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March 9th, 2024
Photo: A bare altar with purple banner sets the tone at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, Illinois, where faithful Catholics visit throughout the days for prayer and observing for Holy Week - 'Holy Week' Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/holy-week-frank-j-casella.html
We all go through the dark moments in life. If you’re like me, you try to take the easy way out in moving towards the light. The thing is, often times until we go through the struggles we really don’t learn the full story.
For example, in times of struggles I often prayed for God to show me the way, but I never seemed to find any answers. Often times, after the fact, it is revealed to me that because I didn’t wait on God in His timing that I missed out on the blessing. Because I tried to avoid what I thought would experience pain or challenge.
Had I meant what I prayed for God to show the way, and not take it back as soon as I gave it to Him, because this is the easy way, then people and circumstances would have come into my path to show the way … and the rest of the story would be revealed.
I have lived through job layoffs, health setbacks, car accidents, people and their shortcomings, long-term unemployment, marriage issues, and the inevitable short on money when there is an ’emergency’ need, to name a few. In all of these I have learned that my viewpoint is not always God’s viewpoint. That I’m usually focused on my needs, and God is focused on using my circumstance to bring others into relationship with Himself, in addition to meeting my immediate need.
One other thing I’ve learned from all this is that, many times we struggle because we don’t know our life mission. That when we know our mission, some people call this your ‘why’, and we find a way to serve others through our mission, then we have less confusion in life. Because many times serving others without a mission we are fighting ourselves or getting in our own way. We should see others through our mission to know how to best serve them.
Broken relationships, for example, are like a vase that falls off the table and breaks into many small pieces. Depending how we look at it, if we try to put the vase (relationship) back together piece by piece seeking for God to show us through the struggle, instead of looking at serving self before the other person or giving up and taking the easy way out, that vase has the potential to become a beautiful mosaic.
You have to decide how important the struggle is to you, and grow through it, and how much you want God to complete the story in your life.
Jesus had to go onto the Cross to do the will of God. This struggle that He encountered was and is a part of His story. What struggles have you experienced that are a part of your story?
Reflect for a moment on how you can better allow God to radiate His love for a beautiful life from your past struggles and storms.
God’s will is that we depend on Him.
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February 25th, 2024
Photo Descripton: It's important to have family and friends. Sometimes, though, our friends are more like family, and our family can be more like friends. It all depends on what we need from each... or give to. The people around us most influence how and where we go in life, and us with them. So, it's wise to pick and choose who we spend most our time with. Life is too short ....
- Click here to purchase. https://fineartamerica.com/featured/family-and-friends-frank-j-casella.html
Being that we are now in Lent, I am going to get a bit more spiritually deep than usual for this blog entry.
Lent is about turning back to God. About reconciliation and repenting.
The best way to help others to repent, is when we first do it ourselves.
The best definition of Sin that I have heard is: I want what I want.
What this means is that when we empty ourselves of sin and bad habits, we leave room for God to fill us up.
But when we work to help others to repent, and have not done so with our own lives, then we are working on our own agenda.
In other words, if you are not filled with Christ (or God), then you are full of yourself.
The fastest way to success, is when we replace bad habits with good habits.
Then when we are filled with Christ, we can then keep giving away as He keeps filling us up.
Then you are working on the purpose WHY God made you.
God does not need Lent, we do. Lent is not so much what we do for God, rather what God does for us when we let go and not always be in control.
" He who has a WHY can bear any How. "
~ Victor Frankl
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February 11th, 2024
A man stands on the boardwalk absorbing the wetlands at the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Illinois. What makes this moment more interesting to me is the juxtaposition of the cell tower in the background connecting the digital world at the same time he connects with nature in the real world. Wetlands Worship – Copyright 2024 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/wetlands-worship-frank-j-casella.html
One of the things I prefer to do with the smart phone camera is to make square format photographs. This is because you can naturally hold the phone vertical with one hand, while using the other hand to make adjustments for the exposure. When you hold the phone horizontal I find that you often need both hands to hold the phone as well as to hold it steady and move your fingers around the screen. And this is important because my Samsung Galaxy A13 makes large 50-megapixel images, similar to the Hasselblad or Mamiya medium format cameras.
The great environmental art photographer Ansel Adams preferred square format for easy cropping and no need to rotate a camera for vertical shots. He saw no loss of performance with a cropped 6×6 image compared to an uncropped 6×7.
Back when Instagram first came out I had a Fine Art Shop on MobilePrints by Fine Art America, where most of my images were square. The site no longer supports Instagram, and I no longer have an IG account, but I made those images with the iPhone 5s and then the iPod Touch. As you may know, the Square Art World Artist Group on Fine Art America is one that I curate, in addition to my own Square Format Collection. This collection includes visual stories, and some with words, on the lessons from life in a picture square.
What I like most about the square is it lets pictures breathe on my products. And, much like Ansel says, doesn’t cramp the top and bottom, as do horizontal products, or squeeze them in on left and right as do vertical products. On Greeting Cards you rotate the cards not the image, and it fits naturally on Shower Curtains, Phone Cases, Mugs, and Tote Bags as well. You never have to rotate the picture!
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January 28th, 2024
Photo: Summer Breeze on the Chicago River - Black and White. Two people sharing a moment of Chicago urban scenic beauty from Michigan Avenue at the Chicago River. Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/summer-on-the-chicago-river-black-and-white-frank-j-casella.html
My Process for Selecting the Perfect Photograph.
Every picture I take is infused with a deeper purpose – to spread positivity and the unyielding love of God to the world. From the smallest details of humanity to the grandest landscapes, I am constantly on the lookout for moments that evoke a sense of hope.
But how do I choose which photographs to share? It all starts with my spiritual connection. During my sacred moments of prayer, I am guided by a gentle nudging from God and the Holy Spirit. And when I follow through on these divine whispers, I am always amazed at the overwhelming response from others.
What may seem like an ordinary snapshot to me, is often a profound and impactful moment for someone else. After all, what is commonplace for me may be a new and wondrous sight for another. That is the beauty of photography – it has the power to turn the familiar into something extraordinary.
Amidst the vast collection of artists on Fine Art America / Pixels, I am drawn to those who use their platform to not only showcase their art, but to also share a piece of their soul. While others are solely focused on making sales and building their brand, I have adopted a different approach.
As I carefully select which photos to put up for sale, I am inspired by those artists who tirelessly strive for perfection in their work. Their unwavering determination to capture their vision is commendable, and any imperfection is immediately scrapped and replaced with a new and even better creation.
Thus, from this my process of selecting a photograph is more of a journey of discovery and connection.
As a photographer, my goal is to capture moments that reflect God’s beauty and wonder of the world through the lens of my camera. With every click, I strive to create an image that is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also meaningful and impactful.
Gone are the days of chasing perfection, for I have learned that the most breathtaking photographs often stem from spontaneity and imperfection. Rather than endlessly editing and perfecting, I trust in the divine timing and inspiration that guides me when to share my work.
Each artistic photograph tells a unique story, waiting patiently to be heard. I take the time to truly listen and let each image guide me towards its purpose and message.
This philosophy extends beyond the realm of photography and into our daily lives. We must not be so consumed with the small details that we miss out on the grander experiences life has to offer.
So next time you view a photograph, remember that there is more to it than meets the eye. It is a piece of someone’s journey, waiting to be unveiled and appreciated. As for me, I choose to let my photographs speak for themselves, with the hope that they will inspire and uplift others in their own journeys.
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January 20th, 2024
Photo: Let There Be Peace on Earth – Color Photograph of Trees Silhouetted by the Sunrise, and the convergence of cloud formations in the blue sky – Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella. Come and save us, LORD our God; Let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Let there be peace on earth. Let it begin with me. Psalms 80:4 Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/let-there-be-peace-on-earth-frank-j-casella.html
Discover Your Purpose: The Power of Your ‘Why’
Within every action and decision lies a deeper motivation, a guiding force that shapes your entire existence. This is your ‘why’ – the core of your being that drives everything you do, from the way you work to the way you live and treat others.
Renowned speaker and author Simon Sinek describes this concept as ‘the golden circle’, with your ‘why’ at the very center, surrounded by your ‘how’ and ‘what’. He explains, “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.”
But finding your ‘why’ is not a one-size-fits-all process. Some may excel in understanding their ‘why’, while others are better at executing their ‘how’, and some specialize in their ‘what’. It’s about recognizing your strengths and crafting a life vision statement – your ‘why’ – and a life mission statement to achieve it.
Uncover Your WHY: The Key to Unlocking Your True Potential
No one conquers life alone. Without a clear understanding of your purpose in life, everything else seems meaningless. As my late father always said, “You must have a solid foundation or you’ll be easily swayed.”
My ‘why’ is constantly evolving, but at the core, it is driven by my desire to make a positive impact on the world and the people around me. I believe that by using my talents, passions, and experiences, I can contribute to creating a better and more just society.
I am driven by my curiosity and thirst for knowledge, always seeking to learn and grow as a person. I am also motivated by my loved ones, wanting to make them proud and inspire them to live their best lives. Ultimately, I live for the moments of connection, joy, and fulfillment that come from pursuing my passions and helping others.
My reasoning for living is to leave a positive mark on the world and leave it a better place than I found it. To do my part given to me by my ancestors. To help each other make it through life, and to get each other to Heaven.
Every action we take should be driven by our why. So ask yourself, what’s your why?
What is the fuel that propels you forward?
What is the ultimate purpose that gives your life meaning?
What is the driving force that keeps you going?
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January 1st, 2024
About:
Frank J Casella - American. Photographer. Catholic. Co-founder. Living in Chicagoland - USA. Pictures speak in ways that words can not. Since I was a kid, I've been perfecting how to put the viewer where my subject is - I call this "Pictures People Listen To".
I've been a Documentary and Stock Photographer since 1988, and Independent Artist and Blogger on Fine Art America since 2013. Though, I've had a camera in my hand since I was a young boy. I produce and sell pictures of moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope and God's love in the world, through my Catholic Faith.
I'm also co-founder of Bishop Perry's Chicago Catholic Men's Forum, and Executive Director of Catholic Men Chicago Southland, since 2004. When you foster a Man in holiness, the positive adjustments he makes creates a upstanding man, husband, or father, and this impact can be felt for three generations.
I'm a product of Columbia College Chicago and, shortly after, my childhood dream became reality when I was assigned to photograph the ministry of the (Roman Catholic) Archbishop of Chicago - the late Joseph Cardinal Bernardin.
My artwork style is inspired by Norman Rockwell. I'm privileged to be nurtured by John H. White - Pulitzer Prize photojournalist.
Life Mission:
My life mission is to share hope and God's Love in the World. Jesus said, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.” ~ Luke 9:62
Testimonials:
"Frank Casella .... is like an Old World artist, creative yet meticulous, inspired yet careful, in awe of visual beauty yet not afraid to engage it through the lens of his camera. .... Frank Casella's work is what we mean when we say that photography can be an art".
-- Rev. Anthony J. Brankin, Chicago Priest and Sculpture
"Frank, I just wanted to Thank you again for coming to our photo club and your program on visual storytelling. I know we all got something from your presentation. It was a good idea the way you got us involved in your program. ....
.... For myself it was humbling to see how well you can design a moment to last forever. And your sense of getting the essence of the subject, that simple moment. I have a new respect for black and white images and I understand how it can enhance an image. Thank You again Frank it was a privilege for us to have you as a program presenter."
-- Tim McGrath, c/o Park Forest Photography Club
“Frank, Great Work and great job on your Website. Your work is thoughtful and good and you are an excellent Godly man and photographer”.
– The late James Klein Lenderink, Commercial Photographer
Stay Connected:
If you would like to see my latest updates and blog posts, sign up for my Official Artistic Website Email List for updates ... Direct to your Email box! Unsubscribe at any time.
Or you might like my SundayLetters - dispatch sharing my photos and thoughts about hope and God’s love in the world.
I am very intentional about my use of social media....
To that end, here are positive reasons why I post primarily on my own blog or mailing list:
1. Having a home
This site is a creative outlet for me and my works. When I want you to know something, I'm going to talk about it here, both with the mails I send you and with the blogs. This is where you'll be able to find me over time and space. This is my home.
For example, people in my old neighborhood used to just drop by to sit on the front porch and catch up; this site serves the same purpose for me. It's something we can depend on so we can always be in contact.
2. Internet citizenship
This is called the "web" because our sites all interconnect with links. Hyperlinking is what gives the Internet its richness. Following links has helped me learn so much, and give back. My own blog site lets me do that.
Online Channels
Official Artistic Website Email List - Latest updates, and related posts from this blog..
CMCSMen - A Blog to Nurture Catholic Men's Spirituality.
SundayLetters - A dispatch sharing my photos and thoughts about hope and God’s love in the world.
View My hometown photo project 'Home Sweet Homewood 1 Day' - moments in time photographs of Homewood, Illinois.
Read what I'm thinking about fjcasella.wordress.com
Follow me on brighteon.social
View all my artistic inspiration on GETTR
Come back here to browse my website - bookmark this page
Search My Stock Photos
Drop me an E-mail and - say hello. (Phone calls by appointment made via email.)
“As a photographer, the big secret is entering into the charisma with the person you have in front of you. If you don't feel it, you'll never do it well.” ~ ARTURO MARI, Vatican photographer
January 1st, 2024
Thank you for visiting the blog for Frank J Casella Photographs. Pictures of moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope and God's love in the world.
To start reading from the top, click the 'VIEW ALL" button above. Enjoy!
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I am very intentional about how I (don't) use social media to directly promote my artwork, because I choose to live a balanced life in a noisy high tech world ( though you can find more about that here ).
I've become passionate about designing my life around focused work and protecting my time from distraction and devices. After all, it's the only way to get any photography done.
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December 31st, 2023
When we are able to be silent and listen to our own thoughts and emotions, we can also extend that understanding and compassion to others. In our fast-paced world, we often overlook the importance of silence and how it can bring about inner peace and empathy. It allows us to reflect on our actions and connect with our surroundings in a more meaningful way. Embracing silence can also bring a sense of gratitude for the little things in life that we often take for granted. So, let us make more time for silence in our lives and embrace the beauty it brings.
Photo: A snowy scene down a neighborhood street, in my home town of Homewood, Il., where the paw prints from a dog follow the trees off the beaten path of human footprints on the sidewalk. Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/1-pet-prints-in-the-snow-color-frank-j-casella.html
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December 23rd, 2023
It is impossible to fully comprehend the vastness of God's beauty in nature in just one day. It's a question that often arises , and how much do we take this for granted? It's like being presented with a feast but then not eating. From the vibrant colors of a sunrise to the intricate details of a flower, every aspect of nature reflects the perfection and wonder of our creator. As we take in the beauty of a clear blue sky, the majesty of a mountain range, and the peacefulness of a flowing river, we are constantly reminded of God's goodness and love. Even in the smallest of creatures, we can see the fingerprints of God's creativity and care. Each day, we are presented with a new opportunity to witness and appreciate the boundless beauty of God's creation, and yet, there will always be more to discover and marvel at in the days to come. Put down your phone and go for a walk.
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Photo: Mercy - A single birdhouse is surrounded by the beauty of soft blue snowy trees. Mercy is the first attribute of God. God does not want anyone to be lost. His mercy is infinitely greater than our sins. Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/mercy-frank-j-casella.html
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December 10th, 2023
Priorities
I meet many busy people every year who have no priority list.
As busy people in a culture overloaded with information and distractions, isn’t it becoming more and more difficult to find time just to think?
I would like to invite you to join me to return back to the basics, and ask ourselves what is really important to me, and who is really important to me.
This challenges us to look at the priority in our lives.
For me, Jesus is number one priority. He tells us to prepare the way if our lives are not what they should be, and to do something about that.
Matthew 22:37-38 clearly explains: “Jesus said to him, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. “
This is also the greatest and the first (of the Ten) Commandment(s).
To do this we make time for silence, to spend time in the wilderness. Many people I tlak to without a priority list seem to be afraid of this silence. But, did you know our true thoughts and answers are often suppressed deep inside us, crowded out by all the noise in our lives.
We need quiet time to seek if we have placed success ahead of personal relationships, and with God. Reflection provides us an opportunity to change it.
Where our treasure is there is where our hearts will be. We always make time for what we love. To find this, we need to clear the clutter, the things that distract us from where to put our energy.
In the digital world this may be to remove apps or news sources that busy us or cause confusion. What goes into our brains is what comes out of our mouths. In the real world, we seek what or who are the people or things that distract us from being our best selves. What is it that we treasure the most?
When it comes to money and possessions, the best way to find what you treasure is to look in your bank account and see where most of your money goes. You may be surprised it’s not what you think. For me, it is to seek how are the funds being used to help others and make the world a better place, while not just meeting my needs and all my wants or comforts.
People who are truly happy create value in their own lives, and then in the lives of others.
Priorities are a constant way to remind us of our purpose, and to take inventory of our lives to create value.
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Photo: Fleeting moment. A moment in time on the street in the Loop of the City of Chicago. Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella.
Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/train-bike-car-bus-walk-frank-j-casella.html
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