Philadelphia Mural Arts Program


In 1920, Robert Frost so eloquently urged us to think about the paths we travel in life. I cannot count the number of times I have driven around the city, in a hurry with a destination, hence just passing by the expansive murals that truly grace Philadelphia, missing an opportunity to engage more. Images, beautiful colors reflecting and inspiring transformation. This week, I chose to slow down, stop and take in the stories that each mural holds… “And that has made all the difference.”
Philadelphia is the mural capital of the world with over 3,300 paintings enlivening each neighborhood. Community involvement is a critical step in determining the appropriate theme to capture moments of greatness and celebration specific to that area. After taking the Northern Liberties’ tour, I decided to go back to this area to photograph the people because as Miguel Angel Ruiz said, “Every human is an artist.” “The dream of your life is to make beautiful art.” In Northern Liberties, both the hand and heart are creating art.

www.worlddocumentaryphotographer.com

Last week, Joe McNally sent out word announcing his new website.  He said that most people spend approximately 2 1/2 minutes looking at a site.

I am so happy to finally have my new website up and running.  It was my goal to create a spot entirely focused on travel, separate from my portrait and wedding photography.  There are two people I must thank. Dan Creighton who was there with me every step of the way sharing not only his keen photographic perspective, honed after 22 years as a photojournalist,  but also his amazing technical knowledge. No matter what, Dan always knew the answer and not only that, it was usually around 1 am that I was texting him with my usual plea for help. He has the patience of a saint and is a great friend.

Also,  I want to sincerely thank Tewfic El-Sawy, The Travel Photographer. When I discovered his blog, it was truly a pivotal moment in my life. I sat in awe looking at the truly incredible imagery he presented.  Tewfic inspires me day in and day out with his very powerful and compelling work as well as the work of others he features. I pour over it. I get lost in it and I aspire to that level of photographic acuity and insight.  I am so grateful to him for walking with me, sharing so generously his wisdom and great wit!

So, if you have only one minute of time (2 1/2 minutes should be for the “greats” like Joe McNally!) and can stop by, I send along my heartfelt thanks to you also!  Your support and taking the time to comment on FB when something strikes you means so much!

Hope you enjoy it!

Francie

 

Laurel Hill Cemetery




I recently had the great privilege of photographing in Laurel Hill Cemetery in order to showcase its grand history and beauty in video. As the website states, “It is an outdoor sculptural garden, a horticultural gem and a truly unique historical resource.” As one who loves to tell stories, this project is one I am so enjoying doing. Laurel Hill is one of the oldest Victorian cemeteries in the United States and there are 78 acres of art and history. “Victorians delighted in memorial symbolism. Sometimes the monuments reflect a common repertoire of visual symbols. Angels with upraised fingers point the way to salvation. Shattered columns indicate a premature death. Flags, calvary swords, and arms represent a military career. In many cases, symbolism reflects the person. A mortar and pestle marks the resting place of George W. Vaughan, a well known pharmacist. An eagle perches on the monument of Commodore Isaac Hull, hero of the War of 1812. Calvary spurs memorialize Benjamin Hodgson, who died in the battle of Little Big Horn.” So many fascinating people are resting here… Josepha Hale, who edited Godey’s Lady’s Book; Thomas Walter, who designed the dome of the United States Capital building. Laurel Hill has earned its distinction as Philadelphia’s Underground Museum. My great thanks go out to Alexis Jeffcoat for her warmth, welcoming and help with this project. Joseph Edgette. Phd and Richard Sauers are truly the consumate storytellers, passing along their wealth of research and knowledge so generously. Taking a tour with them is a fascinating experience. Upcoming events are: General Meade Celebration on New Year’s Eve and I am told that hundreds of people come to this so get there early. Also, you may want to be a part of their 175th Anniversary Celebration. The website provides all the fun and interesting details. Again, many thanks Alexis, Joe and Rich! (Also, Caitlin Dougherty for your camera help!)

Peru is but a wonderful memory now.






My laptop has very little memory left. 5,000 images of Peru and 9 hours of video are running through it. My heart is in the same state, filled to capacity with memories of people who are no longer strangers, sounds with such exuberance and inflections, new foods and new places explored. A far off land that now feels so very close.

There was one statement and one question which seemed to be on everyone’s mind when they met me. The question was, “Have you seen Machu Picchu yet?” I’ver heard it is awe inspiring and mystical. A true wonder of the world. A site not to be missed but I have to say, I did miss it and it was planned that way! Machu Picchu is for another time. This trip was about being with amazing and gifted people.

Roxana and Jose, a young couple who are just starting out with the hopes and dreams of fullness and a promising future. I loved photographing their looks, the moments they reached out to touch each other in both gentleness and laughter.

Hermenegildo and Irma, a couple, who renewed their vows after 50 years of marriage. They were truly celebrating this fullness which flows from the day in and day out little things. On the morning of the celebration, I walked through the gate to find Hermenegildo cutting the flowers he had grown and then arranging them into the bouquet Irma would hold throughout the day… he was so tender and so in the moment – I was totally taken by this man and his wife! The entire family also know how to throw a great party!

The statement repeated to me was, “You better put your camera away and not keep it out.” At first I was thrown into fear thinking that Peru must be far worse with a high rate of robbery than many other countries I walked through comfortably with my camera. That perception quickly changed and I came to realize that the Peruvian people were just very diligent in taking care of me and ensuring that my stay would be both happy and healthy. They were constantly looking out for me and enfolding me. “La Familia” has now become “Mi Familia” and I am so very grateful! The people are the true wonders of the world! Si! Si! Si!

Cape May, NJ: A Time To Honor



Hopefully this weekend, in the stillness of mind and heart, we experience a deep sense of gratitude for all those who honored a profound calling to serve and protect others. The Cape May firehouse has a special exhibit taking visitors back in time in order to remember firefighters and their selfless sacrifices.

Reeds Beach, NJ

Reeds Beach, NJ from Frances Schwabenland on Vimeo.

Thousands of “laughing gulls” are drawn to Reeds Beach to feast upon the multitude of horseshoe crab eggs laid in mid spring.

Portraits from India

“Namaste” is used by those in India to both greet and say goodbye. The meaning is: The God/Goddess Spirit in me recognizes and honors the God/Goddess Spirit in you. While saying this, one bows to the other. I found this to be such a beautiful way to really be totally with the other person and the Indian people that I met were masters at this! I was a total stranger and yet when I approached someone requesting the take their portrait, I was never turned away but welcomed in.

When I travel, I find myself constantly drawn to photograph the people. The camera becomes the connection between hearts and eyes when language fails. Through the lens, I saw incredible beauty and character and we always shared a smile. “Namaste” became much more than a word.I hope you enjoy the video below.

Entrusted with Special Moments


As a photographer, I have had such amazing opportunities to travel but I also feel so very privileged when I am entrusted with capturing the beauty of family moments.  These are sacred moments in the cycle of life.  Recently, I have also been asked to help prepare loving video messages to be shared with one’s family in conjunction with a written will as a lasting reminder and gift.  These are truly legacies of love.  Through it all, I have met incredible people and have been taught how important it is to be in the moment and never miss an opportunity to tell others how much they are appreciated.