Portraits by Thomas Balsamo

My portraits of autistic individuals from the book “Souls Beneath and Beyond Autism” are on display with Joey Rosenbloom’s paintings.  The show is hosted by the Barrington Area Library through May 1st.

This link for more information    http://www.barringtonarealibrary.org/exhibit/featured_exhibit

This is a great project, I am so excited to be collaborating with Joey!

Artist’s Reception April 9 at 7pm

This exhibition is organized by “La Citadelle Art” .

I had the privilege to photograph renown author Tad Waddington.
I created his portrait that appears in his award winning book “Lasting Contribution” How to Think, Plan, and Act to Accomplish Meaningful Work.

http://www.amazon.com/Lasting-Contribution-Think-Accomplish-Meaningful/dp/1932841296

I’m excited about the results of our latest portrait session, I’m so fortunate to work with incredible people that are making a positive contribution.

I’m excited heading back to Charlotte NC, Feb 19th through the 21st to serve my NC clients. If you know anyone in that area that might be interested in my work have them contact me at thomas@portraitsbythomas.com . I still have a few openings, here is a link to my Charlotte newsletter for more details: http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs075/1102930749160/archive/1102987835679.html

Here’s a few images from my last trip

I received my first camera when I was 10, much of the time since then I’ve carried a camera with me when ever I go. Many times through the years I’ve been at the right place at the right time this was one of those times. As I was driving past Lake Zurich on a windy cold day. I spent a glorious hour shooting freezing to the bone. I was so excited about the images I was creating I did not notice the below 0 temp.

To see more view web gallery

For more check out this web gallery

http://www.portraitsbythomas.com/portraits/support_/lakezurichice/

click to see more images from this day

I had the pleasure of creating portraits of Joseph Franco Classical Guitar extraordinaire.    When I first  met Jozy I looked into his eyes saw bright young man brimming with passion and high expectations for his life. His love for his craft was evident. I was so fortunate to get my own personal concert in my camera room as we captured these images. He shared with me how he studied in Granada, Spain with Jorge “el Pisao” and Marcos Palometas and played with Eduardo Mandujano. I am looking forward to following his career as he continues with his musical journey.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbe4uHqLbPE&NR=1

Steve Bagby, Nancy Gianni and Thomas Balsamo

I’m in awe of  the success of our you tube video to announce our “i have a voice” Down Syndrome awareness project. It’s has been so successful the gallery show it has traveled the country. The book will be out this year.  Link to “i have a voice” on you tube

GiGi

Great news! A new price for the new year. “Souls Beneath and Beyond Autism”  $25.00  

Click book cover to link to Souls on Amazon.com

Engaged in the fight against Late Infantile Batten Disease.

Recently, I have had the privilege of photographing Bridgett Kennicott and her family. I’m humbled and inspired not only Bridgett but by Sarah, David and Harrison Kennicott as well They have risen to the occasion in their fight against Batton disease by founding Hope 4 Bridget, a non profit organization.

“I was fortunate to make a connection with Bridget During  our photo session.  As I was kneeling behind my camera, focusing on her when she walked over to me with her arms reaching out she gave me a tight hug I will never forget”.