PITTSTON — A photo exhibit at the Pittston Memorial Library last weekend provided area artists an opportunity to show their stuff and get to know other photographers.

As about 250 people made their way through the two-day show, they took time to speak with participating photographers and get a better understanding of what inspires a photo.

“It was exciting to see so many talented photographers and their work together in one room,” said Amy Sadvary, of Plains, who attended the event Saturday afternoon. “Totally inspiring.”

Angelina Vanness told those attending she began taking photos about nine years ago when her daughter was born in an effort to “stop time.”

Related Video

Vanness said she knows children grow up so fast sometimes parents find it hard to remember milestones.

Now, not only is she taking pictures of her own family, she is also doing family portraits to help people remember their own special moments.

She also enjoys doing photo documentaries, using “a day in the life” format.

“I like to show people doing the things they do,” she said. “Making cookies in the kitchen or sharing a meal together. I’d rather get a subtle nuisance than all smiling faces.”

Vanness said the library was the perfect spot for the exhibit.

“They say a picture is worth a thousand words,” she said. “The library is filled with thousands of extra words today.”

Vanness said it was also an opportunity to support the library and other local artists.

Sarah Guzman, who also presented her work at the show, had a multitude of work on display.

But it seemed one piece — a closeup of a ladybug — was the crowd favorite.

Guzman said taking a closeup of nature often finds the viewer transfixed.

“You might take a photo of a flower, but it has rained and there is one drop still clinging to it.” she said. “And the photo puts it in a whole new perspective.”

The show provided opportunity for 18 photo artists to share their work with members of the community and included color and black-and-white photos that ranged from covered bridges to nature photos to a striking photo of a monkey.

“Not only do photographers seem to see the world in a different way,” said Vanness. “But each photographer sees the world in a unique way, also.”

One of Vanness’ favorite photos is one she took of a sunflower before it bloomed.

Although the photo is devoid of bright color, it seems to capture the plant just before it blossomed, pregnant with possibility.

The event, with began with a meet-and-greet on Friday and continued to Saturday, was well received by those attending and included a dozen raffle baskets and an opportunity to donate to the library.

“It’s consistent with the library’s commitment to bringing interesting family events to the community,” said library staffer Carol Coolbaugh.

Sal Sollami and his wife Sharon, of Clarks Summit, look through the photos of a photo exhibit at the Pittston Memorial Library on May 11.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_ArtShow1-2.jpg.optimal.jpgSal Sollami and his wife Sharon, of Clarks Summit, look through the photos of a photo exhibit at the Pittston Memorial Library on May 11. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Sara Guzman places her photo work on the display table. Guzman, 31, of Exeter, has gotten serious about photography in the last few years.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_ArtShow2-2.jpg.optimal.jpgSara Guzman places her photo work on the display table. Guzman, 31, of Exeter, has gotten serious about photography in the last few years. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Candice Woolston, left, of West Pittston, looks over Creative Captures by Candy photo with owner Candy Frye talking about her work.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_ArtShow3-2.jpg.optimal.jpgCandice Woolston, left, of West Pittston, looks over Creative Captures by Candy photo with owner Candy Frye talking about her work. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Michelle Vinnacombe from Talk To The Lens explains one of her photos to an admirer visiting the exhibition.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_ArtShow4-2.jpg.optimal.jpgMichelle Vinnacombe from Talk To The Lens explains one of her photos to an admirer visiting the exhibition. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Wednesday Gundling, 6, left, and her brother Jet, 4, enjoy looking at the animals in the photos.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_ArtShow5-2.jpg.optimal.jpgWednesday Gundling, 6, left, and her brother Jet, 4, enjoy looking at the animals in the photos. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch
Area artists exhibit work at library

By Geri Gibbons

For Sunday Dispach

Reach the Sunday Dispatch newsroom at 570-991-6405 or by email at sd@psdispatch.com.