Blog

Photo Descripton: Threshold - Monochrome Tulip Photography by Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. https://fineartamerica.com/featured/threshold-monochrome-frank-j-casella.html


These words of Pope Leo XIV - Seeds of Peace and Hope - about nature and planting seeds resonate deeply with me. They evoke a sense of simplicity and beauty, much like a black and white photograph. In the absence of color, the subtle textures and details become even more pronounced, inviting us to reflect on the beauty that exists within us.

“ In proclaiming the Kingdom of God, Jesus often used the image of the seed. As the time of his Passion drew near, he applied that image to himself, comparing himself to the grain of wheat that must die in order to bear fruit (cf.Jn12:24). Seeds are buried in the earth, and there, to our wonder, life springs up, even in the most unexpected places, pointing to the promise of new beginnings. We can think, for example, of flowers springing up on our roadsides from seeds that landed up there almost by chance. As those flowers grow, they brighten the gray tarmac and even manage to break through its hard surface.

In Christ, we too are seeds, and indeed, “seeds of peace and hope.” The prophet Isaiah tells us that the Spirit of God can make an arid and parched desert into a garden, a place of rest and serenity. In his words, “a spirit from on high will be poured out on us, and the wilderness will become a fruitful field, and the fruitful field a forest. Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The work of righteousness will be peace, and the work of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places” (Is32:15-18). “

——-

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: Caption: Gothic architecture is highlighted with statues adorning the ornate windows. The black and white tones emphasize the intricate details and shadows cast by the structure.

This architecture at The Quigley Center of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago. The far left statue looks like St. Paul; the middle one St. Thomas More and the far right one St. Aloysius Gonzaga.

Photo: Chicago To Rome - Black and White - Copyright Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/chicago-to-rome-black-and-white-frank-j-casella.html




Chicago to Rome


This black and white image is a monochromatic rendition of a color photograph titled Rome to Chicago. It brings to mind the intriguing story of Pope Leo XIV, who was born in Chicago and embarked on a zigzag journey to Rome, ultimately becoming the Pope. However, it's worth noting that he spent most of his ministry in Peru before returning to Rome.

Prior to his papacy, he was Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a title I'm familiar with as Father Bob. I recall meeting Father Bob in the mid-1980s when he was the vocation director for the Augustinians. Interestingly, I have a personal connection to the Augustinian order, as two of my uncles are members – one late uncle was a brother and the other is a priest.

In fact, I've recently discovered that my priest uncle taught Pope Leo XIV during his high school seminary days, a formative period in a young man's life when his relationships and surroundings significantly impact his discernment of the priesthood.

The Augustinian way of life has been deeply ingrained in me since birth, shaping my upbringing alongside my siblings and cousins. Our lives have been centered around our faith and the Augustinian order, which has significantly influenced my career as a Catholic photographer and my co-founding of a Catholic Men's Ministry.

On my family tree, I have a strong connection to the Augustinians through my mother's side. Interestingly, my great aunt was a co-foundress of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration, also known as the Sisters of Victory Noll, in Huntington, Indiana, a legacy that runs through my father's side of the family.

It has been reported that members of Pope Leo's family were deeply devoted to their faith, which significantly influenced his spiritual upbringing. This resonates with my own experience, as my parents were also devout individuals. Interestingly, Pope Leo grew up approximately 10 miles from where I grew up and still reside, sharing a common geographical connection. Beyond this coincidence, we both have ties to the Augustinian order.

In conclusion, society benefits from positive role models, such as those who embody faith and hope, and the importance of spirituality in our lives. By living a faith-filled life, we not only enrich our own existence but also have the potential to inspire future generations, this can extend our impact up to three generations deep.

——-

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: Sunlight filters through a dense cluster of tall trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground below. The bright light contrasts with the dark silhouettes of the branches, creating a serene yet striking natural scene. A beautiful sunrise in every detail, from the light and shadow play, to the composition balance of the lined trees. The kind of sunrise that says trust God today … He’s got this. Title: God’s Got This Sunrise - Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/gods-got-this-sunrise-frank-j-casella.html




Coincidence is a phenomenon that has been a cornerstone of human experience for centuries. It is often described as God's way of remaining anonymous, a subtle yet profound reminder of the divine presence in our lives. In my own experiences, I have come to realize that coincidence can manifest in a multitude of ways, from the simplest moments of serendipity to the most profound and life-changing events. Whether it occurs over the course of a day, a week, a year, or a lifetime, coincidence has a way of weaving itself into the fabric of our lives, often leaving us with a sense of awe and wonder.

One of the most striking aspects of coincidence is the way it can bring people together, often at the most unexpected times and places. For example, I recall a recent event that took place during the funeral of Pope Francis, where two world leaders, President Trump of the United States and President Zelensky of Ukraine, found themselves in a chance encounter at the Vatican. As fate would have it, they were seated in a beautiful room with only two chairs, and in that moment, they were able to engage in a meaningful conversation, their knees almost touching as they spoke. It was a poignant reminder that even in the midst of tragedy and loss, there is always the potential for connection and understanding.

This chance meeting was all the more remarkable given the circumstances. Had the Pope not passed away at that particular moment in time, it is unlikely that the two presidents would have found themselves in the same place at the same time. And yet, it was precisely this coincidence that brought them together on neutral ground, allowing them to discuss the pressing issues of peace and diplomacy. This, in turn, highlights the role of the Pope in facilitating dialogue and understanding between nations, even in the vacancy of his chair.

As I have documented over the years through my photographs, coincidence is a recurring theme in human behavior and experience. It is a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, there is always the potential for hope and redemption. Whether it takes the form of a chance encounter, a unexpected opportunity, the forces of nature, or a profound moment of insight, coincidence has a way of revealing the deeper workings of the universe, and the role that God plays in shaping our lives.

In an age where some people seek to create chaos and doubt, coincidence offers a powerful counter-narrative, one that speaks to the existence of a loving and benevolent God. By sharing moments like these of coincidence, I hope to inspire others to see the world in a new light, to recognize the hidden patterns and connections that underlie all of existence. For in the end, it is not the absence of God that is most evident, but rather that we be aware of the presence of a loving and guiding force that is always at work in the world, shaping our lives and guiding us towards a brighter future.

——-

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: Cardinal Francis George Listens - A Black and White photo of the late Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop of Chicago from 1997 to 2014, listens to a child while visiting a Chicago parish* for Mass, circa. 2008. A quote attributed to him: "The only thing we take with us when we die is what we have given away"

Copyright 2008 Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. Link - https://fineartamerica.com/featured/cardinal-francis-george-listens-frank-j-casella.html




The Importance of Listening


Since childhood, I've been refining my ability to transport viewers into the scene I'm capturing – a technique I call "Pictures People Listen To." As a photographer, I specialize in creating and selling images that convey hope and God's love through the lens of my Catholic faith.

Currently, I'm reflecting on the significance of Lent 2025, a season that encourages us to rekindle our relationship with God by listening to His voice. Amidst the chaos of daily life in the United States, it's easy to get distracted and neglect the importance of listening – not just to others, but also to ourselves, our colleagues, and our loved ones, as well as to God.

However, listening often requires us to confront the quiet, which can be intimidating. As we quiet our minds and listen to our inner thoughts, they may resurface, revealing aspects of ourselves we've suppressed. This can be a daunting experience, but it's also a vital step towards personal growth and self-awareness.

I drew inspiration to write about this topic from a recent sale – a framed print of the late Cardinal Francis George listening intently to a young girl with strong opinions. The image serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of active listening, setting a positive example for society. Each viewer may interpret the scene differently, but I sense that the person who purchased it understood the underlying message – that true fulfillment comes from giving away our time, energy, and love, as Cardinal George once said, "The only thing we take with us when we die, is what we have given away."

```

---

Join In My Mission

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: A dark, monochrome scene features a yard with a large tree, a swing, and a small shed in the background. The mood is eerie, with shadows casting over the garden structures.

The swing is left behind by a family who moved, and now with the new family it only swings with the push from the wind.

Photo: Passing Through - frankjcasella.pixels.com - Copyright 2025 Frank J Casella - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/passing-through-frank-j-casella.html

Made with the Samsung A13 phone camera. Processed with Ribbet.


**As Time Slips Away**

Every time I gaze out the back window of my house, I'm reminded of the baby swing suspended from a towering tree.

It's a poignant reminder of the former neighbors who left after four years, leaving behind a tangible connection to their time here. As I watch the wind gently sway the swing, I'm struck by the realization that even the most ordinary moments can hold profound significance.

The newlywed neighbors, who now own the swing, may not yet have children, but the empty cradle speaks to me about the fleeting nature of life. It's a poignant reminder to cherish every day and make a positive impact, as time slips away and we're left with memories.

Life is a precious gift from God, and how we choose to live it is our greatest offering to the world, as well as to God ....

---

Join In My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: Shelves filled with books line the aisles of a cozy bookstore in Chicago, Illinois, while a person sits reading by a window with a view of the street and trees outside. Soft lighting creates a calm ambiance, perfect for getting lost in a book. The Good Book - Copyright 2009 Frank J Casella.

- Click here to purchase. -- https://pixels.com/featured/the-good-book-frank-j-casella.html



As an artist, I've come to realize that many of my peers prioritize passive income over a full-time income. They prefer to focus on their craft rather than the business side of things. However, in today's oversaturated online world, communicating one's message effectively can be exhausting unless you have a clear plan in place.

This is where I drew inspiration from the Bible in John 21:15-17. Jesus didn't ask us to 'count his sheep,' but rather to 'feed them.' For me, this means helping people get to where they're going, particularly through my blogging and then email sharing. By doing so, I've found a more intentional approach to online engagement.

Recently, I created an account on Substack, a platform that allows bloggers to monetize their content through paid subscription newsletters. However, I'm taking a wait-and-see approach, as I don't want to jump onto the latest trend only to see it fizzle out like Tiny Letter, a similar platform that was bought out and eventually shut down.

In contrast, WordPress.com and Tumblr, both owned by Automattic, have a mission-driven CEO who prioritizes serving their users over making a profit. WordPress.com does the same thing as Substack, and can be found on 40% of the internet. This aligns with my values, and I've decided to focus on these platforms instead.

To test the waters, I posted the same article on Substack, WordPress.com, and Tumblr. The results showed that I had the most engagement on WordPress.com. Many content creators have also shared their experiences, suggesting that it's best to post content where you feel most comfortable, as people will follow you there if your message resonates with them. I have found this to be true

A prominent Catholic podcaster, with a large following on YouTube and Instagram, recently started posting on Substack and has seen limited success. This aligns with my observations about the limitations of paid subscription models. I presently believe that keeping all content public and separate from a subscription model is a more effective way to monetize your work.

Ultimately, my goal is to share my art and message with others, as I believe that it has the power to inspire goodness and hope. I'm doing my part to 'feed the sheep' by using my gifts to make a positive impact.


---



Join In My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Photo Descripton: When Their Eyes Look At Your Soul - A King Shepherd Dog with eyes of love towards its family.

- Click here to purchase. -- https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/when-their-eyes-look-at-your-soul-frank-j-casella.html


Sooner Thank You Think


With my last blog post, Good or Great, I ended with this question:

" How is your life impacting others? After you and I die we may not be remembered, but lets hope something we did will live forever, even if a memory in the minds eye. "

Then I saw this from Matt Fradd on Substack: " You are going to die. And everyone you know will die. And just like most people cannot give you the name of their great grandfather; people, very soon, will not remember you. More than that. In order to be forgotten you must first be known. But very soon. Sooner than you think, you will not be known by anyone. "

This answered my question if I should take what I said further. Because everything we do in the moment contributes to the long view of life. Whether you work in the auto plant assembly line, build skyscrapers, serve burgers at the fast food joint, or a stay at home mom. We all take for granted what all of us do to help each other make it through life.

Photography (from our phones) is a form of Art that plays an important role of illustrating how life evolves, yet stays the same.

Here are two of my five favorite quotes to ponder on, read each of them at least twice:


" Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still. "

~ Dorothea Lange


" Photography records the gamut of feelings written on the human face - the beauty of the earth and skies that man has inherited; and the wealth and confusion that man has created. It is a major force in explaining man to man. "

~ Edward Steichen - In "Time," 7 Apr 1961.


---



Join In My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

“We all die. The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal is to create something that will.” – Chuck Palahniuk


I found this quote on one of the priest blogs I follow, and never heard of Chuck Palahniuk. But these words resonate with me, because to create something that will live forever is in your mindset and all about being good or being great. Like my photojournalism mentor, John H White, often said these words you have probably heard:

"Good Better Best,
Never Let It Rest,
Until Your Good Is Better,
Then Your Better Best. "


I thing is, the way that we live our lives is the best way to do this. It is like recently when Derrick Rose from the Chicago Bulls retired, he spoke to the children and asked them 'do you want to be good, or do you want to be great'. He then went on to say that being a Chicago Bulls is his past life, and now he is a business man.

Some of us can do something great for our lifetime, others for a certain time, still others of us can do many things in a great way. For example, when I started in photography as a young boy because I didn't talk much, my pictures where a way that I communicated how I see the world.

Then I made pictures for the fire service, then weddings, and then photojournalism, and the Chicago Catholic Church, and a few others in between, until now making fine art photography. There was a time I did each of these in a great way, and then I had to learn when it was time to move to the next one because things changed that would cause me to not be great at it anymore. And that is okay, because we all have different seasons in our life, and the moment in time contributes to the whole of life.

People still today tell me of a picture that I made when I was in high school, or a memory of something I did for them. I'm sure you've had the same kind of experiences. And this I think is how we create things that last for ever. It is like how we all have a favorite music group, mine is 4Him, these four guys had such unique talent, that when they tried to replace one of them the group had to split up. Some things are like no other, and this is the best example of being good or great.

How is your life impacting others? After you and I die we may not be remembered, but lets hope something we did will live forever, even if a memory in the minds eye.

--

--
Photo: The World Is A Great Gift - Weather Illuminated Clouds above the Trees. As I rise up to each passing new day, I’m not only thankful for the gift of the beauty of this world, but also thankful to God the giver of this gift. Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella. Click here to purchase. Reference Link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/the-world-is-a-great-gift-frank-j-casella.html
--

Join In My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

"The moment you begin to worry about the things you want and the things you don’t have in life, is the moment you will lose your gratitude. The greatest source of happiness is the ability to be grateful at all times". -Zig Ziglar


I love this quote, not only because it’s so true, but because it is a good reminder that worry will not get you anywhere and is a waste of time. Many of us are too hard on ourselves, and it’s important for us to respond to opportunity, rather than react to challenges.

I also love this picture, and it’s sense of scale of the person walking down the path into the woods of opportunity and discovery.

Be happy ….. Enjoy your day.

--

What I am going to do is something I think more valuable than what money can buy: The Generosity Habit. I'm going to put this into practice over the next several months, by viewing one video each week and put into practice what it shares. I invite you to join me by doing this too for yourself.

I know my doing this will bring shortcomings and setbacks, but what's more important than perfection is to stay on course and make corrections until it becomes a habit. The fastest way to success, says Tom Ziglar (son of Zig Ziglar), is to replace bad habits with good habits.

Did you know that many of the Catholic Saints became saints by transforming their shortcomings into virtues?

I goes like this ....

"The Generosity Habit is built on a simple and profound principle: give something away every day. It doesn’t need to be money or material things. It could be complimenting a stranger, teaching someone how to do something, spreading a positive message, helping someone who is in a hurry, or simply smiling at someone generously. In fact, the philosophy behind the generosity habit rests on this singular truth: You don’t need money or material possessions to live a life of staggering generosity."

Videos - https://www.matthewkelly.com/the-generosity-habit

There is also the book - The Generosity Habit - by Matthew Kelly and is a short read that you can read on Hoopla Digital online through your local library. I really like the chapter 2 of quotes on creative ways to be generous. : https://www.hoopladigital.com/ebook/the-generosity-habit-matthew-kelly/15139949

A good friend of mine reminded me recently that Matthew Kelly not only understands purposeful living but writes about it in a very easy to understand manner.
Living in gratitude and generosity are the best and easiest ways to transform life. Patience and persistence are also important.


--
Photo: The Greatest Source of Happiness - Copyright Frank J Casella. Click here to purchase. Reference Link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/the-greatest-source-of-happiness-frank-j-casella.html
--

Join In My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

This article is a follow up from a few years ago my blog: How To See In Black and White

If you're not following my Photo Blog on WordPress, then you may not know that I plan to concentrate for 2025 on Black and White Photography. However, there tends to be some confusion between a black and white, a monochrome photograph, and a grey scale.

**Understanding Black and White, Monochrome, and Grayscale Photography**

While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between black and white, monochrome, and grayscale photography.

* **Black and White Photography** refers to images captured or printed using only shades of black, white, and gray, without any color information.

* **Monochrome Photography** is a broader term that encompasses black and white, as well as other single-color images, such as sepia tone or cyanotype.

* **Grayscale Photography** specifically refers to images that use a range of gray tones, but may not necessarily be purely black and white.

In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably, but understanding the nuances can help you better communicate your artistic vision and intentions.

Here are some examples from my collections and website search:


Most Popular Monochrome

Collection - Black and White and Monochrome

Collection - Signature Monochrome


Many photographers believe that black-and-white photography can evoke a stronger emotional response from viewers compared to color photography. This is because the absence of color can:

* **Focus attention**: On the subject's texture, form, and composition

* **Convey mood**: Through the use of shadows, lighting, and contrast

* **Create a timeless feel**: Black-and-white images can seem more enduring and less tied to a specific era or style.


Here is a breakdown of the differences between monochrome and black and white photographs::


**Monochrome Photography**

* Refers to any photography that uses a single color or hue, with varying shades or tones, against a neutral background.

* Can be any color, not just gray (e.g., sepia, cyan, or other hues).

* Does not necessarily imply a neutral or gray tone.

* Can be achieved through various processes, including film development, digital manipulation, or specialized cameras.

**Black and White Photography**

* A specific type of monochrome photography that uses only neutral shades of gray (luminosity, lightness, or value).

* Typically implies a range of grays, from pure white to pure black, with varying intermediate tones.

* Often referred to as "grayscale" photography.

* Can be achieved through film development, digital manipulation, or specialized cameras.

Key differences:

1. **Color**: Monochrome photography can use any single color, while black and white photography is limited to neutral grays.

2. **Tone**: Monochrome photography can have a wide range of tones, including warm or cool hues, whereas black and white photography is characterized by a neutral gray tone.

3. **Process**: While both can be achieved through digital manipulation or film development, black and white photography often involves a more traditional process, whereas monochrome photography can be achieved through various methods.



In summary, all black and white photographs are monochrome, but not all monochrome photographs are black and white. Monochrome photography encompasses a broader range of single-color images, while black and white photography specifically refers to the use of neutral gray tones.


--
Photo: Perfect Bloom Magnolia In White - Swoon Worthy Magnolia Flower In Black and White - Copyright Frank J Casella. Click here to purchase. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/perfect-bloom-magnolia-in-white-frank-j-casella.html
--

Join My Mission - https://www.subscribestar.com/fjcasella

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to my E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.