Inspiring Photo: Collage of Friends #1659297

Collage of Friends

Uploaded: January 17, 2006

Description

Resubmitted for Celebration theme.

When I first joined BP, the mini-pics were just portals to a bunch of impersonal pictures. Over time, I've had the pleasure of getting to know people. Some I've gotten to know real well; others, mostly thru a handful of mutual comments on our pictures.

Now when I see a mini-pic, I don't just see pictures. I see people. And I see a human spirit. I've met single folks, married, divorced, and widowed. I've met people that are struggling financially, that have survived cancer, that have cancer, and that have battled neurological diseases. But you'd never know it by looking at their mini-pics. I've gotten far more photo tips/techniques from BP folks versus what I've given back.

***See

discussion for continuation****

Comments

Ken Smith January 17, 2006

Continuation...

I've met people that have over 100 finalist awards and some that have none. And I know most of us, deep down, would like at least one finalist award and I hope that happens for all my BP friends. One person's e-mail made a big impact on me. She used to enter pictures in the contest but doesn't anymore because awards don't mean anything to her. She got her one and only finalist award a few months ago, but didn't even know it until someone told her. I bet she even felt a little guilty because it meant someone else didn't get a coveted "finalist."

So for my BP friends, thank you. I hope to personally meet many of you. For folks that are new to BP, please realize it's the relationships behind each mini-pic that's the true story.

#376065

Cindy Paquette January 17, 2006

Ohhh Ken...I have both tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. Your incredible tribute image must have taken some time to complete and for that, I'm sure we are all priviledged to be part of it. Your words hold such truth. It's a wonderful, wonderful tribute Ken! #2297140

Gail Vitikacs January 17, 2006

This is so heartwarming...beautifully create and written...I am sure everyone feels the same way having "met" you....thank you for this lovely tribute...It is AWESOME! #2297197

Linda Boehme January 17, 2006

Ken, what a lovely, inspiring tribute. You sure have put a lot of thought and time into this. BP is a great tool to meet people from all over the world who share a common interest. I'm glad of that. You have a kind, compassionate spirit. Thank you for sharing that, Ken! #2297294

Shelly A. Van Camp January 17, 2006

Ken, what a wonderful tribute to our BP family. These are a bunch of great people. I agree on everything you said....I no longer post to win, but to make others happy on BP. I know that I put my all into every photo I take, so you are all winners to me. Thank you for posting this..it's beautiful and says it all....Thanks and hope to meet you someday as well. #2297295

Mary L. Graham January 17, 2006

Ken, this is just Awesome!! Very heart felt It means alot. An Awesome Tribute to all of us! Thank you so much! =) #2297296

Linda D. Lester January 17, 2006

Great minds think a like....Your shot is way different and lots of hard loving work put into this! I was just thinking how many wonderful friendships have been made here.
Love what you did with this collage. I would love to have a copy if you don't mind. I would like to use it as a screen saver! Great job! #2297445

Colette M. Metcalf January 17, 2006

This is just wonderful, Ken!!! #2297502

Jeff Robinson January 17, 2006

Very cool Ken! Outstanding, creative idea! Well done!! Jeff #2297509

January 17, 2006

Another great job, Ken! I heard you received a phone call from the Copyright folks here at BP!? ... That was classic, Gail. As a co-worker of Ken's I have to admit that a lot of us in the office spend too much time each day looking at everyone's photos. It has become part of our morning routine. #2297561

Charlene Taylor January 17, 2006

This is a masterpiece Ken. Very well put together and presented. #2297689

Nina Shields January 17, 2006

Ken, your beautiful words reflect the hearts of many of us. You epitomize what BP is all about, sharing photography knowledge, mastering new skills, but along the way savoring the blessings of beautiful friendships formed. You're certainly an asset to our BP family and your post today emphasizes what is so special about this group. Thanks for presenting it in such a meaningful manner. #2297821

Dr Silly January 17, 2006

Wow, how can I not love this collage (I'm in it. LOL) the work that must have gone into it. Awesome Tribute, I enjoy this site because of people like you. Any one who spends time here, can only see the family of friends here.
Well done my friend. :o)
#2297912

Kaye Burazin January 17, 2006

Oh darn Ken, pass me a kleenix please. This is more beautiful than words can say. Please send me a copy so I can frame it.It will be the best e-mail that I've ever received.Thank you for all the time spent making this most exquisive creation. #2298081

Kerby Pfrangle January 17, 2006

Ken I feel honored to be on your collage. Thank you.

Having said that I think this be a winner and winner again and perhaps the final winner.

This is awesome. A Job so well done.

Kerby

If you sending out copies I would love to have a copy of this. #2298116

Life Expressions January 17, 2006

Awwww Ken this is so touching, thank you so much. I feel like Kerby, it is indeed an honor to be included. I too would like a copy if you send any out. Now will someone past me that darn box of tissues! #2298156

Bridgette B January 17, 2006

Ken, this is incredible!! I am also so honored to be included! Excellent work...as usual!! #2298254

Dennis Flanagan January 17, 2006

I broght donuts today, does that move up a row or two? Nice sentiments from the man who reignited my interest in photography. #2298317

Alana Ibe January 17, 2006

Wow!!! You are AWESOME! This is so cool! Yes, please pass the box of Kleenex!!! What an incredible idea! A HUGE winner in my book! #2298335

Darryl Wilkinson January 17, 2006

Ken. You’ve done it again my friend. Your kind heartedness and witty sense have provoked a wondrous sound around the world today. I am deeply touched and truly honored to be a part of your presentation. Thank you so much for your devoted compassion of bonding this super class of people together. You the man! :o) #2298344

Tammy Scott January 17, 2006

WOWOWOWOWOWOWOW! I feel extremely honored and overwhelmed at being included in this collage of mini-pics! You have taken what so many of us feel but never take the time to say, and have put it in a picture and in beautiful words! You are a great inspiration and a wonderful supplier of humor! Thank you so very much for taking the time out to say what many of us take for granted!

You are truly one of a kind! #2298548

Tammy Scott January 17, 2006

Ooops! I forgot something! It is funny when I look at this collage, I can immediately put a name to almost all the minipics! :) #2298554

Shelly A. Van Camp January 17, 2006

I too would love a copy..what are they 500 dollars per copy??? That's what they are worth and much more..even though I am a leaf (lol) in my mini picture I am honored to know you through BP...Great Picture (Again) #2298603

Corinne M. Thompson January 17, 2006

Ken, I caught your "test" for this last nite, but was too stunned to comment then. This is absolutely fantastic, a WINNER in my book. I can't imagine all the work you must of done to create this. This collage and the sentiment are fabulous...yea, grab the tissues. I am honored to be included with the others, and honored to have you as MY friend, but you were wrong in one thing...You give us much more than you give yourself credit for! Take Care :) #2298870

Life Expressions January 17, 2006

Corinne couldn't be more right about what you give us. I can't come to betterphoto without making a trip to your gallery. Through your images I get to travel to some beautiful places and they are a source of inspiration. Thank you Ken! #2299010

Judy S. Fung January 17, 2006

Wow, this is fabulous, Ken!!! I too am so honored to be included in this collage. Like Tammy, I recognized and can name almost all of those mini pics. Thank you for your friendship and the wonderful tribute to all of us at BP! I too would love a copy of this to frame. :) Thanks again. :) #2299037

Emile Abbott January 17, 2006

Great idea Ken, Guess I will have to decide one day on a mini pic. Neat work my friend #2299101

Ken Smith January 17, 2006

Thanks everyone for the comments. You've proven that BP is more than just a bunch of mini-pics. I'll send the picture to whoever wants it--just send me an e-mail. #2299348

Renee Doyle January 17, 2006

This is a truly generous and kind gesture Ken!!! So many times so many people here on bp give of their time and their wealth of knowledge that it is truly heartwarming. Thankyou to you and all the others at bp that have been so encouraging and helpful. If ever "down under", please look me up.

#2299440

Susie Peek-Swint January 17, 2006

This is wonderful Ken ~ you have put into words what so many of us feel ~ thank you!! I love the collage and found myself studying it saying this is ... and this is ... and this is ... so yes, we do tend to look at those mini pics and 'see' the folks behind them ~ I just hadn't realised it :)
cheers, susie #2299654

Emile Abbott January 17, 2006

Thanks for kicking me in the old butt and encouraging me to do that Ken. I had just gotten lazy about it. Again thanks and it was a great collage and tribute. #2299767

Carol McCants January 17, 2006

What a surprise to come home to tonight!
I am very honored to be included.
You are one amazing and special person Ken!
Carol

#2299774

Claudia Kuhn January 17, 2006

Ken, you're too much! You're so creative to conjure up this idea, and the time to put it all together! You, and all the people ahead of me, said it all so well! I really love the community and sense of knowing all you guys here thru this site, and hope to meet many more of you through our travels. I'm touched to be a part of your wonderful collage!
#2299778

Sharon Day January 17, 2006

Awesome work, Ken!!! It's exactly how I feel about BP too! I recognize so many members by their mini pics. This is just fantastic and I'm really glad mine is in there too! I feel honored! #2300311

Cathy Barrows January 17, 2006

Well Ken, I'm speechless and that is hard to do...this is so well done and so thought provoking...i know I have made so many friends on BP...most I will never meet and some i'm lucky to get to spend a lot of time with...we have all suffered to hard times and good times knowing there was someone on the other side of the monitor there for us....can't wait to meet you in person...be sure to check my post for tomorrow #2300353

Ken Smith January 17, 2006

I'm overwhelmed with your comments. Thanks so much. #2300468

Cliff & Patti Smith January 18, 2006

How sweet Ken! I'm crying! (Hey...I'm a woman and that's what we do:) Your collage is BEAUTIFUL and your words are very moving! Your photos and advice have really inspired me.You've taken the time to help me and for that I am thankful! Two years ago my home burned and,I was so moved by the help of complete strangers. That's what Betterphoto is about......complete strangers with at least one thing in common...the love of photography! #2302106

Susan Jane Allen January 18, 2006

I wonder just how many of us Ken has helped... And wondering if it's true that he's received more than he's given. I, for one, have...wait let me count...52 emails in my "Ken" folder, many of which answer multiple questions--and that's not counting comments on my photos that often give advice...! And what has he received from me? Just as many, if not more, LONG emails filled only with questions!

Your tribute was really, really touching, made me feel honored and so much more part of the "community"..and am definitely one of those girls in the Kleenex Club! #2302503

Donna W. Neal January 18, 2006

WOW what a great tribute, it has also been a pleasure meeting you on BPand maybe one day in person. Thank you for taking the time to put this collage together and writing such a beautiful tribute. #2302558

Carla Metzler January 18, 2006

You are amazing Ken! Waht a beautiful collage and the words in your tribute are truly touching! Thank you! #2302595

Kate Jackson January 18, 2006

I am so thrilled and touched Ken to have been included amongst all these wonderful people especially since it is not much more than a week ago that I first set foot in your wonderful gallery.

Thank you for putting into words what we all feel about BP and going to such lengths to show it!! #2303003

John Connolly January 18, 2006

What an outstanding collage Ken, and I feel so horoured to be included as one of your friends. The time you must have spent in producing this presentation is unbelievable. Thank you for starting my day off on such a high note. #2303101

Marilyn K. Lincecum January 18, 2006

I am at a loss for words to describe how I felt when I read the tribute and like the others feel honored to be included in such a beautiful collage. Your sentiments are so true of BP and the wonderful people you meet along the way. Thanks for making my day. :-) #2303381

Jenny Bosmans January 18, 2006

......!!!!!!
I'm almost speechless, Ken! (Not much of a talker anyway :))
It's an honor to be amongst our many friends on your wonderful collage, and also for the privilege to call you a friend!!
Through lack of time, I don't mail people very often, and don't expect much mails, but I know from experience that, just to know that you and our friends are all out there (be it on different continents) giving support -not only helping out with our mutual hobby, but also in less happier moments of time- means more than words (or I) can express! :) #2303649

Ken Smith January 18, 2006

Thanks again for the comments. I sure hope I didn't omit anyone by accident.... #2304342

Michael R. Cameron January 18, 2006

Wow, this is a bueatiful collage! I think this image was a great idea. It shows that we are all part of a creative & suportive community on Betterphoto. #2304386

Kay E. Mahoney January 18, 2006

WOW!!!!!!!!! I agree with everyone on this. I just got back from my three week vacation in Vegas and saw this picture. It is such a nice thing to put on for all of us bpers. I see so many of the little mini pictures eaveryday and come to know who they belong to. That's what I love about better photo its such a wonderful caring site for other people. I feel honered to see mine in it. This has to be a winner. I just love it. #2304406

Dennis Flanagan January 18, 2006

:-) #2304410

Jill Odice January 18, 2006

Ken, this is awesome! I am honored to be included, and like others have said, I feel like I "know" just about everybody you have included, having shared comments, emails, and photo tips with them! BP is such a big part of my life everyday! I don't know how you got all the minipics to make this, that's part of the magic :-) So...congrats on a wonderful creative effort, this is spectacular, now Flexify it :-):-) ;-) #2304622

Colleen Braun January 19, 2006

what a wonderful collage, I can feel the love that went into making it... #2305149

Candice C. Calhoun January 19, 2006

Ken, SO sorry to be so late in telling you how much it means to me to be included in this incredible family! You have voiced the feelings of all who truly appreciate the bp community, and who try hard to keep things in perspective! I truly hope your beautiful work receives the recognition that it so richly deserves!!!

I cherish your friendship and tremendously respect you as an artistic colleague!!! It would be GREAT to meet you in person!

ccc #2306365

Hendrik Storme January 19, 2006

Great words Ken, beautiful done my friend!!! #2306948

Deb Holmes-Hatfield January 19, 2006

Wow, Ken, I am touched, so much hard work and such a sweet thing to do. Thanks so very much! #2308141

Kara L. Hendricks January 20, 2006

Ohh my gosh Ken.. This is exceptional.. Not only the work you put into the image.. But your heartfrlt words that so many of us feel.. Who would of EVER known we would make so many wonderful friends when joining a forum simply to display our work.. Not me.. Thanks for the reminder of what it's all about.. The people behind the pics... You are awesome!! #2311224

Sandra Freyler January 24, 2006

WINNER in my book! This is very creative and one of a kind image, Ken! Awesome work with this one! :) #2334307

January 27, 2006

Wonderful idea Ken! Shame I'm not in this one. I really like it!!!
Superb work! #2347049

Darren K. Fisher January 28, 2006

WOW, I am honored to be a part of this. And Hmmmm forgive me,,,,Ha ha ha you all my image is first....LOL...Sorry I had to lighten the mood. Your words are so well said, and I have to say I found out first hand last year during my fight with Cancer just how great all these wonderful people are. I love what you done here and I am glad you share in what I have seen in them all first hand. BRAVO on a wonderful wonderful job here. Certianly a winner in my book. #2349002

Darren K. Fisher January 28, 2006

Oh and I also wanted to say, it is funny how I can look at your collage, and know each and everyone of the photographers. #2349011

Jen February 17, 2006

Ken, this is so nice! #2432045

Pat Gamwell February 24, 2006

Ken...this is the most tender & compassionate tribute to friendship I've ever experienced! I am deeply humbled & honored to be included in this cast of accomplished artists! Tributes like this truly mean more to me than a medallion attached to an art piece. Your sensitivity & passion for photography is only surpassed by your compassion for others. If I can ever "be there" for YOU, just holler! #2463796

Jim Miotke level-classic My Courses February 26, 2021

I love this, Ken. Thanks for sharing it in the Forum and reminding us all of what it's all about. I appreciate what you and each member of this community brings. It's quite a mosaic of great qualities! Thank you! #11879451

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