https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-sarah-petty-photofocus-podcast-june-14-2019 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 photographer and marketing expert Sarah Petty about the biggest (and most common!) print order-killing mistakes so many photographers make! We cover these common print order-killing mistakes in detail: Apologizing for your pricing Making incorrect assumptions based on price Offering … [Read more...] about The Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Sarah Petty | Photofocus Podcast June 14, 2019
photography
Coming soon: The great South American eclipse
Nearly two years ago, North America was treated to a celestial spectacle which was witnessed by millions as a total solar eclipse traversed the U.S. from Oregon to South Carolina. My husband and I were among the lucky ones, marveling at the sight for two glorious minutes in an exceptionally beautiful setting, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. I documented our preparations in a multi-part series: Part 1: Total solar eclipse preparation Part 2: Total solar eclipse eye protection Part 3: Total solar eclipse photographic … [Read more...] about Coming soon: The great South American eclipse
Summer photography fun with kids: Water balloons
Have you ever considered water balloons as a type of child-friendly extreme sport? When you bring some photographic elements into it, it can be. This one is perhaps not for the littles, but for older kids with a bit of adult supervision. It provides for some awesome fun (for the adults as well). But beware, it does get a bit messy and you will end up getting wet! So pick a day that is nice and warm and not too windy. Requirements Different colored balloons String to tie the balloons up Darts — having two or three is handy A … [Read more...] about Summer photography fun with kids: Water balloons
What’s best — fresh, dried or artificial flowers?
When it comes to flowers what is best to use in still life or macro photography — fresh, dried or artificial? I think there is room for all three, and there are some pros and cons for each. Let's take a closer look. Fresh flowers Nothing beats fresh flowers — the look, the smell, the feel. But sadly, they often do not last long. Especially if you are using studio lighting, which can often shorten their life span considerably, some species more than others. If you are shooting natural flowers in their natural habitat, that is truly rewarding, … [Read more...] about What’s best — fresh, dried or artificial flowers?
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Peter Hurley | Photofocus Podcast May 10, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-peter-hurley-photofocus-podcast-may-10-2019 Get the show here or get it on iTunes — Please, post a review on iTunes. Welcome to Mind Your Own Business! Premier headshot photographer and education Peter Hurley joins us today! We discuss: How Peter got his unconventional start in photography, and how his background gave him a unique edge The importance of having a plan for your gear Trends where photographers seem to be struggling with their … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Peter Hurley | Photofocus Podcast May 10, 2019
The Traveling Photographer: Humpback whale tales — topside lessons, part one
I recently spent a week swimming and snorkeling with humpback whales. While we were scanning the horizon from our skiff, looking for telltale blows, we had many opportunities to witness and photograph their topside behaviors. It was a treat to see and a challenge to photograph. I learned many lessons, which may be useful to others shooting in similarly unpredictable situations. As with all wildlife shooting, it’s necessary to be in a place where there is a reasonable likelihood of encountering animals. One doesn’t expect to see marine mammals … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Humpback whale tales — topside lessons, part one
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Bobbi Lane | Photofocus Podcast April 12, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-bobbi-lane-photofocus-podcast-april-12-2019 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 commercial and portrait photographer Bobbi Lane! We discuss: How Bobbi got her start in photography How she constantly changes with technology to make her business more enjoyable. Why practice is so important in her business The latest trends photographers struggle with … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Bobbi Lane | Photofocus Podcast April 12, 2019
Photographing magazine portraits
Author portrait photo session — magazine cover Had a quick portrait session for an author who was getting images together for a magazine cover and article. I was able to complete the photography part of the job in one hour from the time I showed up to unload my gear, make the portrait and pack it all back up. This timeline was possible due to the camera and lighting gear with which I was working. It helped that my subject was receptive and followed instructions for posing very well! We have all had those sessions where you ask for a tiny … [Read more...] about Photographing magazine portraits
Beyond Technique Podcast with Jakob Dall | Photofocus Podcast March 20, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-jakob-dall-photofocus-podcast-march-20-2019 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. In today's episode we chat with photojournalist Jakob Dall. Today we chat about: How Jakob gained traction as a photojournalist Why photography is considered a universal language The role of storytelling in his body of work The … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Jakob Dall | Photofocus Podcast March 20, 2019
The InFocus Interview Show with Mat Hayward | Photofocus Podcast March 1, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-infocus-interview-show-with-mat-hayward-photofocus-podcast-march-1-2019/s-Wjzon In this episode: I had a chance to interview Stock Photographer Guru, Adobe Stock Contributor Evangelist — and incredible photographer — Mat Hayward. Mat shares his insight into stock photography. Topics: What stock photography is The benefits of becoming an Adobe Stock contributor How to become a contributor What images are best to help you get started We like to hear from you! Here’s your chance to … [Read more...] about The InFocus Interview Show with Mat Hayward | Photofocus Podcast March 1, 2019
Beyond Technique Podcast with Sally Blood | Photofocus Podcast February 20, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-sally-blood-photofocus-podcast-february-20-2019 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. In today's episode we chat with portrait photographer Sally Blood! We discuss: How Sally got started in her photographic career. Tips for working under pressure The importance of having "people skills" when interacting with clients … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Sally Blood | Photofocus Podcast February 20, 2019
Composition: The rule of thirds
When it comes to photographic composition, one of the most well-known "rules" is known as the "rule of thirds." Many photographers dismiss the rule of thirds as being overly simplistic and not always applicable in the real world of photography. However, if we consider the underlying principles behind the rule of thirds, I think you will find it is a good concept to keep in mind when framing up a scene with your camera. The basic concept The underlying principle of the rule of thirds, as the name implies, involves dividing the scene you are … [Read more...] about Composition: The rule of thirds
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Brent Watkins | Photofocus Podcast February 8, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-brent-watkins-photofocus-podcast-february-8-2019 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 portrait photographer Brent Watkins! We discuss: How Brent got started as a photographer in a small town The importance of staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and being relevant The importance of giving your client a great experience during their photo session … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Brent Watkins | Photofocus Podcast February 8, 2019
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
Beyond Technique Podcast with Adam Mowery | Photofocus Podcast January 16, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-adam-mowery-photofocus-podcast-january-16-2019 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. In today's episode we chat with outdoor photographer Adam Mowery. We discuss: How Adam got started as a photographer The things he did to stay focused and chase his dream The role of relationship building as he furthered his career … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Adam Mowery | Photofocus Podcast January 16, 2019
The great outdoors and Perfectly Clear Complete
Editor's note: Here is a great offer from Perfectly Clear. The holy grail of post-processing digital images would be a true single-click option, minimizing futzing with sliders, testing this possibility vs. that-wouldn’t that be wonderful? That day isn’t here, but with newer software programs, we’re getting closer. I recently spent a week in Little Cayman at a Lightroom Bootcamp, taught by Erin “Go Ask Erin” Quigley. This was aimed at intermediate-advanced users and directed specifically to the needs of underwater photographers. After … [Read more...] about The great outdoors and Perfectly Clear Complete
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Karen Kuehn | Photofocus Podcast January 11, 2019
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-karen-kuehn-photofocus-podcast-january-11-2019 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 Karen Kuehn! We discuss: How Karen got her start in photography Challenges of being a female in the industry The role of relationship building, ask for help How much things have changed in the industry (art directors, how companies use your images) … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Karen Kuehn | Photofocus Podcast January 11, 2019
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
Beyond Technique Podcast with Julie Dermansky | Photofocus Podcast December 19, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-julie-dermansky-photofocus-podcast-december-19-2018 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. In today's episode we chat with photojournalist Julie Dermansky. We discuss: How Julie got her start in photojournalism The challenges of having a career in photojournalism some of the photographers she followed to … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Julie Dermansky | Photofocus Podcast December 19, 2018
Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Nick Vedros | Photofocus Podcast December 14, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/mind-your-own-business-podcast-with-nick-vedros-photofocus-podcast-december-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 advertising photographer Nick Vedros. We discuss: How Nick got his start in photography How he capitalized on a rare opportunity to get his work out to the public Pushing the envelope on creativity and relationships Designing his career around the lifestyle that he … [Read more...] about Mind Your Own Business Podcast with Nick Vedros | Photofocus Podcast December 14, 2018
How to get your color spot-on with the Illuminati color/light meter
Having the ability to accurately capture an image's color in-camera is a powerful one. How many times have you taken a photo and grown frustrated because your camera doesn't capture it "the way you saw it?" Often we become resigned to shoot an image and fix it in post-processing later. Full disclosure: When I first started out years ago, this was my go-to strategy for images. Later, when I was forced to spend hours fixing image after image on my computer, I'd want to kick myself. Fast forward to today, and experience has taught me how to … [Read more...] about How to get your color spot-on with the Illuminati color/light meter
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
Book Review: “Steve McCurry: A Life In Pictures,” by Bonnie McCurry
Normally, I'd read the entire book before writing a review, but this can't wait. I've skipped around and read several sections and the writing is good and engaging — almost as engaging as the photographs. This is a book you should buy for every photographer you know and probably everyone else, too. But you should have it dropped shipped to the recipient because if you get your hands on it, you won't be able to put it down. An actually famous photographer There are almost no famous photographers, especially this century when photographs come … [Read more...] about Book Review: “Steve McCurry: A Life In Pictures,” by Bonnie McCurry
Quick Tip: Use a long exposure to remove people in a scene
A long exposure works because most people don't stand in one spot for more than a few seconds, so the camera doesn't capture them. For them to be captured, they would have to stay in one spot the entire time you are taking the photo. You will notice a little ghosting of people that stood a little longer. If it's a high traffic area, take a couple of shots and fix it in Photoshop. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Easily Remove People from a Photo" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Use a long exposure to remove people in a scene
Quick Tip: Try fog in a can
Using a fog machine indoors — especially in a small, unvented room — can be challenging. On your next shoot, try Atmosphere Aerosol, a.k.a. Fog in a Can. Atmosphere Aerosol looks like hairspray, but without the choking fumes. It enables photographers to add fog or haze during a shoot. It’s a safe, non-toxic, clear spray that won’t stain gowns, suits, uniforms or garments. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "Fog… in a can?" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Try fog in a can
Beyond Technique Podcast with Brad Mangin | Photofocus Podcast November 21, 2018
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/beyond-technique-podcast-with-brad-mangin-photofocus-podcast-november-21-2018 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. In today's episode we chat with sports photographer Brad Mangin. We discuss: How Brad got started in sports photography Lessons learned from the great icons Paying dues and working hard The role of relationship building The … [Read more...] about Beyond Technique Podcast with Brad Mangin | Photofocus Podcast November 21, 2018
Traveling with non-photographers
Whether you’re a serious hobbyist, semi-pro or pro, traveling and going on outings is part of our lives with our friends and loved ones. As a photographer, this can sometimes hinder our efforts to getting the shots we want while we are out but it doesn’t have to. Here are some things you can do to ensure you all have a successful trip. Plan One of the easiest ways to alleviate the stress that sometimes happens when traveling with non-photographers is to plan. While you are planning out your trip itinerary sit down with your fellow … [Read more...] about Traveling with non-photographers
The recipe for balancing natural light with flash
Balancing natural light with flash isn’t complicated — once you know the recipe. The key ingredients are softening the natural light with a diffuser, exposing for the background, then adding the right amount of flash to expose the subject. Now that you know the ingredients, here’s the recipe to balance natural light with flash. Use a diffuser to soften direct sunlight Wouldn’t it be nice if we had a remote to control the sun? Sure, we could schedule our shoot early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid direct sunlight but that’s not … [Read more...] about The recipe for balancing natural light with flash
Quick Tip: Use an inexpensive pegboard for a creative portraits
If you’re getting bored shooting on the same background you can create a unique look by using a simple $15 pegboard as a background with a larger light positioned behind it shining through. Change it up by adding different color gels to the light. The key is to experiment, have fun and create great photos. Want to learn more? Check out this article, “Using a Pegboard to Shoot Creative Portraits” … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Use an inexpensive pegboard for a creative portraits
