April 21, 2013

Living the Dream – Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp

Who hasn’t dreamed of being a rock star? The dream where you’re the cool guy with long hair, tight leather pants, traveling the world, playing sold-out arenas. In-your-face rock, as thousands of fans lift their hands in the universal sign of rock, screaming at the top of their lungs. Distorted guitars, thunderous bass, monster drums and soaring solos that summon raw, visceral emotion. Taking all the things in life that people love or hate and turning it into something creative and inspiring. Music that inspires love, makes you cry, vent your rage and perhaps even change the world. That’s the dream of rock and roll. Well, that and the girls.

In this dream, you and your friends start a rock band, except your friends are legendary rock stars. Jamming all day and rocking all night. Actually living your rock star dream? That is the reality of Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Playing alongside musicians who’ve inspired you is a dream come true and the experience of a lifetime.

“Some people have a hard time explaining rock ‘n’ roll. I don’t think anyone can really explain rock ‘n’ roll. Maybe Pete Townshend, but that’s okay. Rock ‘n’ roll is a lifestyle and a way of thinking… and it’s not about money and popularity. Although, some money would be nice. But it’s a voice that says, “Here I am… and fuck you if you can’t understand me.” And one of these people is gonna save the world. And that means that rock ‘n’ roll can save the world… all of us together. And the chicks are great. But what it all comes down to is that thing. The indefinable thing when people catch something in your music.” (Almost Famous)

Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp is the love child of David Fishof, every bit as legendary as the rockstars headlining Rock Camp. Why Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp? Because Sex, Drugs, Rock ‘N’ Roll Camp would be illegal! It’s the rock star experience (without the illegal stuff). You hang out, practice, eat, learn, share and perform together. It’s a family, complete with the best roadies and sound crew in the business.  Continue Reading →

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Tommy WalkerApril 22, 2013 - 10:09 am

Thank you for sharing this with me Randy! What an incredible journey.

It’s kind of funny to me that you went from one high risk career to another. That truly is rock and roll man. Keep up the great work and keep on with posts like this. I was impressed and really felt like I was there!

RandyApril 22, 2013 - 10:12 am

Kind of funny or clinically insane! I’m not sure which! Thanks for dropping by Tommy and leaving a comment. Greatly appreciated brother! :)

Tim TaylorApril 22, 2013 - 3:06 pm

Great stuff Randy! I wish we could do that again so much fun and THANK YOU! So glad you made that comment on facebook.

RandyApril 22, 2013 - 3:10 pm

You’re very welcome Tim, but the bulk of the thanks go to you my friend! None of this would of happened without your passion and friendship. And the Facebook comment? Yes, ask anyone at Rock Camp who had more fun, me or you and everyone will say Tim! Did I get to play on stage with Sammy Hagar? NO! Did I play with Steve Vai, or Billy Sheehan or Vic Johnson or Joe Vitale or David “Bro” Lauser or any of the other legendary musicians there? NO! So, you mister, had the most fun of all! So glad I was there to document the week and live vicariously through you! :)

Jamie BosworthApril 24, 2013 - 1:12 pm

Epic, Randy… heart and soul poured out all over the world here… nicely done!

June 28, 2012

Website Defender – Taking Care of Business

Cyber security issues are a growing threat for small business and large companies. Ask anyone who does this professionally and they’ll tell you it’s not a matter of if you’ll be be attacked, but when. That’s a pretty sobering thought.

My first post was titled “The Blank Canvas” in 2005. So much has happened in 7 years and this blog reflects that journey. I’d hate to see it destroyed overnight by malicious hackers. There’s been quite a few times over the years I’ve nearly done that myself.

In 2005, the biggest decision was whether to use WordPress or Movable Type. At the time, blogs weren’t as robust as they are today. People used them for personal online diaries or on websites as a way to keep customers engaged about company news. Websites were slow to change and everyone was scrambling for a way to deliver fresh content. WordPress fit that niche perfectly.

WordPress is free— supported, built and transformed by an army of passionate, dedicated volunteers. Today, over 60 million people are using WordPress. It’s amazing that WordPress has become so powerful and easy to use it’s blurred the line between blogs and websites. And that is what this post is all about. Protecting your WordPress blog and website.

What can you do to protect your site? Wouldn’t it be great to stay focused on creating great content and engaging clients in an increasingly competitive marketplace? Fortunately for you, I’ve got some great tips and resources to help.

Randy’s Top 5 Tips to Protect Your WordPress Site

Continue Reading →

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Gary CanazziJune 30, 2012 - 3:08 am

This is EXCELLENT info Randy. Thanks so much for your effort in putting all of this together and sharing it. I’ve already put some of it to use.

April 30, 2012

Professional Portrait and Headshot Promotion

Remember the old Vidal Sassoon ads from the 80′s? “If you don’t look good, we don’t look good!” Nothing could be more true when it comes to a professional portrait. Also called headshots, although this term seems to be used more by actors and models.

In March, I became a studio owner for the first time in over a decade. The time was right to have a creative space where I could put my lighting skills to work regardless of the weather. Don’t get me wrong, outdoor portraits are still my favorite, but there will always be a place for studio portraits, especially for business.

If your portrait doesn’t project the image you want, now is the perfect time to do it right. A new professional portrait is perfect for Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, displays, trade shows, email signatures and your website.

Photo by Randy Kepple Photographs

Here are the details (also known as the fine print):
• Sessions last 20 minutes
• Sessions take place at your location.
• Up to 10 images in an online gallery. You select your favorite.
• Includes (1) high resolution retouched image in color and black and white.
• Additional, retouched images can be purchased for $50.
• Personal print license for marketing.
• Limited to availability

This is a special, grand opening promotion. After May, the sessions will return to their regular rate for studio and location.

Take advantage of this one-time offer for a professional portrait by reserving your session today.

Simply call RANDY KEPPLE PHOTOGRAPHS at 360.448.1872 or use the contact link at the top of the page.
Photo shoots are quick and painless and I can see you at your convenience.

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April 13, 2012

Finding Inspiration in Art – Rylander Law

For the past year, I’ve been working on one of the most challenging assignments of my career. A composite photo illustration of a courtroom battle. Partially inspired by Italian Renaissance artist Raphael’s famous fresco The School of Athens.

Working hand-in-hand with an amazing team of creatives at Elliott Design, we challenged ourselves to the limits of our abilities. From conceptualization and making it come alive in camera to post production.

Would you like to hear the story of how this image was created? A peek behind the scenes at the inspiration, the research, the setbacks and the final composite image? Then you won’t want to miss this upcoming post about finding inspiration in a work of art and turning it into a dynamic image for Rylander Law’s new website.

Photo by Randy Kepple Photographs

Photo by Randy Kepple Photographs

Don’t be shy. Inspire a conversation by leaving a comment. It’s all about pushing pixels.You can find me on Facebook and LIKE. Seriously. You can also follow me on Twitter @randykepple.

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Don ElliottApril 16, 2012 - 11:49 am

This project was really fun, painful, and rewarding. I can’t wait to read more!

Mat HaywardApril 17, 2012 - 8:05 pm

Randy Kepple! You sir, are a phenom! This image is so great! What a story it tells in itself, I can’t wait for future blog posts. You are one of the most talented, creative photographers I know!

RandyApril 17, 2012 - 9:03 pm

Grrr… Where is the like button? Thank you both for the support and encouragement! It was a very challenging project. Can’t wait to share with you and bring you along on the adventure!

Steve MorrisApril 18, 2012 - 2:53 pm

Hey Randy! Good to see you back writing on the blog. Has it really been a year already since we prowled the London streets with our cameras blazing? It feels like yesterday but you´re right in that a lot has happened since.

It´s interesting to hear your take on the business side of photography. I really need to improve that aspect of my game. I know that I´m inefficient (read: unorganized) right now which is really hurting my production and bottom line. I´m also kind of coming the opposite direction as you in that I´ve been focusing all my energy in stock photography for the past few years but now I´m thinking of expanding into other areas of commercial photography while continuing to do stock. Anyways, look forward to reading more. Keep it coming!

Steve MorrisApril 18, 2012 - 2:59 pm

My last comment was for your previous post but I also love your photo composite work! This courtroom piece is excellent. I´ve done a fair amount of composites so I know the work that goes into it.

RandyApril 23, 2012 - 4:24 pm

Steve! My brother from another mother! :) Yes. It’s been almost one full year now. Really hard to fathom, huh? You’re more than welcome to write me anytime. I am happy to share any advice and help. Your new site is very nice too!