A Strong Showing at the
86th Annual Members Exhibit

Stephanie and I were pleased to once again take part in the Lakes Region Art Association’s 86th Annual Members Exhibit, and this year the competition was stronger than ever.

A total of 39 artists submitted 103 artworks, a substantial increase over the roughly 70 pieces entered in recent years. Artists were able to submit up to three works across nine different genres, making for a wonderfully diverse and highly competitive show.

One of the things we appreciate about this exhibit is the judging process. The Association brings in independent, outside judges from the art industry who evaluate each piece impartially, based on artistic merit and technical execution.

Last year was an especially good year for us in terms of ribbons. This year was a little quieter, but we were still very pleased to see Mike receive First Place in the Black & White Photography category for his image, “Between the Drifts.”

Now that the exhibit has concluded, all of the McQuade Fine Arts pieces we submitted are featured on our home page and are available for sale.

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Fall Is a Great Time to Get Creative

Looking for a reason to pick up a brush or explore something new this fall? Stephanie McQuade has three upcoming in-person art classes designed to help artists build skills, gain confidence, and—most importantly—enjoy the creative process.

On September 23, Stephanie brings The Swan’s Secret, a one-day watercolor workshop, to the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen in Meredith. Then, beginning October 6 at the Lakes Region Art Gallery in Tilton, artists can choose from two five-week courses: Watercolor Workout, designed to strengthen watercolor skills through guided practice and hands-on instruction, or Pastels Beyond Basics, a studio-style course offering personalized guidance while students develop their own pastel paintings.

Classes are intentionally small, supportive, and relaxed, giving participants plenty of opportunity for individual attention and real-time feedback.

Whether you’re ready to strengthen skills you already have or simply want to spend some enjoyable time creating with others, fall is the perfect time to get started.

Visit our Art Classes page for complete details and registration information. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

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Learn More

Watercolor Workshop
League of NH Craftsmen, Meredith NH
September 23rd, 10:00 - 2:00

Watercolor Workout
Lakes Region Art Gallery, Tilton NH
October 6th, 10:00 - 12:00

Pastels Beyond Basics
Lakes Region Art Gallery, Tilton NH
October 6th, 1:00 - 3:00

Five Simple Tips for Better Fall Foliage Photos with Your Cellphone

Fall in New England offers some of the most colorful photographic opportunities of the year, and you don’t need an expensive camera to capture them. Today’s cellphones are capable of producing remarkably good photographs, especially when a little thought is given to light, composition, and technique. Before heading out to photograph this year’s foliage, keep these five simple tips in mind.

1. Use Good Light, Not Just Bright Light

Early morning and late afternoon usually produce warmer, softer light that makes fall colors look richer. Overcast days can also be excellent because they reduce harsh shadows and glare.

2. Keep the Sun Out of the Lens

Unless you are intentionally creating a sunburst, try to keep direct sunlight from striking the lens. Shading the phone with your hand can reduce flare and improve color and contrast.

3. Tap the Screen Before You Shoot

Tap on the main subject to tell your phone where to focus and expose. If the scene looks too bright, drag the exposure control slightly darker. This often makes foliage colors appear deeper and more saturated.

4. Give the Picture a Strong Subject

Don’t photograph color just because it is colorful. Look for something to anchor the photograph—a winding road, old barn, stone wall, lake, covered bridge, or single colorful tree. The foliage then becomes part of a composition rather than simply a record of autumn.

5. Move Your Feet Instead of Pinching the Screen

Whenever possible, walk closer rather than using digital zoom. Digital zoom can reduce image quality. Also try different viewpoints—shoot low, step to one side, or include colorful leaves in the foreground to give the photograph more depth.

Bonus Tip: Clean your cellphone lens before heading out. A surprisingly small fingerprint can turn a crisp autumn scene into a hazy photograph.

Most Important: Enjoy the Search

Great fall photographs are often less about the equipment and more about slowing down and noticing what is around you. Take a few extra moments to explore different angles, watch how the light changes, and look beyond the obvious scene. Your cellphone is already in your pocket—the rest is simply being in the right place, paying attention, and enjoying one of New England’s most beautiful seasons.