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Subject: 
Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.announce, lugnet.general, lugnet.books, lugnet.publish.photography
Followup-To: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 01:48:57 GMT
Highlighted: 
!! (details)
Viewed: 
18164 times
  

I'm constantly amazed by all the great things people build with LEGO.  Our
eclectic hobby is a rich and expressive nexus of art, science, and humanity.

I've often wished there were a simple way to share this amazement with
people outside the hobby.  Unfortunately, most outsiders never see even a
glimpse into our world.  They've seen Legoland or maybe a few toy store
displays, but remain completely unaware of treasures like Eric Harshbarger's
working life-size grandfather clock, Eric Kingsley's nursery room railway,
or Henry Lim's colossal brickasaurus.

If there's one thing to be learned from going to public events like train
shows and NWBrickCon, however, it's that visitors are blown away by what
they see.  And they look at LEGO with renewed curiosity when they realize
that the artisans aren't LEGO employees but regular people.

I want to tap this curiosity and help these people find our community's most
delicious mind candy.  I want to take them on a lavish pictorial excursion
into our world and show them who we are, what we do, and why we do it.

So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

   Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
   A LEGO Way of Life
   Masters of the Brick
   Artisans of Brick
   The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
   The Magic of LEGO Building

Why do I think I can write this book?  First, I love working with people
and I relate to LEGO fans.  Second, I enjoy writing and photography and I
believe I can communicate well through words and pictures.  Third, I think I
have a well-rounded understanding of the hobby.  Fourth, this feels like the
right time in my life to do this and I have a job with a flexible vacation
schedule.  Fifth and finally, I've toyed in my head with the idea of doing
something like this for several years and I'm very excited that it's finally
possible for me.

So far, it's been a great pleasure working with Lindsay Braun, Tom Duggan,
Joe Comeau, Shaun Sullivan, and Sun Yun, all of whom have been outstanding
sports.  A small sampling of photos of Tom's and Sun's work, and a few
NWBrickCon and NELUG BrikWars photos, are available here:

   http://www.lugnet.com/~1/Book/

This sampling gives a flavor of the types of photos I'm after.  Although I
made people the main focus here, the book will hold a better balance between
the two.

I look forward to meeting more people at BricksWest!  I leave for LA in the
morning and will be staying some with Henry Lim and Ron Kittle.  If you're in
town for the event and are interested in being a part of this book, by all
means please find me.  I'll be wandering around a lot with camera in hand.
If you live in the area and are interested, just help me get to your place.

--Todd


Mini-FAQ:

Q:  When will the book come out?
A:  Most likely sometime in 2004.  I'm hoping to have enough put together
    for a manuscript draft and book proposal in April or May, then begin
    searching for an agent to sell the book to a publisher.

Q:  How many people will be in it?
A:  My goal is in-depth meetings with 100 people.  Pending approval of
    additional photos of people and creations at events like BrickFest,
    NWBrickCon, and BricksWest, the works of as many as 200 people may be
    included.

Q:  Where are the people from?
A:  Initially, Boston (where I live).  I'm starting to branch out to other
    cities in the United States.  After that I'll visit other countries
    including Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.
    Scheduling is dependent upon airfares.

Q:  What did you use to take the pictures?
A:  Photos taken July through December 2002 used a Canon PowerShot G2 and
    Canon SpeedLite 550EX & 420EX external strobe flashes.  Photos taken in
    2003 use a Canon EOS D60 digital SLR body and a variety of lenses
    (EF 20mm f/2.8 USM for wide-angle shots; EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
    for general model shots; EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM for super-close shots;
    and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM for various medium telephoto shots), Canon
    SpeedLite 550EX & 2x 420EX external strobe flashes, two Photoflex
    umbrellas, and various homemade flash bonnets, diffusers, bouncers,
    paper backdrops, and white LED arrays.  I shoot most of the close-up
    photos at f/11, f/16, and f/22 with off-camera flash units.

Q:  When did you start writing the book?
A:  I haven't actually done very much writing yet.  Most of the book will be
    photos.  I began taking photos for the book last summer just before
    BrickFest, then spent the following months improving my photographic
    technique.  I took about 1000 photos at BrickFest, 1500 photos at
    NWBrickCon, and a bunch more at two NELUG events.  As ideas gel, I'll
    probably start writing body text in a month or so.  I'll probably post
    snippets from time to time for critque.

Q:  Do you have all the legal issues worked out?
A:  For some aspects, I'll need to hire an attorney specializing in
    photography and publishing to review a few things.  I will need to get
    signed documents from people who were photographed in their homes or
    other private venues prior to completion.  However, in the United States
    my understanding is that it is legal to publish photographs of people
    (even children) taken in public areas without written consent.  It's a
    gray area, though, and laws vary from country to country.  It's possible
    that some photos for which I am unable to obtain a release signature will
    not make it into the final product.  As to the title of the book, it's a
    point to discuss with the legal professionals at LEGO.

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 02:23:39 GMT
Viewed: 
14393 times
  

Wow.
This is going to be amazing.  Your pictures look even better than they did
in Seattle, and that's saying a lot.  I absolutely can't wait to see how
this unfolds.  This book is going to be an amazing boost to an already
excellent LEGO community.

[ j o n ]
--
http://zemi.net
http://www.classic-space.com
http://www.bricklink.com/store.asp?p=jpalmer

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 04:50:57 GMT
Viewed: 
14820 times
  

Hey Todd!

Sounds awesome!

Don't forget community fads (Spiffcraft, Pods, minis, etc) community
projects (Moonbase, Medieval Market) and community slang (MOC, SNOT, BURP, etc)!

Jeremy

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 05:34:55 GMT
Viewed: 
14884 times
  

In lugnet.books, Jeremy Scott writes:
Hey Todd!

Sounds awesome!

Don't forget community fads (Spiffcraft, Pods, minis, etc) community
projects (Moonbase, Medieval Market)

ABSolutely!

I can't wait to take more photos of pods.  I want to explain the whole
theory behind pods and how the whole thing evolved.

I think I took enough Moonbase photos to fill a truck.  But it never hurts
to take more.

and community slang (MOC, SNOT, BURP, etc)!

I was planning on mentioning a few of these as long as they help explain
things, but not drawing attention to them.  It's a book targeted toward the
general public and I have to restrain myself from the temptation to get too
esoteric.  But we'll see.

BTW, someone else is actually writing a book about the community from a
phenomenological standpoint...that book would be a perfect place to trace
these sorts of words back to their origins in RTL, etc.

--Todd

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 05:54:15 GMT
Viewed: 
14678 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.


WOW!!
Oh, I love this!  You know, this project is better than pre-sliced bread!!
Being on the inside and having the exposure and experience that you do Todd,
this should make for a must have in the same line as all the official sets
we consider legends and the idea books.  Being a part of a historic project
like this, related to a historic social creation that is LUGNET, would
certainly be a humbling experience for any AFOL.  This would make for a
great art collection book, whether you like LEGO or just admire art.
Awesome Todd!!
I'm not worthy!!!
-Aaron-
#279

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 07:11:03 GMT
Viewed: 
14583 times
  

Way cool!

I'd love to have paper printed high quality photos of AFOL creations and people!

However, in the United States
my understanding is that it is legal to publish photographs of people
(even children) taken in public areas without written consent.

I don't know about US but here in Sweden photos of people in the background is
OK, but as soon as they become one of the main things in the photo you need
permission to publish them. So your photos with the kids would not be OK unless
you have the parents permission to publish them.

Best regards,
/Tobbe
http://www.lotek.nu
(remove SPAM when e-mailing)

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 07:47:05 GMT
Viewed: 
14566 times
  

Todd, this is a fantastic undertaking, If I can put in my two bricks worth,
I like these two titles, depending on the feel of the publication, light
hearted or more serious, respectively:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations

  The Magic of LEGO Building


The Photography is fantastic, Sign me up for a copy.  If you want space for
a promo copy (if one is ready) to display at NWBC 03, let me know, we'll set
it up and get some feedback.  (how many are interested and so on.)

Mark

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 13:37:59 GMT
Viewed: 
14672 times
  

Todd,

This is a great idea and I wish you the best of luck on the project.

Bryan Kinkel

"Todd Lehman" <tsl@tsl.bu.edu> wrote in message
news:HA6ADL.JD1@lugnet.com...
I'm constantly amazed by all the great things people build with LEGO.  Our
eclectic hobby is a rich and expressive nexus of art, science, and • humanity.

I've often wished there were a simple way to share this amazement with
people outside the hobby.  Unfortunately, most outsiders never see even a
glimpse into our world.  They've seen Legoland or maybe a few toy store
displays, but remain completely unaware of treasures like Eric • Harshbarger's
working life-size grandfather clock, Eric Kingsley's nursery room railway,
or Henry Lim's colossal brickasaurus.

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 15:13:52 GMT
Viewed: 
14745 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
<excerpt>
So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
  A LEGO Way of Life
  Masters of the Brick
  Artisans of Brick
  The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
  The Magic of LEGO Building

Why do I think I can write this book?  First, I love working with people
and I relate to LEGO fans.  Second, I enjoy writing and photography and I
believe I can communicate well through words and pictures.  Third, I think I
have a well-rounded understanding of the hobby.  Fourth, this feels like the
right time in my life to do this and I have a job with a flexible vacation
schedule.  Fifth and finally, I've toyed in my head with the idea of doing
something like this for several years and I'm very excited that it's finally
possible for me.
< </excerpt>

   I'm so happy to see this announcement!  As you already
   know, I have absolutely zero doubt that this project
   will be a stunning success.  Your sense of photographic
   esthetic is remarkable, and it's no coincidence that most
   of the photos on my site are the ones you took.  I'm
   looking forward to seeing what you shoot at BricksWest!

   Regarding the title: I'm still partial to "The Magic of
   Lego Building," because it seems to be the least laden
   with intra-LUGNET "smurfiness" ("Block" "Brick" etc) and
   so would have the greatest appeal.  It's also unusually
   mellifluous when spoken compared to the others.  It keeps
   the focus clearly on the brick and, if LEGO would allow
   the title, would be my vote.  But "Blockheads" has a
   sentimental, self-deprecating appeal.  ;)

   all best

   LFB.za

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 15:26:22 GMT
Viewed: 
14732 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:

So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
  A LEGO Way of Life
  Masters of the Brick
  Artisans of Brick
  The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
  The Magic of LEGO Building

Incredible!!!  Looking forward to buying it!

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 16:50:42 GMT
Viewed: 
14879 times
  

I look foward to this book, however I have one concern that the photographs
may end up being very US centred. While my gut feeling is that probably
about half the AFOLs (not that it is just about AFOLS) are based in the US
there are many other inspirational model makers in the rest of the world. As
I am not gong to be donating the money for a Todd photography world tour !!!
:)are you considering working with others around the world to photograph
their models?

Tim

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 16:58:09 GMT
Viewed: 
15132 times
  

On Wed, 12 Feb 2003 11:54AM -0500, tim david wrote:
:)are you considering working with others around the world to
photograph
their models?

I'm planning to travel to places like Australia, Germany, the
Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.  In Northern Europe, probably Sweden and
Denmark and Finland as well.  Depends on airfares and fests and things.
After I get back from BricksWest I'll still have 23 vacation days
accumulated.

--Todd

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 00:33:30 GMT
Reply-To: 
mattdm@ANTISPAMmattdm.org
Viewed: 
15529 times
  

Todd Lehman <tsl@tsl.bu.edu> wrote:
I'm planning to travel to places like Australia, Germany, the
Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.  In Northern Europe, probably Sweden and
Denmark and Finland as well.  Depends on airfares and fests and things.
After I get back from BricksWest I'll still have 23 vacation days
accumulated.

I'm sure Todd won't mind if people in other countries want to pay for him to
come visit. :)

--
Matthew Miller           mattdm@mattdm.org        <http://www.mattdm.org/>
Boston University Linux      ------>                <http://linux.bu.edu/>

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 18:48:21 GMT
Viewed: 
14708 times
  

Todd Lehman wrote:
So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

   Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
   A LEGO Way of Life
   Masters of the Brick
   Artisans of Brick
   The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
   The Magic of LEGO Building

Cool!

Frank

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 19:45:15 GMT
Viewed: 
14816 times
  

What wonderful news!

tia,
sheree

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 19:50:54 GMT
Viewed: 
14981 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
I'm constantly amazed by all the great things people build with LEGO.  Our
eclectic hobby is a rich and expressive nexus of art, science, and humanity.

I've often wished there were a simple way to share this amazement with
people outside the hobby.  Unfortunately, most outsiders never see even a
glimpse into our world....


Todd, this is just great-- I'm doubly disappointed to be missing BW this
year, as I'd just like to shake hands and say "well done." I'll certainly be
in line to purchase the finished product; the photos showcased thus far
indicate high production values indeed.

I noted that you mentioned as examples some very large creations, and, while
I don't envy the task of having to narrow down all the spectacular AFOL
talents to a mere 100 (first in a series?), I urge you to remember those who
create very small works as well.

Many many thanks from the community for this effort!

stuart

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 20:36:42 GMT
Viewed: 
15142 times
  

On Wed, 12 Feb 2003 1:54PM -0600, Stuart Immonen wrote:
I noted that you mentioned as examples some very large creations, and,
while
I don't envy the task of having to narrow down all the spectacular
AFOL
talents to a mere 100 (first in a series?), I urge you to remember
those who
create very small works as well.

Oh absolutely yes!  Most certainly!!

--Todd

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 20:55:48 GMT
Viewed: 
15004 times
  

This looks like a great idea.  But I have a few questions regarding this.

Do you plan to make a profit from this?  It seems like this will take a lot
of money and time to complete.

Is it neccesary to do a live interview?  I mean, some of us might be in
obscure areas or have a tied up scedule when you tour the area.  Could we
parhaps take pictures ourselves and do the talking via the internet?  Some
of us could take better photos of our MOCs, and Photoshop them properly to
make them really high quality.

What are the criteria for the models and people shown?  It would be cool if
you could showcase as many people as possible, instead of just the Really
Good Builders(tm) that we already know all about, even if most people just
get one or two pictures.  Though, in retrospect, since this is geared
towards the public, and not to AFOLs, showcasing the most 'wowing' creations
might create the best impression.

100 people might seem a lot, but I wonder if this is too many or too little.
What about us who can't travel, are not as famous, or can't attend Fests?

What are your estimates of the book?  What's the intended price, length,
fanfare, etc.

Very cool project!!

-JHK
Who, being a young teen and not one of the master builders, (though I am a
lot better then I was a short time ago)does not want to waste energy hoping
to be in the book.  Are considering making different editions in the future?

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 21:31:36 GMT
Viewed: 
15198 times
  

On Wed, 12 Feb 2003 3:01PM -0600, John Henry Kruer wrote:
Do you plan to make a profit from this?

I hope to at least make back what I put into it, sure.

Is it neccesary to do a live interview?

No, but it's a lot better than over the telephone or e-mail.  I have 4
hours of audio tapes (I don't have a phonographic memory) from meeting
with Sun Yun last week.  We mostly just chatted while he assembled
models and I took pictures.  Not a typical "interview" style interview
(pretty relaxed) but I learned just as much and I can follow-up on the
phone or e-mail if I have other questions.

Could we parhaps take pictures ourselves and do the talking via the
internet?

I haven't thought about pictures yet.  I have been planning to take all
the photos myself...for legal reasons mostly, but that's not an
immutable decision.

What are the criteria for the models and people shown?

Good question.  I don't know if I can codify the criteria.  The
creations certainly ought to have an appeal to the general public and be
unique within reason.

What about us who can't travel, are not as famous, or can't attend
Fests?

Famous isn't a criteria.  Getting to a fest helps.  I plan to travel as
much as I can.

What are your estimates of the book?  What's the intended price,
length,
fanfare, etc.

Intended price: US$20 softcover, US$35 hardcover. Something in that
area.

Intended length: 224 pages.  :)

Fanfare: Do you mean promotion? I believe that's usually negotiated with
the publisher...so something for down the road.  I don't really know
yet.  Typically, book authors invest a lot of personal time into
promoting their book, speaking at bookstores, booking radio interviews,
etc.  The publisher typically takes care of listing it and finding large
buyers like Barnes & Noble, but not going out in the trenches and
actually promoting it with zest.

Are considering making different editions in the future?

Mmm, ask me again in a year, eh?  :)

--Todd (wandering around the Midway airport in Chicago with 25 pounds of
camera equipment strapped to my back during a two-hour layover. :-)

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 21:22:26 GMT
Viewed: 
14960 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
I'm constantly amazed by all the great things people build with LEGO.  Our
eclectic hobby is a rich and expressive nexus of art, science, and humanity.

I've often wished there were a simple way to share this amazement with
people outside the hobby.  Unfortunately, most outsiders never see even a
glimpse into our world.  They've seen Legoland or maybe a few toy store
displays, but remain completely unaware of treasures like Eric Harshbarger's
working life-size grandfather clock, Eric Kingsley's nursery room railway,
or Henry Lim's colossal brickasaurus.
Todd this book sounds great! I look forward to buying this book.I am humbled
by the builders out there.I am but just a simple builder  and can't wait to
see all those great creations out there all in one place.Chris Leach MichLTC

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 21:54:13 GMT
Viewed: 
15017 times
  

Hello Todd,

When you're planning to visit The Netherlands, please contact me. I live in
Amsterdam, 45 minutes from Schiphol Airport. I'm a collector of custom sets,
and I would like to help you contact active and interesting members of our
FOL-community.
Here is a picture of me showing a module of a Brickmania Guarded Church to
the public at LEGOWORLD 2002:
http://www.brickshelf.com/cgi-bin/gallery.cgi?i=261886

With friendly greetings, M. Moolhuysen.

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Wed, 12 Feb 2003 22:34:39 GMT
Viewed: 
15066 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:

So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
<snip>

Of the suggested titles so far, I like this one best.

This sounds like a very ambitious project, and if you do plan on travelling
all over the world for it, I must say I will be very impressed if such a
book really could be on the store shelves as early as 2004.

I also wonder what the market really would be.  I would suspect that FOL's
or families of FOL's would be the only consumers who would actually do more
than give it a flip-through in the store.  If the goal is to sell it, there
is a good chance it will sell most to people already in the community.  Of
course, I could be totally wrong here.  I dunno.

Nonetheless, you can add my name to those who support the idea.  I think it
would be great to have a nice coffee table book with images of models that
are familiar and the builders who are not.  Feel free wander my way with
questions if you want to include notes about the Starship RPG, Valyance, or
the general building habits of Western Mass collectors.  :)

Cheers,
-Hendo
http://www.valyance.com/starship/

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 00:42:48 GMT
Viewed: 
15198 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
  A LEGO Way of Life
  Masters of the Brick
  Artisans of Brick
  The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
  The Magic of LEGO Building

Todd,

Of the selections above, I like the first one best. I think it does the best
job of highlighting both the people and their creations. There's more of a
"human interest" element to the title. My two cents :)

One variation on it for your consideration: "Blockheads: Ordinary People,
Extra-ordinary Creations". It doesn't flow quite as well as your rendition,
but it does sort of emphasize contrasts.

Keep us updated on the projects progress. This sounds like an excellent idea.

Alan

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 01:32:24 GMT
Viewed: 
15194 times
  

Todd,
     I wish you much good fortune and strength in the publication of this
book.  What a great idea!! I'll definitely be counting myself among those
eagerly awaiting your work, and look forward to the day when I can hold it
in my hands and while away a Saturday afternoon.

Peace and Long Life,
Tony Alexander

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 02:19:07 GMT
Viewed: 
15174 times
  

Todd,

First of all, best of luck!  This is a fantastic idea, i truely hope you can
pull it off.  I'll count myself as someone who will buy this book when it
comes out.

I myself am an amatuer photographer, who is just starting to take the steps
to sell my own work, or maybe get published down the line.  I've done some
research into the legal issues myself, and i would suggest you to get some
legal advise before you start traveling and taking photos.  Photo publishing
rules change depending on use and where they are taken.

This may help a bit:
http://www.pdnonline.com/businessresources/modelrelease.html


Tony

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 02:47:05 GMT
Viewed: 
15236 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
I'm constantly amazed by all the great things people build with LEGO.  Our
eclectic hobby is a rich and expressive nexus of art, science, and humanity.

I've often wished there were a simple way to share this amazement with
people outside the hobby.

This is something that is important to parents of LEGO building kids,
potential adult fans of LEGO, and to just about anyone else who gets a kick
out of saying, "wow, that's cool."  I don't often point friends at the
LEGO.com site to show them what's new, but I do often send them links to
amazing original creations.

Having some of these in a book will just make it a more personal way of
sharing them.  I think this is a great idea Todd.

So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.

I think you mention elsewhere in this thread about using lots of pictures.
And while that is clearly parmount to conveying the creations, don't forget
the subtle, yet interesting things that can only be revealed with strong
accompanying text.  When I had the original Expert Builder site (1) I was
often told by people that they liked seeing the pics, but LOVED reading
about the models and their creators.  How many bricks went into it?  How
many bricks were dropped into the belly of a 7 foot long Titanic model never
to be seen again?  How many times did a cat knock the model off a table
during construction?  And so on...

I suspect that your love of the models will lead you to some of these
stories.  And I can only put my two cents in to say... include as many of
them as space allows.  :)

Titles under consideration include:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations

'Blockheads'?  Is this a term in common use?  'Brickheads' perhaps, but even
that seems like a bit of an artificial nickname.

  A LEGO Way of Life

Implies potential OCD candidates.

  Masters of the Brick
  Artisans of Brick

O.K.  But nothing jumps out.

  The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
  The Magic of LEGO Building

Why not combine these two?  Simply.....

The Art of LEGO Building

Why do I think I can write this book?  First, I love working with people
and I relate to LEGO fans.  Second, I enjoy writing and photography and I
believe I can communicate well through words and pictures.  Third, I think I
have a well-rounded understanding of the hobby.  Fourth, this feels like the
right time in my life to do this and I have a job with a flexible vacation
schedule.  Fifth and finally, I've toyed in my head with the idea of doing
something like this for several years and I'm very excited that it's finally
possible for me.

Sixth... you've been able to create an online world called LUGNET.  A
project like this book should be well within your scope.  :)

Q:  Where are the people from?
A:  Initially, Boston (where I live).  I'm starting to branch out to other
   cities in the United States.  After that I'll visit other countries
   including Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.
   Scheduling is dependent upon airfares.

Canada?

Q:  When did you start writing the book?
A:  I haven't actually done very much writing yet.  Most of the book will be
   photos.

Don't forget the stories, backgrounds, stats, facts etc...  as noted above.
I know you won't, but I just want to reiterate how important I think this
facet can be to the book.

Q:  Do you have all the legal issues worked out?
A:  For some aspects, I'll need to hire an attorney specializing in
   photography and publishing to review a few things.  I will need to get
   signed documents from people who were photographed in their homes or
   other private venues prior to completion.

Is there some sort of generic release form that you could carry with you?
It might be too late to take one to Brickswest, but you may want to get one
drafted up sooner, rather than later.

I wish you tremendous success with the book Todd.  I can't think of a better
person to take on this project.

All the best,
Allan B.



(1)  For those interested, the original Expert Builder site has been
uploaded/archived to the web.  It was my quasi-successful attempt to
showcase builders and models from around the world.  It can now be found here:

http://www.apotome.com/builder1/expert.htm

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Mon, 24 Feb 2003 19:59:42 GMT
Viewed: 
15117 times
  

"Allan Bedford" <ExpertBuilder-DELETE-TO-REPLY@apotome.com> writes:
In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations

'Blockheads'?  Is this a term in common use?  'Brickheads' perhaps, but even
that seems like a bit of an artificial nickname.

You're kidding, right?  You've never heard someone called a
"blockhead"?  I think it's an insult popularized by Peanuts (the
Charlie Brown TV movies, in particular).

--Bill.

--
William R Ward            bill@wards.net          http://www.wards.net/~bill/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
"A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by
little statesmen and philosophers and divines."        - Emerson

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 06:12:00 GMT
Viewed: 
15216 times
  

Todd,

If you ever happen to be in the San Francisco Bay Area while you're still
meeting people for the book, I'd love to be a part of it.  I and my
colllection will have a 5-minute spot on the Home & Garden channel on their
show "Ultimate Collectors" sometime in April.  I'll make an announcement to
the ng when I have an exact date.  My wife and I were both interviewed and
it will be interesting to see how I and my hobby are represented as opposed
to how it actually is!  The exposure will great, though.

I've often thought of attempting a small documentary about my local club
members (BAYLUG) and "Blockheads" was one of the possible titles I'd come up
with.  Great minds think alike!

David Simmons
xenbuzz@earthlink.net
--
"There is no end, no beginning.  There is only the infinite passion of
life."  -Federico Fellini
My website: http://home.earthlink.net/~xenobuzz


I look forward to meeting more people at BricksWest!  I leave for LA in • the
morning and will be staying some with Henry Lim and Ron Kittle.  If you're • in
town for the event and are interested in being a part of this book, by all
means please find me.  I'll be wandering around a lot with camera in hand.
If you live in the area and are interested, just help me get to your
place.

Q:  Where are the people from?
A:  Initially, Boston (where I live).  I'm starting to branch out to other
    cities in the United States.  After that I'll visit other countries
    including Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.
    Scheduling is dependent upon airfares.

    
          
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Fri, 14 Feb 2003 07:59:21 GMT
Viewed: 
15294 times
  

<<snipp>>

I've often thought of attempting a small documentary about my local club
members (BAYLUG) and "Blockheads" was one of the possible titles I'd come up
with.  Great minds think alike!

Peronsally I associate blocks with a non-leading brand that shall remain
nameless and bricks with TLC. It might be just me and the fact English is not
my native tounge.

Best regards,
/Tobbe
http://www.lotek.nu
(remove SPAM when e-mailing)

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Thu, 13 Feb 2003 06:27:38 GMT
Viewed: 
14926 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:
So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.

WOW!!!! Do you want my credit card info right now or should I go ahead and
mail you a check?????

This is really exciting news Todd, and I can't think of anyone better than
the co-founder of LUGnet to tell this story! Your photographs are really
good, and with your knowledge of the whole community, this is a sure-fire hit!

Let me know if there is anything I can do to help! (Like you need any
assistance...)

Cheers!
-Tommy Rainwater
"Cogito Ergo Lego"

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Fri, 14 Feb 2003 03:52:49 GMT
Viewed: 
15030 times
  

In lugnet.announce, Todd Lehman writes:

I want to tap this curiosity and help these people find our community's most
delicious mind candy.  I want to take them on a lavish pictorial excursion
into our world and show them who we are, what we do, and why we do it.

So I'm writing a book -- a coffee-table-style photo book with large, rich,
colorful photographs and text both biographical and narrative.  The gist of
the book is "adult LEGO enthusiasts and the amazing things they do and build
with LEGO," but it also covers offline social aspects such as events, clubs,
and gaming.  Titles under consideration include:

  Blockheads:  Regular People, Amazing Creations
  A LEGO Way of Life
  Masters of the Brick
  Artisans of Brick
  The Unsung Art of LEGO Building
  The Magic of LEGO Building

I like this last one more than the rest, but others have come up with more
good suggestions too.

Hope you can make it to Aus sometime - it'd be great to finally meet you!

ROSCO

   
         
     
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Sun, 22 Feb 2004 04:41:54 GMT
Viewed: 
12040 times
  

Hi Todd,
The idea of a book like this sounds very, very good and interesting. I just
learnt about your project while browsing through the pages of Lugnet and saw
that you live in Boston. I'm from Argentina but live in Boston too, I'm an
architect and have been working here for three years.
I hope you can carry on with this project. A book is something so noble and
trascends time and space in deeper ways than mostly everything. I'll be looking
forward to hearing more news about it. Good luck.

Nicolas D'Angelo

http://www.mocpages.com/home.php/613?r=1812057607
http://www.brickshelf.com/cgi-bin/gallery.cgi?m=labuela

   
         
   
Subject: 
Re: Blockheads: Regular People, Amazing Creations
Newsgroups: 
lugnet.books
Date: 
Mon, 12 Nov 2007 08:59:45 GMT
Highlighted: 
(details)
Viewed: 
16624 times
  

So, any news?

 

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