If you find yourself in a creative slump, participate or join a new Facebook group. Look for images that inspire you and chat with the person who created it. This will help you get motivated to try new ideas and get back to being creative. Want to learn more? Download and listen to this podcast: “The InFocus Interview Show with Andrew Kavanagh | Photofocus Podcast June 27, 2018” … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Participate or join a Facebook group to get out of a creative slump
photography
The Traveling Photographer: Photographing Route 66
I just returned from my dream trip — driving and photographing Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica. The trip was not a photography trip, per se. I traveled with two non-photographers. Except for the Grand Canyon, we did not organize our day for sunrises and sunsets. We also did not plan ahead for photographic opportunities. Of course, I still took a ton of photographs. If you haven't been following the saga of my Route 66 adventure, check out my first two articles. The first was on pre-trip planning and the second was about the trip … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Photographing Route 66
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Scott Bourne | Photofocus Podcast September 14, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-scott-bourne-photofocus-podcast-september-14-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please, post a review on iTunes. Welcome to the Mind Your Own Business Podcast! Today we chat with photographer, author, educator, Olympus visionary and President of Skylum, Scott Bourne about the following topics: Staying cutting edge in your technique, as well as how you run your business Fine-tuning your skillset The importance of education … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Scott Bourne | Photofocus Podcast September 14, 2018
The Traveling Photographer: Driving Route 66, part 2
This summer my two friends and I did it. We drove Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica. It took us about two weeks, which isn't much time since we made a detour to the south rim of the Grand Canyon and spent an entire day at the Petrified Forest National Park and Painted Desert. Due to our limited time, we found it very important to pre-plan our days and set priorities, leaving room for some flexibility. Preparation for the trip While planning the trip I accumulated a small duffel bag filled with guidebooks and maps. The bag came with me … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Driving Route 66, part 2
Quick Tip: Give a model access to ALL images from a collaborative shoot
When collaborating with a model on a TF shoot— Trading your skills for their skills— let the model have access to all the images. This will enable them to review the images, select their favorites, and analyze them for the mistakes they made. If you’re worried they will post unedited images, place a watermark on the image stating they are proofs or unedited. Want to learn more? Check out this article, “To Give or Not to Give ALL Images—That is the Question” … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Give a model access to ALL images from a collaborative shoot
The InFocus Interview Show with Sue Bryce | Photofocus Podcast August 31, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/infocus-interview-show-with-sue-bryce-photofocus-podcast-august-31-2018/s-h48qP In this episode: Photographer and Educator Sue Bryce shares her insight on The Portrait Masters Conference coming up in September. Topics: Why we need a portrait specific conference How to maximize your experience at any conference Why you should build relationships with vendors Why you should network with other photographers Why portraits are the best business in the world and the best subject Why … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Sue Bryce | Photofocus Podcast August 31, 2018
How to shoot lifestyle and fitness scenes for stock photography and video
While attending the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) conference in Las Vegas, I had the chance to attend an Adobe Stock workshop at a ghost town near Nelson, Nevada on shooting photographs and video for sale as stock. Participants were split into teams that rotated between six stations—each one teaching a variety of skills. The entire hands-on event was so informative — especially the “How to shoot Lifestyle Fitness Stock Photography and Video” station. Here’s what I learned. Keep the camera from moving Blurry photos or shaky video … [Read more...] about How to shoot lifestyle and fitness scenes for stock photography and video
The InFocus Interview Show with Spyros Heniadis | Photofocus Podcast August 24, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/infocus-interview-show-with-spyros-henratis-august-24-2018/s-3vilX In this episode: Working Photographer and Educator Spyros Heniadis shares his insight on how to organize your digital images. Topics: How to organize your digital images in any digital asset management program Develop a proper naming convention for your images Using Lightroom’s star and flag features to organize images How to use Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic together Understanding the 321 Backup concept If you … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Spyros Heniadis | Photofocus Podcast August 24, 2018
On Nature: How to compose moving wildlife
Every animal has a distinct overall body geometry, but this shape will change dramatically as they move. When you are composing your images, it's important to understand this concept so you are fitting your frame and composition to them, allowing them to be alive in your shot. Confession Time for full a disclosure, my name is Jason and I have a reddish egret addiction. They are just too much fun to photograph! They dance, they canopy, they give dramatic, elegant, and sometimes goofy poses. I have thousands of pictures of them, and I can't … [Read more...] about On Nature: How to compose moving wildlife
Quick Tip: Use a strip box to create an edge light
A strip box is a thin, rectangle softbox that is used to control where the light falls on a subject. This is very important when creating an edge light. For an edge light to be effective, it needs to be precise and light just the edge of the subject. Want to read more? Check out more in the article, “Photography Strip Lighting” … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Use a strip box to create an edge light
Beyond Technique Podcast with Jamey Price | Photofocus Podcast August 15, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-jamey-price-photofocus-podcast-august-15-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please, post a review on iTunes! Welcome to Beyond Technique, a podcast empowering photographers to bring their businesses to the next level. Today we chat with motorsports and automotive photographer Jamey Price. We discuss in detail: the power of being able to leverage your network the benefit of being nice to people in the industry the role of … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Jamey Price | Photofocus Podcast August 15, 2018
The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Jen Rozenbaum | Photofocus Podcast August 10, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-jen-rozenbaum-photofocus-podcast-august-10-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please post a review on iTunes. [Editor's note: A word of caution: There is some strong language and topics in this episode. In an abundance of respect in our listeners, we've chosen to list this one episode as explicit.] In this episode, Skip Cohen and Chamira Young chat with boudoir photographer and educator Jen Rozenbaum. We discuss in detail: How … [Read more...] about The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Jen Rozenbaum | Photofocus Podcast August 10, 2018
Adobe announces its 2018 Rising Stars of Photography
For the second straight year, Adobe has announced its list of Rising Stars of Photography. A diverse lineup of photographers from across the globe, the list features everything from an Indonesian high schooler to an environmental conservationist in Los Angeles. For the complete story on all of this year's Rising Stars, check out the Adobe Blog or follow the Rising Stars' journeys on the Lightroom Instagram. Here's a first look at this year's Rising Stars. Stay tuned to Photofocus for more. Gabriella Achadinha – Age 26, South … [Read more...] about Adobe announces its 2018 Rising Stars of Photography
The InFocus Interview Show with Roberto Valenzuela | Photofocus Podcast August 3, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/infocus-interview-show-with-roberto-valenzuela-photofocus-podcast-august-3-2018/s-4Uqkl In this episode: Photographer, Educator, Author and a Canon Explorer of Light, Roberto Valenzuela shares his tips on Lighting to Communicate. Topics: Lighting to Communicate Why you need to Practice YouTube Channel Window Light vs. Reflector vs. Flash Picture Perfect Lighting Workshop Learning to be Proficient If you like these Infocus Interviews, please consider supporting our partners and … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Roberto Valenzuela | Photofocus Podcast August 3, 2018
The InFocus Interview Show with Rick Sammon | Photofocus Podcast July 27, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-rick-sammon-photofocus-podcast-july-27-2018 In this episode: Photographer, educator and author Rick Sammon shares how to plan a photo trip. Topics: How his Route 66 book is used as a planner and an onsite reference resource What apps are great to help plan for sun location, tides and viewing location Photographer Ephemeris Photo Sun Dial Photo Pill Tide apps Google Earth How to use Pristine vision as an exercise to get the unique shots … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Rick Sammon | Photofocus Podcast July 27, 2018
Quick Tip: Replace a full hard drive
When a hard drive gets full, it takes longer to read and write the data to and from the disk, slowing your system down. Adding large amounts of photos to a local drive can fill the drive fast, causing poor performance. Additionally, trying to run an operating system and applications while also opening and closing files means your disk is trying to push data in different directions at once. This is one reason why it’s best to keep your photos on a separate hard drive from your operating system and replace a smaller drive with a larger one when … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Replace a full hard drive
Beyond Technique Podcast with Jay Watson | Photofocus Podcast July 18, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-jay-watson-photofocus-podcast-july-18-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please, post a review on iTunes. Welcome to Beyond Technique, a podcast empowering photographers to bring their businesses to the next level. Today we chat with photographer Jay Watson about breaking into lifestyle and editorial photography. We discuss in detail: how Jay got started in photography the art of staying focused finding the right match in clients … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Jay Watson | Photofocus Podcast July 18, 2018
The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Rudy Guttosch | Photofocus Podcast July 13, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-rudy-guttosch-photofocus-podcast-july-13-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please post a review on iTunes. In this episode, Skip Cohen and Chamira Young chat with Rudy Guttosch from Illuminati Instrument Corp. We discuss in detail: how the process of creating an image is a mix of both art and science the process of launching a physical product the concept of released a minimum viable product the power of utilizing your network … [Read more...] about The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Rudy Guttosch | Photofocus Podcast July 13, 2018
Hiring a professional photographer: Is it really worth your money?
Nowadays, anyone can take pictures anywhere, anytime. Everybody has a cell phone in their pocket and/or a camera in their bag. It's available, it's convenient and it's cheap. As a business owner or an event organizer, why bother spending big bucks on a professional photographer for something anyone could do? Well, let's talk about it for a minute. A lot of people think they can do the same work because they own a camera. They think it's an easy job, or they've done some photography and they feel qualified enough or they simply aren't aware … [Read more...] about Hiring a professional photographer: Is it really worth your money?
The InFocus Interview Show with Wes Maggio | Photofocus Podcast July 6, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-wes-maggio-photofocus-podcast-july-6-2018/s-nVr8l In this episode: Specializing in volume sports portraiture, portrait photographer Weston Maggio shares how he produces Volume Photography and still gets Studio Portraits results. Topics: What is Volume Sports Photography? How long to spend with a subject. What gear is needed. What to expect during a shoot with 50 Plus subjects. The business side of high Volume Photography If you like these Infocus … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Wes Maggio | Photofocus Podcast July 6, 2018
Fast & Easy Tips for Photographing Fireworks this Fourth of July
The fourth of July is my favorite holiday because of fireworks! I grew up in Lousiville, Kentucky and they have this event called Thunder Over Lousiville. It's the kick-off event for the Kentucky Derby Festival. It is one of the nation’s largest annual fireworks extravaganzas. Since the first time seeing it, I have been obsessed with fireworks so learning to photograph them was a must for me. Here are are some easy tips to get you started before the big holiday arrives. Set your camera on a tripod. Turn your camera to manual. Set … [Read more...] about Fast & Easy Tips for Photographing Fireworks this Fourth of July
The InFocus Interview Show with Andrew Kavanagh | Photofocus Podcast June 27, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-andrew-kavanagh-photofocus-podcast-july-27-2018/s-sXS0S In this episode: Photoshop tutor and retoucher Andrew Kavanagh talks about the benefits of joining a Facebook group. Andrew runs one of the most successful Facebook Groups “Photoshop and photography” with over 300K members. Topics: What motivated Andrew to create the group How members learn from top professionals A resource to ask questions and share ideas. Use of Facebook’s new Units section If you … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Andrew Kavanagh | Photofocus Podcast June 27, 2018
The InFocus Interview Show with James Schmelzer | Photofocus Podcast June 22, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-james-schmelzer-photofocus-podcast-june-22-2018/s-Ta2kM In this episode: Master Craftsmen Photographer and Lumix Ambassador James Schmelzer shares his insight on continuous lighting the benefits of Mirrorless Cameras . Topics: Why he switched to Lumix Continuous lighting The future of continuous lighting and Mirrorless cameras Wrap around lighting If you like these Infocus Interviews, please consider supporting our partners and sharing these links with … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with James Schmelzer | Photofocus Podcast June 22, 2018
Capturing the Sports Grit Look Using Cross Light with Continuous Light
This is a follow-up article based on the article I wrote: “No Excuses! Making Photos No Matter What.” The article talks about what went through my mind when we were shooting. This article simply focuses on how I got the shot to create the sports grit look using a cross-light setup with continuous light. The Technical Stuff Placed the subject in the middle of two continuous lights set diagonally across from each other on a 45-degree angle Used a black background to isolate the subject Shot on a low angle with a 15-30mm lens at 30mm … [Read more...] about Capturing the Sports Grit Look Using Cross Light with Continuous Light
Using a Pegboard to Shoot Creative Portraits
Are you bored shooting on the same background? Here’s how to create a unique look using a combination of posing, lighting, a BLOWiT fan and a special pegboard as a background. Let’s Start with the Background The background is nothing more than a 4’ x 8’ brown pegboard from Lowe's. You can pick it up for about $15. I decided to paint it flat black after the shoot to compliment the blue gel I planned on using. Knowing now that I love the blue background, I'm considering painting it blue. BLOWiT Fan To give Sydney a windblown look and add … [Read more...] about Using a Pegboard to Shoot Creative Portraits
No Excuses! Making Photos No Matter What
After a long couple of days of teaching at Photoshop World, my good friends Ray and Kim insisted I join them for dinner and a quick shoot. Exhausted, I tried every excuse not to go but they are the type of friends you can't say no to—and I'm glad I didn't. Here's what went through my mind when we created the Sports Grit Look using a cross-light setup with continuous light. Not My Normal Lighting Gear Normally I use a 3-light setup using studio strobes or speedlights attached to strip boxes and a beauty dish. For this setup, I had one … [Read more...] about No Excuses! Making Photos No Matter What
How to Make Light Painting Spirals the Easy Way
As a mom of two wild little ones, I am always looking for creative ways to express myself with my photography. One of those ways is with light painting. Light painting for me is a stress reliever and something I can do after the little ones have gone to sleep. It's a technique used in long exposure photography where you can use artificial light to illuminate a scene or to create new elements within the image. Basically, you are running around in the dark, waving a light around to create cool effects. Sometimes during those moments, you feel … [Read more...] about How to Make Light Painting Spirals the Easy Way
The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with David Schonauer | Photofocus Podcast June 8, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-david-schonauer-photofocus-podcast-june-8-2018 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please post a review on iTunes. In this episode, Skip Cohen and Chamira Young chat with Pro Photo Daily Editor and Motion Arts Pro David Schonauer about getting your photographs published! We discuss in detail: The art of getting your work published The criteria he used to pick certain images as an editor The value of authentic networking and relationship building … [Read more...] about The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with David Schonauer | Photofocus Podcast June 8, 2018
The InFocus Interview Show with Lou Freeman | Photofocus Podcast June 1, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/infocus-interview-show-june-1-2018-with-lou-freeman/s-L39kn In this episode: Sophisticated Wedding Portrait and Glamour Photographer Lou Freeman shares her insight on portrait photography. Topics: How her commercial and portrait work has an influence on one another Photographing people, it’s all about finding their essence How to purposefully find specific types of clients How People are attracted by what they see How to build a portfolio The power of printed pictures over digital a … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Lou Freeman | Photofocus Podcast June 1, 2018
How to Give Advice on Buying a Camera
Elizabeth Kite posted in Photoshop and Photography — looking for recommendations. She asked. "Can someone recommend a good digital camera that is reasonably priced??? Under $500." My reply. Wait.. has anyone asked Elizabeth what she needs the camera for (other than automatic exposure and the like?) Imagine if she said she needs a reasonably priced car under $1500.00. If it's a second car for her child, that's reasonable. But if she said she wants it to be a daily drive or– let’s take this to an extreme--she wants to enter it into a race, now … [Read more...] about How to Give Advice on Buying a Camera
