Marion Volunteer Fire Department Station 3 annual banquet

Marion Volunteer Fire Department Station 3 annual banquet

I almost didn't make this banquet, and had to leave early to go out of town so I only had time to edit a few photos taken during Happy Hour. I am really busy these days and warm weather has not even arrived. 

Thankfully Liz Johns, wife of fireman Ray Johns, was on hand with her camera to document the event for the firefighters. I feel bad when I can't give our first responders the coverage they are so deserving of. Thanks for taking the pressure off me, Liz. And thanks for setting up the group shot. The below group photos were taken by me, but since Liz set them up I feel I should share the limelight for this photo with her. Its the ethical thing to do. When I worked for large daily newspapers back in the old days, I sometimes had to fight up to 30 or more photographers for one shot. When you have a few photographers working an assignment, it is easy to take a photo that has your personal signature on it.  In the old days, you only needed one or two shots but the newspapers were livid if your photos looked like their competitors photos, and your deadlines were tight, meaning shoot and scoot to the next assignment, especially when the news was big.  But I now shoot in a small town where the pace is slow, and I adhere to no deadlines or name taking. I am after all, retired. I do however, still adhere to both taught and learned ethics, and in this case, my ethics tell me thou shalt not steal the hard work of others without giving due them credit.

I have set up thousands of group shots over the years. Aye yi yi! What a job. Liz was a pro, and I give her credit for a job well done. 

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Notice the space in the front on the first photo. Liz quickly closed the gap.

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Some of the firemen cut up and posed for my camera while Liz worked on arranging the group.

Thanks to all the members of the Marion Volunteer Fire Department. You are appreciated!