The inspiration for this image, and many to come in the future came from the manipulations of Christophe Huet, a managing director of Asile Retouching Studio. It is said that the greatest form of flattery is imitation. But to me, it goes beyond that. Though we may imitate, we can never quite recreate the original. Though strongly influenced by the work of another, something new is created, and over time an artist discovers their own personal style. Now keep in mind, I am not advocating blatantly stealing the work of another, but using it to foster novel thought. Accreditation should be given to any aspect of your creation that was garnered from the work of another.
For the budding photographer, Digital-Photography-School has a list of 99 Remarkable Photographer's Portfolios that you can peruse, and in viewing the works of others, you just might discover yourself.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Memories of Childhood
We've gotten quite a bit of snow out here in Spokane. I imagine it has afforded many great photo opportunities. I say I imagine because I've for the most part stayed indoors. I did head downtown once with my girls to let them get out and play for a bit. Other than that, looks like it is going to be a slow start to the New Year.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Replacement to D40/X as early as Spring?
File this one under rumor mill and wild speculation. According to a wildfire post on Dpreview, the D40X is apparently at the end of its shelf life and there is a possible replacement for the camera coming soon. While change is good, this flurry of camera releases by Nikon for its entry level cameras is not following the 18 month to 2 year product cycle normally employed. Nikon certainly shocked (and disappointed) the community when it released the D40X; a camera that seemed to play more into the marketing hype of the mega-pixel myth than an actual camera upgrade. Consumers who purchased the D40X appeared to basically be paying $50 for each additional megapixel and a very minor list of additional features, as well as the downgrade of the max shutter sync speed (non FP) from.Also in the rumor department is the talk of a new Nikon lens, the 16-85 VR, which is interesting since Nikon just recently upgraded its 18-55mm kit lens to VR status as well. To be honest, VR isn't really needed in that range, and the consumers who purchase it are the type that are confused about what VR does anyway. All in all, I think PMA 2008 is going to have a lot of surprises for us when it comes around in late January.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
World's Most Expensive Camera
No it's not a Hasselblad; not even close. This honor goes to a camera called "Daguerreotype", which is also an early form of photography in which the image is imposed upon mirror-polished silver surface. This early system didn't create negatives, so copies of images was not possible in the traditional sense.Created in 1839, it's considered the first commercially manufactured camera in the world and is expected to fetch a cool million Euro, or $1,329,000 against our fast fading dollar. All this and no live view or image stabilization. How did they do it back then?
Photography: The Rules Of Composition Video
Here is a quick and dirty 4 minute video from Video Jug that quickly goes over four basic, but important rules of photography. Keeping it simple, rule of thirds, balance, framing, and placement are all covered, though some are explained a bit differently than expected. Their explanation of framing left me raising an eyebrow. Nonetheless, still a good view for the budding photographer.Now granted, rules are made to be broken, but as the video so eloquently points out, you have to know the rules, to know when to break them.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Digital-Photography-School
I love Digital-Photography-School. They were instrumental in the many things I learned in my first year of DSLR photography. I'm the kind of individual who likes to research and learn using online resources, and this site is filled with a plethora of resources to help the budding photographer in what can feel like an ocean of things to learn. From the simple basics to more advanced techniques, this site has it, and is backed by an ever-growing community who produce a wealth of knowledge and answers to almost any question you may have.As many sites are undoubtedly doing, they are posting some of the great articles they've had for 2007. Titled under "How to Photograph..." it covers topics from photography your kids and pets to wedding, air show and fireworks photography. Something useful for almost everyone.
Copyright Infringement for fun and profit!
Not a week goes by that I don't find a thread or article about a photographer's struggle with having their images stolen. Recent headlines like Virgin Mobile infringement of a Flickr image for an ad (and resulting lawsuit) and the shameless usage of a photo by Philip Warner of Apnea to promote an iPhone ripoff (double wammy!) may make one just a wee bit weary of posting their precious images online. I've even found my images in use after doing a simple vanity crawl. However, a quite lengthy blog post by Dan Heller argues that you should post your images online under the guise that it can be quite profitable! This is assuming you take the proper steps and be prepared for a lot of work if and when the time comes.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
New Yorkrican
My friend Angel has been wanting a good photo that shows his features really well. I know this isn't what he had in mind, but I had the idea for this the moment I saw it. sb600 to camera left through 42" white umbrella at 1/4th. Triggered via CLS.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
2008 Predictions by Thom Hogan
Thom over at Bythom has made his Nikon predictions for 2008. He mentions the predictions from 2006 that he made about to include the Full Frame D3 and the 24-70, albeit he said it would be a VR model. I don't see a new for VR in non telephoto lenses, but of course it couldn't hurt to have it.
For 2008 he predicts a replacement for the D80, and surprisingly even a replacement for the D40/D40x. I find it surprising as DSLR usually have a 2 year product life before replacement, and the D40/x has barely been out a year. Then again, considering how quickly an X model was brought out for the D40, it could very well be possible.
Of interesting note, he not only believes that Nikon won't come out with a smaller size FX body, similar to Canon's 5D, but believes that the DX format will prosper for years to come. Part of this goes to Nikon being busy with the D3, as well as the DX theoretically being at its resolution limit until about 34mp. Looking at the sizes of the uncompressed raw images from the D300 (25mb a pop!) I can't find a need or desire for that many MP. Most consumers don't need over 6 to get good 8x10 prints, though opponents to that will contend the need for cropping power. The pro response to that would simply be to get the shot right the first time, but I'm no pro!
For 2008 he predicts a replacement for the D80, and surprisingly even a replacement for the D40/D40x. I find it surprising as DSLR usually have a 2 year product life before replacement, and the D40/x has barely been out a year. Then again, considering how quickly an X model was brought out for the D40, it could very well be possible.
Of interesting note, he not only believes that Nikon won't come out with a smaller size FX body, similar to Canon's 5D, but believes that the DX format will prosper for years to come. Part of this goes to Nikon being busy with the D3, as well as the DX theoretically being at its resolution limit until about 34mp. Looking at the sizes of the uncompressed raw images from the D300 (25mb a pop!) I can't find a need or desire for that many MP. Most consumers don't need over 6 to get good 8x10 prints, though opponents to that will contend the need for cropping power. The pro response to that would simply be to get the shot right the first time, but I'm no pro!
Watching you, watching me...
Definitely not my usual flavor. A quick observation of my photos will find that they usually follow a much darker contrast. However, I've found myself intrigued by the photography of Rachel Schell a photographer based mostly on Flickr. Her images could well be summed up as the antithesis of mine. While I find solace in shadows and dark contrast, her images celebrate the light from her subjects to their surrounding environments. I find that creative vignetting can help your subject stand out from it's background, where as she employs liberal use of soft bokeh and light to surround, separate, and transcend her subjects from their environments.It can be said that the greatest form of flattery is imitation. While not exactly that of Rachel Schell, her photography was in mind when creating this image.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Jessica, High Key
Next to try some Low Key Lighting similar to what I did a few months back.
Friday, December 14, 2007
In the Garden of my Mind
We've had quite a bit of snow up here in Spokane. Mostly I've just peered at it through the window enjoy the comfort of my heated home. However, I knew I was really missing out on quite a few photo opportunities. So I grabbed my bag of lenses and went out to find something. Out here in Spokane, when in doubt, you can always head to Manito park. Unfortunately, the Japanese gardens is closed for the season, but I found something, possibly better.
I had a second motive as well. Within the coming New Year, I'll be in the market for a professional mid range zoom, and I've been struggling with the decision between the extremely popular 17-55mm 2.8, and the infamous 28-70mm 2.8, aka "The Beast". Part of my difficulty is the fact that the 17-55 is a DX lens, and I plan to purchase an old film camera as well next year. The chief issue with the 28-70 is it is critiqued as just not being wide enough on an DSLR with a smaller than FF sensor. However, my feeling on it is if you want to take wide angle photos, then perhaps it would be best to buy a dedicated wide angle lens such as the well regarded 12-124mm DX or slightly cheaper Sigma 10-20mm. Of course if you have $1800 to shell out, there's always the newly released Nikon 14-24 which is a full frame lens, and will probably fully deplete your bank account.
I made my decision on the 28-70 today when out taking photos in that the widest image I took was at 26, which I later cropped anyway.
I had a second motive as well. Within the coming New Year, I'll be in the market for a professional mid range zoom, and I've been struggling with the decision between the extremely popular 17-55mm 2.8, and the infamous 28-70mm 2.8, aka "The Beast". Part of my difficulty is the fact that the 17-55 is a DX lens, and I plan to purchase an old film camera as well next year. The chief issue with the 28-70 is it is critiqued as just not being wide enough on an DSLR with a smaller than FF sensor. However, my feeling on it is if you want to take wide angle photos, then perhaps it would be best to buy a dedicated wide angle lens such as the well regarded 12-124mm DX or slightly cheaper Sigma 10-20mm. Of course if you have $1800 to shell out, there's always the newly released Nikon 14-24 which is a full frame lens, and will probably fully deplete your bank account.
I made my decision on the 28-70 today when out taking photos in that the widest image I took was at 26, which I later cropped anyway.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Good vs. Great: What Happens Before the Picture Gets Taken
I ran across an interesting blog while dreaming over my oh so out-of-reach Amazon wish list. I have to admit, Amazon really isn't the first thing that comes to mind when I think of insightful blog lines, but this one caught my eye. Now, we all for the most part know that great photos have very little to do with the camera (and if you didn't know that, you're probably the type still obsessing over megapixels). Ryan theorizes that to get a great photo, you have to go where great photos happen. I believe this to an extent that you should take self out of your normal routine to find areas of interest. Though it is not uncommon to find great photo opportunities right outside your front door.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
"Oh the humanity!
This one really tickled me. Yes, it sucked that the manager lost out on quite a bit of money ($1,739.83 to be exact). However, can he really blame anyone? It's kind of like when an armored van turns over spelling thousands of dollars all over the highway. Would you help yourself to a few bills, or turn all the money in?
Hey...it's near Christmas. I'd put the money to good use.
Hey...it's near Christmas. I'd put the money to good use.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Creative Photography
This is a technique I had done in my More to come! post with the Christmas tree shaped bokeh. A few individuals were curious how I achieved the affect. It's actually a rather simple technique, to which can be found here. In short, you are creating a new lens hood with the shape of the bokeh you want. Trick to it is the outline has to be smaller than your aperture opening, which is why primes work so well since they usually have a very large aperture.
This was something I had been interested in doing for some time, but it's unfortunately along the cliché list of things to photograph like smoke, silhouettes, etc. To me, there is an essential trick to interesting photography, and that is to show people something they can theoretically see at any time, but in a way they've never seen it before, would think to look at it that way. Quite simply, it is the art of making the ordinary, extraordinary. For the photo of the ring, though it is not something you would normally see, for many photographers it is something they had done before, and to change that, I simply made it the opposite of...a negative image.
Another way to add creativity to your images is to simply change your perspective. We walk about and see the world the same way every day, but when suddenly put in a perspective we are not used to seeing, something unique is achieved. Photography like macro photos gain a huge boon with this, as most macro photos are instantly interesting due to the fact that more often than not it captures not only something that we don't normally see, but in many cases, can't see.
A good tip that was given to me was when I found something interesting to photograph was to not photograph it in the position I found it, but to move around and find different angles to take it. The position I found it in, quite often is the way anyone else would walk up to it, and as such would lose a lot of interestingness. Move about, get down low, get high, try landscape and portrait orientations and take as many different pictures as possible, use the rule of thirds, break the rule of thirds etc. It is only to trial and experimentation can we discover what we truly like, and with the advent of digital photography, this is far easier as we can instantly see the fruits of our labor, as well as not worry about the cost of developing film.
This was something I had been interested in doing for some time, but it's unfortunately along the cliché list of things to photograph like smoke, silhouettes, etc. To me, there is an essential trick to interesting photography, and that is to show people something they can theoretically see at any time, but in a way they've never seen it before, would think to look at it that way. Quite simply, it is the art of making the ordinary, extraordinary. For the photo of the ring, though it is not something you would normally see, for many photographers it is something they had done before, and to change that, I simply made it the opposite of...a negative image.
Another way to add creativity to your images is to simply change your perspective. We walk about and see the world the same way every day, but when suddenly put in a perspective we are not used to seeing, something unique is achieved. Photography like macro photos gain a huge boon with this, as most macro photos are instantly interesting due to the fact that more often than not it captures not only something that we don't normally see, but in many cases, can't see.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Digital SLR Guide Newsletter
The latest version of the Newsletter from Digital-SLR-Guide.Comis available here. He goes over differences between DSLRs and DSLR like cameras, the aperture, shutter speed, iso triad, and some rationales for each one, and the cameras released for 2007.
This was a great site that I learned a lot from when still new to DSLRs, so if you're still new to photography, I recommend a look.
This was a great site that I learned a lot from when still new to DSLRs, so if you're still new to photography, I recommend a look.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
It's Cold Damnit!
With the first real snow of the season comes the oppurtunity to photograph the world in a different light. The landscape becomes wrapped in a soft, gentle, white blanket, though only briefly before it fades away to the passing wind. However, to get out there, requires a bit of motivation. In short...it's cold. Of course it is always best to dress warmly when venturing out, and even better to actually have a plan while out there so that the least amount of time is spent in the frigid locales.
The idea for this came when I went out the first time, and found myself capturing nothing of interest (mostly due to my unwillingness to go far). It was near 3 in the morning and I wanted to convey how cold it was. I remembered a light painting tutorial I saw recently on DIYPhotography, and the idea came quickly afterwards. You may have seen light painting popularized recently with some Sprint Ads.
A few notes about light painting. First, it is just that: painting with light. Using a flashlight, pen light or some other pointing device, you set a rather long shutter speed on a tripod mounted camera and paint light on a surface, or towards the camera itself. Requires some experimentation, but the effects can be quite unique. Word of advice, if you want to spell a word, it has to be spelled backwards. My first attempt got me the world DOLC.
The idea for this came when I went out the first time, and found myself capturing nothing of interest (mostly due to my unwillingness to go far). It was near 3 in the morning and I wanted to convey how cold it was. I remembered a light painting tutorial I saw recently on DIYPhotography, and the idea came quickly afterwards. You may have seen light painting popularized recently with some Sprint Ads.
A few notes about light painting. First, it is just that: painting with light. Using a flashlight, pen light or some other pointing device, you set a rather long shutter speed on a tripod mounted camera and paint light on a surface, or towards the camera itself. Requires some experimentation, but the effects can be quite unique. Word of advice, if you want to spell a word, it has to be spelled backwards. My first attempt got me the world DOLC.
Monday, November 26, 2007
From the Archives
Every now and then, it behooves you to go through your archives and revisit images you may have looked over when you initially took them. While they may have been dismissed at one time, a different view may bring forth an appreciation for what was once considered uninteresting.
In Spokane, the cliché place to go is Manito park. Really, I can recognize a portrait it from a mile away. However, it cannot be disputed that it is a beautiful locale. From the Lilac, Japanese, and Rose Gardens, and other various locales in the park, while it is not quite Central Park or Prospect Park from my native New York, it is an excellent substitute, and quick and easy inspiration fix...providing the weather is warm.
This was actually taken by my wife while shadowing a wedding photographer. Her impressions of him, which was shared by the bride, was far less than favorable. However, she learned quite a great deal from watching him work. Mostly things she'd like to avoid doing (like not respecting the bride's wishes) and a few things favorable. Mostly from the other photographer who was shadowing as well. If you have the opportunity to shadow another photographer, it is a great learning experience, even if you find the photog a ninny.
Taking the plunge myself, this was from my first portrait shoot of the Hudsons, who were engaged at the time. While I was still quite new to advanced photography, their natural chemistry made the shoot delightful. It can be said that if you have a beautiful subject, you are already 90% of the way to a great capture. This was evidently the case as the two required very little feedback, and the entire sessions was enjoyable for all. I can look back and see a few things I would have done differently, but I think that is a given for any photo you look back on after your expertise has improved.
In Spokane, the cliché place to go is Manito park. Really, I can recognize a portrait it from a mile away. However, it cannot be disputed that it is a beautiful locale. From the Lilac, Japanese, and Rose Gardens, and other various locales in the park, while it is not quite Central Park or Prospect Park from my native New York, it is an excellent substitute, and quick and easy inspiration fix...providing the weather is warm.
This was actually taken by my wife while shadowing a wedding photographer. Her impressions of him, which was shared by the bride, was far less than favorable. However, she learned quite a great deal from watching him work. Mostly things she'd like to avoid doing (like not respecting the bride's wishes) and a few things favorable. Mostly from the other photographer who was shadowing as well. If you have the opportunity to shadow another photographer, it is a great learning experience, even if you find the photog a ninny.
Taking the plunge myself, this was from my first portrait shoot of the Hudsons, who were engaged at the time. While I was still quite new to advanced photography, their natural chemistry made the shoot delightful. It can be said that if you have a beautiful subject, you are already 90% of the way to a great capture. This was evidently the case as the two required very little feedback, and the entire sessions was enjoyable for all. I can look back and see a few things I would have done differently, but I think that is a given for any photo you look back on after your expertise has improved.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
"I think I'll stay inside today..."
Experiencing winter in the frigid northwest has been interesting to say the least. Yes, it's cold. But I've been places that have been plenty cold. What gets me is the ridiculously early setting of sun. It's literally gone by 4pm. Things were different in Oklahoma, but then again, the weather was always screwy out there.
I took this photo by the off chance that I looked out my window and noticed it. It was obviously an interesting sight to behold, a bloom at the onset of winter. However, how best to capture it was the challenge. I had learned throughout the last year that my best photographs are those in which I already have a vivid picture in mind of what I want to do with it, and not just hoping to get something good. I had contemplated cutting it and "staging" the photo, but fearful I'd lose the delicate snow crystals on the rose. With a rough idea in mind, I took about a dozen images and went about to PP them.
I wanted it to be along the lines of a dark love story, and as such a lot of blacks and vignetting was added in Lightroom. Additionally, the reds and magentas was increased to accentuate the petals, and a magenta tint was added to the overall image to complete the effect. A quick run through Noise Ninja in Photoshop with the settings tuned down (8, 8, 8) ensured that noise was removed while preserving detail.
Personally, I can't imagine the image any other way.
I took this photo by the off chance that I looked out my window and noticed it. It was obviously an interesting sight to behold, a bloom at the onset of winter. However, how best to capture it was the challenge. I had learned throughout the last year that my best photographs are those in which I already have a vivid picture in mind of what I want to do with it, and not just hoping to get something good. I had contemplated cutting it and "staging" the photo, but fearful I'd lose the delicate snow crystals on the rose. With a rough idea in mind, I took about a dozen images and went about to PP them.
I wanted it to be along the lines of a dark love story, and as such a lot of blacks and vignetting was added in Lightroom. Additionally, the reds and magentas was increased to accentuate the petals, and a magenta tint was added to the overall image to complete the effect. A quick run through Noise Ninja in Photoshop with the settings tuned down (8, 8, 8) ensured that noise was removed while preserving detail.
Personally, I can't imagine the image any other way.
More to come!
This was something I learned to do some time ago, but never played with it. The trick to it is to understand that the out of focus shapes of the lights in your image is actually shaped by the aperture in your camera. More often than not this shape is a circular or octagon shaped. With this knowledge, one can profess that changing the shape will give you different OOF effects, for example the Christmas tree shape above. To do that, you simply cut out a shape of something and place it in front of the lens. The trick to it is that has to be small than the aperture inside the lens. For example, with the 50mm 1.8, the front element is recessed and smaller than the lens opening, so the shape has to be smaller than you would normally think. This effect works best with primes which have a large aperture.
This was one of those images that just jumped at me when I took it, and I knew exactly where I wanted to go with it. It was meant to be a relatively morbid image, so the blacks and contrast was increased substantially, and a heavy level of vignetting was added. Additionally, a green tint was given to image to give it the grim look, similar to what was found in the Matrix movies when they were in the Matrix itself. A small narrative was also added to help deliver the idea of dark side of the modern photographic process.
This was one of those images that just jumped at me when I took it, and I knew exactly where I wanted to go with it. It was meant to be a relatively morbid image, so the blacks and contrast was increased substantially, and a heavy level of vignetting was added. Additionally, a green tint was given to image to give it the grim look, similar to what was found in the Matrix movies when they were in the Matrix itself. A small narrative was also added to help deliver the idea of dark side of the modern photographic process.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
By the hospital bed
There is something about black and white images that has allowed it to persevere and remain near exactly as it was 100 years ago, despite advances all around it. It is by far, my favorite type of photography. Every black and white image makes you stop and look, because its not the way you normally see the world. And in that is the trick to photography; showing a small part of the world to someone that they can see any time, in a way they've never seen it before.
I captured a little small piece of the world here. Whether its admired by others or not remains to be seen, but I'm truly proud of what I have been able to capture.
I captured a little small piece of the world here. Whether its admired by others or not remains to be seen, but I'm truly proud of what I have been able to capture.
Unintended Success
This photo is interesting in that it is not what I intended it to be. My wife gave me the idea for the photo when I was doing some test shots of my daughter in front of our admitted Charlie Brown Christmas tree. She said a silouette of her in front of it would make for a beautiful effect. The setup would be simple. Kill the ambient but setting a fast enough shutter speed (1/250) and then adjust the light to hit just the tree. A short snoot would work well, or moving the seated subject far enough away from the background as well.
At the time I was shooting through a white 42" umbrella to camera left. One of the things about shooting through an umbrella is that it throws light pretty much everywhere, rather than reflecting it which makes the light a bit more directional, or snooted where you're almost focusing a spot light. Because of this, every though I position the light right, I did not get my intended effect. This was to little consequence as both my wife and I immediately loved the effect and took a few more shots before ending up with this. PP was minimal as wel, with jsut the kevlin being raised a bit to give the image a warmer feel. It's a great pleasure to get the image right in camera with minimal post-processing, even if it wasn't your intended effect.
Also from this shoot:
Post processing included Noise Ninja to smooth out the image as well as a slight Glamour Blur action.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
To Chimp, or Not to Chimp?
One of the benefits digital has given us over the film days of yore is the ability to instantly and gratuitously review our images to observe composure, exposure or whether we even like the image or not. It was such that the term chimping coined by USA Today staff photographer Robert Deutsch. Really, you'll hear both sides of the coin from the old school film aficionados who argue masses of rabid monkeys which have lost the ability to create film from pure talent alone, to those who view the moniker as simple an added tool set used to achieve the desired end product; a well exposed photograph worth keeping. However it is the latter of this that is concerned because many individuals simply discard images that appear unsatisfactory on their LCD screens, that can range from a mere inch to 3 inches and up.
While the LCD screens, especially some of the newer ones like those on the D3 and D300 are good visual aides to help determine where to go next with a photo, they should hardly be the end all to deciding whether to keep or discard a photograph. The small compressed screens can easily hide details and faults, and not always be the best judge of exposure. The LCD screen coupled with available in-camera histograms offer far better comparisons, but still, there are of no match to a dedicated monitor. Images that looked great on my 2.5 inch screen suddenly take on a whole new persona when placed on my 22" widescreen monitor. So do yourself a favor, don't delete that image, unless you are absolutely certain you completely botched it (blank screen, completely out of focus, etc). You never know when you've got a gem (or lump of coal).
Cheerish Every Moment
This image was a test photo to see if I had the exposure and light placement right. She didn't even sit still for the shot, there were a few hot spots and I was pretty sure I would delete it when I downloaded. However, upon reviewing it, I found I liked the shadows in the image. Part of art of controlling light is not just what you see, but what you don't see. The clever dance of light and shadows upon our subjects creating a beautiful balance for us to see and behold.
Near that time of year again
Another near junker. I liked that the image was far from perfect. I used to work in 3D art before I got into photography. One of the biggest downfalls to unrealistic 3D is that it can be too clean. Noise, dirt, grit. We all live in it, and as such expect to see some of it to help solidify that an item is real. Everything needs to look as though it exists in the world, and very few things in this world are perfect.
While the LCD screens, especially some of the newer ones like those on the D3 and D300 are good visual aides to help determine where to go next with a photo, they should hardly be the end all to deciding whether to keep or discard a photograph. The small compressed screens can easily hide details and faults, and not always be the best judge of exposure. The LCD screen coupled with available in-camera histograms offer far better comparisons, but still, there are of no match to a dedicated monitor. Images that looked great on my 2.5 inch screen suddenly take on a whole new persona when placed on my 22" widescreen monitor. So do yourself a favor, don't delete that image, unless you are absolutely certain you completely botched it (blank screen, completely out of focus, etc). You never know when you've got a gem (or lump of coal).
Cheerish Every Moment
Near that time of year again
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Daylight Saving
Don't forget, clocks fall back an hour tonight, effectively giving us an hour more of sleep. For those who have to work the weekends (like myself), this especially applies so you're not showing up for work an hour too early.
Photo Revist Here's two images I had initially dismissed because they just didn't appeal to me at first. My wife liked them though, so I recently gave it second look. Often times it's good to go back through your old images; you might find a few hidden gems.
Photo Revist Here's two images I had initially dismissed because they just didn't appeal to me at first. My wife liked them though, so I recently gave it second look. Often times it's good to go back through your old images; you might find a few hidden gems.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Thank God
While this country advocates free speech in it's many shapes and forms, quite frankly some speech carries consequences with it. Today, the Westboro Baptist Church which has gained infamy for holding demonstrations during funerals for military members killed in Iraq, was ordered to pay nearly 11 million dollars to Albert Synder, whose funeral for his son they protested. Interestingly enough, the net worth of the church is said to only be less than a million dollars, so it is unclear that they will ever collect the damages awarded. What is clear is that this verdict will send shock waves out to exactly how free speech can be practiced. Clearly, as a member of the armed forces, I have no love for this group and truly am disgusted by the message of hatred they are spewing as well as their method of expressing it. Nothing is more disrespectful than to hold a hate rally at the funeral of a soldier who died protecting your right to do so. Quite frankly I feel that religion is one of the worst things in this world, especially when groups use it to fuel their own personal agenda. However, that is just me exercising my own modicum of free speech in a public forum.
One night, some time a yonder...
An old photo from earlier this year, but was recently rediscovered on Flickr. Not sure what captivates me about it, but it's one of my best captures, strangely before I even knew much about photography. I think now I get too much into the technical aspect of the art and have lost a bit of the creativity I had when I was still exploring and experimenting. Would love to get a film camera just for the fun of taking pictures again. Its no secret that many of my newer images I have tried to give an old film effect to them. More to come.
One night, some time a yonder...
An old photo from earlier this year, but was recently rediscovered on Flickr. Not sure what captivates me about it, but it's one of my best captures, strangely before I even knew much about photography. I think now I get too much into the technical aspect of the art and have lost a bit of the creativity I had when I was still exploring and experimenting. Would love to get a film camera just for the fun of taking pictures again. Its no secret that many of my newer images I have tried to give an old film effect to them. More to come.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
D3 vs D300? Duuuuuh
I love reading all the D3 vs D300 thread I've been seeing cropping up on Flickr recently. Really, Nikon has moved to the forefront with their move to release two very amazing cameras in the near future. However, it goes without saying that the images coming from the D3 are nothing short of revolutionary, especially the high iso examples, changing the foundation of what was thought not possible before. But at $5000 a pop that just comes with the camera alone (don't you dare ask about a pop up flash), there should never be a question in mind about comparing it to an obviously lesser camera that is catered to a far different market. You have an industry need for it, or a personal desire for it. 99% of the thread starters are in the latter camp. I've even seen someone lamenting that his 18-200 VR will only work in cropped mode if he were to purchase the D3. Oh the folly! To get a little geeky on you and quote a Star Wars Jedi Master "Do or do not...there is no try".
For the industry leaders and professionals, they will most likely pick up 2; one as a back up camera. For all the rest, if your pocket books can afford it, by all means, go for it. Just please do yourself a favor; of that 5 grand you just blew, invest in some professional glass. I'll have to lay the hand of smack down if I see someone walking around with a D3 and a 18-55 lens.
Images from the rest of us mere mortals:
Glass on Glass
Peaches...Patches?
Second Spring
For the industry leaders and professionals, they will most likely pick up 2; one as a back up camera. For all the rest, if your pocket books can afford it, by all means, go for it. Just please do yourself a favor; of that 5 grand you just blew, invest in some professional glass. I'll have to lay the hand of smack down if I see someone walking around with a D3 and a 18-55 lens.
Images from the rest of us mere mortals:
Glass on Glass
Peaches...Patches?
Second Spring
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Unsexiest Woman Maxim Award
Here's one that have men everywhere going "well...duh!". Sarah Jessica Parker was named the Unsexiest Woman alive by Maxim. Mind you, this isn't the ugliest woman alive; it's the unsexiest woman alive. The kind of woman if they was laying naked under the covers, you'd probably solemnly go "no thanks". Others who graced the list included Britney Spears, Sandra Oh (Grey's Anatomy), Amy Winehouse (singer, songwriter) and surprisingly, Madonna. Personally, I feel with the exception of Madonna, they nailed the list. I think in the case of Madonna, she is just getting older, and the relinquishing of her to an old Jewish woman a little unfair. I'm also surprised that with Britney's latest escapades, she doesn't grace the top of the list, instead of the number 5 position. But, replace Madonna with Sarah Silverman and you pretty much have my list.
On the flip side to this, a hearty congratulations to Washington State Troopers for being named the Best-Dressed-State-Law-Enforcement-Agency. How often do you get pulled over by a state trooper wearing a bow tie?
On the flip side to this, a hearty congratulations to Washington State Troopers for being named the Best-Dressed-State-Law-Enforcement-Agency. How often do you get pulled over by a state trooper wearing a bow tie?
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Virtual Camera
I know for many who make the leap from P&S cameras to DSLR, the most daunting task can be understanding the relationship between shutter speed, aperture and iso. Indeed, many go out and purchase $500+ cameras in the hopes of more control and the ability to take better pictures, only to use the auto and scene modes because they have no idea how to use the controls available to them.
There is a neat little Virtual Camera over at dryreading.com that is setup to let you experiment with camera settings and seeing what happens with each setting change. The applet also has helpful explanations such as the different modes usually found on a camera, what the iso, aperture and shutter speed is and how it relates to photo exposures, and different scenes with different lighting conditions to experiment in. I found myself playing with it for a bit and imaging the many friends and family members who I know have DSLRs and shoot in Auto mode; a crime in and of itself.
There is a neat little Virtual Camera over at dryreading.com that is setup to let you experiment with camera settings and seeing what happens with each setting change. The applet also has helpful explanations such as the different modes usually found on a camera, what the iso, aperture and shutter speed is and how it relates to photo exposures, and different scenes with different lighting conditions to experiment in. I found myself playing with it for a bit and imaging the many friends and family members who I know have DSLRs and shoot in Auto mode; a crime in and of itself.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
To Frame, or Not to Frame...
There was a well opinionated debate that started on Flickr in the Nikon Digital group about the uses of borders in digital images. Contenders from both sides argued the pros of cons of using borders, with, strangely enough, arguments for both sides peculiarly alike. "It looks cheesy without it" "it adds/detracts from the image". Eventually the subject died and everyone agreed to disagree.
Then in this world there are those who I believe sole purpose in life is to resurrect dead threads. I mean, this topic was 7 months old from my last comment, and here it was again, back in the limelight with both sides waging the same bitter comments. I of course not able to resist a good debate had to once again pitch my 2 cents in.
Really, when it comes down to it, it's subjective as the photograph itself. Some people like it, some hate it. Personally I'm middle ground. I find that sometimes, a good clean border can help an image stand out a little more, especially when displayed on Flickr's white backgrounds. However, I do believe an image should be able to stand on it's own without one. I've seen some absolutely hideous framing jobs where the image is 1/4th frame and you wonder whether you're looking at a picture or a giant black frame. But I have also seen framing doing very cleverly. The type that makes you want to go out and try similar techniques. You know, the kind that inspires.
So here are the rules I follow when deciding whether to use a border on my photos:
Is the image strong enough to stand on it's own? Quite simply, if I didn't put a frame on it, would it still be a strong image? The border should be the cherry on top. It should compliment and enhance an already wonderful piece of work. This is subjective of course, so use your best judgment.
Is there a lot of negative space where the eye can wander? Sometimes images that contain negative space as a purposeful feature (and not just center focusing and leaving large gaping areas open) can lead to the eye wandering off a bit when viewing the photo. A slim border can help to contain the eye and keep interest on what's important in the image.
Keep your border to no more than 10% of the image size Huge borders are just ugly. It shows an individual is uncertain of his talent, and hopes to hide within the safety of a large border. Borders should be presentable, maintain the theme of the image (a grunge image could have dirty border, but may not work for child photography) and lastly, minimalist. Remember, it's the cherry on top, or the garnishing if you well. Just a little something extra to sweeten the deal. Less is definitely more here.
Be Creative Mix it up. Sometimes a simple plain black border works, and sometimes you can try more interesting ways to frame your works. I've experimented with quite a few styles, but have finally decided I'd rather not use them. It's an opinion and you're welcome to your own.
Examples:
A small thin border designed to separate from Flickr's white background. Also there is a small copyright logo in the bottom.
A bit creative as I used the image itself to create the border by cutting out a small piece, and darking the edges around it.
Small, thin and neat and designed to help contain the eye within the image.
Then in this world there are those who I believe sole purpose in life is to resurrect dead threads. I mean, this topic was 7 months old from my last comment, and here it was again, back in the limelight with both sides waging the same bitter comments. I of course not able to resist a good debate had to once again pitch my 2 cents in.
Really, when it comes down to it, it's subjective as the photograph itself. Some people like it, some hate it. Personally I'm middle ground. I find that sometimes, a good clean border can help an image stand out a little more, especially when displayed on Flickr's white backgrounds. However, I do believe an image should be able to stand on it's own without one. I've seen some absolutely hideous framing jobs where the image is 1/4th frame and you wonder whether you're looking at a picture or a giant black frame. But I have also seen framing doing very cleverly. The type that makes you want to go out and try similar techniques. You know, the kind that inspires.
So here are the rules I follow when deciding whether to use a border on my photos:
Is the image strong enough to stand on it's own? Quite simply, if I didn't put a frame on it, would it still be a strong image? The border should be the cherry on top. It should compliment and enhance an already wonderful piece of work. This is subjective of course, so use your best judgment.
Is there a lot of negative space where the eye can wander? Sometimes images that contain negative space as a purposeful feature (and not just center focusing and leaving large gaping areas open) can lead to the eye wandering off a bit when viewing the photo. A slim border can help to contain the eye and keep interest on what's important in the image.
Keep your border to no more than 10% of the image size Huge borders are just ugly. It shows an individual is uncertain of his talent, and hopes to hide within the safety of a large border. Borders should be presentable, maintain the theme of the image (a grunge image could have dirty border, but may not work for child photography) and lastly, minimalist. Remember, it's the cherry on top, or the garnishing if you well. Just a little something extra to sweeten the deal. Less is definitely more here.
Be Creative Mix it up. Sometimes a simple plain black border works, and sometimes you can try more interesting ways to frame your works. I've experimented with quite a few styles, but have finally decided I'd rather not use them. It's an opinion and you're welcome to your own.
Examples:
A small thin border designed to separate from Flickr's white background. Also there is a small copyright logo in the bottom.
A bit creative as I used the image itself to create the border by cutting out a small piece, and darking the edges around it.
Small, thin and neat and designed to help contain the eye within the image.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Glass Exoskeleton
Bouncing the flash off the board gave a pleasing effect, especially once I adjusted the aperture and flash power to settings I wanted. It would have been nice to have a macro lens, but I got by just fine without.
My friend Angel came by afterwards and wanted some portraits. So grabbed the camera and headed out. About 3 dozen shots later, got two I can brag about--one even being of me.
Simulated Dave Hill Photography look.
My own special recipe.
"One last wish"
The idea for this came to me while looking out into my backyard. Most of the trees were just now starting to turn, but one had already become pretty barren, with just a few leaves left waiting for the wind to carry them away. The idea came to me in a flash and I grabbed my D80, trusty 50, and sb600 and ran outside.
A little bit of setup was required on the branch, so I picked one of the leaves, and plucked the others off. There was a wonderful amount of sun shining through and just enough clouds in the sky to give the image contrast. I definitely wanted the sky well exposed, so I exposed for the sky, then brought down the exposure by a stop. I then exposed the leaf using my sb600 handheld to left at 1/4th. Took a few, but really, the first was the keeper. I probably could have easily taken it and popped it online after the raw conversion, but part of the fun of digital is post processing.
I've seen people complain about getting flak about film enthusiast that say it isn't a real photograph unless you can get the image from the camera itself. There is a certain joy to being able to capture an image right the first time, but fact of the matter is even film photographers post processed images in their dark rooms to add certain effects. Secondly, we're in a new age and era here. There's no need to cling to the old "uphill both ways" mentality. Photography is a form of art, and with any work of art, it's all about the end result. An individual should feel free to use the tools at their disposal to achieve their artistic vision. If that tool is the lens alone, so be it. But for some, it's filters, darkrooms and Photoshop.
Long Road Home
Really that brings to light two kinds of photographers; the ones who take the time and effort to painstakingly plan a photograph, sometimes waiting months for the perfect lighting to create that special magic, and the ones who instead of creating magic, just go out and look for it. It calls to question whether the photo that took more effort is better than the spontaneous one. Personally, I think not, as photography is a form of art after all. Get too wrapped up in the technical details and one might forget that.
A few more random shots from the day. Click for larger view.
Virgin Mary statue outside of Sacred Heart hospital.
South of the hospital is a small park completely covered in fall leaves.
Savanna doing what she does best.
RAW
So I've recently started shooting in raw. My lack of before was not so much about the fear of using raw as it was an apprehension of the images taking up all my HD space. After all, each raw image approaches 8mb each (and these are Nikon compressed raw). However, I recent purchased the 500gb Western Digital Mybook which I've been using as a backup and soon to offload archived folders. A good backup plan is a must, especially with collection just passing the 30,000 image mark.
There are many benefits to raw, but the two that most people should be interested in is the unlimited whiteness balancing adjustments and the increased saved image information. If you think of raw as a digital negative, you'll have a good idea of the benefits.
I'll still shoot in jpg if I'm practicing, but for the most part, I stick to raw these days and worry about the hd space later. Memory is cheap anyway.
There are many benefits to raw, but the two that most people should be interested in is the unlimited whiteness balancing adjustments and the increased saved image information. If you think of raw as a digital negative, you'll have a good idea of the benefits.
I'll still shoot in jpg if I'm practicing, but for the most part, I stick to raw these days and worry about the hd space later. Memory is cheap anyway.
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