Atown.Net - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why has it been so long since you've updated your page?

Thanks for the interest (and for asking.)
I've actually been shooting quite a lot lately, but I've been doing more work and less play. When I'm hired to do event photography, a private commission, commercial work, etc. that work does not usually show up here.
This page is here to share the work that I do for myself, for my own pleasure and enjoyment.
It's been very well received and has led  my doing more paid work. As such I haven't had as much time to shoot the things that I like to share here.
I have joined a local camera club (Virginia Highlands Camera Club) and we have been getting out and shooting.
The weather has also been better so I'm getting out more as I have time. I hope to start posting again regularly.

Q: What is the Viginia Highlands Camera Club?

The Virginia Highlands Camera Club is a group that meets once a month at the Washington County Library (usually the third Tuesday of every month) to share our passion and enjoyment of photography.
It is a very talented and diverse group.

Q: Are you a professional photographer?

When people see me walking around an event with my equipment they often ask me if I'm a professional photographer.
I guess that depends on how you define professional.
I do accept commission work.
My work has been published.

If I'm hedging my answer is:
Photography is my passion, not my profession.

The honest answer would be:
At this point in time photography is still a hobby (a very serious hobby.) I have a day job that takes most of my time. I'm willing to move up to the big leagues, I've just got to take that million dollar picture.

Q: Are you with the Newspaper?

Occasionally I cover an event for a local newspaper.
More often than not I'm just shooting for myself (to perfect my craft.)
When I'm not "on assignment", but get a good shot of something of interest I will submit them to the local papers for consideration. It's up to the editors (as always) to publish it or pass.

Q: Am I going to be famous?

I'm a photographer, not a psychic.
Any photograph that I take may (or may not) show up on this web page, a local newspaper, regional magazine, or if I'm very lucky in a national syndication.
If publishing your picture in any of the said venues makes you famous please remember me when you're at the top.
If your goal is to be famous and you need some new shots for your portfolio, headshots for that audition, or photos to submitted to the agency of your choice, I can help ( as long as you promise to remember me when you're at the top.) I'm willing to do TFP's (TFCD's) or to shoot your project in return for work on one of mine. You can contact me here.

Q: Do you sell your prints?

Work that has not been specifically commissioned (most of the photographs on this site) is always available.
If you would like prints of any of my work my contact information can be found here.

Q: May I use one of you photographs...?

If you would like to use any of the photographs on this site somewhere else you may do so providing that:
It is for non-commercial (non-profit) use.
The photograph will be used in an electronic (not print) format.
You credit Eric Schuler.
You post a link to http://www.atown.net somewhere on the page with the photograph.
You notify me where the photograph is displayed.

If you would like to print any of my work for any reason please contact me.

Q: Do you Travel?

Every chance I get.
I am willing to travel for an assignment provided that expenses are part of the package.

Q: Do you work for the FBI?

A: Why are you wanted? Is there a reward?

I do not, nor have I ever worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, a private investigator, or other law enforcement agency. I'm just a harmless photographer.

I like taking candid shots of people as they are, not posing for the camera.
As such I often use a long lens and stand back from the crowd.
Usually I am capturing images of public events in public places with no expectation of privacy.
I don't mean to invade anyone's privacy or make anyone feel uncomfortable.
If I've taken your picture and displayed it here and you'd rather not be famous then please contact me.

Q: What's your day job?

Q: "What's your day job?"
A: "I work for a local school system as a Technology Specialist."
Q: "Oh... you're a computer geek?"
A: "Yes I'm a computer geek..."