37, from Hamburg, Germany, is our September Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three other photographers for this title and his photo received […]

Read interview on Bokeh Focus

Subway departing station at night with tall street lamps on right. — “This picture was taken in the winter and I had to make several attempts to nail the timing for the subway to depart during my exposure.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Bokeh photo at night of large white arrow painted on dark, wet asphalt street. — “A road marking on a pedestrian bridge in Wolfsburg, Germany. The bokeh lines are the light of a building of the ‘Autostadt’ in the background.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Bokeh photo of night traffic with medium blue sky and a tall building with center tower. — “This is a long exposure shot of the old postal office in Hamburg, Germany. I actually planned to take this one for a while and I am pretty happy how it turned out.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Closeup of front wheel and handlebars with headlampof bicycle — “This detail shot of a bike is actually the bike of my girlfriend. It’s a pretty old one which she got as a gift from her aunt; approximately 30 years old and still in a good shape.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Closeupof dandelion head with several blurred lights in the background. — “This close-up shot of a dandelion in full bloom was taken in the Hamburg harbor. I liked the contrast of the very urban surroundings and this dandelion lying around.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Rocky shoreline with large boat moored clsoe to shore against cloudy night sky. — “This boat was docked in the harbor of Texel during our pre-COVID holiday in the Netherlands. I only took this one shoot as we were actually in a rush to get to our boat and got lucky in terms of sharpness and correct exposure.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Weathered wooden pier posts and cross supports stand in dark, calm water uner dusky skies. — “Some remains of a pier in the Netherlands where I actually shot the whole golden hour and then had to select my favorite out of 45 pictures.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Multi-story,modern office building seen from perspective of looking up from the ground against an overcast, cloudy dusky sunset — “This office building in Hamburg is quite a known spot for photographers which you can also climb up to. I got lucky during golden hour to catch this one person almost in the middle of the building. It reminds me of old Aztec ruins.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

TheElbphilharmonie opera house against an early dusk sunset sky. — “As a photographer living in Hamburg a picture of the Elbphilharmonie opera house Is mandatory in my portfolio. This one is special as I used the reflective steps of a building on the other roadside to create the reflection.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop

Close-up of heather with dewdrops in sepia tones. — “I went out to shoot some heathers blooming during this year’s season and got lucky with this shot which was during sunrise: The bokeh balls are actually dewdrops.”
Photo: Jan Düerkop
In Jan’s interview he tells us more about himself as a new photograpgher.
Find it on Bokeh Focus under STORIES.

38 likes

28

Sep 2020

Joshua Elliot: August Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Olivia Goss/ Photos by Joshua Elliot Joshua Elliot, 19, from Leeds, England, is our August Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against three other photographers for this title, and his photo received […]

22 likes

17

Aug 2020

Tyra Gathers: July Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Olivia Goss/ Photos by Tyra Gathers Tyra Gathers, 22, from Kennesaw, Georgia, is our July Photographer of the Month winner. She competed against four other photographers for this title and her photos received […]

12 likes

15

Jul 2020

Andrea Klerides: June Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Ciara Lawrence/ Photos by Andrea Klerides Andrea Klerides, 31, from Queens, New York, is our June Photographer of the Month winner. She competed against four other photographers for this title and her photos […]

Andrea Klerides, from Queens, New York, the winner of our Bokeh Focus June Photographer of the Month contest.
Photo: Courtesy Andrea Klerides
Read interview on Bokeh Focus

George Floyd Protest Astoria, New York park, black & white photo, woman on knees clasping hands looking upward — A woman holds a sign saying, “I can’t breathe,” at a protest gathering in an Astoria neighborhood park in Queens, New York.
Photo: Andrea Klerides

George Floyd Protest Astoria, New York park, black & white photo, closeup of young woman with black hair and glassesraising her right fist in protest — Young woman standing with neighbors – many that are masked to protect themselves from COVID-19 –raises her right fist in protest against George Floyd’s death.
Photo: Andrea Klerides

A stridently chanting,maskless young man at the park protest surrounded by neighbors.
Photo: Andrea Klerides

George Floyd Protest Astoria, New York park, black & white photo, looking at the backs of a large group of people kneeling on one knee with right fists raised — Protesters at neighborhood park take a knee with fists raised in protest.
Photo: Andrea Klerides

Clasping her hands and looking upward while chanting, this young woman protests with her neighbors against George Floyd’s death while he was in the custody of police.
Photo: Andrea Klerides
Read interview on Bokeh Focus

16 likes

16

Jun 2020

Sven Hühn: May Photographer of the Month Interview

Interview by Arianna Lasha/ Photos by Sven Hühn Sven Hühn, 30, from Wiesmoor, Germany, is our May Photographer of the Month winner. He competed against 4 other photographers for this title and his photo received […]

May photographer of the month winner, Sven Hühn, shares his experiences and advice for photographers of all ages..
Read interview on Bokeh Focus

27 likes

28

Apr 2020

New Breed of Cops: Michael Tashji

Text and Photos by Michael Tashji On a Friday night in Bloomfield, N.J., middle school children hang out at Foley Field to watch the highschool football team play. Officer Marvid Camacho provides security at the […]

Camacho and his son Matteo at Bloomfield Middle School.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Officers Camacho and Romano enter the Bloomfield Police station.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Camacho picks up his order at a coffee shop in Bloomfield.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Camacho, Romano and Charles at the Old Canal Inn.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Camacho patrols the hallways at Bloomfield Middle School.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Camacho talks to his sons Matteo and Mariano in their bedroom.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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A Thin Blue Line flag displayed in Camacho’s back yard.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Charles patrols the streets of Bloomfield.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Charles and his friends at Bloomfield High School.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Charles shoots a basket at Bloomfield High School.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Charles watches football in his basement.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Charles reviews an ongoing case at the Bloomfield Police station.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Officers Romano and Camacho at the Bloomfield Police station.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Romano and his son Matthew talk with a resident of Bloomfield.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Romano holds his daughter Juliana.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Camacho and Romano pay their tab at the Old Canal Inn.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Romano coaches the Bloomfield Bengals at Foley Field.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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Romano weighs in junior league football players at Foley Field.
Photo: Michael Tashji
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12 likes

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Jun 2017

Kids Compete, Learn in Juvenile Justice Jeopardy Game

Text and Photos by Ali Sardar Spending a Saturday morning in a classroom is not something most kids want to do. So why did 110 kids between 9 and 17 years old in Lawrenceville, Georgia, […]