In 1997, Judy (then Judy Lange) made a leap to full-time professional equine photography, moving away from the “real jobs” others expected. In the past 10 years she photographed hunter/jumpers, eventing/combined training, driving, polo, foxhunting, breed shows and her favorite, dressage. Her favorite venues are Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, Illinois; Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake,
Wisconsin; Hickory Knoll, Fitchburg, Wisconsin; and HayWire Farm, Galena, Illinois.
Judy was blessed to be mentored by the internationally acclaimed photographer, Susan Sexton. They worked together on several projects before Susan moved to Mexico. As one of the Midwest’s premier dressage photographers, Judy’s work appears in many prominent dressage and equestrian journals and ads.

It’s no longer just about horses. Judy’s other photographic passion is portraiture. She loves to work with people of all ages to capture their spirit and personality. One of her greatest joys is photographing children. She is able to connect with them, capturing their innocence and nature.

The truest expression of Judy’s passion and artistic eye is her fine art photography. Sometimes the moment presents itself and Judy grabs her camera knowing it will vanish as quickly as it appeared. Sometimes it requires hours, even days, waiting for the perfect lighting and moment. Her stunning images reflect her love for rural landscapes, barns, flowers and interesting landmarks.

Judy’s favorite place to photograph? Jo Daviess county in the northwest corner of Illinois. Her fine art photography is on exhibit in two Galena art galleries. When it comes to professional standards and ethics, Judy keeps it simple:

•Strive to be the best photographer possible.
•Capture the subject at just the right moment, in beautiful light.
•Produce a lasting, treasured memory - a cherished work of art.
•Provide responsive customer service. If the customer’s not happy, Judy’s not happy.
Visit www.judywoodruff.com for more information on her work and photography services.

A good photograph:
• has a clear subject or theme.
• focuses attention on the subject.
• simplifies by excluding elements which draw the eye from the subject.

A print should be in focus, correctly exposed and well-lit.

Composition/Arrangement -
The arrangement should be meaningful and pleasing. Make use of the best light, an interesting perspective, or an attractive background. Avoid distracting backgrounds or use an aperture setting to blur the background. Eliminate any unnecessary elements such as a spot, twig or piece of paper. Move in close. make sure the horizon is level. Crop to eliminate dead space or irrelevant junk. Avoid placing the subject in the center of the frame or too close to an edge. Allow “breathing room” around the subject so the eye can rest.

Focus/Sharpness -
Use a tripod or monopod. Use blur to enhance an image in an artistic way. However, incorrect use of soft focus and blur are considered defects.

Lighting -
In a correctly exposed print, all the details are visible and colors are true. Incorrectly exposed prints are too dark or too light, or have areas that are too bright or too dark. Lighting should enhance the subject.

Creativity -
Show creative thought or try to represent an original idea. Use creative techniques to make an interesting effect. Creativity is about seeing the right moment or using an artistic treatment. Be aware of the unique colors and qualities to be found in light, notice graphic elements such as lines, patterns, shapes, and forms. Capture comical and humorous moments. Interesting, unique and original ideas will often result in some of the best pictures.

Study the Winners.
Notice the qualities.
Now grab your camera and practice, practice, practice!