I've got a new boyfriend! He's  lexythedeer here on FA. I've been hunting this deer for a while now. I took a trip to Melbourne in February and we had our birthdays together. I loved spending time with Lexy so we decided to do a thing and start dating. I wanted a man in my life for a while so it's great to snag one.

Braxton is still being made into a fursuit. My maker has contacted me and said if I get my DTD in before the end of the month there's a chance I can have the full suit ready before FurDU. I'm hoping that's the case I want to be a fursuiter. Braxton will be good for me a new foxy side of my personality.

In art news, I've got a few pieces on the way. A piece from Muttasaur with Wenzel Bardawulf and Braxton. A piece from Toxi De Vyne that's a clothing reference for Wenzel Bardawulf. Another piece I'm excited about is a YCH I nabbed with a few others from Holiday AKA Wolfmawler on Twitter. It's a purely adult piece so a can't describe it here but it's going to be great.

I'm gearing up for FurDU 2019. In the meantime, I'm doing Ironfest in Lithgow as my next furry weekend event. I'm looking forward to FurDU so much because It's going to be my fursuiting debut and I get to see my boyfriend Lexy again.

It looks like I will be only part fox at FurDU this year. My fursuit maker Kai Lóng has been under the gun during the last part of 2018 so her queue has filled. I'll still be foxing at FurDU. I'm glad that I commissioned a maker who has open communication channels. You often hear the horror stories of people who are hyped up for a new suit to be delivered at a convention only to find out when they arrive it didn't happen.

I'm convinced that I made the right decision to go with Eastern Dragon Studios. I've seen their work out there and it's top stuff. Their suits have a style I really like. Bringing my fox Braxton into reality is a dream that I didn't want to just be a dream. I want this fox magic for 2019 New year, new fox. I've never owned a fursuit before so it's going to be a learning curve.

I'm sure I can put together a few things for Braxton's costume. A blue feather boa was calling out to me at the two dollar shop. I'd imagine Braxton as more flamboyant than boring Byron. It's part of why a wanted a fabulous fox to express my gayness. I'm not that flamboyant in real life. I don't ping anyone's gaydar. Perhaps a hospitality uniform something simple would suit him. I have friends who come up outfits for steampunk so I'm sure I can bounce ideas off them.

I'm unabashedly making no apologies for my hype over Braxton. I'm going to get much worse before I get a hold of him. I rave about the things I love and cool fursuits are right up there.

The cold indifference of the machine. That's what Tumblr users are waking up to when their content has been automatically flagged by their algorithms. The latest victims of the new censorship system. Tumblr decided on a whim to ban adult content despite it being a selling point of the social media service.

My view is they are chasing the corporate money and want to whitewash the content on their website. Social media works by people making content that brings in the eyeballs and advertising clicks. It's you working for free for them. Well a great majority of people in not only the furry fandom but just mainstream LGBT+ community have been played for suckers.

This is why we shouldn't shun furry art sites like Fur Affinity, Weasyl and Furry Network. Mainstream social media is for the mundanes not us. They can and have locked us out. It's something that we have to realise. A heartless soulless algorithm can be unleashed to delete us from existing with just one click on a mouse.

I was smart enough not to get a Tumblr. I always felt that I wasn't the demographic that they were after. I was sadly proven right. With LGBT issues being too adult. Adults have to cater to corporate sensitivities not only on the job but in their personal life on the internet. The cold indifference of the machine.

NeonFur was a great experience this year. I came into it with the right attitude. I was there to have fun and enjoy myself. NeonFur is different from FurDU it has its own feel. The weather was bad but that's something you can't blame on the organisers.

For NeonFur you can't go to it expecting FurDU 2.0 the convention has a more relaxed atmosphere and vibe. Some people are complaining about the lack of panels and structure. It feels like that's a very deliberate decision made by the convention staff.

I can understand the criticism and I wouldn't recommend NeonFur to new members of the fandom and people who don't have a group of friends who they can hang out with. That said, I don't mind the structure but it could be an idea to run a fursuit panel or just an icebreaker panel.

I can understand why they made the decision that they did. I found that I don't go to many panels at a convention as much as I did when I first started going to conventions. The convention is geared towards people who have a group of friends in the fandom and are comfortable organising a party.

What I think they did right was the three-day dealer's den, they had a headless lounge so fursuiters could cool off (yes, some conventions don't have one.) and the props and fursuit toys. Another thing that was spot on was the dance parties. They had good music, UV lights, smoke machines and bubbles.

Boxer Fox offered photo shoots that you didn't have to wait hours for. The NeonFur vibe was fantastic the team was friendly and respectful to attendees. NeonFur is about making new friends and meeting people. For that part, I got to know a few people better than I did before and met some new friends. You get out of NeonFur what you put in.

I also liked that the organisers respected the local fur community by having local artists contribute to their sponsor art and not just ship in overseas popular furs as a gimmick. Aussie conventions should do their own thing and not just copy those Yanks. Rippa and Esky are great convention mascots and I reckon they have a thing going on behind closed doors.

NeonFur has massive potential especially when ConFurgence is going through upheaval and Fursuite con (HCFC) has no dances, headless lounge and a one day dealer's den the only other convention options available are FurDU and the Western Australia ones.

-Where are you staying?
Watermark Hotel & Spa Gold Coast (Con Hotel)

-What day are you getting there?
Thursday Night.

-How are you arriving?
I'm flying up with Katsu.

-Who will you be rooming with?
I got my own room.

-Who will you hang out with during the convention?
My friends for the most part.

-Are there events you might be attending?
NeonFur is more about making your own fun so I'll most likely be hanging out and partying with friends. I will give the dances a go.

-Will you be suiting?
No, my fursuit is on the way due next year.

-Do you do free art?
I'm a photo sheep, not an artist.

-Do you do trades?
N/A

-What is your gender?
Male

-How old are you?
31

-Are you taken?
No, I'm not really looking.

-Can I talk to you?
Sure, come up and say hello.

-Can I touch you?
Sure.

-How can I find you?
Look for the rotund fellow with a fancy camera and bucket hat.

-Can I visit your room?
You must ask me first. I'm allowed to say no if I want my own space.

-Can I buy you drinks?
Yeah sure. I like coffee and cocktails.

-Can I give you stuff?
Sure, I wouldn't turn down a Made Fur You fursuit or trip to Midwest Fur Fest. Seriously, the good company of my friends is all I'm after.

-Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Always down for hugs. Snuggles! I do want fursuit snuggles, but I don't know how to ask and not sound like a creepy perv.

-Are you nice?
As long as I've had a coffee recently. I'm an easy going guy, but I do have limits.

-How long are you going?
Full convention and leaving on Monday.

-If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Walk up and say hello. I most likely won't be looking at my phone a lot of the time. In person is the best option.

-Where will you be most of the time during the days?
I'll most likely be hanging around my friends. If someone wants a photoshoot, I'll be doing that.

-What/where will you be eating?
I got breakfast with my hotel room so the hotel restaurant for breakfasts. Lunch and dinner will be at the local restaurants. If my friends invite me, I'll tag along with them.

-Can I come with you for fun/food/etc.?
Yes, NeonFur is all about meeting new people. Moreso than even FurDU.

-Can I pet your suit?
N/A

-Are you excited!
I'm excited. NeonFur was a great experience last year. I got to meet new people and had the best time at 1614 the epic room party. It was my first real room party too.

With a heavy heart, I have closed down my Patreon campaign. The legal realities are as such that I can't be sure that I'm following the law. By having photos of fursuiters up on a Patreon without having a model release and all my paperwork in order could put me in a world of hurt. I want to do what's right, so I pulled the plug.

My detractors may say that they do what they do for passion and love and when I had a Patreon campaign I was somehow exploiting the fur community. I don't see it that way. By that logic, every furry artist with a Patreon is exploiting the furry community. Photography is an art, and it is worthy of the same respect. Those who throw shade on my passion and love of this fandom don't have a clue what I'm about.

I have and continue to provide my photography skills for free. Need proof just take a look of the hundreds of photos in my galleries. That's the proof of my passion and dedication to the furry fandom. Actions speak louder than words.

I found an interesting article about classism in the fandom. It sadly confirms that partial fursuiters were excluded from the HCFC photo shoot. I don't want the fandom to just be about getting the most expensive fursuit to outdo the next person. The fandom isn't just about fursuits it about the creativity of all its members. It's the writers, the artists, the musicians even the photographers who make the fandom what it is. If we take for granted the accepting nature of the fandom we may lose it. I'm not going to let such toxic attitudes prevail so that's why I'm still making noise about it. Article link:

https://www.flayrah.com/7403/harbou.....m-furry-fandom
https://www.flayrah.com/7403/harbou.....m-furry-fandom
https://www.flayrah.com/7403/harbou.....m-furry-fandom

With the comments in a recent article by the HCFC chairman causing some controversy I decided to have my say in this rant style video. The original article may have been updated but you can still find it archived here: http://archive.is/ApB2q

https://youtu.be/Eyr712_kkio
https://youtu.be/Eyr712_kkio
https://youtu.be/Eyr712_kkio

It is very important that we get over our cultural cringe in Australia. We can make great art and music even in the niche subculture of the furry fandom. Demand better (or at least a headless lounge) from people who want to run a local convention.

I went down to Penrith for our (Not) a convention fur meet. In going with a convention theme we decided to do panels. Diego hosted a panel about what it means to be a furry. I've uploaded my recording to YouTube for your viewing pleasure.

https://youtu.be/Wo5YF6vhNwU
https://youtu.be/Wo5YF6vhNwU
https://youtu.be/Wo5YF6vhNwU

I was being quick and dirty with my filming because I didn't take my tripod with me. Still, I wanted to record some video. I hope you enjoy.

To start out on this June update with news about Braxton. I've paid off Braxton and he has been scheduled for 2019. I've always had a "when it's done" attitude with art and creative projects so I'm not going to be impatient with my maker. I'm looking forward to seeing Braxton as a suit but in the meantime, I will have to commission more art for him.

I have purchased a new character that I've named Wenzel Bardawulf. He is a grey wolf with a green Mohawk and green eyes. He has a chest tuft and a bit of a treasure tail going on. He has green claws and light pink paw pads. I have some things in mind for him. I'm thinking he could be Braxton's boyfriend. I've commisioned an artist named KwiK to do a new ref sheet for him. I have ideas for off the wall stuff with this wolf. He is a bit of a punk with his green Mohawk but I would say he is more of a dancer or raver.

I didn't think I would be one of those furs that would have many characters but when I saw his design I had to buy him. I still have Silver Sheep as my fursona. Both Braxton and Wenzel Bardawulf are original characters. I've been having fun role-playing as Braxton on his after dark Twitter account. I can really get into his head. I have even made an audio cocktail tutorial as Braxton. Braxton represents the repressed gayness that I've kept locked in the closet for 29 years. Silver Sheep is my fursona because he represents who I am in life. A dude who has steel wool armour keeping people away. Who does what is expected of him following the herd.

Sorry not sorry for adding more canids into the mix but I do relate to canine characters heaps. I'll have to make sure next time I feel the urge to make a new character to make it another sheep. Oh, I decided that I'm going to NeonFur this year. Many people are on the fence about it but with NeonFur the only other convention I would consider attending it made it a yes in my book. That's in October so I have enough time to save for it too. I hope to see you there.

FurDU this year was very different for me. It was such a departure from previous years. For one I took Stripes Tiger's bus up to the Gold Coast. I also shared a room with three other people Warbrin, Tryo and Roxy. While it wasn't the first time I shared a hotel room with another it was the first time I did so at FurDU. I had to trust my friends this year with my accommodation and travel arrangements.

I wasn't let down. The bus ride there and back was arduous but that was because of my coccyx playing up. Both Stripes and his co-driver got us there and back as fast as they could. I took the train back from Strathfield in Sydney on the return journey. My travel mates were mostly sleepy but we did enjoy each others company.

I stayed at the Mantra on View hotel. Our room was full. We had four people including myself and two beds. We got along with each other with no major blowouts or fights. Next time we need four beds even if they were futons or something. That was the only flaw with the room. I would room with everyone again if given the chance. It's good to have a list of trustworthy roommates for future conventions/events.

The convention itself felt different than last year. It was slower paced and only had two dance parties and less competing events. Friday felt like everyone was lining up for the photo shoot all day after rego. The first photo shoot was very popular and could have been split up into batches. Have a group arrive every hour or so that way fursuiters wouldn't have to stand around in a queue for half the day. The Friday night dance party was good. I made sure to get my drink on and have a good time.

On Saturday morning there was the Lupe Fursuit photo shoot. I didn't get too many good shots and unfortunately, I felt I was wasting my time. In comparison to 2016 were the fursuiters had an opportunity for single shots and jumping poses and 2017 with interesting drone and fursuit interaction, I felt let down. It was made worse by some of the usual people not being there. I don't know if I was overhyping the Lupe suit shoot in my mind or I was in a bad mood but it wasn't as good as prior years for me.

The rest of the day went well with plenty of causal convention space photography and antics. I spent a modest amount in the dealer's den less than at ConFurgence. I got to meet Bowen who had the rest of his fursuit with him making him the first ram fursuiter in Australia (As far as I know). It was good to meet him. I made sure to take heaps of photos of him at FurDU.

For the fursuit walk, I took a departure from my usual activity of chasing the group for photos by setting up my tripod to capture video. I set up in a great spot on the parade route and waited. As I am inexperienced with recording video my end video wasn't that good but I have ideas of what to improve. I should have used a wider angle lens and set my aperture to F/8 and turned off autofocus and set my focus point at a midpoint. There are rumours that this is the last fursuit walk they are doing. I really doubt they would axe the fursuit walk so I just don't believe it.

The group photo I left to others as there were too many fursuiters to capture in a single shot. I did try to get up on the lifeguard tower was but was rebuffed by one of the convention staff. One of the cool highlights of FurDU this year was the Wild-Life photoshoot with Diego and Rocky Wolfdog on the beach just after the beach group photo. We found a patch of beach not in use and I got some spectacular photos of the pair. I really felt honoured to by their special photographer.

That night I went to Waxy's twice to meet up with people before the main event of Draggo and Diego's room party. Draggo and Diego throw the best room parties that you can attend without taking your clothes off. We had the right people attend with no drama or fighting. We fit twenty-five people in the room and we partied hard. I knew we were going to get shut down so I got wasted on black Russians cocktails before hotel security turned up to kick us out.

Sunday was a day of photo shoots first the Lucky Dog maker shoot then the Dutch Angel Dargon photo shoot. These photo shoots were much better than the Lupe suit shoot as I got many more useable shots. I was glad to attend both of the shoots. It was good to meet Skyder in person and he got me into Luketh's room for the Dutch Angel Dragon group shot. I feel sorry for Skyder being under pressure as one of the official photographers. I could just ham around while people are expecting results from him.

With lack of sleep catching up with me I had a chill rest of the day until the dance party. I didn't go the closing words or the charity auction to stave off the dreaded PCD. I went out for dinner to Waxy's again with a small group that night which raised my spirits. On the way back we reunited a lost boy with his mother in the hotel lobby. I went out and took more photos and danced a little bit. Banasu made an appearance you'll have to see one of my shots sometime to believe it.

Shepsky gave me the most hugs out of any fursuiter there. He is such a cool dude I want to aim to be friendly like that when I get Braxton. Zaroski was my personal photographer he took so many photos of me and I don't even own a suit yet. Some Made Fur You fursuiters are elusive. I missed out on getting any photos of Jae and Varhken who I was keen on taking their picture. Don't judge me we all have a fursuit maker we fanboy over.

The main takeaways from FurDU are I can't be everywhere at once and I can't photograph everyone. It's okay to put down the camera and dance and party. Warbin, Roxy and Tryo are top roommates. My body is too old for long car trips. Honey mead is the enemy of sobriety. Diego and Draggo host the best room parties. Good company makes for a good convention.

Copied from  aussieluvtail

-Where are you staying?
Mantra on View hotel

-What day are you getting there?
Thursday Night

-How are you arriving?
Driving up in Stripes Tiger's bus with a bunch of furs.

-Who will you be rooming with?
Warbrin, Tyro and a mystery person.

-Who will you hang out with during the convention?
Most likely my friends.

-Are there events you might be attending?
The Lupe Suit photo shoot, the dance parties other than that just seeing what's going down.

-Will you be suiting?
No, not this year but I have ordered a fursuit so watch this space.

-Do you do free art?
No but I can take your photo if you'd like.

-Do you do trades?
I can trade hugs I suppose but if you mean art and stuff not really.

-What is your gender?
Male

-How old are you?
31

-Are you taken?
No.

-Can I talk to you?
Yes, I'm not there just to be seen.

-Can I touch you?
Yeah as long as it's not like those dudes in the lobby at FWA sure.

-How can I find you?
I'm walking around with a camera and I'll be wearing art badge.

-Can I visit your room?
No because I'm sharing it with different people.

-Can I buy you drinks?
Yeah sure.

-Can I give you stuff?
I'd rather just hugs and a nice chat.

-Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Always down for hugs. Snuggles if you're not a creep.

-Are you nice?
As long as I've had a coffee recently.

-How long are you going?
Full convention and leaving on Monday.

-If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Walk up and say hello.

-Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Conspace, the beach and the dance floor.

-What/where will you be eating?
I like to go out to a local cafe for breakfast and have lunch somewhere close and get a big dinner. I want to avoid Maccas or Subway I don't go to the Gold Coast for fast food.

-Can I come with you for fun/food/etc.?
If you see me going somewhere there is no harm in asking.

-Can I pet your suit?
N/A

-Are you excited!
FurDU feels a bit surreal this year because I am not the one planning my travel arrangements. All I gotta do is turn up with the cash. I hope this dosen't turn out to be a disaster. I am trusting people to come through.

While people are having kids or buying their first home I have a milestone of my own. I sent a deposit to Kai Long from Eastern Dragon Studios to make my blue fox Braxton into a fursuit. I am getting a full plantigrade design with follow me eyes in a toony style. It will be much like Kaylee or Roxanne in style and design. I wanted a full suit because I figured go hard or go home. I'm not anti-partial fursuits but in a way, it is a false economy. You can spend as much on a costume to go with a partial suit as a full suit would cost.

I also want to be fully transformed into a blue fox. To get into the headspace of being a different creature with a personality different from my own. Braxton has a much different personality from me as a human and I want to totally get the full fursuiting experience. I have made a lot of fursuiting friends being a photographer and I have been influenced towards the full suit direction.

I went with Eastern Dragon Studios because I was impressed with their work. Seeing EDS fursuits up close I was very impressed with the looks and workmanship. I have done business with Kai Long in the past but with her illustration side of the business. She has always been a pleasure to work with and transparent with delays and updates. I have a built up trust with EDS and therefore trust them with thousands of dollars that a fursuit costs to make. I don't know how some people can fling money over to people they don't even know in a different country on just a promise.

I didn't get a fursuit for my fursona Silver Sheep because to do him justice I need to find a metallic fur for his body suit that shines like metal. I think I would have to budget for a lot more money to get a Silver Sheep suit in a design I would be happy with.

This project will take some time so don't expect to see Braxton for a while. Still, I had to share this news.

Over the last few weeks, I've been uploading my ConFurgence photos. I intend to keep uploading convention from ConFurgence until the 24th of March. I am starting a new project that day. It's the unofficial Ironfest photo shoot. I'm not sure if I should even call it an Ironfest photo shoot because us furs were not invited to the actual one and this one is all organised by the Ironfest furries. I'm not going to disclose the location of this shoot because it's a private event. You will just have to wait and see.

I was so glad I started a Ko-fi tip page. I was surprised to not only get one but several people giving me tips. Thank you to all those who donated, you know who you are. It has given me a confidence boost knowing that people value what I do. My ConFurgence photos have been well received. With many people commenting on their quality. I love being a furry photographer.

I'm waiting on a lot of artwork from the convention that should start arriving next month. My fox Braxton will be getting some pieces but I have not forgotten about Silver Sheep. There is a special piece that I'm looking forward to but I won't ruin the surprise. I could get some more commissions happening but I'm keeping my spending under control because I've sent out two applications to popular artists that I'm waiting for responses from. One is going to get back to me on the twentieth. The other artist is very popular I don't know if I will get a spot with them.

Finding furry artists is quite nerve-racking sometimes because you just don't know how busy they are and when they are open for commissions. I've seen artists open for commission slots and close within minutes. I must admit to camping out for a commission slot from a certain artist. With my brief prewritten and ready to slap into the commission form. It's not something I want to make a habit of. It's like those people lining up for an iPhone except furry art is actually good.

Lately, I've been feeling it could be fun not to be me but to be a totally new creature. I'm going to send out a brief to a fursuit maker next month. It's all up in the air and until I've got the slot I won't say who it is. I will tell you it's for my blue fox Braxton. It may or may not happen it all depends on how many people apply for the limited slots. If I do get the slot I will let people know.

Better late than never my ConFurgence write-up. ConFurgence 2018 marked my second ConFurgence. Melbourne is a great city to visit. I spent some extra time down there. To start off I have to say thank you to all the volunteers and people who make ConFurgence happen.

I feel that I had a better time this year than last year. The reason for this is mainly that I have a larger group of friends and feel more comfortable socially. A marked change was the number of people asking me for a photo shoot of just to take their picture. I must be making a name for myself in the fandom. It feels good to be valued and wanted. In my everyday life I feel pretty much like a nobody but with the furries they what to meet me and talk to me.

I have to say that I feel like I'm home in the fandom. Life isn't perfect and I'm sure that I don't get along with everyone but that's true anywhere. In the fandom, people love my photography and I feel my skills are growing and it's not just my newer gear. Looking back on my work from the previous years I can see a marked improvement. I am also growing socially talking to more people and feeling more comfortable in my own skin.

I have met quite a few people at the convention. It really makes me feel like a worthwhile person that people are seeking me out to talk to me. That's what makes these events it's the friendships and social mingling. I love going out to lunch or dinner and just chatting. Having a social connection with people is something I struggle with but now that I've been to a couple of conventions it's much easier.

My highlights of ConFurgence were the dances and just talking to people that I've only known online or by their fursuit. The dances are always a great experience for me. It reminds me of my first convention FurDU 2016 and dancing with fursuiters for the first time. It was the closest thing to a religious experience for me and this is coming from an atheist. I just love the affection I receive from the fursuiters offering a hug and cuddle. It's just something I don't get outside of furry events.

I feel just the act of a hug heals my soul and gives me a reason to keep going. I know it's the same for so many furries. They just want to be loved and valued and they come to the fandom to find it. That is what I get out of these conventions and it keeps me coming back. I get a little emotional afterwards knowing that I have to wait until the next one to get that feeling again.

I went nuts in the dealer's den this year. I think it was because of my new fox Braxton. I just had to get more artworks for him. I love to support local artists because without them the Australian furry scene would be very bleak indeed. I also love that we have some great fursuit makers in Austraila. Our suit makers are getting up there with the Americans I feel.

One thing that one my friends commented on was how there were so many families and women were part of ConFurgence. It's a different demographic from what you'd expect from a furry convention. It's a good change and it is the only all-ages convention in Austraila so it's sort of expected. I often see on Twitter that female fursuiters often get treated unfairly over in the states. I have read stories that if a female fursuiter takes their suit head off in the headless lounge they are met with disappointment when their gender is revealed. Other stories involve females getting shunned at room parties.

I don't get that vibe over here. I hope we are better in Austraila the land of a fair go. The room party I attended had a half and half ratio of male and females. We have a different way of doing things here in Austraila. It was a change seeing so many families at a furry convention I think that's what makes ConFurgence unique among the Australian furry conventions. I hope it brings in new furry blood.

In conclusion, I had a wonderful time at ConFurgence. Meeting new people and catching up with friends what makes a convention great. If you get the right crowd together good times will roll.

Stolen from Inspired by  blazewing117

-Where are you staying?
Adara Richmond

-What day are you getting there?
Thursday 22nd February

-How are you arriving?
On a plane, traveling with  jynx92

-Who will you be rooming with?
A room to myself. (Expensive but nice.)

-Who will you hang out with during the convention?
My friends Diego, Trak, Lord Darius Foxworth, among others.

-Are there events you might be attending?
Most likely the dances otherwise I'll see what's going on.

-Will you be suiting?
No, unless Diego lets me try on his head again.

-Do you do free art?
I take photos for free. I'm not an artist.

-Do you do trades?
No, sorry.

-What is your gender?
Male

-How old are you?
31

-Are you taken?
No because I'm not really looking.

-Can I talk to you?
Yeah, say hello.

-Can I touch you?
I'm not a fursuiter so this doesn't really apply to me but yes if you want.

-How can I find you?
I'll have a convention art badge by Muttasaur with SilverSheep on it. I'll be carrying around a large DSLR camera and flash setup.

-Can I visit your room?
I'm not at the convention hotel but if I know you and you ask, most likely yes.

-Can I buy you drinks?
Yes, buy me Espresso Martini's from the hotel bar.

-Can I give you stuff?
Yeah, if you're feeling generous.

-Can I hug or snuggle with you?
I like getting hugs, snuggles are ask only.

-Are you nice?
I'm shy with people I don't know. If you're down to earth and genuine we'll have no issue getting along.

-How long are you going?
Leaving Melbourne on Wednesday, 28th.

-If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Come over and say hello. I'm on Telegram under @silversheep. You can send me a message.

-Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Most of the time taking photos of fursuiters and hanging out with friends. Diego's room party may be in the cards.

-What/where will you be eating?
Nearby places. Where my friends go.

-Can I come with you for fun/food/etc.?
Yeah, I'm open to making new friends.

-Can I pet your suit?
N/A

-Are you excited!
I am looking forward to ConFur because heaps of my friends are going. I think that's what makes the best convention experience.

-Camera sheep on the hunt for photos!

I have plenty to be grateful for so far this year. I've really been a patron of the furry arts. Picking up some more art commissions in January. One of my favourites was the hypnotic werewolf piece from Red Feather Storm. I'm waiting on a piece from Chibi Marrow and my reference sheet for my fox Braxton from Muttasaur. I'm hoping to have Braxton ready before ConFurgence so I can get some art commissions of him.

At the tail end of January, I took some photos at Trak's Birthday party. It was a privilege to be invited. I was glad to get my camera out to get some more practice before my Melbourne trip. ConFurgence is set to be good, with many of my friends attending. I've even picked up a travel buddy in Katsu who will be flying down with me on the plane. I expect greatness with crazy room parties hosted by that Arctic wolf Diego.

My 31st birthday is on February the 8th. I've planned a meet up down in Sydney to celebrate it. I've made many friends in the Furry world and I'm feeling more at ease at furry events. I've been invited to a secret project that I've code-named "Beauty of the Brass" that's going down in May. My calendar is filling up. There is going to be a Sydney furry barbeque after my birthday in February that will get me some more photo opportunities before the main event at ConFurgence.

The stories I've written in December have got great attention. Someone has even asked if I take story commissions. I'm not that good of a writer but it's a confidence booster for sure. I've set up a Ko-fi tips profile as a challenge to myself to see if my work is worth paying for. A kind of measurement of my skills. I've already received a large tip so it's already surpassed my expectations. Look forward to some great photographic content coming your way in 2018.

I've finished off 2017 with a December art binge. I've picked up two new pieces from Muttasaur the first one being the #ReindeerGames piece of Silver as a reindeer and the second one a last-minute headshot of Silver Sheep. The piece I've commisioned from Kai at Eastern Dragon Studios had arrived in December as well. I really like it. Silver Sheep and a cute werewolf who wonders why this ram is so eager to be the "victim".

I've branched out in December as well getting a hypnosis themed piece from the Canadian artist Redfeatherstorm. If you have read my short stories you would know I've often used the theme of hypnosis in them. I've wanted a piece of art for Silver Sheep hypnotised for awhile but never had the courage to commission one. I bit the bullet and I'm so happy that I did.

What first got me interested in hypnosis were the hypnosis files by Simplyswift. It was my first experience with trance and being hypnotised. I found it amazing to go into trance just by listening to an audio recording. It was really cool when I was put back into a trance with a hypnotic trigger that was implanted earlier in the file. It was a special experience going into a trance that I really enjoyed. I reckon I will get some more hypnotic art for Silver Sheep in 2018.

My first plans for 2018 are to express my fox side in a new character. Braxton the blue fox is on the way set to be unveiled in January if all goes to plan. Braxton is going to be a fox character to express a more flirty, confident side of myself. Silver Sheep is my fursona a furry version of myself whereas Braxton is a character something I'm not but an archetype that I can play. I'm thinking for Braxton he will be the fox archetype that of an extroverted charming and flirty/sensual character. Something that I'm not but could be fun to explore.

I am super excited for the furries on Ice ice-skating meet coming up on Saturday 18th of November. I attended last year's one and I took some great photos. This year I have a better camera and faster lens so I should get better quality shots. I also plan on getting a few video clips of the fursuiters ice skating. I'm not as good shooting video with my camera as I am with stills but I want to get some footage of ice skating fursuiters.

As far as other news I have some art on the way from both Kai Long and Muttasaur. So keep an eye out for those pieces sometime late November and December. I want to dabble in more mature themes and I have kept that in mind for my current commissions. I am thinking about getting some more erotic art of my fursona perhaps just an adult reference sheet for starters. I could commission something from a star artist like Tsaiwolf. I always feel a little scared getting something from those very popular artists feeling that my idea could be rejected. Something I need to work on.

I have been doing more writing but I've been guilty of not releasing my short stories. I put out a new Foxes on Fire story but this one has been a flop as far readers go. I can't seem to replicate the success of my Wolves Howl series but then again they are vastly different stories. I don't call myself a writer it's more of a dabbling type of thing for me. I should finish some of my mostly finished stories. Just get something out there.

I have been releasing many photos and I have a near constant stream of photos from my recent furry events. There are a few more events coming before the end of the year. I will have plenty of photos to work with. The plans for next year include ConFurgence and FurDU possibly NeonFur and the big one Midwest Fur Fest 2018. I hope I can get my act together for Midwest Fur Fest. I want to go to one of those big American conventions one day.

Neon Fur Meme

-Where are you staying?

Mantra Legends (Convention hotel)

-What day are you getting there?

Thursday

-How are you arriving?

Airplane

-Who will you be rooming with?

A cute, flirty dude by the name of  darius.

-Who will you hang out with during the convention?

My friends mainly.

-Are there events you might be attending?

The After dark panel hosted by  diegowuf and the dances.

-Will you be suiting?

No, I don't own a suit.

-Do you do free art?

I'm a photographer not an artist.

-Do you do trades?

Not an artist.

-How tall are you?

Average.

-Are you taken?

No.

-Can I talk to you?

Yes, of course you can.

-Can I touch you?

Yes, Hugs are fine.

-How can I find you?

I'm a dude with a large camera strapped around his neck.

-Can I visit your room?

Only if you ask and are invited to my room with the approval of my room mate.

-Can I buy you drinks?

Yes.

-Can I give you stuff?

Sure, knock yourself out.

-Can I hug or snuggle with you?

Hugs, sure and snuggles are fun.

-Are you nice?

Yes, if I do say so myself.

-How long are you going?

Check in Thursday, Check out Monday

-If I see you, how should I get your attention?

Introduce yourself and say hello.

-Where will you be most of the time during the days?

Taking photos of fursuiters around the conspace.

-What/where will you be eating?

I'll play it by ear.

-Can I come with you for fun/food/etc.?

If you ask me, sure.

September is shaping up to be a month packed full of furry events. I should have an exciting array of photographic content on the way. One of the big events happening is FurJAM. I will be attending the barbeque and will be capturing the action on my camera.

First up in September is the Ulladulla meet coming up real soon. It is a trek and a half to get there but I am fortunate enough to have one of my friends in the fandom offer a place to stay and transport to and from the event. I have another event on the day after but I will see how I feel after Ulladulla.

On the next Saturday after that, I have my own little event in Katoomba planned it's only tiny but I hope to attract some furs up from Sydney. I am organising it with another fur. The next day I have an exclusive photo shoot with some of the Steampunk furs at an iconic Sydney landmark. That should be fun as I have been to the location before.

Then it's FurJAM and that will be a great day out at the park snapping away. I loved last year's one and I hope I can coax some fursuiters to the riverside to capture some remarkable photos. That will round off September and give me plenty of photo editing work to do.

On Friday night I went to The Pound in Sydney. It was quite a fun dance party. We were on the top floor of the Burdekin Hotel in Oxford street. The venue had a fursuit area and bar so it was ready for us furries. The event was the most adult themed party that I've been too. Being its own event at its own venue allowed The Pound to be much wilder than the usual dance parties that furry conventions have.

As a furry and pup play party it had members of the pup play community attend. Most of the pups had at least a pup hood on. The pup hoods were a variety of makes some made from leather, some made of neoprene and others of rubber. As a furry, I have an interest in pup play at least from an outsider perspective. I appreciate the artistry and the self-expression of the pup community. There is a cross over between furries and the pup community with many being both furry and into pup play. Many of the pups were decked out in latex catsuits as were as some of the furries. The rubber pups had hand paws that were more like that of a dog than fursuit hand paws.

It was definitely a kink friendly party. It offered a different view of the fandom. Jockstraps and harnesses were the unofficial uniforms of the night. Gay lovers were openly kissing and cuddling. I was in the right place and felt comfortable among the revellers. I'm still a shy dude so I didn't go cuddling random people there or anything. I loved seeing the acceptance of LGBT relationships. I have never been out to a gay club before and I felt I didn't have to be so guarded about my sexual preference.

Some fursuiters were there as well making it a mixed crowd. There was even a let's just say anatomically correct fursuit there. I thought it was brave of him wearing something so provocative in public. Even among an accepting community as the furries, such things are very much taboo. It was my first time seeing that hidden side of the fandom in person.

I loved the liberated vibe and the sexual expression of the attendees because I am used to hiding my own sexuality and wearing a mask of being straight and basically asexual. I wish I was more at ease with my own sexuality sometimes. I want to be able to show affection to someone I love. Just going to something like this is a step in the right direction. I look forward to the next one.

As you can see from my feed I have been uploading photos from The Mid May Meet. I will choose seven more photos and resume working on my FurDU photos. Mid May was a fun meet and it had a few surprise furs attend. The lighting conditions were a little tricky due to the harsh full sun but I took some good shots. It helps that I am getting more comfortable asking fursuiters to move into better lighting conditions for photos. I wanted to get the Mid May photos out because people like having photos quickly.

I still have many FurDU photos that I can use so expect more over the coming days. My target is to publish at least as many FurDU convention photos as I have published from ConFurgence. I have already surpassed my old total from FurDU 2016. I am impressed by my photography skills and how much they have increased in just a year. Comparing my photos from last year's FurDU to this year's I have seen a marked improvement.

My next photographic outing will be on the 24th of June at the Winter Magic Festival. For years I have watched from the sidelines as the fursuiters walked past Dan Murphy's while I was stuck inside working. Last year a smart ass manager said as I was crouched down pulling a box of wine forward that I should watch out because I would be tempting the furries to have their way with me. Good thing I was still in the closet and they didn't know I was gay while working there. Now I am free to join in on the parade.

I hope it isn't fursuit only in the parade. I don't know if you can just rock up or not. I'll have to find out. I will get to hang out with my friends ether way. Katoomba is my home town so it's just a walk up the street for me. My only real fear is a certain person (not a fur) who I had cut from my life ruining my time with my friends. I'll just have to man up. It will be a great time.

In July I am going to the Bathurst fur meet. It's on from the 7th to the 9th of July. I'll have to get my act together for it. My plan is to stay in one of the local Motels / Hotels for the weekend maybe try to coordinate with my friends to book my own room in the same hotel. Transport could be via Train or asking one of the furs for a lift. I am super keen now that I know some of the furs better. Diego raves about how good it is so it has his paw print of approval.

My last event in July is The Pound dance party in Sydney on the 21st. It's dubbed a pup play / furry club event with drinking and dancing. I'm not the clubbing type (don't own a fish net shirt) but since it's fursuiters and dancing I am down. It's on the same weekend as HCFC. I am not attending HCFC this year. I hope they do well some of the furs could be in town and come over for a party at The Pound.

On a side note if The Pound does well it could be the Australian answer to Frolic Party. One of the photographer furs that regularly shoots Frolic Party is a guy who inspired me to buy my first DSLR camera and get into fursuit photography. His name is Loc0 he is quite the talented photographer as well.

Furry Down Under 2017

Thursday

I took a short plane ride up to the Gold Coast. I checked in to my hotel Chateau Beachside Resort. I went and collected my convention badge. When I was returning from picking up my badge I ran into Arti Husky who I gave my photo print that I had made up for him.

I found Austin Nova in the lobby and picked up my art badge of Silver Sheep. The badge was fantastic and it was my first art badge for a furry convention. As I was about to return to my hotel I ran into Trak and Diego who were unloading their car. They invited me up to their room. I gave them their photo prints.

I went back to my hotel and put away my convention swag. I returned to the Mantra and hunted down Regis who invited me to his room. I loaned him my old camera. We got together with Arti, Diego and Trak and went out for dinner at an Asian place. We returned to the Mantra where I took some photos in the lobby.

Lord Darius Foxworth and Warbrin Flof and a dragon fellow that I see around my local furry meets but have not asked his name yet went to Timezone and walked around for a while. We came back to the Mantra and I chilled with Darius Foxworth for a bit. Lamenting my lack of photos so far. All of a sudden Lupe suiters stormed out of the lifts and were posing for videos and photos in the lobby.

Faux was there and I gave him a hug. Not even the start of the convention and I checked off one of my goals for the convention. I planned for Friday to get some art commissions and take some photos of Regis at mini golf.

Friday

The convention got into full swing. I cruised around to the dealers den and ordered a dance party themed art commission. I went over to Silvixen and purchased a character pack for Silver Sheep. The character pack is great value. She didn't think that they would sell but some of the first sales of the convention where character packs.

I met up with Regis and he went up to his room to get in suit. I walked around the convention space and took photos of fursuiters. Tabu Lion had his new husky fursuit. It has glitter on the hair fringe, it was beautiful. I spotted Lucian coming out from one of the panels. I didn't get a photo of his fursuit and missed my opportunity.

Later that day I took some photos of Arti with his home made boomerang plush. I set my camera on high speed burst mode and get a sequence of him throwing it towards me. I got a photo of Freon Fox when he walked in. Arti Husky was on the Balcony posing for photos with his friends.

The Friday night dance was a great time. I took my camera and I was stalking the green fox ibbY who wasn't even at the convention. I did manage to take photos of fursuiters dancing even Muttasaur's new fursuit. I attempted to live stream a part of the dance party on Facebook but after it streamed it wouldn't save because of copyright music. Periscope worked much better.

Saturday

Saturday morning was the Lupe fursuit photo shoot at surfers paradise beach. The sun came out for the shoot. I took some photos of the fursuiters in the lobby and Faux marshalled them to the beach. As always I loved the Lupe shoot some of the fursuiters had upgraded from partial to full suits. I will have to look at my photos from last year to compare.

A drone was flying around and Faux was livestreaming the shoot. I spotted new Lupe fursuits and got their photos. Furries love their technology and live streaming video of events. It is great to see Australian designed and built fursuits. It shows the world what we have to offer.

Next was the main event the fursuit walk to the beach. There was so many fursuiters and many new ones. We all formed up in the lobby and walked down to the beach. The road crossing was handed much better this year. There were organised and had some traffic control to stop the traffic. I later found out that axle Husky had forgone being in the fursuit walk so he could manage the road crossing. Good on him for keeping the hundreds of fursuiters safe.

Lord Darius Foxworth gave me his camera for the fursuit walk I took some photos on it for him. I didn't get a good photo of the group shot this time because there was so many fursuiters there. Even the official photo was a panorama shot.

The main photos I took at the beach fursuit walk were with my zooming lens sniping shots from a distance paparazzi style. I took some good ones I reckon. One of the things that make FurDU special is the beach fursuit walk. Sunny Dingo was wearing Australian flag board shorts in the group shot.

Instead of going to the sponsors cocktail party I went to the fire breathing dragon show with Lord Darius Foxworth. I chatted with Axel Husky who was part of the team doing the dragon show. I wish I wasn't so shy I could have talked about how Axel is from Katoomba or something.

The dragon show was great it was a fursuit that breathed fire from its muzzle. It was such a great time to get photos of puff the dragon. Lord Darius Foxworth shot a video of it. I took photos with Regis who rocked up. Warbrin was close to the action himself. It was much better than drinks at a cocktail party.

I went to the Saturday night dance party and got some more photos. I felt a little down on Saturday night it could have been post con depression striking early or just a bit of loneliness on my part seeing all the happy couples dancing together. I got over it for Sunday morning.

Sunday

On Sunday I went on a adventure hunting down a selfie stick with my friends. We walked around to different shops until we found a phone shop I purchased one myself and used it to take some selfies myself. We headed back to the hotel where I took a selfie with the fursuit heads of my friends.

Regis had me help him suit up and we headed down to the beach for photos with Blutooth. Some time later Arti, Diego and Trak joined us on the beach for more photos. Kai took some photos of me taking photos and I got some selfies of my fursuited friends. I walked back with my friends and took some more photos in the lobby.

Later that afternoon I went up to the main convention area and found Ham and Toasted Lynx and Kai Dingo. I took some more photos. We were soon joined by some Made Fur You fursuiters who were doing a small photo shoot.

The Dead Dog Dance was quite good with many fursuiters out at the party. I took some great photos of Diego dancing and Ham turned up as well. I enjoyed dancing and taking photos of the fursuit dancers.

Conclusion

FurDU 2017 was an excellent event. The extra space upstairs was good for the dealers den. The fursuit walk was safer this year. They had new events such as the fire breathing dragon. Staying at another hotel nearby was a good idea, no waiting for lifts. More time hanging out with my friends than at ever before.

I achieved my convention goals. I took more photos then at ConFurgence (Over 3000 photos), I had some great times with friends, I got a couple of great photos of Faux and I have more artwork of Silver Sheep on the way.

Where are you staying?

Chateau Beachside Resort. (The hotel next door to the Mantra.)

What day are you getting there?

Thursday 4th of May.

Who will you be rooming with?

Just myself.

Who will you hang out with during the convention?

I plan to hang out with  darius,  artihusky,  trakdakelpie and  diegowuf

How can I find you?

I'll be one of the people with a DSLR camera with a giant round flash diffuser on it. Otherwise my telegram is SilverSheep

Are there any panels you might be attending?

I will be at the raves for sure. Other panels I'll see how I go. I should go to the sponsors cocktail party.

Are you attending any stage or public performances?

Opening words and maybe fursuit dance comp. Other then that I'll see how I'll go.

Will you be suiting?

 darius wants me to wear his Regis Wolf suit but it's only if I can fit inside.

Which suit(s) are you bringing?

None. I don't own one.

Do you draw?

No but if you want your photo taken I can do that.

How old are you?

30

How tall are you?

I have never measured myself I'd say average hight.

Can I talk to you?

Sure I can come off as shy but do say hello and have a chat.

Can I touch you?

Yes but in a socially accepted way.

Can I visit your room?

If you ask first and I agree yes.

Can I buy you drinks?

Sure.

Can I give you stuff?

Sure.

Can I hug or snuggle with you?

Hugs: Yes I love them. Snuggles: Yeah but who would want to.

What’s your goal for the con this year?

Take more photos then I did at ConFurgence (1000). Create some great moments with friends. Get another photo of  fauxveritas. Getting art commissions of Silver Sheep.

Are you nice?

Yes. I'm a reserved guy when it comes to meeting people so don't expect me to make the first move.

How long are you going?

The full convention leaving The Gold Coast on Monday.

If I see you, how should I get your attention?

Come up and say hello.

Where will you be most of the time during the days?

Taking photos everywhere hunting fursuiters who love their picture taken.

What/where will you be eating?

I will try to organise eating out with my friends depends on where they go otherwise Cavill Avenue restaurants and bars.

Can I come with you for food/fun etc?

Just ask me that's how people make friends.

Can I take your picture?

Yes but I will be taking the pictures with my DSLR camera most of the time.