Update of blog - AND re-release of Elaine and Nicol - "Essence of Healing" Shoot

To update my friend's locally, abroad and especially my Brazillian friends about this blog...due to the direction of Publishers, Agents, Published Authors and other professionals in the publishing industry, we are making necessary changes.  Many of you have inquired about the Tarot, Astrology and Full Moon (which was WILDLY popular) posts that I was doing and why I have ceased to do them.  The answer is that we have been strongly advised to keep this blog all about the women featured in The Mystic Women of Salem series.  So...until this project is published I will not be doing the posts mentioned above.  My apologies to everyone, but the goal here is to get this book published...once that happens I will ultimately resume the educational posts for you.  Thank you so much for all of your interest and continued support!

Elaine and Nic continue to be pillars of positivity and incredible cosmic energy in our community.  Nic is now creating spectacular crystal jewelry and Essence of Healing is still going strong and hosting numerous events throughout the year...check out their calendar to see what they are offering.  

I must mention the painful subject of Nic's little baby that was present during our shoot...tragically, Jacob left our dimension upon birth.  However, his presence is forever etched in the Akashic record AND photographically in this project.  Known as the "Littlest Mystic" Jacob has his own portrait in this series, still being hosted by his Mother, through unexplained lights he is featured on his own, in his own portrait ! 
Enjoy this very special re-release and please go to https://www.facebook.com/mysticwomenofsalem/  and LIKE the page!  This is the ONLY thing holding this project back from being published !!!  We appreciate your support!

R :}:}:}

Reiki   Masters - Elaine and Nicol of "Essence of Healing" in Salem Ma.  

On Saturday, April 27, 2013 it was Mother/Daughter Elaine and Nicol's long awaited turn to be photographed as the only duo and sole Reiki practitioners to be featured in The Mystic Women of Salem book.  Both were interviewed almost 2 1/2 years ago, so they were quite anxious to finally have their experience in the studio...and what an experience it was!  Like no other, for sure.
Interviewing over 40 women, shooting, blogging, facebooking, and a whole host of other PR efforts takes bookoos of time, as I state in all interviews.  A sincere thanks to those who have graciously waited so long for their turn.  

I had come to the studio the night before the shoot and prepared the studio (which is what I usually do) in effort to pace the physical demands of shooting and to reduce my stress levels.  However, this time it was a bust!  I came in and had begun to get the lighting set up when I prematurely checked on the remotes...not my usual drill for sure.   I discovered that all the remotes were gone!  I began searching throughout the entire studio hoping to find them laying around somewhere because some student was too preoccupied to follow correct procedures in equipment storage.  After almost an hour I finally gave up, knowing that I HAD to make that dreaded call..."I have to cancel your shoot."   This is soooo major, because most of the MWS women have their hair and makeup professionally done, which is quite costly.  Some of the ladies even purchase custom tailored clothes and buy one of a kind props to use in their shoots.  I was in a severe panic!  I did make several calls to the ladies, but to make a very long story short, the final result turned out to be fantastic.  I ran into the Chair of the Art Dept.  in the hall and we discovered that one of the Professor's had the remotes and would be returning them to me in an hour.  SO THE SHOOT WAS STILL ON!!!!  YEA!

Elaine and Nicol arrived at Meir Hall around 2:30 pm.  I purposely took an added 10 or 15 minutes to review and sign paperwork just to get myself back on track.  I depend greatly upon creative energy and flow.  For you artists out there you know what I'm talking about.   Any negativity or disruption in the flow has an adverse effect on me, the subjects, the equipment, and finally the photographs.  Definitely something I try to avoid at all costs!

When I felt calm we all headed up to the studio.  Elaine and Nicol are truly two of the most positive and "light filled" people I have ever known...so, it did not take long to pivot and turn things around.  

I had designed their shoot entirely to be a duo, complete with standard "umbrella style" lighting to begin our journey (the classic shots you'll see on smugmug).   It is customary to ease the subjects into the "mystic" realm with test shots and "lite" music.  When I change the first set up of lights to  more dramatic setup, I change the music...pre-set to call upon the Guardians and Freyja herself.  At that point I am hearing things, feeling things, thoughts are racing and messages are being heard.  The atmosphere in the studio changes and the further we go along, the more dramatic and incredible things get.  

Elaine and Nicol were easy to work with and took direction very, very well.  What I did not expect...nor have I experienced before, a kaleidoscope of color variations and designs that I DID NOT set up myself.  During the entire shoot I had our staple, black paper backdrop.  I did set up back lighting, meaning the strobe was FACING the backs of the subjects (towards the camera).  Knowing exactly how I had designed and set up the lighting I was continuously amazed by what was happening.   I showed the ladies the images on my camera view screen repeatedly throughout the shoot for confirmation.  I have learned over the last 3 years to do that so that I'll have witnesses to whatever is happening in the studio.  Most of the time there is no logical or scientific explanation for what is happening.  I have to be SURE and steadfast in recollection and clear about the events...as I am asked to explain the lighting set up or how and why I did this or that (to the Professors).  

During the editing process I saw what appeared to the naked eye, to be a rather long scratch above Nicol's head.  I thought dang...I did not see that scratch on the backdrop, which means photoshop to the rescue.  Before I did that, a little voice prompted me to zoom in tight to inspect the scratch.  It is not a scratch at all...but a tiny, fluid like ladder...just as plain as day.  I knew Nicol and her Mom would be fascinated with this news.  

Nicol's baby is named Jacob.

During the critique with Professor Lewis, we reviewed Guenevere, Mulyssa, Elaine/Nicol, and Karen's shoots.  He was very, very pleased with my submissions (5 - 9 best shots).  However, I think it is safe to say he was pretty "blown away" by Nicol's floor shot!  He said it was the best shot of mine throughout the series.  Now, what you must understand is that he is referring to many, many things...primarily technical difficulty of lighting, composition, beauty, etc..etc..etc..  He insisted that this shot be included in MWS book..."this shot is too good NOT to be in the book...you need to make it work so it's included."  WOW...boy, he really liked it ALOT!   One thing he was very pleased with is the background lighting...the rose tones around Nicol's torso and shoulders, then complimented by the blue lighting above her head.  The back lighting is fantastic he said, and referred to the lighting several times during the critique.  I was thrilled with his response/critiques even though I was exhausted from the "warp speed" shooting that I had been doing for the last several months.  I needed this...I so needed this.  

I just did not have the courage or strength really, to tell him...

there was NO lighting on the backdrop...zero.

:}

PS  In preping for the pr launch I zoomed in again,,,just to make sure the ladder is still there.  I discovered that there are dozens and dozens of what appear to be tiny stars and circles of light.  Now...logically, if this were dust, they would be everywhere.  They are only in between Nicol and Elaine (the hands over hearts shot)  there are zero anywhere else.  Just FYI  :}

Enchantment Shoot - Produced by Laurie Cabot 9/2/2016

Re-release and Update with Professor Maria Carles, HPS!

I recently attended a Grand Opening celebration of Maria's here in Salem.  The Opening is a re-location and expansion of the Hermetic Arts Learning Center at 107 Bridge Street.  She and her partner are offering occult supplies, witchcraft instruction and ceremonial magick at this new location.  Also, for the first time Witch I of the Cabot Tradition is being taught entirely in Espanol, which by the way has made Laurie Cabot very happy indeed!!!  Although Maria is busy with all the above she is also still a Professor at Northeastern University AND a dedicated Mother as well.   MWS would like to congratulate Maria/partner on their new business and we sincerely wish them continued success!  

Another Mystic woman in our area truly making a difference in this world !!!  
R :}

Maria and I reviewing paperwork.

Maria telling me about her magical Father who did not know about 3X3!

Your goofy photog and a lovely Professor and herbalist.

Maria arrived at the studio with cases of fresh and dried herbs, plants, jewelry, and beautiful gowns.  Since she is an herbalist, the theme that I designed for her was based around plants and herbs.  Although the lighting was going to be a real challenge (due to numerous shadows bouncing off the leaves/plants), it was confirmed to me via dreams to forge ahead and make no changes from the original vision.


Since my shoulder (bicep) is pulled and I have torn ligaments from the elbow to shoulder, I knew this was going to be very challenging and painful.  Fortunately, new Mystic woman Dawn, volunteered her whole Saturday off of work to come and assist me.  Thank you so much D, I could not have done it without you!  Not only did she assist, being a photography enthusiast she also shot all the behind the scenes pics!  Job well done D!

Dawn putting the final touches on plants.

Our lovely Mystic Woman, Dawn.

Maria is an exotic beauty with gorgeous blue/black hair down to her hips.  She was a natural in front of the camera after the first round of test shots.  Mid-shoot I put on the music which "brings the big dogs in" and boy did they come!  The air became thick, instincts and guidance kicked in.  At one point I placed the vines of the pothos ivy I brought around her shoulders...within moments the ivy seemed to grow around her and Maria herself became one with the adoring plant.  She was so touched by the emotions shown by the plant that she took a cutting home with her...Ivy really loved Maria.


The shoot was long and quite complex in many areas.  The whole studio was engulfed with spirits, guardians, abundant aroma of sage, rosemary and other spices and herbs.  


Yet another "Mystic" phenomenon to write about!


:}

Re-publish Jacq Civitarese PR 8/2/2016 - A Day In Paris with Jacqie C.

Chances are if you have visited Salem during the Harvest Season you noticed shop owners, witches, locals, etc., gliding around Salem wearing glorious wool capes and cloaks.  These are more than likely the creations of our own Jacq...a tailor and designer in Salem (she also furnishes many clothing items for the local shoppes).  Eternal Stitch is the business name...check it out folks!  Jacq has been very busy since her shoot, not only professionally but personally as well.  We should congratulate our gal on her recent marriage - CONGRATS JACQ!  Read on about her shoot!  :}:}:}

I awoke to a snowy morning and checked to see if my shoot was still on. Rebecca and I, both being brave women, decided it was a "go". The excitement I felt to be a part of "The Mystic Women of Salem" project, that I woke up with, remained and became a power point even after a very difficult moment with my love affairs that morning. Despite a personal let down, my will to serge on with the shoot exploded around me and my closet as I looked for an outfit among all my creations. I then surrounded myself with pink light and did my hair and makeup (which I never do). Velvet, satin, tulle and majick filled my four large shopping bags as I hurried to the train. Rebecca was there to greet me with a great smile and much enthusiasm. We both spoke of the weather and the wild morning we had endured thus far.

We arrived at Salem State University at 1pm and through back doors and dark hallways I got my first look at the studio. The set of my "Shoppe" was displayed in the room. The purple hanging lamp was a beacon for my business, Eternal Stitch. Interestingly, purple and black are my business colors.

Rebecca introduced me to "Mystics" cyber wizard, Brian Miller, who is also a friend and assistant to MWS. After formalities I ate lunch while Brian and Rebecca concentrated on technical preparations and set up. The "behind the scenes" shots came naturally as we hung my creations and admired shoes and vintage hats. The mood was set and the air filled with beautiful music of "La Vie En Rose" by Edith Piaf, the French songstress. Her voice, music, and life were emotional and tragic, much like another favorite of mine...Judy Garland.

Now...it's time for the shoot.

First, Rebecca was attempting to recreate a Eugene Atget portrait, shot in the late 20's, one that is considered a masterpiece. As each shot was explained (to prepare me for the mood she was looking for) I felt more at ease and comfortable in my new "Shoppe". In between shots of strobe flashes, my sight became fixed on the between realms of Salem. Glimpses of objects came in and out of reality as hyper flashes filled my vision. Luckily, I am comfortable with this state of being and the photos that transpired, reflected my loving and far away mood.

As the music ended, Rebecca switched lighting techniques/set ups, focusing on closeup stitchery shots. At times we were frustrated as Rebecca was trying to capture the crystal (which was on the tip of the needle), reflection by zoomed strobe shots. It was like trying to photograph a Faerie...the star burst of light did not want to be revealed to the world without love, patience and timing. Then, it dawned on Rebecca...there was no music! As soon as she put her majick music CD on the spark of the needle lit up and my spirit joined with it throughout the rest of the shots. We were all in bliss as time was quickly passing and the weariness of creating art had set in. The final shots were all together a different lighting setup and process producing a totally different look. Once complete, we reviewed the shoot in it's entirety on a large monitor screen in the photography lab. Rebecca had done it! The Atget shoot was a success and reflected a seamstress in love with her creations and work.

All the textures I brought were displayed by Rebecca's camera brilliantly...yet complexly. Color, texture and star bursts filled each image, our hearts now content.

Rebecca drove me to Salem depot as the sun was retiring for the evening. I was on my way back to reality....feeling beautiful and a sense of accomplishment.

Thank you so much Rebecca and Brian for all your efforts, talent and hard work!

Faerie Blessings...Jacq Civitarese of Eternal Stitch

Re-Publishing of Mystic Woman Memie - Portrait With a Life of It's Own

Memie is the first woman to be shot in the studio for The Mystic Women of Salem project.  Actually, her shoot was done even before
MWS was born...and before this blog was created.  As you will read below, the interviewing process was beginning at the time I presented her with a portrait from her shoot.  Various processes and policies had not even been thought of at this point, much less implemented.  Wow,  what a long, long way we have come.  
Memie continues to be a pillar of positivity and powerful magick in our community in Salem, Ma.
She just told me that she would be promoting MWS tonight on the radio!!!  THANK YOU MEMIE!!!  For your continued support, honesty, integrity and for being an excellent example of the extremely high levels that we, as magickal/mystical women conduct ourselves resulting in being role models for the mundane world - and WE NEED THAT NOW folks!!!

The below is a snapshot I took of my dear friend Memie at Mabon 2010 in Salem, Mass. She is holding a portrait that I had shot of her a few months ago. Memie has been instrumental during the creation and interviewing/screening process for "The Mystic Women of Salem" project. I was/am so indebted to her for her consistent willingness to assist, that this portrait was printed/mounted and presented to her as a gift, before the Mabon 2010 celebration...as a token of our appreciation. She was so excited that she immediately began going from table to table showing everyone! The feedback that I got was overwhelming and ALL positive. Many people were wanting to book a shoot with me, but, I had to discourage them since "Mystic" is taking priority at this time. I am not booking shoots for portraits like hers until summer 2011...just fyi everyone.

Laurie Cabot told Memie that I had truly "captured" her essence! Thanks Laurie!

Many discussions about the project/subject selection and upcoming shoots continued throughout the evening.

There was buzz in the photo department on Monday about these snapshots..."the portrait seems to have a life of it's own." Yes..I concur! :)

Re-Post for PR - Penny Cabot - An Evening with a Princess

Truly a learning experience for this photog!  This was really the first time I had experienced a shoot with a model who had professional experience...what a joy it was!  Since this shoot I have photographed Penny numerous times and in my opinion the portraits get better and better.  Penny and I developed a true psychic connection when shooting...all I have to do is think of the emotion, the feeling, or physical poses that I want and within seconds she picks up on it and does it without saying a word.  Indeed, very rare - for sure!
We focused on professionalism and "nailing" the shots.  It really was much later in the series that I realized just how much magick surrounded this project.  I learned to pre-programmed designated music to call in the guardians along with many other magickal methods that became the "norm" for all my shoots.  What this experience brought to me was a very dear friend, and how to maintain a high level of integrity and expectation from my job as a photographer.  Thanks Penny for giving me the confidence I so desperately needed to continue on with MWS !!!


I will be releasing more of Penny's shoots on FB over the next year...so stay tuned folks...stay tuned!

Just a test shot - LOVELY!

Penny's shoot is inspired by a portrait done by George Hurrell in the 1950's at Paramount Studios. Of course I will be adding my own lighting techniques and design, keeping it original, but the idea is ALL George. Since Penny is a very talented artist, I will be incorporating her artistic flair into the shoot.

Judging the way Penny's photos turned out from Laurie's Birthday celebration (http://allure.smugmug.com/cabot/LaurieCabotBirthday I think it is certainly safe to say her portraits will be quite beautiful!

When Penny arrived she was all ready for the shoot, and it only took a moment or two for her to change into a beautiful glittery dress that the strobes seemed to like very much, by bouncing off the sequins and beads in a most complimentary fashion.

I did not know that Penny had previous experience modeling...but, it only took a few shots and I knew that this gal really knew how to pose, how to work the props, and most importantly, how to feel the emotions I was looking for. She was eager to help me achieve my goals for her debut as a "Mystic Woman", and believe me she did just that! She "worked" the drapery in a way that I had not expected and truly surpassed the expectations that I did have...she took it to a whole new level. The lighting and equipment cooperated, and really we had no technical issues throughout the duration of her shoot! What a joy!

It was a long shoot, but so very worth it. I cannot wait for you all to see her top 8 shots in the "Mystic Women of Salem" photo gallery http://allure.smugmug.com, I think you will all be very, very pleased. I will be adding her photos to the gallery as they are completed...so check the above website frequently over the next 2 weeks.

The goofy photog posing with a regal Penny!

Your photog goofing around before shoot.

The set is now ready and awaits the arrival of a Princess!

                                     

Promotional Re-Post - Mulysa Meyham of Good Mojo Tattoos

A studio portrait will be released tomorrow on our MWS FB Business Page !  Check it out !

The Mystic Women of Salem Project is proud to present, Mulysa Meyham of Good Mojo Tattoos !!!

On  Sunday May 12, 2013 at 5pm the lovely breathe of fresh air arrived at the studio on an overcast and rather chilly May day, even for New England.  Mulysa is a native Salemite who has generational history with the city of Salem and it's people.  Needless to say, Mulysa is the FIRST and ONLY tattoo artist that will be featured in the MWS project.  She is a lovely young woman with the wisdom of the ancients.  I was captivated by her and her story from the very day that I interviewed her at Good Mojo Tattoo Shop, well over a year ago.  She brings integrity, honesty, compassion, and unlimited artistic flair to the project.  As you will clearly see, from her shoot, Mulysa IS ART...walking, moving, breathing ART.  She is fascinating to look at and compelling to talk to.  There are not many of her generation that have the knowledge and wisdom of the ancients like Mulysa does...it is quite jolting at first, one just does not expect such things from youth.  Her shoot was fast and virtually with no direction from me...it was like "strike a pose" from the very beginning.  She was like shooting a seasoned pro.

I am certainly not used to shooting so fast...I had a hard time keeping up with this girl!  I called it a wrap in only a little over an hour (and folks that's unheard of with MWS shoots)!   When I heard the little whisper,"call it a wrap" I was quite shocked and a bit perplexed.  However, I learned long ago to just do as I'm told and surrender to the powers at be...so I did.

I knew that we had gotten some incredible shots which is the norm for this project, but, what had me a bit confused was that the air in the studio did not change or become "thick" as I call it.  That's a sure sign that "other forces" such as the Guardians are indeed present.  Knowing that Mulysa is a VERY powerful young woman, I really was perplexed by the lack of changes in atmospheric conditions that ALWAYS occur when working on MWS, ESPECIALLY shoots with these women.  However, like I said, I have learned the hard way...just don't ask questions and DON'T BUCK IT!

Mulysa left the studio seemingly satisfied and seemed to enjoy the experience as well.   I, on the other hand had a nagging feeling...certainly not one of disappointment, just curious more than anything.  It was not until I began editing and downloading the shots to hard drive that it hit me!  And boy did it...ONCE AGAIN!

During shoots I break every so often and let the subject view a few of the shots via the view screen on the camera...it seems to help them with a "visual" so they can understand what I'm going for.  At one of those breaks I showed Mulysa the sequence of shots I had taken after she let her dreads down and unwrapped from the velvet.  She was not exactly excited about those particular shots, which surprised me because I remembered vividly with visions of a "lost tribe" a newly found civilization deep, deep, in the forrest and Mulysa was the Queen.  During this sequence, my pre-programmed cd's were filling the studio with drum music.  It had an all encompassing echo...it seemed to fill the entire studio...the longer I shot the more intense the drums.  Of course this is one of those experiences that I have from behind the lens (I have many such experiences) but, not like this one...with sound AND visions.   While I was editing all this came to me.  I thought...you know I'd better go check that cd...I don't ever remember that music before (thinking there was some message or something - all I knew was something was up).  When it defies logic and makes no sense what so ever, my ears and senses perk up to FULL ALERT status...

I searched every track of every cd that are designated and pre-programmed for MWS shoots, not once, not twice, but thrice.  There IS no drum music on those cd's.  I have searched 3 times now...so, I chalk it up to Freyja and the Guardians once again...

    Message Heard, Message Received, Message Relayed


Great Job Mulysa - Hope you feel differently about the "tribal" shot(s) - check it out!  
Luv ya!

R :}

                       WELCOME  TO  SALEM  EVERYONE !!!

Salem is officially now in full swing of all the Halloween Festivities!  Check out the Haunted Happenings website-hauntedhappenings.org which is sponsored by the City of Salem.  They list everything from festivals, special events, tours, etc.,etc. that Salem offers during this special time.   Also be sure to check out Christian Day's Festival of the Dead at www.festivalofthedead.com for listings of circles, balls, convention activities and more.  Mystic Women,  Laurie Cabot and Penny Cabot are hosting their annual costume ball to find out info. go to https://www.facebook.com/Laurie-Cabot-and-the-Cabot-Kent-Hermetic-Temple-290687978961/

The city is buzzing and will continue to until November.  If you are able to join the festivities please use extreme caution when walking the streets of Salem.  Stay alert people!  

MWS is not participating this year, however you will see a familiar photographer bouncing around Salem with Cassandra (camera), shooting everything from ghosts and goblins to landscapes and architecture.  As reported on the last post only the book cover needs to be shot/processed and the Project Manager is taking over with the ladies and their stories as well as any issues/questions that come up regarding the project.   The artist has completed her end, now the intelligent one takes over !!! hee hee

Take much care everyone, enjoy this wonderful season, be kind and considerate to the animals, the trees/Great Mother, and to one another...and BE SAFE !  After all, we want you around so you can see and own 

          THE  MYSTIC  WOMEN  OF  SALEM !

Meet our last Mystic woman to be photographed, Lea Hill (excluding my shoot, as I promised the Team over a year ago...we'll see how things go).   Lea is an author and an autism educator at Northshore Community College.  She has also taught workshops in Lilydale, New York and teaches in and around the Salem, Ma area.

Lea is a lovely woman that exudes positive energy.  Her focus is on teaching people about Sacred Geometry (now known as Sacred Shapes).  I have not been able to take one of Lea's classes yet, but I fully intend to after the publishing of MWS.

Lea's shoot was on Sunday, August 24, 2014 early in the afternoon.  I was just returning from a Maine vacation with my boys, but had "focused" in on Lea's shoot a month or so prior.  The visions about her shoot came fast and were consistent.  When you view her shoot on the Smugmug site be sure to read the captions below the shot to see my visions come to fruition.  Most of the visions were of Lea on the floor accompanied by her shapes in various positions and poses.

During her shoot of course the Goddess did not disappoint.  She always appears and lets her presence known by the weight of the air and the things that are happening through the lens of the camera.  Lea's shapes were glowing and in a "major" way...the closer the shape to her, the more intense the glow.  All of us in the studio were witness to this...time and time again.

Her dresses photographed beautifully and had I not known better, I would have thought that she was a seasoned professional in front of the camera.

The shoot in it's entirety lasted about three hours.  I was exhausted yet thrilled that the last shoot was over.  Lea and her friend seemed equally thrilled about their experience in the studio and were excited about the photos taken.

I appreciate all of you ladies being so patient and understanding during the course of this project.  Photographing so many women, coupled with outside photography (for the left side of the book) has been challenging to say the very least.

I will stop here, as this is certainly NOT my last post...we have a SHOW/EXHIBITION at Salem Ink on Derby Street in downtown Salem October 10 through the 14th!  I'm sure I will have many things to tell you about!

PR materials will be in this week and we will be distributing them over the next two weeks.

Stay tuned folks!!!

R :}

FABULOUS   NEWS!!!   
The  "left side adventures" is now COMPLETE!!!

Additional info:  For the first time a LUNAR PORTAL has been photographed during the "Left Side Adventures"!!!  Cannot wait for everyone to see it!

The last snow storm on February 5, 2014 has given me the exact "look" that I was waiting for! Although we have had several snows...they just did not produce that heavy wet snow that sticks to roofs, the ground, and everything in it's path.  I have been to Pioneer Village numerous times before, during, and after snow squalls and storms...but I just was not satisfied with the "look"...until now.  The Director of the Witch House and Pioneer Village (Elizabeth) was kind enough to try several times to coordinate the snow shoot with me. HOWEVER...when you are depending on the "Mother" to produce a certain type of storm sometimes she most definitely has other ideas and plans.  Thanks Elizabeth, for trying!

Hence guerilla shooting called into play yet again.  Only this time I was in deep...as in almost thigh high snow just inches from the snow/ice filled Atlantic Ocean.  JEEZ...what I will do when that camera is strapped on (and having sense is NOT a part of it)!  BUT...I always get the shot.

A couple of days after the shoot, during editing, I caught these two unusual shots.  The black mass appeared on the left side and then again in the center (you can see the shadow on the snow that the mass caused).  During this time I was doing rapid fire shooting...no mass before or aft these shots.  Seems that every time I shoot at Pioneer Village and the surrounding area unexpected guests and creatures present themselves.  It is truly a place of power and I suspect some residual type activities are going on as well as some long term residents' making themselves visible from time to time.

The "Left Side Adventures" has been a phenomenal success.  The last seven months have been a real roller coaster ride.  The shoots have been challenging, scary, dangerous, satisfying, and most of all SUCCESSFUL!  The bar is set so high by the women of MWS project and every shot that is adjacent to the portraits is equally as beautiful, mystical, and as artistic as the women themselves.   We have unexplained tiny lights, shadow people, graveyards that have unexplained "studio" lighting, creatures appearing, once in a lifetime "cyclone aftermath" sunsets, and the "Breath of the Dragon" (this is a type of heavy fog...VERY different than the usual fog - once you experience it, you will always know it).   Salem most certainly did not disappoint.

I will be sending out a special invitation to the MWS ladies to view the "Left Side Adventures" gallery when the images are complete.  These photographs will not be seen on Smugmug, Facebook, or this blog...they are on reserve for publication ONLY...hence, all the secrecy.

Will update you again with all things MWS...what a long, strange trip this has been !!!   R :}

Hello Everyone,

What a summer it has been!  I have moved yet again due to a very unsavory and dishonest landlord at the house I rented at the Commons.  It was more major than the move from NYC (and my belongings being shipped to Massachusetts)!   BUT...everything happens for a reason as we all know and I am VERY happy in my new place.  PLUS it is literally a mere few doors away from the studio. YEA!

School is now underway and going full force now.  I have just been approved to work with the Director of Photography and the Art Department via Directed Study for the fall semester at the University.  Believe me, you cannot imagine how much this helps the project.   We have one more portrait shoot which will bring Phase I of shooting to completion.  Starting during the next week Phase II begins.  This phase will be various sites in and around Salem.  We are leaning more towards hidden gardens and some of the really mystical locations in Salem.  If you have any suggestions for really cool sites please let me know!.  Of course this style of photography is completely different than studio shooting, and we all know that is where my strength is.  However, with the guidance of all the pros at the University I am sure that the shots for the left side of the book will be just as glorious and mystical as the portraits of the ladies.  These shots will not be published on the Smugmug site galleries.  The only time you will see them is in glorious print via the book itself.   Really, other photogs  rarely if ever  let people see the photographs prior to publication - but we did, in effort to express our gratitude to our fans, supporters, and the ladies themselves.

The Team and I are steadily moving forward with the project. Each and every day there are tasks either worked on or completed regarding MWS.  The Professor's were right...this project is HUGE and you cannot imagine how much work it requires to bring this project to fruition.  However, I am assured by the "powers at be"  that the rewards will be beyond our wildest expectations.   

During the next few months of shooting I will be blogging about the shoots and will be releasing PR photographs to announce the publication of the posts...so stay tuned everyone.  Remember....

Feel  the  Power,  Experience the Magic !   R :}

A Healer in Both Worlds

MWS Team is Honored to present Karen Watson, a healer in both the Mundane World and the Earth World!

On Saturday, May 18, 2013 Karen arrived to the studio for briefing and signing of paperwork at exactly the right time.  As all of you know who have been photographed for the MWS project, I am pretty "rattled" by the time the featured woman arrives for her shoot.  However with Karen,  her energy transmitted onto a "level plane" accompanied by a very calming nature, put this "rattled" photog at ease almost immediately.  
I remember feeling the same way when I interviewed her at Jaho's one brisk New England afternoon.

When we made it up to the studio Karen and I began setting up the props and her seating area.  As is customary, Mystic Women bring the most incredible props and personal items to accompany them on their shoots...and this Mystic Woman did not disappoint.  The first crystal she handed me was the most perfect/clear crystal I have ever seen.  It was virtually absent from ANY inclusions whatsoever!  Karen informed me that she had bought it in Sedona Arizona...ha, no wonder.  We all know what a mystical place Sedona is!  I was so moved by this stone that I isolated it and photographed it.  I have already used it in PR!

Karen has been in the medical field for decades and has a fascinating story...but, you'll have to wait for the release of the book to read about it!  What I can tell you is that for years while working at hospitals, she would secretly work with patient's energy levels...as well as utilizing her scientific training to heal.  This was done many years prior to the acceptance of alternative healing methods in the staunch, conservative world of mainstream medicine.   Karen as always "known."

One of the interesting things is that in each one of her portraits she has a look of,"I know something...do you?"  I thought it was just me, but the professor brought it up during critique as well.  His view was that this "look" added a huge element to her portraits, especially when you find out that she is in medicine and when you know her story.  

We had an enjoyable afternoon and of course the magic happened with the amethyst.  All of the crystals were supplied with their own solitary lighting source...in effort to make them "pop."  However, when we began working with the amethyst (which was at the very end of the shoot) no lighting was necessary.  The lighting that you see of the amethyst is it's own...there was no additional lights set up to enhance it's appearance.  

The amethyst is from Sedona as well.

Thanks Karen for a great shoot!  One of the more "calm" shoots that I've done during MWS project.  Certainly a testament to a very powerful, and wise healer...known in the Mundane World as Ms. Karen Watson, truly a Mystic Woman.

R :}

On Saturday, April 13, 2013 Mystic Woman Dawn arrives at the studio with "Excalibur" in hand and looking as lovely as ever.  Much, much planning had gone into this shoot, more than usual I would say.  From brainstorming to visions, Freyja sent messages almost immediately about the theme, the dress, the poses, the head dress, the backdrop, and most importantly...the lighting.  Weeks prior to the shoot I had begun sketching (a method I always use for each shoot) the layout and design of the decided theme...which was "Lady of the Lake".  The messages had come via conversation and ticker messages at the bottom of the screen of several news channels.  Salem had a snow storm prior to the "messages". The night before the storm Dawn and I met and had her pre-shoot meeting.  "Lady of the Lake" came up and had come to her numerous times long ago via a very odd library experience.  We left the conversation being that I would sleep on it and ask for confirmation.  The very next morning when I turned on the TV there was "Lady of the Lady" (reporting school closings) on one channel.  I changed the channel over 4 times (by that point I quit counting) and the message was the same on each "Lady of the Lake"..."Lady of the Lake"...over and over again.  So, "Lady of the Lake" it was!

We decided on two themes, Lady of the Lake, and Guenevere.  Dawn had ordered a gorgeous custom made dress from England and it was Arthurian in style.   (The Project Manager and I decided that we would be able to use Guenevere shots in PR.)  So, of course I HAD to shoot her in it. 

Thank goodness Dawn's niece (Courtney) had come to assist!  This was by far one of the more difficult shoots for "The Mystic Women of Salem" project.  Not only were THE GUARDIANS present but all of THE ELEMENTS (plus a smoke machine !) were represented as well, which made for a VERY powerful session.  The magic was thick and the messages were quite strong during the entire shoot.  I took Dawn back in time to Camelot where she was ultimately alone kneeling at an altar with Excalibur as her only source of defense.  Merlin, Arthur, Lancelot and all the men were in battle...Guenevere was to carry the burden of protecting the castle, the women, and all the children.  She could FEEL Morgana busy, busy, busy brewing a demon legion.  Guenevere went from desperation and fear to the ultimate triumph of re-gaining her power and determination to see the battle through...good against evil.  

Guenevere shots will be up on the Smugmug gallery at www.allure.smugmug.com soon.  

For right now check out her "Lady of the Lake" shots!  During the smoke scenes Dawn wore a crown with Fauz over her third eye...Freyja was well represented!  

Dawn and Courtney departing after hours and hours of a difficult shoot...but one that brought me to the verge of tears several times.  It is quite emotional to see your vision, sketches, and MWS woman bring it all to life right before your very eyes!   GREAT GREAT JOB GIRLS!!!!  :}

Ms. Mia Mountain arrived at the University on Sunday, April 7, 2013 for her much anticipated shoot.  The theme for Mia, since she is a librarian in Boston, was "The Book of Records".  A theme she was quite excited about after hearing my vision.  You all saw the "The Book of Records" promo with the blue lighting as pr for her upcoming shoot.  We expanded upon this vision.

I met Ms. Mia in front of Meir Hall on a rather chilly and windy New England afternoon.  The moment she popped her head out of the car, I could not help but notice how shockingly beautiful this young woman is.  She is a very strong woman who has had an incredibly difficult journey to navigate over the last couple of years...personal in nature, so I shall not go into further details.  

Mia has had some modeling experience in fashion and I tried to warn her about the type of shooting sessions that MWS requires from me and the featured woman.  However, I think she was a little concerned and "jarred" about my shooting style.  Until she saw the pr photo on facebook promoting her shoot.  She was assured after that, that I did indeed know what I was doing.  

Like I told her and I will tell all of you...when the pre-set music begins and the guardians are present my movements become fast, furious, and silent.  Many times I can literally "hear" what to do and what lights to pull next.  I had warned Mia that this experience is entering another realm...and there's no telling who will show up or what will happen.  However,  no matter how much I try to prepare MWS gals...it seems they must experience it for themselves...and boy do they!

After calling it a "wrap", Mia said,"that clock on the wall cannot be right."  I told her that it was indeed correct, but that she had just experienced the "zone".  Ms. Mia was shocked and further said that  the "blue light" session felt like she was being drawn/transported into the light...literally.  She surrendered to the power and respected the presence...  that's when the majick began and the best photographs were taken.

Great Job Mia!!!!  :}

Shoot with Mystic Woman, Mia Mountain posting soon!  Ms. Mountain is a librarian in Boston and her theme is "The Book of Records".

Details and Behind the Scenes info. to post over the weekend...so stay tuned everyone!

Historical Photo Shoot with Laurie Cabot - The Most Famous Witch in the World

Listening to a story from Laurie

A very happy, yet anxious photographer and Ms. Laurie.

All is complete, now we head up to the studio!

All Behind the Scenes photos by Dawn Dorgan

On March 12, 2012, one of the most important shoots of my photography career took place with Salem's own Laurie Cabot, High Priestess of the Cabot Tradition.


*****Oooopsie forgot! Ms. Laurie wasn't in the studio 5 minutes before EVERY battery went completely dead!! This is a common occurance when spirits/spiritual energies are present (like when Ghost Hunters investigators' equipment/batteries die). Just had never experienced this happening with a LIVE person! Well, afterall it was LAURIE CABOT! :}*****


Needless to say, much preparation and coordination with numerous people took place months prior to this shoot date.  William, the Project Manager took off three days work and came in from NYC to assist with the shoot.  Mystic Woman, Dawn Dorgan took an afternoon off work to assist and provide transportation.  Several Professors went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure that we had complete access to the studio and that there would be no problems.


Laurie, her daughter Penny, and Dawn arrived at the University mid-afternoon.  We spent about 15 minutes in the lobby area going over the concept of the shoot and processing paperwork.  Afterwards, the whole crew headed up to the studio.  William and I had set everything up and had finalized the lighting design, tested all equipment, and set up the studio the day before the shoot.  This was a necessary plan as I knew that the lighting was going to be difficult and quite frankly I was not 100% sure I could even do it.  Candlelight/natural light sources in a studio is challenging to say the least.  However, with the assistance of the Project Manager and much effort we accomplished our mission for pre-sets and design on Sunday.  Boy oh boy am I glad we did too!


Laurie looked beautiful but fatigued.  She told me upon arrival that she was not feeling well and that she was concerned about the length of time it would take to do the shoot.  So, I knew that speed was going to be mandatory.  The entire shoot only lasted 20 to 25 minutes from beginning to "wrap."  I only used one lighting set up, one prop set up, and just two angles.  I was very concerned about Laurie and I could see her "fading" in just moments after we began.  It became very important and a priority to finish and get her safely on her way home.


Today, I came into the lab and started processing the photos.  Kim, one of the photography professors that is on the Portrait Selection Committee was here, thank goodness.  She was very impressed with the shoot and calmed my fears by taking really close looks at a few of the photos I was working on.  I learned yet again from Ms. Kim, she was telling me that all photographers go through the frustration and fear stages that we experience during a very short shoot.  Thanks Kim!!!!


I have posted two portraits on smugmug and there will be a few more uploaded over the course of the next couple of weeks.  


Many, many heartfelt thanks to William, Dawn, Laurie, Penny, and the Professor's for making sure this shoot happened.  A special thanks to Laurie...I know all too well the huge sacrifice it is to "show up" when you are hurting.  It ain't easy folks!


Laurie told me personally, a year ago, that I would be the last photographer to shoot her in the studio and believe me, she has been photographed by many accomplished photographers over the years.  
So on March 12, 2012 history was made, I did a studio shoot of the most famous witch in the world for the last time.  I feel honored and fortunate to have had this experience and this shoot will most certainly enhance the success of 
The Mystic Women of Salem project !
:}