TateCapturesLife

Creating Firm Spy's New Logo - And a Big Thank You to Firm Spy for the Incredible Shout Out!

2011-08-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

On June 22, 2011, I was floored with shock and excitement after receiving a message from an absolutely fantastic news site, Firm Spy, asking if I would assist them to create a new logo for their website.

Firm Spy has since published the new logo I created for them, in addition to giving me an incredible shout out! Huge thank you FS!

Firm Spy had first broke the story surrounding Redbubble's controversial stance in diligently defending and selling what has been deemed to be, Neo Nazi T-shirts.

For those who have not followed this story, Redbubble is an online art community and POD, or "Print on Demand" art site offering a range of products from cards to T-shirts, similar to such sites such as Zazzle.

In August of 2010, the creators of 'Hipster Hitler' joined Redbubble, using slogans from their comics to market a line of T-shirts on Redbubble.

The stand alone slogans such as, 'Fear and Loathing in Laskarzew', 'Death Camp for Cutie', 'Eastside Westside Genocide', 'Three Reichs and You're Out', 'I Love Juice' and '1941 - A Race Odyssey' were just some of the slogans deemed to carry Neo Nazi content by the Anti-Defamation Commission as well as other Jewish organizations.

Redbubble's CEO diligently defended marketing these shirts even after Arnold Bloch Leibler, a well known law firm with strong ties to Australia's Jewish community, publicly stated they would cease any future representation of Redbubble, as ABL would in no way endorse such materials.

Firm Spy's exclusive article covering Redbubble's turmoil in selling Neo Nazi merchandise can be read here:
-May 13, 2011
EXCLUSIVE: Oh HEIL! Arnold Bloch Leibler Ceases to Act For Company Spruiking Neo-Nazi Propaganda

Follow up story:
-June 1, 2011
UPDATE: Reflections on the “Hipster Hitler” Saga: Lawyers, Censorship and Professional Ethics

Most recent follow up:
-June 21, 2011
AllensGate Update: Shareholders Issue Proceedings Against Aconex, Shitfight Ensues

In addition to Redbubble selling Hitler merchandise, they also came under fire for selling Adult Only content on baby and child wear.

I became involved in this controversy after discovering numerous baby jumpers sporting several different serial killer's faces on them.

I contacted the Australian press who immediately took interest in the story and subsequently wrote a front page article on the issue in Herald Sun Melbourne.

Read my blog on how I contacted the Australian press here:
Blowing the Whistle on Redbubble's Serial Killer Baby Wear

It was an honor, to say the least, that a news site such as Firm Spy contacted me to create their new logo. They also congratulated me on the work I had done and what I managed to accomplish by contacting the Australian press.

Firm Spy was elemental in exposing the turmoil surrounding Redbubble's actions (and non-actions), and additionally served as a refuge for protesters of the works being questioned to freely express their opinions, as several protesters had been censored by Redbubble for actively speaking out against the unethical merchandise.

In fact, many who vocally opposed the Neo Nazi merchandise and baby wear with Adult Only content, are still being censored and banned from the site to this day. It appears as though Redbubble has made a hit list and is removing such members one by one.

Thank you FIRM SPY for this honor and thank you again for providing a fair and non dictatorial space for people to speak their minds.

Firm Spy - 'Law firm news and gossip, accounting and investment bank rumors, quips and humor'

View the following page with the new logo and incredible shout out, on the Firm Spy site here:

Warner Brothers Legal Action, Our New Logo & Tatum Wulff

Firm Spy gives me an incredible shout out!

Published in The Pink Panther Magazine

2011-07-11T23:15:00.000-07:00

I am incredibly honored to have been featured and published in the Pink Panther Magazine, an important magazine that addresses and celebrates a wide range of issues surrounding women in todays environment. Created and edited by Anna Shaw, Sybille Sterk, Jenifer DeBellis, VirgoSun and Helen Bascom. A group of highly gifted and insightful artists and writers.

15 of my images were published over a four page spread in the magazine, from page 40.

Anna kindly did a write up introducing me and explaining why she has featured my work.

"Tatum Wulff is a talented photographer and committed feminist. Her work spans many continents and reflects the love she feels for humanity. Her images are taken after living with her subjects and getting to know them as real people. She captures the essence of their daily lives with a warmth and compassion that is rare.

Tatum was instrumental in starting the group discussion about the sexualization of children in art and photography, itself the theme for this edition of the magazine. I wanted to show Tatum's images of children as they are the anthesis of this. She gives the lie to those that have defended their sexualized images by attacking, and claiming that we can no longer take pictures of children without being accused of being perverts.

Tatum's images capture the innocence of childhood with all its joys and its pains. They are a delight."

- Anna Shaw

Creator and Editor in Chief of the Pink Panther Magazine.

You can read the magazine online HERE.

You can buy a printed copy of the magazine from MagCloud.

Front cover artwork Becoming © Sybille Sterk

Beautiful Japan

2011-06-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

Japan, a beautiful country rich in history and culture.

A place planted deeply in my heart.

I had never planned on spending eight years there, but Japan proved to be an incredible source of learning and inspiration for me.

My gratitude runs deep for the extraordinary experiences I had while living there, as those experiences had a significant impact on my life, both personally and in regards to the artistic direction of my painting and photography.

As a country often referred to as a land of contrasts, I hope you enjoy the following captures, which offer a glimpse into both modern and traditional Japan.

All of the following images can be viewed in a large format and are available as cards and prints on both my Fine Art America site and my Blue Canvas site.

Please feel free to contact me or leave a comment should you have any inquiries or feedback. Thank you for your interest!

Bentendo, Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

Bentendo is a small temple hall located in the Daigoji Shingon Buddhist temple complex in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
The Daigo-ji complex has been designated an UNESCO World Heritage site. Daigo-ji was founded in the early Heian period in 874.

The Bentendo Hall is dedicated to Benzaiten (Sarasvati), the goddess of knowledge and liberal arts such as music and is generally known as one of Seven Deities of Good Fortune (Shichifukujin).

Lost in a story, and the last candid... Tokyo, Japan
©TATUMWULFF

I captured this from the limousine bus I was taking to the Narita airport on my last day in Japan.

This was the final stop to pick up passengers heading for the airport. As such, this is my last candid shot I took in Japan, before hitting the road, and returning to the West..

MAIKO. Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

Maiko, or an apprenticing Geisha, in the heart of the Gion district of Kyoto, Japan.

This picture tells a bit of a story...It is evident that the girl dressed in normal everyday clothing is most likely the 'younger sister' of the beautifully dressed Maiko. Younger sister is a figurative term in Japan, given to the girls who study from practicing Maiko or Geisha until they are ready to become Maiko themselves. It is apparent that she is the younger sister, because she is carrying the belongings of the Maiko. Of course, the Maiko is her 'older sister', or O-nesan. Many Japanese people have told me I am very fortunate to have been able to capture this image, as seeing real Maiko or Geisha in Gion, or anywhere, is very rare these days, as it is a dying profession. Additionally, they have said capturing an image of a Maiko with her younger sister is just extraordinarily lucky!

Geisha translated to direct English is 'art person', or one could say, 'artist'. A Geisha is a traditional, female Japanese entertainer who is highly skilled in the classical Japanese arts. Her skills range from singing and performing traditional dance to playing classical musical instruments, such as the shamisen. Moreover, her skill at the art of conversation is highly important and she therefore tends to have knowledge of historic and current events. Geisha are expected to create an atmosphere of relaxation and entertainment. Their gracious social etiquette skills are as impeccable as is their appearance and delicate demeanor.

The sepia version, which I feel creates a sense of nostalgia.

MAIKO. Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

Lotus of Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

Image captured in the Naka Shin'en, or Middle garden, of the famous Heian Jingu shrine in Kyoto, Japan.

Visitors who pass through the cluster of trees behind the shrine's main buildings will find a beautiful garden called Naka Shin'en. This garden, as well as the Nishi Shin'en, was constructed in 1895. It contains the Soryu-ike pond which features the Garyu-kyo, a walkway consisting of stone pillars which once served as a foundation stones for the girders of Sanjo Ohashi and Gojo Ohashi, famous bridges in the center of the city of

Kyoto.

Beauty of Maiko
©TATUMWULFF

Captured in the heart of the Gion district, in Kyoto, Japan.

Contemplating Noh
©TATUMWULFF

A viewer contemplates Noh masks at an exhibit in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan.

Noh is a type of masque, which is performed by actors with masks. There are sixty basic types of Noh masks. It is said that today we have two hundred and some dozens different kinds of Noh masks.

Covering the face with a mask is related to the transformation of a person, just like make-up. It is said that a Noh mask has more power than just a tool of disguise; it has an element of spell, which provides spiritual power to the Noh actor. The Noh mask is called omote. As we can understand from the fact that Noh mask controls the importance (rank) of Noh drama, the mask is quite significant for Noh actors. In most cases, there is no particular mask assigned to a particular character. Rather, the type of masks to be used is designated for each drama. Therefore, it ultimately depends on shite to decide which mask he will use for the drama, and he selects from those available.
Noh was called "sarugaku" or "sarugaku-no-Noh" from the Heian and Kamakura eras through the Edo era. These names are associated with the origin of Noh, "sangaku" being a performance art introduced from China during the Nara era.

Collective Patterns
©TATUMWULFF

A nice location to do anything and everything the individuals seen here are using it for.

Meeting with friends, resting, reading a book, making a call, texting, gathering with co-workers, eating, discussing, reflecting. I just love all the common human behavior that can be seen in this image.

On Duty - National Arts Center Tokyo
©TATUMWULFF

National Art Center, Tokyo, Japan.

国立新美術館 - Kokuritsu Shinbijutsukan. Opened on January 21, 2007
The architect for the museum was Kisho Kurokawa. (April 8, 1934 – October 12, 2007)

The architect designed the front of the museum to look like a tsunami wave.
Kisho Kurokawa was a leading Japanese architect and one of the founders of the "Metabolist Movement".

My Japanese Nihonga art teacher, Atsuko Miwa, participates in the annual Nitten exhibit which is held at this museum every November. Occasionally she is also a judge for the Nitten.

The architectural design of the museum is truly breathtaking.

Kinkakuji, Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

The Golden Pavilion, Kyoto
©TATUMWULFF

The Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, is a Zen Buddhist Temple in Kyoto, Japan. Originally built in 1397, it is listed as an "UNESCO Historical Monument in Ancient Kyoto."

It was destroyed by fire and rebuilt in 1950; then restored again in 1987, while the roof was restored in 2003.

The top two stories are covered in pure gold leaf, while the temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Candid street images, captured throughout Tokyo, Japan.

Shibuya Bound
©TATUMWULFF

Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, Japan.

Train staff assist commuters who cram themselves into an elbow to elbow jam packed train bound for Shibuya. I love the running man in the reflection of the window, I feel it adds to the action in the shot.

the rock n' roll kid, tokyo
©TATUMWULFF

the rock n' roll kid, tokyo II
©TATUMWULFF

A Good Read - Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
©TATUMWULFF

Shinjuku Diner
©TATUMWULFF

Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. Busy staff at a diner preparing orders. The reflections on the glass pane are of the diner's picture menu outside the shop.

Shop Keeper - Tokyo
©TATUMWULFF

The Japanese Photographer
©TATUMWULFF

I love the lines and geometry of this image.

Shibuya Nights
©TATUMWULFF

Alta punk
©TATUMWULFF

Tokyo Hilton
©TATUMWULFF

Shinjuku boy
©TATUMWULFF

A male host standing outside Shinjuku station, near Kabukicho.

Kindhearted Soul, Laos - National Geographic Daily Dozen and Kodak's Picture of The Day

2011-06-28T21:14:00.000-07:00

Kindhearted Soul ~ Laos
©TATUMWULFF

A very kindhearted lady I met while staying in a small village in rural Laos.

Staying over night in the village, at the whimsical invitation of a woman I met on a local bus, was one of the best chances I ever took on my travels. Spending a couple days with the children, families and elders of this village will remain one of my most memorable of experiences. They were all precious and very hospitable.

Kindhearted soul was selected for National Geographic's Daily Dozen, March 25th, 2010

Kindhearted soul was editor selected for Kodak's Picture of The Day, March 11, 2011

Click here to purchase cards or prints of Kindhearted soul on my Fine Art America site.

Vancouver Residents Express Shame and Disgust For The Criminals That Trashed Our Beautiful City

2011-06-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

©TATUMWULFF2011

Rumor has it, June 15th, 2011, there were some lost souls determined to cause destruction in the streets of Vancouver, BC.

It appears that a few well known to police anarchist groups used the final game between the Vancouver Canucks and the Boston Bruins as yet another excuse to trample the downtown streets of Vancouver as unruly children in a playpen.

The members of these 'anarchist groups' lives must be so depleted of meaning, that they somehow derive pleasure in targeting any event in which they they can throw their temper tantrums in, courageously hiding their identities with bandannas covering their faces.

But let's not use the anarchist groups as scapegoats here. We are all aware of the "upstanding" college kids who also participated in this madness, of their own will.

Spoiled kids privileged with numerous opportunities most in this world could only ever dream of having, looting merchandise (that I am certain most could afford to pay for anyway), and setting cars ablaze, not having the foresight to see their silver spoon fed futures go up in the same flames set by their own 'pure', protected and coddled hands.

Any public apologies made by these privileged children are likely instigated by their high status parents, as reputations and family businesses are at stake here.

A prime example, Nathan Kotylak.
“Nathan’s behaviour that night does not reflect his true character,” Dr. Kotylak (Nathan's father, told Global B.C."

No, it reflects his lack of character Dr. Kotylak.

If you children want to prove any real regret, you're going to have to do better than that.

If you want to make a difference why don't you gather together and visit ALL of the highs schools in the lower mainland to discuss with the students how your actions were reprehensible and not to be admired. Explain to them how idiotic you were and for them to not use you as role models.

Only then, if such pro active attempts are made, will anyone, in my opinion, be able to took at you under a different light.

Aside from the rioters taking a pro active stance,

- I strongly urge for there to be speakers to visit ALL of the lower mainland high schools to discuss the riot.

I feel it is VITAL to address this, as we can use what happened as a tool to teach the young about what REAL integrity, courage and respect really means.

Please forward this idea on to others, I would love to see this happen.

It's one thing to bust the perpetrators of these crimes, but even equally as important, we need to take measures to prevent this from happening again - and not by means of more police, but by means of EDUCATING the young.

~~~~~~~

Another relevant part of the equation to this riot were the hundreds of onlookers who made the choice to stay and watch "the show", getting in the way of, and essentially outnumbering the police, rather than going home, as they should have done.

The spectators were a blow torch to the fires already lit.

They gave the delinquents an audience to further encourage the destruction throughout the downtown streets of Vancouver.

Had the onlookers left the scene, as many people did do when they immediately saw things were about to get out of hand, maybe the police would have been able to stop the criminals from lighting cars on fire, smashing store front windows, looting millions of dollars of merchandise and worst of all, they may have been able to prevent the courageous men and women who tried to stop the delinquents from their barbaric acts, from being seriously injured and hospitalized.

In fact, had the spectators gone home from the start, there would have likely been no need for brave citizens to endanger themselves against a young idiotic crowd, as police would have been able to apprehend the criminals, without being so outnumbered.

I offer you no leeway onlookers, you played a very integral part in this disgraceful act, and I hope you realize and are sorry for what you propelled.

I am astonished by the young looters obvious glee and pride in stealing merchandise from stores, like little children running free in an unrestricted Charlie and the Chocolate Factory fantasy land.

As if their actions will bear no repercussions.

Hopefully all the 'sweets' they gathered on their unabashed rampage will last them long enough through their deserved jail time.

Paradoxically, by way of their own hampered IQ levels, their own bragging rights 'trophy photos' have landed into police hands aside from spreading across the web like wild fire.

Another great example showing that thieves have never been reputed of their intelligence levels.

In regards to the young female looters and property bashers - What is wrong with you?

Where is your true feminine strength and honor? Why do you choose to mimic barbaric male aggression and violence over the beauty and honor of your higher selves?

Why are you seeking 'power' and 'pleasure' in violence? I urge you to ask yourselves that.

Through your mindless and shameful tirade, you better thank whomever you pray to at night, that nobody was killed by your foolish and detestable actions.

People were severely injured and attacked by these thugs, including one heroic man, Robert Mackay, who bravely stood alone in front of the Bay department store windows, trying to ward away the unruly criminals from causing further destruction. He was eventually dragged to the street and beaten by a disgusting mob of young, spoiled and ignorant boys.

And I refer to them as 'boys' because that is all they are. They are certainly not real men.

They know nothing of dignity or of honor or courage or sacrifice. They are disgraceful and the only way for them to begin to redeem themselves now is to personally apologize to everyone they hurt.

Face up to it and do the right thing.

Maybe one day a mob will treat them the way they treated Robert MacKay, whether one was involved in beating him, or to those who stood by and watched, maybe one day the same will happen to them and only then will they understand the deep shame they should now be feeling.

For anyone who participated in this dishonorable act, I make a plea to you to contact the brave citizens you either beat or turned your back on to ask for forgiveness.

For anyone who participated in this riot, whether or not they had petrol or broken glass on their hands, or whether they cheered and applauded the animal house show, I make a plea for you to also apologize to those whom were injured and to the city of Vancouver.

I also urge you to do some honest soul searching.

As to why or how anyone would take pleasure in participating or witnessing these acts, is beyond comprehension.

The rioters shamed our city by their low life acts.

Rioters: Smarten up, get a life, make a conscience effort to contribute in a positive way to this world and to our community.

You might want to actually read some of those books you stole from the Chapters bookstore.

If these acts are how you define yourselves and if this is what makes you proud of yourselves, I certainly wish we could send you all to a prison somewhere in a less developed country.

My first suggestions would either be to a Turkish prison, or how about the infamous "Bangkok Hilton", and for at least a few months to hopefully give you an understanding of the gratitude you should feel for what privileges and freedoms you have in this country. You spoiled and ungrateful fools.

And if you still don't understand, I'd say let them keep you there.

June 19th, 2011

Tatum Wulff

"The wise are instructed by reason, average minds by experience, the stupid by necessity and the brute by instinct."
-Marcus Tullius Cicero

ANOTHER HERO I JUST READ ABOUT IN THE PROVINCE NEWSPAPER - Bert Easterbrook

Some captures from the "Wall of Hope", where Vancouver residents express their pain and anguish over how the rioters disgraced our beautiful city.
(At the Bay department store, on Granville and Georgia street, and other surrounding buildings nearby, in the heart of the downtown core. The boards replaced the windows smashed during the riots.)

©TATUMWULFF2011

©TATUMWULFF

©TATUMWULFF2011

©TATUMWULFF

©TATUMWULFF2011

MAIKO - Kyoto, Japan

2011-06-16T05:53:00.000-07:00

Maiko, or an apprenticing Geisha, in the heart of the Gion district of Kyoto, Japan.

MAIKO - Kyoto ©TatumWulff

This picture tells a bit of a story...

It is evident that the girl dressed in normal everyday clothing is most likely the 'younger sister' of the beautifully dressed Maiko.

Younger sister is a figurative term in Japan, given to the girls who study from practicing Maiko or Geisha until they are ready to become Maiko themselves.

It is apparent that she is the younger sister, because she is carrying the belongings of the Maiko.

Of course, the Maiko is her older sister, or O-nesan.

Many Japanese people have told me I am very fortunate to have been able to capture this image, as seeing real Maiko or Geisha in Gion, or anywhere, is very rare these days, as it is a dying profession. Additionally, they have said capturing an image of a Maiko with her younger sister is just extraordinarily lucky!!

What does Geisha mean...

Geisha translated to direct English is art person, or one could say, artist.

A Geisha is a traditional, female Japanese entertainer who is highly skilled in the classical Japanese arts. Her skills range from singing and performing traditional dance to playing classical musical instruments, such as the shamisen.

Moreover, her skill at the art of conversation is highly important and she therefore tends to have knowledge of historic and current events. Geisha are expected to create an atmosphere of relaxation and entertainment. Their gracious social etiquette skills are as impeccable as is their appearance and delicate demeanor.

Sepia version....

MAIKO ©TatumWulff

MAIKO. Kyoto was editor selected for National Geographic's Daily Dozen Nov. 16th, 2010

MAIKO.Kyoto was KODAK's Picture of The Day January 30th, 2010

Blue Sunrise, Yangshuo, Guilin, China

2011-06-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

Sunrise in Yanghuo, Guilin, China.

Yangshuo is an enchanting destination nestled on the banks of the Li River surrounded by spectacular limestone mountains. For centuries painters, poets and philosophers have been to drawn to this majestic location. It was one of my favorite Nihonga, or Traditional Japanese Painting, artists' artwork from his visit here that inspired me to go as well.

Blue Sunrise ©TatumWulff

"Blue Sunrise" was Editor selected for display in one of National Geographic’s Top Ten Photo Galleries of The Year 2010 in their online magazine.

I had received the following newsletter e-mail message from National Geographic, but was not aware that my image was included in the "Your China Photos" gallery - included in the Top Ten Photo Galleries of The Year 2010.

I accidentally discovered my image in the gallery while browsing the web.

It was quite a fantastic surprise! And I do make a point of checking my e-mails more thoroughly now!

"Your China Photos"

Included in National Geographic's Top Ten Galleries of 2010

'Blue Sunrise' was also selected for National Geographic’s Daily Dozen Aug 11, 2010

'Blue Sunrise' was Kodak's Picture of The Day Aug 8, 2010.

Purchase Blue Sunrise prints from Blue Canvas

Purchase Blue Sunrise prints from Fine Art America

Blowing the Whistle on Redbubble's Serial Killer Baby Wear

2011-06-15T00:43:00.000-07:00

As some of you may have heard, there have been ongoing protests surrounding Redbubble.com, the art site I formally promoted my work on, until I learned of what RB's CEO was endorsing.

There was an issue of Redbubble selling a line of T-shirts adorning pro Nazi slogans, which you can read about in the following links:

FirmSpy:http://firmspy.com/law-disorder/5613/exclusive-oh-heil-arnold-bloch-leibler-represents-company-spruiking-neo-nazi-propaganda
A 2nd follow up article by FirmSpy:
http://firmspy.com/allens-arthur-robinson/5752/reflections-on-the-hipster-hitler-saga-lawyers-censorship-and-professional-ethics

FirmSpy proved to offer as a refuge where protesters could safely voice their opinions without being censored as they had been on Redbubble.

Here is a fantastic write up by Paul Wilkinson offering more insight into Aconex, whom the Redbubble CEO, Martin Hosking, is chairman of. The writer explains how the issues surrounding the CEO's art site may effect his position at Aconex.

http://www.extranetevolution.com/2011/06/aconex-chairman-in-hitler-t-shirt-row/

Another article by 'The Age' in Australia:
"Don't mention the war: artists reminded that Hitler's no joke"
Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/dont-mention-the-war-artists-reminded-that-hitlers-no-joke-20110604-1fmdf.html#ixzz1Q8rT5Vft

The battle and story surrounding the 'Serial Killer Baby Wear' has just ended with a bitter-sweet "win". A battle that in my opinion, should not have been necessary to pursue in the first place.

A number of tasteless shirts celebrating Osama bin Laden being killed popped up on Redbubble following the news reports of his death, May 2nd, 2011.

Through my objecting of these shirts, as I felt they contravened Redbubble's guidelines, I discovered they were not only available as men and women's T-shirts, but were additionally offered as baby and kid's wear. Inappropriate? Yes. Absurd? Beyond comprehension.

I brought this to the attention of Redbubble's CEO, he agreed they were "odd" results due to the fact, ALL designs uploaded to Redbubble, since the launching of the kid's wear just over 12 months ago (in May of 2010), were automatically available as baby and kids wear, by a default setting. Were the artist aware of this default setting, they could de-tick their design to not appear as baby or child wear.

But not all artists were aware of this default setting, and many non active members who had uploaded designs prior to the launching of the kid's wear, were likely completely unaware that their Adult Only designs were being sold on Redbubble as baby wear.

After searching through the archived RB weekly Newsletters, I found the official announcement of the launching of the child wear, that being May 19th, 2010.

Within one of the comments under the announcement was a link to an artist's journal whom expressed concern over the fact his own designs were highly inappropriate for baby wear. He listed a few visual examples, including one of Charles Manson's face adorning a baby jumper.

Seeing this rattled me to the core. I was deeply saddened, upset and quite horrified at what I had stumbled upon. It was quite honestly a horrible day for me, and immediately brought me to the conclusion to leave and never return to or promote Redbubble.

But the horror didn't end there, as I realized that although this artist appeared to express genuine concern over his design being unsuitable for baby wear, for some reason he had left it available for sale as such for 12 months.

Again, I was horrified.

It eludes me why anyone would want to market and profit from the image of such a monster, even sold as an adult shirt, but to choose to keep it for sale as a baby jumper left me stupefied. And let's not forget, Redbubble was alerted to this journal the same day the baby wear was launched, and they took zero action to address what was shown to them.

The artist removed the design from the baby wear line once complaints were made, but not without dissent by some members of Redbubble who have consistently objected to anything protesters have expressed concern over.

Members who objected to the protesters have made tireless efforts, I am assuming, to maintain the community as it once was, prior to people learning of pro Nazi materials and Adult Only content on baby wear being sold on the site.

The integrity of the site was compromised by management's decisions to sell these materials, not by concerned members who felt the materials were harmful and inappropriate and expressed as such. The community would not have been so driven apart had management taken responsible action from the start.

After doing a quick search in Redbubble, I discovered a number of serial killer images that were being sold as baby wear.

Images ranging from Charles Manson, Ted Bundy, serial killer and cannibal - Albert Fish, Hitler, Osama bin Laden to Ivan Milet and more.

After discovering all of this, I wrote a farewell journal to my friends on the art site I had once loved dearly.. as I had firmly decided it was time for me to go. Within five minutes of my posting my explanation of why I was leaving, my journal was removed and my account suspended. I was told by RedBubble administration a few lines I had written breached their guidelines. It was unclear to me how they had, as I had not "named and shamed" anyone (which is against their 'Play Nice Policy').

A reply was not sent to me, after I had enquired as to how I had breached their guidelines, and as to which guideline I had broken.

It appears that more "Freedom of Speech" is granted for those who have harmful and disruptive materials, no matter how offensive and inappropriate the materials are, than to those who object to those offensive items. The guidelines are designed in a way that favor objectionable materials vs that of anyone who might speak against them. As a good friend of mine has said, "We are all equal here on RedBubble, some a bit more equal than others".

I finally made the decision to contact child protection and news agencies regarding what I had discovered, as Redbubble had already stated they were not going to employ an opt in (or optional rather than default) setting for the baby wear.

They announced they were going to keep the default setting and only make the NSFW (not safe for work place viewing) items unavailable as child wear. This did not address or solve this issue. As more than likely there were 1000's of adult only materials, that were not listed as NSFW on the site.

Within 24 hrs of sending my letter, in which I compiled a list of approximately 50 baby jumpers with serial killers faces on them, I was contacted by Susie O'Brien of the Herald Sun Melbourne. Susie asked if she could quote me on my email to her, and if I could forward her the letter I had sent to the Australian Family Association.

I agreed and consequently she published the following article based on the information I provided her:

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/hitler-bin-laden-and-milat-baby-clothes-on-sale-in-melbourne/story-fn7x8me2-1226073321021

I sent Susie the following message thanking her for publishing the article:

Hi Susie,
I wanted to thank you for publishing such an informative and important article on the baby wear. I have read some of your replies to your readers in the article which has also reaffirmed for me that I sent my letter to the right person, as I see you have expressed very similar sentiments to that of my own, in regards to seeing serial killers faces on baby wear.

There had been numerous reports of inappropriate content on baby wear which were also extremely disturbing, but the tipping point for me was seeing Charles Manson's face on a baby jumper. Just to tell you personally, it left me feeling rattled inside... I was deeply saddened and extremely upset. It was a horrible day for me quite honestly. It was also the day I decided to leave Redbubble permanently, but upon speaking out in my farewell journal, explaining to my peers why I had to leave, Redbubble censored my journal, deleted it, and suspended my account for 7 days.

So I was forced to wait another week before I could close my account on their site.

I am really grateful you brought this issue to people's attention, as Redbubble management only seem to respond or make appropriate changes to their site when investigated by larger organizations.

I am hoping I can find a hard copy of the article today, I'm not sure if your newspaper can be purchased here in Vancouver, but I will search for it today.

Many grateful thanks for writing on this important issue,

Kind Regards,

Tatum Wulff

Susie was kind enough to reply:

glad you saw the article, thanks for the tip-off

All the best to you!

Susie

~

The story then proceeded to go viral as her article gathered momentum across the web, appearing in a number of sites from various parts of Australia, to the UK, India and Fiji. Friends informed me there were a couple of brief mentions of it on the news as well.

Additionally, Susie's article was printed in hard copy on the front page of the Herald Sun Melbourne.

The intention in forwarding my letter to various news agencies and child protection services, was to get the right organizations involved to intervene and do something about this issue, as Redbubble were dragging their heels and appeared to not realize or acknowledge the harm they were causing by not taking a pro active and ethical stance on the issue.

Had they taken responsibility from the start, none of this would have occurred.

Finally, after all the media attention, on June 13th, 2011, I was sent an e-mail from Redbubble stating that they had at last created an opt in function for designs uploaded to the site, what we had been requesting for them to do all this time.

It's a shame Redbubble had to be pressured into taking action - action that should have been initiated prior to the launching of the baby wear. I am elated it was finally done, but I cannot offer praise to Redbubble, as they did not make this decision willingly. Therefore, it's a bitter-sweet "win".

A win, nonetheless, of which I am extremely pleased with, but it came at the cost of a lot of pain for myself and several others.

Members protesting the Adult Only content on baby wear (ranging not only from serial killers faces, but from sexual content to all types of violence) (and those whom also protested the "Hipster Hitler" line of shirts) were censored and numerous accounts suspended, not to mention the incessant harassing and dissent from those trying their best to protect Redbubble from anyone whom expressed any objections to management's decisions.

These members relentless harassment and ridicule of the protesters created a tremendous amount of pain and difficulty for those in protest, not to mention other members of the community who remained silent.

Regardless of the fact, The Anti Defamation Commission and various Jewish organizations pressured Redbubble to remove the Hipster Hitler shirts that sport neo Nazi slogans mocking victims of the holocaust, (as the ADC and Jewish groups' opinions were shared by those in protest), and the opt in function for the baby wear was implemented (as many had pleaded Redbubble to employ), there have been no direct apologies by Redbubble management nor from those who burdened protesters by incessant badgering.

There has only been further dissent and criticism toward those whom protested.

Most of Redbubble's greatest artists either left, or were removed from the site.

It is truly a shame, as Redbubble was once a great source of inspiration with a very encouraging and supportive community. Sadly, that special Redbubble spark has left the building for me.

I would like to express my gratitude to those who began protesting and making people aware of various issues as far back as eight months ago in December, 2010. You have my complete respect for your diligence, integrity and sound judgement, especially for having to withstand such unjust persecution and criticism.

To all those who contributed, even by leaving silently, as a way of protest and objection, you have my respect and understanding.

For the members who remain on Redbubble, I also respect your decision and I genuinely hope that the community will be restored to a harmonious and inspiring source for you now that some appropriate changes have been implemented.

The battle was won, I feel, for the betterment of all involved. Why I and other like minded protesters were attacked for trying to do what I believe the majority of ethically sound people would agree on, I will not hold any grudges over, but use as an avenue of studying human behavior.

This entire experience from start to finish has proven to be an incredible learning experience for me. I walk away from it with a lot of wounds and battle scars, but it was well worth the fight.

Tatum Wulff

June 13th, 2011

“Ethics is nothing else than reverence for life.” -Albert Schweitzer

Links to news agencies and blogs featuring Susie O'Brien's article:

Hitler, bin Laden and Milat baby clothes on sale in Melbourne | Herald Sun
Sick clothing for kids dressed to kill | Adelaide Now
Sick little clothes - when baby faces are dressed to kill | thetelegraph.com.au
Serial killer baby onesies spark outrage | Courier Mail
Hitler, bin Laden and Ivan Milat baby clothes on sale in Melbourne | News.com.au
'Serial killer' baby clothes spark outrage - Yahoo!7
Baby clothes outrage - World - NZ Herald News
Serial killer baby onesies spark outrage « News Feed « Brisbane News
Outrage over baby clothes with serial killer pictures | Otago Daily Times Online News Keep Up to Date Local, National New Zealand & International News
Baby clothes with serial killer pictures
Baby clothes with killer pictures | Odd Spot | BigPond News
Killers on baby clothes - national | Stuff.co.nz
Hitler, bin Laden and Ivan Milat baby clothes on sale in Melbourne | Perth Now
Oz shop sells baby clothes featuring Hitler, Osama bin Laden, Ivan Milat | TruthDive
Baby clothes featuring Hitler, Milat on sale | Sharezilla
Hitler, Milat's baby clothes on sale (The India Times)
Oz firm criticized over baby clothes with pictures of Hitler, bin Laden & serial killers - What's On Dalian (A site from Liaoning)
Oz shop sells baby clothes featuring Hitler, Osama bin Laden, Ivan Milat - Online News # 5216 (News site in Kerela)
Baby clothes with serial killer - One News Page [Aus] Asia-Pac.
Work That Matters: F'd Ad Fridays: Dead OBL as infantwear brand
Hitler, bin Laden and Milat baby clothes on sale in Melbourne – Herald Sun | Newsplog.com
Hitler, Milat's baby clothes on sale - Silobreaker
The word Tasteless doesn't describe this crap! - SUBSIM Radio Room Forums
ORDER OF THE CRITICAL BELIEVERS - 'Serial killer' baby clothes spark outrage
'Serial killer' baby clothes spark outrage - In the news - Mother and Baby
Baby clothes with serial killers faces on them..... - Bub Hub Pregnancy & Parenting Forum
Serial killers feature on baby clothes | Stuff.co.nz
njus$8 » Serial killers feature on baby clothes – Stuff.co.nz
Serial killers feature on baby clothes | Stuff.co.nz - Digg
Baby clothes outrage - New Zealand Herald
NZ Australian firm criticised over baby clothes from NZCity
Serial killers feature on art website’s baby range | Kiwi247 New Zealand News, Business, Travel, Lifestyle, entertainment, NZ Dollar, flights, Sport, companies | KIWI 24x7
myZOOTopStoriesSerialKilleronsiesssparkoutrage
Outrage over baby clothes with serial killer pictures | Otago Daily Times Online News Keep Up to Date Local, National New Zealand & International News
Baby Clothes | Baby Clothes With Killer Pictures
Sick clothing for kids dressed to kill | Australia Campervans
Briefly - Fiji Times Online (Fiji Times)
LexisNexis News - Latest News from over 4,000 sources, including newspapers, tv transcripts, wire services, magazines, journals.
Baby clothes outrage - New Zealand Herald | My Nucleus
Baby clothes outrage – New Zealand Herald by Car Truck Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
William, Harry mark shoes to avoid a mix-up | Protest Watch
Oz shop sells baby clothes - Road Runner
Serial killers feature on baby clothes | McBlog
Serial killers feature on art website's baby range | Safe Kids Go Green
Serial killers feature on baby clothes – Stuff.co.nz | Andrew and Karla's Place
Serial killers feature on art website's baby range | Clipmarks
Serial Killers Feature On Baby Clothes - Congoo
Redbubble.com products attract ire | IR News | Inside Retailing
First, Hitler. Next, serial killer t-shirts… | Extranet Evolution

JUNE 17, 2011 -
AN UPDATE ON REDBUBBLE'S CEO RESIGNING FROM HIS POSITION AS CHAIRMAN OF ACONEX.

REFER TO THE FOLLOWING NEWS ARTICLES:

The Register

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2011/06/17/redbubble_founder_quits_aconex/

Sunday Morning Herald

http://www.smh.com.au/business/baillieu-family-heads-to-court-to-burst-red-bubble-20110617-1g7zt.html

The Age

http://www.theage.com.au/business/baillieu-family-heads-to-court-to-burst-red-bubble-20110617-1g7zt.html

FIRMSPY

AllensGate Update: Shareholders Issue Proceedings Against Aconex, Shitfight Ensues

http://firmspy.com/allens-arthur-robinson/5879/allensgate-update-shareholders-issue-proceedings-against-aconex-shitfight-ensues

'One' by U2, with poignant Black and White imagery of the Human Condition

2011-06-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

"One" by U2, a song that rips through my heart each time I hear it.

I found this accompanying youtube video with a stream of deeply poignant Black and White imagery of the human condition.

Please take the time to view the images, I would love to hear from you, on your reaction to the imagery and music.

Lots of Love,

Tatum Wulff

"The Decisive Moment & Enigma" ~ A couple of my favorite images.

2011-06-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

I raised my camera to catch this woman J-walking across the street on my way home from picking up groceries. I had a couple frames left on my memory card, and was only hoping to get a good city street shot in the rain.

It wasn't until I got home and looked at the frame that I realized the three people carrying umbrellas were nicely in sync within the image.

I was quite delighted and thanked the photo 'gods' for the coincidental result! It reminded me of a great Henri Cartier-Bresson quote:

"I'm not responsible for my photographs. Photography is not documentary, but intuition, a poetic experience. It's drowning yourself, dissolving yourself, and then sniff, sniff, sniff – being sensitive to coincidence. You can't go looking for it; you can't want it, or you won't get it. First you must lose your self. Then it happens."

- Henri Cartier-Bresson

The Decisive Moment ©TatumWulff2010

This next capture proves to be my personal favorite thus far for candid shots I've captured in 2011.

I pass by this shop every week and have wanted to capture a reflection of some passerby along with the intriguing Fornasetti plates hanging on the shop wall.

The street is not a busy one though, so I patiently waited for about five minutes for someone to walk past.

I had never expected this woman to stop and peer inside the window, with an expression of astonishment on her face!

I couldn't believe she did, especially considering I was standing right there with my camera pointing directly at her. She didn't seem to notice me, or pretended not to. I was thrilled to see her face overlapped with the face of the first Fornasetti plate.

I'm very glad I had the patience to wait five minutes on that day for something to happen.

"Inside movement there is one moment in which the elements are in balance. Photography must seize the importance of this moment and hold immobile the equilibrium of it."

- Henri Cartier-Bresson

Enigma ©TatumWulff2011

Piero Fornasetti biography

... p a i n ...

2011-06-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Like a puppet with broken strings

Can't do this or that for the pain it brings..

In it's absence, the tide travels free..

I roam and dance and laugh,

As your vexing torture subsides in me..

Did I do too much or play too hard?

Complex to express your menacing ways

Your entangled nature, an anomaly..

I know you too well!

And your unwelcome presence is a torturous hell.

You cascade through my arms,

Like fencing shards of glass...

Once limber and soft,

Now inflexible and bound..

Leaving me a fallen doll,

With broken bits too deep to fix,

Once upon a time,

Pristine, autonomous,

I was the ruler of my

body....

Till you came 'round.....

I battle you with anger,

I battle you with love,

I make a desperate plea..

I beg for you to let me free..

A hopeful but hollow wish,

Knowing the callous reality..

You suffocate and smolder,

The burning fire ravenous inside of me..

Am I to meditate on your presence,

Love, Bless and Welcome you ..

Learning lessons from the fence you

Stake in my fields of Gold.. ?

I know others suffer more so..

And would feel blessed,

With only my level of your wrath..

But I recall my life when

I didn't know of you...

When I could take pride in my

Physical strength,

And in the things I could do.

Such is life...

I am left with an important reminder..

To love and feel gratitude

For all that I do have and can do...

Thank you for letting me rant...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This writing was spurred on by a recent flare up of a chronic injury that likes to torture me on a regular basis.

Last week I was overly confident in thinking I could handle lifting a certain weight; I am now paying the consequences for carrying something that prior to being injured, I could and did lift things double or triple the weight of that which has now left me in pain..

This pain starts in my right arm, spreads up and down, into my fingers and wrist, up my neck, into my shoulders and down my back.. leaving basic movements, such as brushing one's teeth, lifting a cup of tea or pushing buttons on a phone a very painful endeavor... Oddly enough, in the past couple of years my left side has started mimicking the right. I often get similar pain in my left, which travels up the side of my neck and right into my ear! How very pleasant..

I am not seeking sympathy. Others are much worse off than me...

I just needed to rant and express.

About five years ago I was injured at a previous work place in my neck, arms and hands. Prior to this injury (similar to that of a repetitive stress injury) I was quite strong and never hesitated to lift heavy items.

In fact, while living in Hong Kong and Japan, I often helped in carrying heavy boxes and large rolls of leather, for example (for manufacturing products). I always had strong arms. That's why it is even more unbelievable to me that I no longer have even a quarter of the physical strength I had just six years ago.

Without getting into too much detail, as I don't like to be reminded of the deceit and greed surrounding the assessment and false support by my ex-boss and the insurance employees (snakes!), I was never even compensated.

I never thought I would be sitting here five years later writing about the ongoing pain that still drastically interferes with my life.

As I had mentioned in my poem, the one silver lining in this sob story is that it reminds me to be grateful of what I do have and what I can do. I know others have it much worse than me. And my heart goes out to them.... xxoo

Featured Artist of the Month in RB's Candid Photography group!

2011-03-23T05:11:00.000-07:00

March 22, 2011

I was interviewed by Jeff Stroud, Host of Candid Photography:

"Tatum Wulff’s work has inspired me for months now, as a co-host of Candid Photography Group I am honored to offer her a Feature as an artist/photographer, as a featured Member of our awesome, awe inspiring group.

When I Bmailed Tatum about her feature, she enthusicaly responded joyously and humbly !!! Which is something view in what Tatum brings to her work. Upon going to Tatum’s profile page you will find numerous Photographs that have been feature in Kodak Picture of the day list, National Geographic Daily Dozen three different times.

Tatum’s Photography work spans the globe from her home in Canada, to the far east, Japan, India, Thailand, China . In her interview with me she mentioned that capturing candid shot in the far east was a much more pleasant experience, which truly presents its self in her touch, compassion shots.

Tatum’s response to me was this: “Jeff, this honor literally chokes me up, I am truly touched and humbled by this. It means so much to me, you have really made a positive impact on my self esteem as a photographer and an artist, I truly thank you from my heart.”

It is an honor to offer you Tatum Wulff."

~ Thank you again Jeff, for this wonderful opportunity. You have been such a joy to communicate with. As members, we are so lucky to have you host such an important and appealing group for so many.

Thank you to your co-hosts as well, Chris Curnow and Ell-on-Wheels, who do a tremendous job running the group as well.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Questions from Jeff Stroud, host of Candid Photography.

I would like to ask you some questions about your work, your thoughts behind what you do as a photographer, some idea’s and hints to those pursuing candid photography.

One question first off why do you shoot in B & W or process your photography into B&W? What are your feelings on that matter?

Do you go out looking for a special shot or do you let the lay of the land inform you on what to shoot?

Who has inspired your work?

Firstly, I would like to thank Jeff Stroud for this wonderful opportunity and tremendous honor, I am incredibly grateful and really cannot thank him enough. Thank you also Jeff, for featuring 12 of my images, you selected quite a few of my personal favorites, thank you so much!!.

~ One can easily gauge from visiting my portfolio where my heart lies, that being with travel and the connections I made with people throughout my journeys. While traveling, I soon realized, what I valued most.. Visiting exotic locations with deep historical roots always stirs my heart, but making connections with the local people of those incredible places is something I value and treasure beyond words.

From an early age, I had aspirations to study psychology, as I am fascinated by the human condition and by people’s behavior. Life showed me a different path, and my love for the arts and travel won over my aspirations of formally studying psychology. While traveling and living from one day to the next through instinct and spontaneity, I soon developed a love for photographing those ephemeral moments that stir my heart and tickle my mind.

Through candid street photography, I feel I am documenting current social traits and behavior as well as cultural and individual belief systems. I am documenting real life, as much as I possibly can, during this phenomenal era that I am a part of.

I have always been drawn to Eastern culture and have spent several years studying Eastern philosophy and arts, specifically, Nihonga, or Traditional Japanese painting. My travels through culturally diverse locations and my studies in Japan have largely influenced my perspective and path in life. I would not be who I am today, had I not met and connected with the people of Laos, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, China and other culturally diverse ethnicities. They are part of my identity, and to have been given the opportunity to document some moments of their lives is a great honor and a blessing that I deeply cherish.

I believe street photography can be used as a way for us to reflect on what kind of a world we not only live in, but what kind of a world we want to live in. To quote Mahatma Gandhi, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Although I am not documenting wars or anything equally as challenging, I am documenting class systems (or as what is referred to as a caste system in India), male and females societal roles, love, fear and everything in between, even fashion trends which reflect societal values. I find that most fascinating, to document and compare what various cultures value vs what they do not value.

Candid street photography shows us people from all walks of life, with various backgrounds, from the impoverished to the wealthy, of all age groups, under any circumstance, and lets us reflect upon the fact that we all need the same basic things in life.. of course, having the basic necessities of food, clean water and a roof over our heads is essential to our well being (and it is mind boggling and very sad that there are many who are without these basic necessities). Also, we are social creatures living in an interconnected world that need one another, in order to understand ourselves and to experience what is most important, which this world often loses sight of, that being truth and love. It goes without saying, family and friends are of utmost importance in this life. Having a dream and aspirations are imperative to our individual and collective happiness as well, in my opinion. I believe all of this relates to and can be observed through street photography, as what we are capturing tells many stories of all aspects of life and of the human condition.

Some idea’s and hints to those pursuing candid photography.

Most importantly, I want to say that giving respect, dignity and gratitude toward the subjects being captured, is of utmost importance and priority for me. I am not a fan of exploiting a subjects condition to add extra drama to a capture. This is not right, and it’s something that bothers me when I witness it being done. Also, choosing a title for your subject (referring mainly to subjects living in an impoverished environment or situation) that denotes a sense of hope vs hopelessness, is an important and respectful gesture toward your subject. I think it’s important to not infer or be presumptuous in the title that your subject is hopeless or destined for a life of hardship. We have taken their picture, so that alone demands our respect and gratitude, and offering an inference of hope is a greater sign of gratitude toward the person than an inference of hopelessness.

For capturing candids of children or say, people who are for example, sitting on the street (asking for assistance/money/food), I think it’s important to shoot from a low angle when possible by kneeling or bending down to their eye level in order to get a more personal shot vs one which could possibly appear voyeuristic. It doesn’t always appear voyeuristic, but at times it can. A more intimate capture that could potentially show the connection made with the photographer could be a better final result, than a capture that may have a disconnected feeling, or one of looking at the person from a safe distance, or from above. The POV really makes a world of difference in the final result.

It can be a great challenge to overcome fears of raising one’s camera to ‘strangers’ and capturing what has moved you to do so, which as you know, must be done without hesitation, otherwise, in most cases your shot and that moment will have gone forever.

Admittedly, it was significantly easier to get candids in the East, where people seem more at ease with themselves and less cautious, as some quite often even requested me to take their photo. The response in the West in palpably different. Albeit, there is the odd occasion I find someone who loves the camera and appears very pleased I have taken interest in them. But I rarely ever get the “I am aware you are taking my photo, I am looking directly at you and am remaining ‘candid’ (vs looking away),” shot, here in the West! That is almost unheard of in my experience thus far. Just think of how many such candids you have seen on RedBubble taken in Asia… I rarely ever see such direct candid facial expressions captured in the West. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, but there is certainly a significant difference between candids captured in the East vs the West in that regard, I think that in itself is a an interesting cultural observation and comparison to explore.

From my personal experience, candids captured in the West in general, have to be done with more discretion. It took me some time to overcome my fears of being chased down the street by upset subjects who were not happy with me pointing my camera at them. It has been a great lesson for me to overcome this fear. I encourage anyone who wants to pursue candid street photography to overcome those apprehensions you may have while pursuing this, as it will teach you what overcoming any fear in life usually does – that the fear itself is usually bigger and overblown in your mind vs the level of fear experienced when one undertakes the actual endeavor… it’s usually not as bad as we imagine it will be… in most cases!

In the process of overcoming my fears of getting candids in the West, one thing I have been doing recently is not putting my camera down if someone has caught me taking their picture (unless of course, they look upset!). I will keep it up, maybe zooming in and out, inferring that there is the possibility I am taking a picture of something around them. It has helped quell any distress that I’ve been caught. I’ve upset nobody thus far in doing this. Quite often, people don’t appear to be as disapproving as I fear they will be (while taking their photo), which of course, gives me a great sense of relief and has propelled me to continue shooting. I never publish any images in which I have upset someone by my taking their photo. I’ve only had two upset subjects, in the 12 years I’ve been shooting.

Another suggestion if you are just starting out with candid street shots and are trying to overcome any fears, is to go shooting with a friend and ask them to stand near your real subject, you can pretend to take your friend’s photo and in the meantime get the shot you are really after.

Shoot fast. Street photography doesn’t wait for you or slow down for you to get your settings right or for you to get over any fears you have. You either shoot and get the shot, or you miss it, simple as that. There are times you may get a second chance, but most of the time the moments are fleeting. Sometimes I keep my camera in continuous shooting mode, to help in ensuring I catch that ephemeral moment I am after. Of course, try to decipher what kind of DOF and sharpness/blur you want to achieve beforehand and arrange your camera settings accordingly.

If you have any apprehensions, you could start out by shooting from the hip. I am not skilled with this manouver and have only ever gotten a few good shots from doing so, and have quite often missed some incredibly good moments by doing this, but anything is worth trying at least once! Occasionally you can get something very interesting with the angle or POV.

The most important thing to do, I believe, is to go with your instincts and give in to your passion, let that override any fears you may be letting in the way of what you want to achieve.

Why do you shoot in B & W or process your photography into B&W? What are your feelings on that matter?

I didn’t start out processing a lot of my images in B & W, as I felt several of my captures from places such as India and Thailand were painted with such vibrant and distinct colors which I feel are largely characteristic of those cultures. I originally did not have a preference between color or B & W. I only chose what I felt best represented the essence of that place or people.

As many of my friends on RedBubble have seen, I have taken a preference to B & W in recent months. I think I made this transition because I realized that although some images work very well in color, recently, I have been feeling that B & W somehow staples the image as a moment in time from the past.. it removes any possible distracting elements created by color and in a way delayers the surface beauty to reveal the soul, essence and deeper emotion or mood of that place or people in that moment in time.

If an image works in both color and in B & W, I will display both versions.

Sometimes an image is meant to be in color, other times it is crying for B & W. It is up to the artist to attune their instincts to the essence of that image to make the right decision! Just as when I paint, I feel the painting already exists within the paints and the board, I just have to follow my instincts to find it and bring it out. It is the same with photography.

Do you go out looking for a special shot or do you let the lay of the land inform you on what to shoot?

To quote the great Henri Cartier Bresson

“I’m not responsible for my photographs. Photography is not documentary, but intuition, a poetic experience. It’s drowning yourself, dissolving yourself, and then sniff, sniff, sniff – being sensitive to coincidence. You can’t go looking for it; you can’t want it, or you won’t get it. First you must lose your self. Then it happens.”

I carry my camera with me everywhere I go. It’s with me during any outing, including trips to the grocery store. At which times, I have unexpectedly taken some of my most favorite shots. I am always hoping for something extraordinary to appear while I am out, but I can never guess what will happen. There are the occasions though, where we can expect something to happen in a certain location, and wait patiently for it. Such an occasion would be with this shot:

Whereas with this second shot, I did not expect the results seen at all, in fact I did not know that I had captured a trio of people with umbrellas walking in unison in the image. I had raised my camera to capture the woman in the foreground carrying an umbrella, jay walking across the street. I only wanted to capture a day in the life of an often rainy city. I captured this on my way back from purchasing groceries.

Influences; or Who has inspired your work?:

James Nachtwey the American photojournalist and war photographer, “considered by many to be the greatest war photographer of recent decades. He has covered conflicts and major social issues in more than 30 countries.”

Henri Cartier Bresson who coined the term, The Decisive Moment.

Steve McCurry, another genius..

Vivian Maier A fascinating story of a highly talented and interesting woman (if you haven’t yet heard of her), and a body of work to make you drool! A beautiful collection, thanks to the individual who is organizing her hundreds, or thousands of negatives….

Artists on RedBubble who have influenced and inspired me:,

Andrew Makowieck has had a huge influence on my street photography since meeting him on RedBubble. His love and compassion for people comes shining through in his work. Much of his work is reminiscent of some of the greats for me, and through visiting his gallery several times I was able to better decipher or narrow down my personal preference for B & W tonality (while I was making that transition from color). I’ve always said that people often admire artists who create paintings that look like photos, but I admire photographers who can take pictures that look like paintings. Andrew has a few works that accomplish this in a skillful and beautiful way, I truly admire him for who he is as a person and for the work he does. Among several ways Andrew has influenced me, shooting in the rain is one of them. I’ve developed a great passion for getting captures in the rain, whereas in the past, my camera remained indoors on such days. Thank you Andrew..

Elox has recently grabbed my full attention. His portfolio is filled with moody and deeply soulful emotive imagery, with mystery and intrigue. It is through ‘studying’ his work that I have taken a on a new passion for candid street shots at night. He also inspired me to start playing around with in camera blur, which as many of you well aware, has become a new passion that I cannot get enough of now. Thank you for the inspiration Elox.

Mukesh Srivastava is a dear friend, in fact my first friend on RedBubble. He assisted me and guided me very generously when I first joined the site. He has been very supportive and encouraging throughout all the time I have known him. His candids are most often done in the most beautiful and vibrant of colors. His use of color, is exemplary, and shows the essence of the place and people, just as much as B & W can do, if not more so. He is highly skilled and his work is done with dignity, pride and love, I am a huge fan of his work and I appreciate all the generous words of advice he has given me over the time I have known him. Thank you Mukesh.

Larry Graham’s work is bold and daring photojournalism at it’s best. He has several jaw droppers in his portfolio. I think his work speaks volumes about having the courage to shoot when you have to shoot! Thanks for inspiration Larry.

There are several street photographers whom I greatly admire on RedBubble. I would have a list as long as my arm if I continued. If you are in my watchlist, you know who you are. If you are not in my watchlist, it’s probably because I haven’t yet added you! There are many, many street photographers here who’ve deeply inspired me, and I am forever grateful.

Reflecting back to when I first started posting work online, not even two years ago, it is through the RedBubble community that I have learned the skills needed to take my photography in the direction I have wanted it to go. I am thrilled by the support and encouragement here, and am humbled by the positive response to my work, positive response from artists whom I have great respect for. The inspiration I have found within this community, and in wonderful groups, such as Candid Photography, has been so influential and of great value.

Thank you everyone, for your kind and generous support and encouragement. In all honesty, you have all helped me tremendously, and I hope that I can give back to you what you have given me…..

If anyone else has any tips or experiences to share regarding candid street shots, I would love to hear from you! Thank you so much

Okay, I have to add some more RedBubble artists whom I greatly admire and am inspired by…
Nayko Fantastic B & W street photography from France, Portugal and other beautiful locations.
Berns Aside for my love of her high contrast B & W works, which she is known for, I love that she captures moments and expressions between people not only who know one another but between strangers! Very inspiring!
Ell on Wheels host of Candid Photography, has a portfolio filled with beautifully inspiring B & W street shots.
Kimba Vetten has excellent candids from Taiwan, Cambodia and other locations. We share a love for animals as well, and she has adopted several abandoned and abused animals, from dogs to an elephant! Bless her heart…
Isa Rodriguez has some very touching real life candid images from Florida. She created a series Trailer Park Americana and shows the beauty and joy found through some excellent environmental portraits.
Simone Fisher has a tremendous portfolio, she has traveled extensively and has unique and beautiful candids from various countries.
Bareri, or Val, has an extensive gallery, with incredible street captures from all over the world… her post editing work is very beautiful as well.
Dinni H has several incredible candid portraits. I have been a fan of his for a long time now..
Kate Karsten has some excellent street captures from Melbourne, Australia.
Trish Woodford also has an incredible collection of images from Melbourne, Australia
SRana, or Shane, has truly heart stopping B & W work from Nepal! The B & W tonality in his images is spot on, he captures light so well, his portfolio is just outstanding! I love every image he posts!
Mojca Savicki from Slovenia, has an outstanding gallery of candid street photography. A very skilled photographer.
There are many more I can easily add to this list, but my hands are quite sore from typing right now!
Thank you for the inspiration everyone!

kimba vetten: T, I am so glad you have this recognition. Your street work is fantastic. You said that I was one of the members here on RB who you admire and who inspires you, well right back at you. Your work is very inspiring (even if you cut off feet….lol…..) it is the whole picture that you capture emotion and all. You have one of the kindest hearts I have ever met. Always caring about people and trying to help. And that shows in your work.

Well done again! This was the best choice ever.

rodeorose: HUGE congratulations Tatum on Featuring this month and on this wonderful interview- have enjoyed this very much, as I do your beautiful work and your generous presence on rb. Your often poignant work always shows your amazing humanity and compassion for your subjects. xxx

Trish Woodward: Huge congrats on the interview and recognition Tatum, thoroughly deserved. I found your interview really inspiring and interesting, your compassion and genuine nature shines thru as it does in your photography. Many excellent tips and advice for street photography in there also. There is a certain magic in candid images, part documentary, part observational – capturing a certain look, moment, character – it is certainly my favourite genre. And it is one that you have mastered so well Tatum. Congrats again and I feel honoured that you mentioned me amongst all those other amazing artists :))

Bern: Brilliant Interviw and huge congrats Tatum, Kimba would have to bring up those feet again, like Rose, the little boy on the bus is one of my faves of yours and of course that poor little boy with missing toes, thanks for the mention Hon, you know you inspire me too, but you will Not persuade me to go out in the rain! Hugs Tatum!!!!!!!!!!!

Kate karsten: Wow thank you so much Tatum!! I was reading away enjoying and then I saw you had added my name… :) I feel really honoured X

You really are a wonderful phototgrapher and you spread love with ease which is so special……a big congratulations!
You really are an amazing personx

@K – I am really touched by your kind words. You have long been a great support here, and have also inspired me deeply though your beautiful work and who you are as a person. Thank you for having such a positive influence on me. I will continue to clip the feet of my subjects LOL… as a protest to the idea that such things matter in a good story telling street image!

@Rosie – I have long admired your work, and am so flattered you have taken an interest in mine.. Thank you again for your incredible support, as well as for suggesting and getting my capture of “The Little Boy on The Bus” onto the RedBubble Home Page!! ;O) I am eternally grateful.

@Trish – So glad to see you here! Thank you for such an incredible compliment regarding my work. I can easily say the same about you, in that you have mastered this genre that so deeply inspires us. I love your style, and through your work, I am now so familiar with Melbourne’s famous Degraves St. A place I never knew of before and would love to visit!

@Berns – I will not give up in trying to convince you to shoot in the rain haha.. Your work has truly inspired me, and it’s been such a pleasure to communicate with you on RedBubble, I feel very fortunate to have crossed paths with you here. ;)

@Kate – You have been an incredible support here, and I always look forward to seeing your beautiful work. Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it’s very easy for anyone to see that you are very kind hearted, and also a very skilled photographer. So glad to have met you here. xx

Mukesh Srivastava :Brilliant and honest interview!!!!! Huge congrats for this well deserved opportunity, Tatum!!!! You are queen of candid/street photography…. You capture the real life documentary….. Keep it up…. Good luck for achieving more height!!!!!!

Thanx lot for remembering me in your interview!!!!!!!!

Thank you so much dear Mukesh!!!!! That is a GREAT compliment for me, coming from you!!!!!!!!!!!! Of course I remembered you, you have helped me so much, thank you.

Mojca Savicki :

Wow Tatum! Great interview indeed!! Haven’t seen it until only just now when i was trying something with my name in searching feature! Wow, you’re so kind and such a beautiful person and such great photographer! Thank you so so much for mentioning me amongst such excellent RB photographers! Truly an honour!!!

Hi Mojca, your work has long inspired me, ever since I met you here! Your street shots really raise the bar and inspire me to 'look outside the box'. Thank you so much for your supportive and kinds comments, and my apologizes for this late reply!

TateCapturesLife

Creating Firm Spy's New Logo - And a Big Thank You to Firm Spy for the Incredible Shout Out!

Warner Brothers Legal Action, Our New Logo & Tatum Wulff

Published in The Pink Panther Magazine

Beautiful Japan

Kindhearted Soul, Laos - National Geographic Daily Dozen and Kodak's Picture of The Day

Vancouver Residents Express Shame and Disgust For The Criminals That Trashed Our Beautiful City

MAIKO - Kyoto, Japan

Blue Sunrise, Yangshuo, Guilin, China

Blowing the Whistle on Redbubble's Serial Killer Baby Wear

'One' by U2, with poignant Black and White imagery of the Human Condition

"The Decisive Moment & Enigma" ~ A couple of my favorite images.

... p a i n ...

Featured Artist of the Month in RB's Candid Photography group!