Other than the obvious of not focusing on your subject, here are a few causes of blurry photos and simple solutions to ensure you capture sharper images. Camera shake Not holding your camera correctly or steady causes the camera to shake. You may not notice the blurry motion on wider shots until you zoom in close, especially on the eyes. Solution: Cup the barrel of the lens — especially with a long telephoto lens — and bring your elbow tight into your body. Look through the eyepiece as you firmly press the camera to your forehead. You just … [Read more...] about Blurry pictures: What causes them and how to get sharp photos
Vanelli
Robert Vanelli (Vanelli to his friends) is a working photographer, educator and author living in Florida. After a successful career as a three-time, Triple Crown Karate champion, Vanelli turned his attention to teaching the visual arts. As an experienced educator, Vanelli has created several photography and digital workflow programs including Click for Kids.
Currently he is teaching workshops, writing for Photofocus and creating tutorials for various plug-in companies and for the Vanelli and Friends series.
You can find out more about Vanelli at www.VanelliandFriends.com
Currently he is teaching workshops, writing for Photofocus and creating tutorials for various plug-in companies and for the Vanelli and Friends series.
You can find out more about Vanelli at www.VanelliandFriends.com
Latest posts by Vanelli (see all)
- Blurry pictures: What causes them and how to get sharp photos - February 9, 2019
- Quick Tip: Create your own Actions, Presets & Luminar Looks - February 8, 2019
- Would you pay 3.5 million dollars for this photo? - February 4, 2019
Quick Tip: Create your own Actions, Presets & Luminar Looks
Do you find yourself performing the same edits to your images? When that happens, take a moment and create an action, preset or Look to help automate the process. Years ago, before Luminar or Lightroom, I found myself constantly starting each portrait session in Photoshop by duplicating the background image, applying a skin softening technique and added different layers to enhance eyes, lips, and sculpt the subject’s face. Creating an action allowed me to assign a keyboard shortcut to speed up my workflow. Want to learn more? Check out this … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Create your own Actions, Presets & Luminar Looks
Would you pay 3.5 million dollars for this photo?
Would you pay 3.5 million dollars for this photo? The U.S. Postal Service did! In case you’re not familiar with the story, here’s a brief overview before I explain what this means for photographers. The U.S. Postal Service’s big mistake When designing a new Forever stamp featuring the Statue of Liberty, the U.S. Postal Service made a costly mistake. They searched Getty Images to find a photo of the Statue of Liberty, and settled on a photo by photographer Raimund Linke. The problem? It wasn’t the beloved Lady Liberty standing proudly on … [Read more...] about Would you pay 3.5 million dollars for this photo?
Quick Tip: Select the right prop to create a new look or mood
The right prop can change an entire look of a scene. As a sport and portrait photographer, I’ll use the athlete’s ball or stick in an image to complete the portrait. During a photo shoot in a desert, stock photographer Rick Ray showed how he can capture different looks by adding props. He began with the model sitting on the road, in complete despair. Next, he added a piece of luggage, then gas can. Each of the props told a different story. Rick was able to capture multiple moods from the same scene. Want to learn more? Check out this … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Select the right prop to create a new look or mood
The InFocus Interview Show with Maria Vanelli | Photofocus Podcast February 1, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-maria-vanelli-february-1-2019/s-pWlgO In this episode: I had a chance to interview a very special teacher, my sister Maria Vanelli. Maria came for a visit and we started talking about our childhood and how through her teaching she helped shape my education. I picked her brain on ways to help others learn better and thought it would be a great topic for our show. Topics: Different ways photographers can learn. Using repetition to build muscle memory to learn faster. … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Maria Vanelli | Photofocus Podcast February 1, 2019
How to remove background distractions
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, there are distracting elements in the background of your photos. As photographers, we do our best to fix these distractions while we are shooting, but some slip through. Here’s how to remove distracting elements in an image by replacing them with sections of the background. I'm using Luminar 3 from Skylum Software for this example. You can use any image editing software that has layers. Step 1: Prepare the image by cropping and applying a few development enhancements. Step 2: Duplicate the background … [Read more...] about How to remove background distractions
Speed posing: Three types of circles
Editor's note: This is a guest article from Florida-based wedding photographer Richie Acevedo. Richie was one of the first photographers mentored by Vanelli many years ago. Impressed with how far he has come, Vanelli suggested Richie start sharing his knowledge through writing and video tutorials. While attending Imaging USA, Richie had a chance to sit in on Vanessa Joy’s class, “Speed Posing for Tight Timelines.” Richie took notes on the class and wanted to share a few of Vanessa’s tips. Here are Richie’s notes on how Vanessa uses three types … [Read more...] about Speed posing: Three types of circles
Quick Tip: Think twice before deleting a photo
This is an example when keeping a photo instead of deleting it paid off. I kept an underexposed image but didn’t think twice about it until a model said it was her favorite image. She asked if there was anything I could do to make the image look better. After a few minutes editing in Luminar, it was fixed. Both the model and I are happy I didn’t delete the photo. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "To keep or not to keep a photo. That is the question!" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Think twice before deleting a photo
The InFocus Interview Show with Mike Kubeisy | Photofocus Podcast January 25, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-mike-kubeisy-january-25-2019/s-0KfUi In this episode: Hollywood photographer and educator Mike Kubeisy shares his insight on what it takes to become a Hollywood photographer. Topics: How to join the Union. What it takes to get the job and keep it. Why photographers should start out as assistants. To learn more about Mike, visit his website. We like to hear from you! Here's your chance to interact with the team by leaving a follow-up question in the comments … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Mike Kubeisy | Photofocus Podcast January 25, 2019
Quick Tip: Be creative, but don’t reinvent the wheel, modify it
When I suggest “Don’t reinvent the wheel,” I’m not advocating stifling your creativity, I’m suggesting to modify the wheel to become proficient. Start with a solid base, technique or lighting pattern then slightly modify it. Once it’s to your liking, modify it some more! Doing this enough times can completely change your original concept while keeping your work on a solid foundation. This also applies to editing your images. Doing this will also help prevent you from getting bored. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Striking the … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Be creative, but don’t reinvent the wheel, modify it
Quick Tip: Use a V-flat to flag light and prevent light spill on the background
To use a V-flat to flag a light, position the black side of the V-flat between the background and the light — black will help absorb the light. Turn on the light’s modeling lamp to see if the light is spilling onto the background. Adjust the V-flat until the background isn’t affected. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Modifying light with versatile, extremely portable V-flats" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Use a V-flat to flag light and prevent light spill on the background
Quick Tip: Save time, crop in camera
Most digital cameras have an option to change the aspect ratio to 5:4 making it perfect for an 8×10 or 16×20 portrait. This can save precious time when shooting a series of step and repeat portraits at an event. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Portrait photographers: Save time, crop in camera" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Save time, crop in camera
Win an all expenses paid trip to Photoshop World 2019!
What's better than attending Photoshop World 2019? Winning an all-inclusive* trip that includes a VIP conference pass, party ticket, airfare, hotel, transportation and meals! KelbyOne will be giving away an all-inclusive* trip to one lucky person interested in attending the photography, Photoshop and Lightroom conference of the year. In 2019, KelbyOne is back, hosting two Photoshop World conferences. The first will return to Orlando, May 30-June 1, 2019 and the second is in Las Vegas, Aug. 21-23, 2019. If you win, you get to choose which … [Read more...] about Win an all expenses paid trip to Photoshop World 2019!
Are bridal shows worth attending for photographers?
Editor's note: This is a guest article from Florida based wedding photographer Richie Acevedo. Richie was one of the first photographers mentored by Vanelli many years ago. Impressed with how far he has come, Vanelli suggested Richie start sharing his knowledge through writing and video tutorials. In business, the truth is it takes money to both make or waste money. So, how do we know if we should invest our time, energy and yes, money, in a venture? We should start by asking questions and seeking advice from those that have succeeded or … [Read more...] about Are bridal shows worth attending for photographers?
Quick Tips: Dedicate a memory card to one photoshoot
Typically, it’s best to dedicate a memory card to one photoshoot. After the session, you import your images into your computer, rename them, add a few keywords, then format the card — in camera — for the next shoot. This is a solid workflow until you’re forced to photograph multiple sessions or subjects on the same memory card. In this case, create a workflow to help you organize multiple shoots from one memory card. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Organizing multiple shoots from one memory card" … [Read more...] about Quick Tips: Dedicate a memory card to one photoshoot
Quick Tip: Take the safe shots, then get creative
I start my portrait sessions by taking the safe shot. You know, the shot that you have taken a million times and know will always look good. Once that’s out of the way, it’s time to feed your creativity! Start by building upon the foundation. Soon, the new and creative shot can be an optional starting point. Doing this several times will give you several optional starting points. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Striking the balance between creativity and efficiency" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Take the safe shots, then get creative
Using diffusers or silks to soften light
Using diffusers to soften light from Improving Your Photography and Portraits with Lighting Modifiers by Robert Vanelli Sometimes having too much light is just as bad as not having enough light. This LinkedIn Learning video will show you how to use a diffuser or silk to soften harsh light to produce a pleasing image. Topics include: What's the difference between a diffuser and a silk The purpose of a diffuser How to tone down too much light on a scene using a diffuser Soften shadows Creating pleasing images … [Read more...] about Using diffusers or silks to soften light
Quick Tip: Create a rule for when to delete or keep a photo
My personal rule is to keep all photos except for the following: Accidental shot of the floor or the inside of my camera bag Flash misfire where the image is completely black The subject is blinking or making an unflattering face Major motion blur The image portrays the subject badly This is my general rule based on being an author and an educator. I sometimes need an example of a bad or blurry photo to teach how software or a photography tip can help fix it. You should create your own set of rules as a guideline. Don’t … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Create a rule for when to delete or keep a photo
The InFocus Interview Show with Joe Edelman | Photofocus Podcast January 4, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/infocus-interview-show-with-joe-edelman-january-4-2019/s-u241p In this episode: Olympus Visionary photographer, author and photo educator Joe Edelman shares his insight on a variety of topics he wrote about on his blog. Topics: Why he shot an assignment using the JPEG format and not RAW. How to shoot a portrait in bright sunlight with no reflectors or lights. Blowing Hair for Glamour Portraits & Best Fans For Your Photo Studio. To learn more about Joe, visit his blog. We like to hear … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Joe Edelman | Photofocus Podcast January 4, 2019
Quick Tip: Create a shot list
Nothing derails a shoot’s schedule more than an unorganized shot list. Imagine wetting a models hair for one scene, then having to wait for her to dry it before you can shoot the rest of the scene. A lot of wasted time. Instead, plan the order of your scenes. If a model needs to wear a hat, shoot without the hat first then add the hat for the next series. Avoid messy hair by adding the hat at the end. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "How to Create Multiple Stock Photographs Using Only One Model" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Create a shot list
How to achieve clamshell lighting on location using natural light
Clamshell lighting produces a soft glamour style with minimal shadows, making it popular for beauty portraits. Setup is simple: Resembling a clamshell, place one light tilted high, just above the subject’s eye line, and a second just below, tilted with the subject in the middle. Normally used in a studio environment, here’s how to achieve clamshell lighting on location using natural light. Set your camera in Aperture Priority and shoot in continuous mode To make life simple, set your camera in aperture priority with an aperture between f/2.8 … [Read more...] about How to achieve clamshell lighting on location using natural light
Quick Tip: Create a new copyright preset every year
It’s a good idea to create a new copyright preset at the end of each year — but don’t just overwrite the previous year’s preset. Keeping all year’s presets will give you the option to go back in time and add a previous year’s copyright information to images. Want to learn more? Check out the article "Have you created your 2017 copyright preset?" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Create a new copyright preset every year
Wedding photography: Capturing the first dance
Editor's note: This is a guest article from Florida based wedding photographer Richie Acevedo. Richie was one of the first photographers mentored by Vanelli many years ago. Impressed with how far he has come, Vanelli suggested Richie start sharing his knowledge through writing and video tutorials. Wedding photographers don’t have the luxury of a second chance to capture a bride and groom’s first dance. Here’s how — with a little coaching, lighting and teamwork — you can capture a beautiful moment that will be cherished for years. Coach the … [Read more...] about Wedding photography: Capturing the first dance
Understanding Luminar 3 in five minutes or less
Luminar 3 is now available! For a limited time, you can receive an additional $10 off, plus a ton of bonuses! Click here to get started, and use the promo code PHOTOFOCUS. Offer ends Dec. 19 at 5 a.m. PT. If you already have Luminar 2018, login to your account at skylum.com to upgrade for free. Learning new software can be challenging and frustrating. This can cause some users not to upgrade or try something new even if it’s better than what they are using. Here's how to understand Luminar 3 in five minutes or less to start processing your … [Read more...] about Understanding Luminar 3 in five minutes or less
Stock Photography: Shooting tips on how to avoid violating IP rights
Are you interested in shooting stock photography and video to make a little extra income? Me, too. However, don’t waste time shooting images you can’t use because your image violates intellectual property (IP) rights. Here are a few shooting tips to help ensure your images will be accepted by stock agencies such as Adobe Stock. If you are already familiar with IP, skip to the tips sections; if not, I encourage you to spend a few minutes here to understand these rights so you don’t violate them. Understanding intellectual property The United … [Read more...] about Stock Photography: Shooting tips on how to avoid violating IP rights
Quick Tip: Budget in an equipment fee
My trusted Nikon D700 shutter died after 149,652 photos. The shutter needed to be replaced at a cost of about $200. Not bad, but it got me thinking — how many images did I take at the several FREE sporting events or photoshoots? I have no regrets but that got me thinking about adding a fixed cost of $125 to a free photoshoot as an equipment fee. I tell the person asking for the free shoot that I will donate my time, but I need to charge an equipment fee. Since implementing an equipment fee, I've separated those looking for free handouts from … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Budget in an equipment fee
The InFocus Interview Show with Scott Wyden Kivowitz | Photofocus Podcast December 7, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-scott-wyden-kivowitz-photofocus-podcast-december-7-2018/s-yOPAf In this special Meet a Photofocus Author edition we catch up with Scott Wyden Kivowitz. Scott shares his many contributions to photography as well as work with Photofocus. Topics: Having a dual career. His first 3 Photofocus articles. His ideas for future Photofocus articles. To learn more about Scott, visit his blog. We like to hear from you! Here's your chance to interact with the team … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Scott Wyden Kivowitz | Photofocus Podcast December 7, 2018
First look at the new Luminar 3 with Libraries
Skylum Software is releasing the much talked about photo editing tool, Luminar 3 on Dec. 18, 2018. Luminar 3 is an all-in-one photo app designed to offers everything a modern photographer needs for photo editing. That sounds great, but what makes this version special is Skylum has added the number one most requested feature from users; the ability to organize and view their images. This added feature is a game changer for experienced users looking for an alternative to their current editing tools and it’s a simple solution for photographers … [Read more...] about First look at the new Luminar 3 with Libraries
Quick Tip: Kill the ambient light
Before lighting a subject in a studio environment, start with an empty set, leaving the overhead lights on. Dial in your desired exposure settings and take the first shot. Your goal is to create a completely black image. This will prove the ambient light will not affect your image when you proceed to light the subject. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Photography Strip Lighting" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Kill the ambient light
The InFocus Interview Show with Dennis Dunbar | Photofocus Podcast November 30, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-dennis-dunbar-photofocus-podcast-november-30-2018/s-Xfwri In this episode: Digital Artist and Photo Retoucher Dennis Dunbar shares his insight on photo retouching and how photographers and retouchers work together. Topics: Working with agencies How he and photographers work as a team. What software he uses for retouching and why. To learn more about Dennis, visit his blog. We like to hear from you! Here's your chance to interact with the team by leaving a … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Dennis Dunbar | Photofocus Podcast November 30, 2018
