Photo Resolution Explained

Photo Resolution - by Jae Le
"So how do we measure height and width? When you hear people talking about photo “resolution” they often use terms like DPI (Dots Per Inch) and PPI (Pixel Per Inch). DPI is a physical measurement for photographs, because dots have an actual size. You can see the size of the dots if you look carefully at photo printed out, or an image generated on a computer screen. PPI is a virtual measurement used for digital images. This is because pixels are points in space we define mathematically, adding informational characteristics to such as color and contrast. They have no actual size or physical characteristics until converted to something real, such as a dot of ink or colored light on a computer screen."


Read the entire article here

iPhone Artistry

Saturday, February 12

iPhone Artistry

Lurking under the iPhone's phone label is one of the most inspiring, capable and fun imaging systems in all of photography. More than just a snapshot device, the iPhone is a powerfully creative tool for creating art. We now have camera, darkroom, and-as Jerry Uelsmann would say-Visual Research Laboratory, all in our shirt pocket! Join renowned digital maven Dan Burkholder this workshop explores the iPhone's potential as a powerful creative tool for art-making, serving as camera, darkroom, and visual laboratory all in one!

For more information click here!

Save time when processing your photos in Adobe Lightroom by downloading Julieanne Kost's free presets.

Save time when processing your photos in Adobe Lightroom by downloading Julieanne Kost's free presets.

http://www.creativepro.com/article/free-lightroom-presets

Pare and Focus -- a website for photography basics

Pare and Focus -- a website for photography basics

Why are My Pictures too Dark?

It’s because your camera doesn’t know what it’s looking at.

Your camera wants to make the world Middle Gray. Don't let it. Photo by 707d3k on Flickr

exclusive set of six DPmag.com Photoshop Actions FREE

Download DP Magazine's exclusive set of six DPmag.com Photoshop Actions* FREE!


B+W Glamour -- Turn color photos into creamy, dreamy black and whites

Color Boost -- Add extra juice and pop to landscapes and scenics

Vintage Poster -- Go retro with subdued color, high contrast and dappled light

Smooth Paint -- Give your photos a painterly touch for pop art

Lighten Exposure -- Instant enlightenment to open up underexposed shots

Golden Hour -- Get the rich, warm hues of early morning and late afternoon light

http://www.dpmag.com/registration/complete/actions.html

George Fellner

To My Friends & Colleagues:


I had an interesting radio interview today on 88.1 FM WESU, talking about "Imaginary Realms"

and my upcoming exhibition at eo art lab.

If you didn’t get a chance to hear it, here is the link to the radio program:
http://www.archive.org/details/RiverValleyRhythms01-27-11

Thank you!
George Fellner
http://www.georgefellnerphotography.com/

Professional, Guaranteed, Sensor cleanings

Professional, Guaranteed, Sensor cleanings $35.00 ea.
Shawn Plouffe
617.510.9094

From Murphy's Law:

From Murphy's Law:




Dowling's Law of Photography: One missed photographic opportunity

creates a desire to purchase two additional pieces of photographic equipment.

Make-Up and Retouching Make Better Portraits

Make-Up and Retouching Make Better Portraits
By Scott Bourne 

http://wp.me/pu7xa-3Mz

Live Training Nik Software

Daily Live Training. Discover the power of Nik Software. Join us 5 days a week, including Saturdays and learn how to take your images to a higher level using the latest techniques with Nik Software.

SCHEDULE: 1/26


1:00 - 2:00 PM PST
Getting Ultimate Control of Color & Light with Viveza 2

4:00 - 5:00 PM PST
Enhancing Your Images with Dfine 2.0 and Sharpener Pro 3.0

6:00 - 7:00 PM PST
Polishing Your Photography with the Complete Collection by Nik Software

THURSDAY
SCHEDULE: 1/27

8:30 - 9:30 AM PST
Create Professional Quality Black and White Images using Silver Efex Pro

1:00 - 2:00 PM PST
Creative Possibilities with Color Efex Pro 3.0

4:00 - 5:00 PM PST
Getting Ultimate Control of Color & Light with Viveza 2

SCHEDULE: 1/28

8:30 - 9:30 AM PST
Creative Possibilities with Color Efex Pro 3.0

1:00 - 2:00 PM PST
Getting Ultimate Control of Color & Light with Viveza 2

4:00 - 5:00 PM PST
The World of HDR photography.

SATURDAY

SCHEDULE: 1/29

9:00 - 10:00 AM PST
HDR – Beyond the Fundamentals.

12:00 - 1:00 PM PST
Create Professional Quality Black and White Images using Silver Efex Pro

1:30 - 2:30 PM PST
Enhancing Your Images with Dfine 2.0 and Sharpener Pro 3.0

More: http://www.niksoftware.com/learnmore/usa/index.php

HDR shoot at the Medfield State Hospital

I was really excited when I read about this HDR shoot at the Medfield State Hospital organized by Ian Murray (see below in blue). I was going to attend and also see if local camera club members might be interested in a field trip there. Ian has recently updated this photo session because of an uncoppoerative project manager. He is asking for our help.

Announcing a new Meetup for Photography Workshops!
What: Shutter Island Location - Medfield State Hospital - HDR Workshop
When: Saturday, February 5, 2011 10:00 AM
Price: $30.00 per person
Where: Medfield State Hospital 45 Hospital Road Medfield, MA 02052
Join Professional photographer Ian Murray for this chance to try out some HDR photography at the abandoned buildings of Medfield State Hospital. The buildings are legally open to the public from 6am to 6pm daily and provide a backdrop for stunning HDR or regular photography. You can create black and white images or highly textured HDR pictures that are moody and dark and filled with foreboding. The location was used as the set for the recent movie "Shutter Island" and if you managed to see it you will know that there is greast potential here for some stunning photography. We will meet at 10am and leave around 1pm. There is a strong possibility that we will meet up for lunch at a locall restaurant at the end of the workhsop. Of course, you are aslo free to continue photographing on your own once the meetup ends.
A tripod and spare fully charged batteries for your camera will be useful. The buildings are likely to be cold so don't forget to bring some warm clothing.


Here is the write-up from Wikipedia: The hospital was built in 1892. At its height it included 58 buildings, on a property of some 3.6 km2 (900 acres), and a capacity of 2,200 patients. It raised its own livestock and produce, and generated its own heat, light and power. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994, the property was closed in April 2003 and was shuttered, and has recently been reopened legally to the public and is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm. It has been used as a filming location for major motion pictures such as Shutter Island and The Box.
In setting up two photo-shoot workshops at Medfield State Hospital I came across some very mixed messages from State and Town officials regarding photography on the site of the abandoned hospital.


I eventually came up against Mary Beth Clancy who is the Senior Project Manager for the Division of Asset Management - the Mass State Department responsible for the Medfield Site. Not only did she refuse any access whatsoever, but also refused to entertain any discussion on the subject, abruptly and rudely hanging up on me twice.

We all know that people have been allowed access to the site to film major motion pictures like "Shutter Island" and "The Box". So a point blank refusal is not necessarily the final say.

In addition to pursuing the matter with my contacts at Governer Patrick's office and Bill Galvin's office I would like to start an email petition to Mary Beth Clancy to let her know that the first line of her department's mission statement reads "to serve the citizens of Massachusetts" and that the citizens of Mssachusetts include a vast number of photographers who would like to be granted the same courtesy of limited and supervised access to the site as that granted to major film makers.

The text of the petition is below.

If you could cut and paste it and send it in an email to marybeth.clancy@state.ma.us

It may help us get some kind of limited access to the site. In the meantime I will continue to doggedly pursue other channels.

If you are a member of any other camera club or have photographer friends please encourage them to sign this and email it to mary beth. I think she needs to see the strength of interest in the photographic community. It will only take a second or two to email her and who knows we may make some inroads into gaining access.

Here is the subject line:

Request to allow photography at Medfield State Hospital

Here is the text:

As a keen photographer I join my many colleagues in questioning your point blank refusal to discuss limited and supervised access to the Medfield State Hospital for the purposes of artful photography. I am aware that access has been granted to film-makers on more than one occasion, even when they are representing for profit interests that are located outside of the State.The mission statement of the State Department in which you are employed begins with the line

"To serve the citizens of Massachusetts" .

I respectfully ask that you re-consider your point-blank refusal to discuss this and I encourage you to enter into a dialog to explore ways in which controlled and limited access can be granted to the citizens of Massachusetts, whom you serve , for the purpose of enagaging in the art of photography.

Other States afford access to abandoned buildings for photographers on a controlled and limited basis. It is shameful that Massachusetts prevents it's own photographer's the opportunity to create such art, when major a major exhibition of abandoned hospital photography is crrently taking place within its own borders. I refer to the "Care of Ward 81" exhibit of stunning photographs by Bill Diodata that is about to open at the Hallmark Gallery in Turner's Falls. The photographs in this exhibit are all taken in an abandoned state hospital in Oregon.

Again I ask you to re-consider your refusal to discuss this and instead become willing to explore creative and manageable ways in which to support this art form.

Ian Murray, Organizer of the photography group "Photography Workshops" and its 330 plus members are ready to talk at any time. You can contact Ian Murray by email at murrayphoto@comcast.net.

Snow makes The New York Botanical Garden even more beautiful.

Snow makes The New York Botanical Garden even more beautiful.


Winter is tough in the garden--any garden--whether it be a community garden, backyard plot, or the Botanical Garden. The ground is hard, tree limbs are bare, there's an absence of color. But add a blanket of snow ... and oh! How lovely it all becomes!
Snow's stark whiteness highlights the architecture of the landscape. It provides a perfect background for the long shadows cast by winter's low-slung light. Its smooth, wind-scoured surface and billowing drifts contrast with the rough bark and berries of the trees. Snow snuggles into the cracks and crevices of the Garden's monumental rocks, frosts seed heads, and sparkles gaily on a bright day.
It's easy to think of snow, especially snow in New York City as something to dread, but at The New York Botanical Garden, it is something to celebrate! Take a winter walk through the Forest, find a warm corner of the Conservatory during the marvelous Holiday Train Show, wander amidst the beautiful Perennial Garden or the evergreen collection of Ornamental Conifers, and then warm up at one of the Garden's two Cafes with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a spin through the Shop in the Garden. Come revel in the beauty of winter with us!

To plan your visit and learn more, click here.

The Cape Cod and Islands Orchid Society

The Cape Cod and Islands Orchid Society is having their (http://www.caios.org/) 21st Annual Orchid Show at the Resort & Conference Center in Hyannis. The event is scheduled Saturday & Sunday, January 29 & 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to use your macro lense or your point & shoot on macro mode. There are a multitude of beautiful exotic orchids on display and also for sale. Tripods are not allowed.


Directions:

Route 3 South to the Sagamore Bridge and onto
Route 6 East. Follow Route 6 East to Exit 6.
Take a right off the exit onto Route 132 South.
At the 4th set of lights turn right onto Bearses Way (towards Hyannis West End).
Continue straight through 2 sets of lights.
Bear right at the fork.
At the next set of lights turn right onto North Street.
Continue straight to the rotary.
Take the 2nd exit just after the Paddock Restaurant. Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis will be on your left.

$8 payable at the door to the Orchid Show.

How To Shoot On Overcast Days

How To Shoot On Overcast Days


Winter weather can make outside shooting a challenge

By William Sawalich

"Unless you’re doing most of your photography on top of mountains searching for grand vistas, you can keep shooting on overcast days. Here’s how."

Instant Slideshows Online

Instant Slideshows Online


Introducing ProShow Web. The smart, fast and affordable way to create video slideshows online from your Mac or PC. Pick a theme, upload your photos and videos and get a gorgeous video slideshow your clients will absolutely love in a matter of moments. Want more control? Drag and drop custom effects onto any photo. Premium accounts give pros unlimited HD videos and hundreds of royalty-free music tracks.

Three types of accounts Free, Plus and Premium http://web.photodex.com/signup

http://www.proshowweb.com/

Lightroom Tip for Using Presets

Lightroom Tip for Using Presets

Dealing With Gray Days

Dealing With Gray Days

" Sometimes the world appears dull, lifeless, flat. That’s just the way it is on these days and it’s nothing to complain about, it is simply the way it is. Ok, maybe if you have a shoot for a swimsuit calendar and need a sunny beach, you can complain. But chances are you would have headed to Hawaii. You’re not there, you are here, in the grayness. Rather than letting your mind glaze over at the dull of it all, sit with it. Take a true critical look around your settings and pick apart what appears and is different in this light. Photography is all about light and you have light, you simply need to take a different approach to using this type of light. Learning the difference between a bright, sunny day and a gray day, in the minutia of a scene, can help open up a more critical way of experiencing light through your photography."

Read the whole article here: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DigitalPhotographySchool/~3/x5z6jdqAdcM/dealing-with-gray-days?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email

How to Add Digital Makeup

How to Add Digital Makeup

Learn how to enhance faces with digital makeup. Take your senior images to the next level in this free Woody Walters photoshop tip of the week brought to you by American Color Imaging.

Favorite iPad Photo (and more) Apps of 2010

Favorite iPad Photo (and more) Apps of 2010

Get your work published

Photoshop Creative is introducing a Readers’ Gallery section to the magazine, which will enable readers to submit their Photoshop work for publication. Any image subject will be considered (although please note that due to restrictions by our US distributors, we cannot print any nudity).


Please email your submissions to: pcr@imagine-publishing.co.uk

Each image must have a title, caption and be 300dpi

Include your name and any relevant website / gallery URL

We look forward to seeing your work!

Spring Waterfalls at Ricketts Glen -- May 19-22

Spring Waterfalls at Ricketts Glen


May 19-22


Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

with Mark Bowie and Joe LeFevre

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Overview

Ricketts Glen State Park in northern Pennsylvania is home to arguably the single most beautiful collection of waterfalls in the eastern United States. There are 22 named waterfalls, wild and free-flowing through rock clefts, along two branches of Kitchen Creek. The creek descends some 1,000 feet over three miles. The highest waterfall is 94-foot Ganoga Falls. However, it’s the sheer variety of falls, in such concentration, that makes this place so special. Also, the region lies at the intersection of northern and southern hardwood types, resulting in a great diversity of trees (including a stand of old-growth forest).

After an initial orientation session on Thursday night, we will spend two full days in the field exploring and photographing the Ricketts Glen waterfalls. Individual field instruction will be provided as well as indoor instructional sessions and critiques. During the field instruction, we will emphasize the importance of effective composition and proper exposure. Techniques for combining multiple exposures of the same scene will be covered in detail in the indoor sessions along with digital workflow techniques using Lightroom and Photoshop. Joe LeFevre has made incredible images of these falls, in spring with the lime green foliage accenting the flowing water. Mark Bowie is a former geologist turned nature photographer and brings a natural history perspective to photographing the falls. They will help you to take your waterfall images to the next level.

Come join us for an unforgettable workshop!

Instructor
Mark Bowie, Joe LeFevre

Who Should Attend

All skill levels are welcome. Users of all types of cameras are encouraged to attend, however, digital SLR cameras are preferred for their ability to maximize your learning possibilities of this workshop.

Close -- BeginnerYou are new to photography and have so many questions you're not even sure where to start. You are not comfortable with your camera. You're not sure what makes some photographs look great and others not so great. You're looking to the instructor to help bring some order to the confusion and set you on a path.

Amateur -- You can find your way around the camera, but there are features you don't understand or know how to use. You don't feel that you can adequately capture what you see. You're hoping that the instructor can give you guidance on the when and how of using specific camera features, while also helping you to understand how to compose a good photograph.

Intermediate -- You feel pretty comfortable with most of your camera features, although you may have questions about some of the details. You've taken some photos that you're quite pleased with. You are mostly looking to the instructor for new ideas and constructive help with your compositions.

Advanced -- You know how and when to use your camera features. You are pleased with many of your images. You might be looking to work in some new locations. Or maybe you’d like to tap the energy of a group of talented people to add to your creative toolbox.

Computer Skills

No specific computer skills are necessary. Mark and Joe are glad to answer your image processing questions.

Other Considerations

Though locations visited during this workshop are readily accessible, the steep terrain requires some moderate to strenuous hiking. Participants MUST be in good physical shape and able to climb and descend steep inclines. They should wear sturdy boots and use caution on slippery and rocky slopes.

Group Size -- 15 max.

Registration Fees -- $550 tuition

Deposit of $250 must be paid at time of registration. There is a 5% discount if you register before February 19. Click here for information on any other discounts that may be available.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Itinerary

Day 1

Participants gather at the Host Inn. Welcome dinner and opening presentations by Joe and Mark.

Day 2,3

Morning field trip to Ricketts Glen State Park. Breakfast on the road. Lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon field trip to Ricketts Glen. Dinner. Evening instruction and critique sessions.

Day 4

Indoor instruction and final critiques. Workshop wrap-up.

Note - The actual itinerary may vary considerably from this due to weather and other conditions that cannot be anticipated.

Save the Date: "Through the Lens of Adam Jones" Saturday, April 9, 2011

New Haven Camera Club celebrates 100 years!! Film to Digital...WOW! As part of this celebration, please join us for an all day seminar. Details to follow.


Save the Date: "Through the Lens of Adam Jones"
Date: Saturday, April 9, 2011

Where: Holiday Inn, North Haven, CT

Please join the New Haven Camera Club as it celebrates its 100 year anniversary with an all day seminar by Adam Jones. Mr. Jones has been shooting professionally for over twenty years. He is a member of the Canon Explorers of Light Program.
"My general approach for an all day seminar is to present two shows: The day is kicked off with a Nature and Wildlife show. A second show is presented during the afternoon session, featuring Travel destinations. Both shows are presented without music, so audience participation is encouraged during all programs. The program is entitled "Through the Lens of Adam Jones." During the Nature program I discuss strategies and techniques for outstanding nature and wildlife images."

Over the day, I'll present at least three additional programs, these include the following:
1) Taking Control
2) Lighting & Composition
3) Extending the Limits
4) Travel Show

5) Photoshop
Visit Adam's Blog: http://www.adamjonesphoto.com/

31st Annual JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 2011

CARRIAGE BARN ARTS CENTER


31st Annual JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 2011

February 6 – March 6, 2011

Please call the Carriage Barn at 203.972.1892 if you have any questions about the exhibition or send email to: thegallery@carriagebarn.org

• This exhibition is open to all area photographers working in all photographic formats.


• Jurying is done from exhibition-ready work, NOT from slides/JPGs.

• See specifications and fee info below. A self-addressed stamped envelope is required for the jury card.

• Entry Forms are available at the gallery and can be filled out at the gallery on Receiving Day. Or, click HERE for a PDF version.

JUROR: Susan G. Hammond, Executive Director, National Association of Women Artists, Inc.

Exhibition Entry Fees:

NCSA members & students: $15 for one (1) photo; $25 for two (2) photos
Non-Members: $25 for one (1) photo; $45 for two (2) photos

Note: Please make checks payable to NCSA. Cash accepted. NO refund for work not accepted or exhibited.

There is a 30% commission on sales.

Receiving: MONDAY, January 24, 10am-1pm & 6-7:30pm

Pick up for work NOT selected by juror:

Saturday, 1/29, 9am-12pm
Sunday, 1/30, 1-4:00pm
Monday, 1/31, 6-7:30pm
Opening Reception: Sunday, February 6, 4-6:00pm (Awards presented at 5:00pm)

Free and open to the public

Post-Show Pickup: Monday, March 7, 10am-1pm and 6-7:30pm

(NCSA not liable for work left after this date)

Specifications:

• Open to all area photographers -- professional, amateur, and student, NCSA member or not.

• LIMIT: Two works per person. Work must be delivered by hand on the day/time specified.

• DO NOT MAIL OR SHIP WORK.

• All photographic formats and all subjects accepted.

• Manipulated images are acceptable – whether done in a darkroom or digitally.

• Original work only. Work must not have been exhibited previously at the Carriage Barn.

• Optimal Size limits: 48” horizontal; 72” vertical. If you have larger work or special installation, please contact the Carriage Barn in advance.

• Frames are strongly recommended to protect work during the jurying and installation process.

Black or neutral colored frames (metal, wood or plastic) are suggested.

Either Glass or Plexi is acceptable but note that “frameless” glass clip frames are discouraged because of breakage.

Mats, if used, ideally should black, gray or white/ivory.

ALL works MUST be securely wired and ready for hanging.

Work that does not meet the specifications will not be accepted.

ABOUT THE JUROR: Susan G. Hammond is the Executive Director of the National Association of Women Artists, Inc., which was established in 1889, and is the oldest professional women’s art organization in the U.S. with headquarters in NYC, and a chapter in Florida. Susan was previously the President of N.A.W.A. and also a Technical Equipment Illustrator for the Department of Defense, where she retired in 2009 after 25 years of service. Susan is a contemporary photography, exhibiting work throughout the U.S. in solo and group exhibitions and is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Fine Art in Lakeview, Texas. She founded Art Press Publishing, LLP, and is a co-author (with Alice Harrison) on the book, “The Artists’ Guidebook to a New Creative Life”. Susan received numerous awards for her photography including The Miriam Russo Enders Award, the Philip Isenberg Memorial Award, the Elizabeth Stanton Blake Memorial Award, the Joseph V. DeMare Award and the Adolph Fassbender Award for Excellence in Photography. She has had articles in the following periodicals, books and newspapers: The Art of Seeing, Alcove Books, CA, three separate articles in the Montclair Times, the New Jersey Herald, Nikon, Best of College Photography, Canon, Best of Photography -Annual, the Voice (U.S. Army newsletter), and Who’s Who in American Colleges. Susan received her MFA in 2005 from William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ.

CARRIAGE BARN ARTS CENTER

31st Annual JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 2011

February 6 – March 6, 2011

Please call the Carriage Barn at 203.972.1892 if you have any questions about the exhibition  or send email to: thegallery@carriagebarn.org

A Gitzo ball head for just $24!...

This just in from Scott Bourne...



A Gitzo ball head for just $24!...


Yup, you read that correctly, a Gitzo magnesium center ball head for $24.95.

But wait, there's more, it also has free shipping! (sorry, but this offer does not come with any Ginsu knifes, pajama jeans, or snuggies)

This is not a mamby pamby ball head, it will hold up to 8.8 pounds and considering a Nikon D3 weighs under 3 pounds I can't imagine any body/lens combo that would exceed the weight limits of this ball head.

Now as usual the devil is in the details, the final price for this Gitzo ball head for $24 after an $80 rebate. The current Adorama price is $109, they give an addition $5 off during the order process, and then the $80 rebate brings the final price down to $24. Again, there is free shipping on this item as well.

You can find the product details here and information about the rebate (including the form) here.

The rebate is good through February 28th (of this year).

Did I mention the free shipping?


From Adorama:

An innovative teflon coating applied to the ball itself lets you make camera positioning adjustments more smoothly than ever before by eliminating all trace of jarring skipping, so you can frame the perfect photograph first time without wasting precious seconds micro corrections. Add ergonomic design and advanced precision engineering to guarantee performance locking, and your camera is not only quickly manoeuvred, but also rapidly securely blocked where you want it.

The G1177M's single indexable ratchet lever for locking both pan and ball movement guarantees speed in use without sacrificing stability or locking efficiency. The maximum load of 8.8 Lb and the reversible 1/4 - 3/8 fitting make it suitable for a wide range of uses.

The Art of Packing

The Art of Packing by John Paul Caponigro

The short version of this article is on the Blurb blog, which I recommend you visit. It’s got lot’s of great information.

Here’s the longer version.

There’s an art to packing. Practice it with care. You’ll get better every time you do it. Learning this art will help you make the most of any photographic expedition and enjoy it more.

Do pack the essentials. Don’t pack too much. Travelling with too much is hard to handle, tiring, and can be costly. Less is more – up to a point.

How to Build a DIY Camera Foot Switch

How to Build a DIY Camera Foot Switch


Here is how to throw together a 5-minute camera foot switch with easily obtainable parts from Radioshack.

Orchid Extravaganza

Orchid Extravaganza

January 22 through March 27, 2011


http://www.longwoodgardens.org/OrchidExtravaganza.html

Immerse yourself in a dazzling world of orchids as we transform the Conservatory into a lush oasis showcasing the divas of the plant world.

Colorful orchids drape from walls, flow from pedestals and are even fashioned into curtains. Experience 20 rooms of pure sunshine where spring has never left. And your family won’t want to, either.

You will be amazed by the variety of orchids on display, featuring a plethora of colors, sizes, shapes and varieties, including Cattleya, Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum and Oncidium, among others.

On March 25–27, 2011 enter a world of dazzling orchids showcased by the best collectors and growers from Hawaii to South America during the annual International Orchid Show & Sale ! Stunning exhibits fill the Conservatory and a wide array of orchids are for sale. Enjoy the American Orchid Society-judged show, guided tours, informative talks and a sales pavilion like no other.

Horticultural highlights this season:

General Indoor Highlights
Acacia
Amaryllis
Begonias
Weeping Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis)
Bugloss (Echium)
Buttercup (Ranunculus)
Butterfly-bush (Buddleja)
Christmas-pride (Ruellia macrantha)
Cliva
Longwood Hybrid Cinerarias (Pericallis)
Coleus
Delphiniums
Eupatorium
Forget-me-nots (Myosotis sylvatica)
Freesia
Geraniums (Pelargonium)
Gladiolus
Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis)
Cape Cowslip (Lachenalia)
Lilies
Marguerite (Argyranthemum frutescens)
Narcissus
Orchids
Pansies (Viola)
Primroses (Primula)
Queen's tears (Billbergia nutans)
Roses
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum)
Stocks (Matthiola)
Broom (Cytisus x spachianus)
Tulips
Velvet Groundsel (Roldana petasitis)
Winter Red-hot-poker (Veltheimia bracteata)
General Outdoor Highlights

Conifers

Glory-of-the-snow (Chionodoxa)
Hollies (Ilex)
Siberian Squills (Scilla siberica)
Tomasini's Crocus (Crocus tommasinianus)
Topiaries
Winter Aconites (Eranthis hyemalis)
Witch-hazels (Hamamelis)

20 Ideas: An Exercise Plan That Won’t Help You Lose Weight But Will Help You Become a Better Photographer

20 Ideas: An Exercise Plan That Won’t Help You Lose Weight But Will Help You Become a Better Photographer


"It’s the time of year that many of us make resolutions to get more exercise. That’s a good idea. But don’t forget the photographic exercises. Here, I’ve created a list of 20creativity and photography exercises that you can work on all year long. I want to warn you that some of them are rather ethereal. Don’t let that stop you. Transfer the ones you like to your calendar and make a strong commitment to do the work. I’ve seeded my own vision with many of these exercises and believe they will work for you too."


See the exercises rest here

Caribbean Garden Is Heating Up January 15 - February 27, 2011

Caribbean Garden Is Heating Up
The New York Botanical Garden
January 15 - February 27, 2011

Escape to the tropics without leaving New York City!

Nestled like an island getaway within the Garden’s elegant frozen landscape, the newly refurbished Enid A. Haupt Conservatory comes alive with exotic beauty in Caribbean Garden, a reinterpretation of the Conservatory’s permanent collection.
Be sure to bring your camera—Garden photography experts will be on hand every Saturday throughout the show to share the hottest tips and techniques that will have you capturing the beauty of nature like a pro. Get more information on Caribbean Garden.

http://www.nybg.org/caribbean-garden.php

You'll Even Have Pictures to Take Home


During Caribbean Garden, we're running a special contest especially for our shutterbug visitors. Every Saturday during Caribbean Garden, Garden photography experts, including professional photographer and NYBG instructor Rich Pomerantz, will be on location in the Conservatory to demonstrate some of the best techniques for snapping pictures of beautiful flowers and foliage in every kind of light.

Once you've taken your best shot, join the Garden over on the photo sharing website Flickr and upload your photos from the Caribbean Garden and add them to our Group Pool. Each week, from January 15 through February 27, we'll run a contest through Flickr, in two categories: Macro shot and Sense of Place shot. At the end of six weeks, the six weekly winners in each category will be pitted against one another and two grand prize winners will win a place in an upcoming spring semester photography class offered through the Garden's Adult Education program. Only photographs taken during the Caribbean Garden can be entered into the contest and you, the visitor, will determine the winners! See the full details here.

THE NIAGARA FALLS REGIONAL CAMERA CLUBS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL CONVENTION

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT, PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO YOUR MEMBERS.


THE NIAGARA FALLS REGIONAL CAMERA CLUBS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL CONVENTION

February 25, 26 & 27, 2011 at the beautiful and spacious Niagara Falls Conference & Event Center, 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14303.

PHOTOGRAPHIC EDUCATION AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:

STEPHEN JOHNSON: Canon Explore of Light. SPONSORED BY CANON, USA

Landscape photographer, designer and teacher.

"Twelve Steps to Improve Your Digital Photography"

DAVID H WELLS: SPONSORED BY OLYMPUS

Specializes in intercultural communications and the use of light and shadow to enhance visual narratives.

"Light, shadow, night and twilight in the photography of David H Wells"

"Photo Essays - Old and New"

Information attached to this email includes:

List of additional speakers and their presentations.

Hotel reservation information.

Print and Slide salon information.

FULL WEEKEND $120.00, which includes Saturday lunch and Saturday night Banquet.
Go to http://www.nfrcc.org/

Winter Photography Projects

Winter Photography Projects

by Guest Contributor

"With the shorter days and colder weather, it’s getting harder to get outside for the beautiful landscape and urban shots. I’m the type of person that always likes to have a new project (or two) to work on, so here’s some things I plan on working on – maybe it will spark some ideas for you!"

Read more: http://www.digital-photography-school.com/winter-photography-projects#ixzz1AwTZ2fgs

Announcing Silver Efex Pro 2 for Photoshop, Lightroom, & Aperture

Announcing Silver Efex Pro 2 for Photoshop, Lightroom, & Aperture


Press Release


Nik Software announces Silver Efex Pro 2, a major upgrade to its award-winning Silver Efex Pro software, widely regarded by photographers as the leading black-and-white software solution on the market today. Silver Efex Pro 2 introduces new features that offer even more control over detail, contrast, and tonality, making it easier than ever to transform color photographs into stunning black-and-white images. Silver Efex Pro 2 includes new features such as the History Browser, Dynamic Brightness, Amplify Blacks, Amplify Whites, Soft Contrast, Fine Structure, Image Borders, and selective colorization, as well as a variety of speed and quality improvements. The new features of Silver Efex Pro 2, combined with Nik Software's award-winning U Point technology, will continue to evolve black-and-white photography. To learn why Silver Efex Pro is the leading black-and-white imaging software users can watch training videos, download a free trial, and join live online training sessions at www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro

“Silver Efex Pro 2 has been created to provide photographers with the world’s best black-and-white conversion software enabling them to utilize new and powerful capabilities that were not available in the traditional darkroom,” said Michael J. Slater, President and CEO of Nik Software.

Ideal for any photographer passionate about black-and-white photography, Silver Efex Pro 2 features a wide variety of innovative enhancements to ensure the highest quality results. Silver Efex Pro includes unique features and functions, including specially designed algorithms for black-and-white photography, a unique all-in-one workflow, and the ability to fine-tune images with precise selective adjustments powered by U Point technology.

Nik Software’s proprietary U Point technology provides revolutionary selective editing by enabling photographers to precisely make detail, contrast, and tonality enhancements without the need for complicated selections or layer masks. Enhancements are automatically blended throughout an image for natural results. Finishing adjustments such as vignette controls, toning, burn edges and borders make it possible to easily accomplish everything needed for amazing black-and-white images.

Silver Efex Pro 2 is the first Nik Software product to take full advantage of the latest graphics processing units (GPUs). Nik Software has worked closely with NVIDIA Corporation and has incorporated GPU-based image rendering to offer the fastest, most efficient processing on systems equipped with dedicated GPU processors.

“We are extremely excited that Nik Software’s Silver Efex Pro 2 taps into the power of the many cores available in GeForce GPUs to deliver multiples of performance beyond the CPU alone” said David Ragones, Director of Product Marketing, NVIDIA. “Photo enthusiasts can now take advantage of all the available horsepower in their computers to produce beautiful black-and-white images.”

Key Features

* New History Browser facilitates intuitive comparison of previous edits and different looks

* New Dynamic Brightness enables adaptive brightening adjustments for different areas in the image

* New Amplify Blacks and Amplify Whites increases the presence of highlights and shadows adaptively throughout the image, creating a unique contrast effect

* New Visual Presets categorized by photographic style provide great, single-click starting points, which can be edited and shared with others

* New Soft Contrast applies contrast intelligently, based on image details, creating a less harsh contrast and a stylized mood

* New Fine Structure brings out even the smallest details and textures resulting in more visible image detail without creating an over-sharpened look

* New Image Borders use organic image elements to create unique and completely random borders, giving classic darkroom-style edges a modern look with infinite possibilities

* New Selective colorization easily adds color elements back into images utilizing U Point technology to precisely select objects

* New GPU Processing takes full advantage of the processors found on advanced display adapters providing even faster performance

Pricing and Availability
Silver Efex Pro 2 will be available in February 2011 directly from Nik Software (www.niksoftware.com), through specialty camera retailers, and through online and national resellers. A list of Nik Software resellers may be found at www.niksoftware.com/resellers.

The suggested retail price of Silver Efex Pro 2 is $199.95. Upgrades from the first version are $99.95. Customers who purchased Silver Efex Pro or a Complete Collection bundle after December 6, 2010 are eligible for a free upgrade. To pre-order Silver Efex Pro 2, users can visit www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro

Silver Efex Pro 2 installs as a 32-bit and 64-bit plug-in for Adobe Photoshop CS4 or later, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2.6 or later (Windows and Macintosh) or Apple Aperture 2.1.4 or later (Macintosh). For more information about Silver Efex Pro 2, including a video tutorial and a free 15-day fully functional trial version, please visit: www.niksoftware.com/silverefexpro

IMAGINARY REALMS BY GEORGE FELLNER

IMAGINARY REALMS


BY GEORGE FELLNER

EO ART LAB

George Fellner is the featured artist in an upcoming exhibition of his works: Imaginary Realms at EO Art Lab. This series involves the macro photography of minerals and crystals, depicted by limited editions of infused dye metal prints and pigmented ink archival prints. The art gallery is located at 69 Main St., Chester, CT. The opening reception/artist talk is on Feb. 4 at 6-9pm. The exhibition will run through Feb. 27.

To view his portfolio of Imaginary Realms, see: http://www.georgefellnerphotography.com/

Lightroom Clarity Slider

Lightroom Clarity Slider


The clarity slider is one of those adjustments in Lightroom that is a little bit vague. We all know what contrast and brightness does but what does clarity really mean? It can be a very useful tool in Lightroom for many types of images like landscapes and portraits. So what does it exactly do?

Let Mark critique your photos

Let us critique your photos


January 16, 2011 by Mark

ShareSometimes I think the best way to grow as artists is to constantly get feedback on our work. I used to always look forward to critiques in school. Even though it would be a little tough sometimes to hear someone rip apart your work that you had spend weeks working hard on there were always some good nuggets of truth. In the end no matter how brutal the critique was I always felt that I grew more and more as an artist after each critique. Sometimes as a professional its hard to get your work critiqued. You can enter local print competitions which are always great places to get some feedback or national competitions like WPPI. However sometimes with a print competition like WPPI if you want to hear the feedback and get more than just the score you have to be there for the judging and most of us might not be able to travel to Vegas to hear some comments on our work.

So I wanted to do a critique here on digital photo buzz. If you are eager to learn more about photography and really want to improve your art (and can take a little constructive feedback) then leave a comment below with links to 2-4 of your recent images. I will go over them in the next week and create a post here with my feedback. Also in the comment include a quick snippet about what these photos are about and any background of them. So grab a few images, leave a comment and lets all learn together!

http://digitalphotobuzz.com/let-us-critique-your-photos?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotoBuzz+%28Digital+Photo+Buzz%29

Laurie Shupp - Enhancing Scenic and Landscape Images

Master Classes -- Laurie Shupp - Enhancing Scenic and Landscape Images

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM PST

Join the team at Nik Software as we take you through a series of photographs to showcase the features and functionality found in a variety of Nik Software products. Ideally suited for enhancing landscape images, you'll learn how to use Nik Software tools to control bright skies, selectively edit color and light, and much more. Nik Software provides powerful tools that makes editing much simpler while allowing you to transform your images.

From Strobist: NiZn Batteries: Long-Term Update

Remember those nickel-zinc batteries-on-steroids that came out a few months ago? Long-term usage reports are starting to come in.


The short version: When you send your SB-800 in to get its fried PC board(s) replaced, you might not wanna mention your choice of battery.

Longer version, inside.

Oh, and it you are into Nikon CLS, Russ has an amazingly detailed blog series about the internal guts and workings of Nikon's very capable flash cortrol system, here.

The 2010 California Photo Festival Contest Winner

Congratulations Kamil Konrad!


Kamil Konrad CPF Contest Winner, The 2010 California Photo Festival Contest Winner!

We are happy to announce Kamil Konrad as the winner of our 1st Annual California Photo Festival Image Contest.

We asked all of our festival attendees to submit their best images shot during the 2010 California Photo Festival last September. Out of the hundreds of awesome photographs submitted we chose Kamil's "Rider at Sunset" as the best of the best. Kamil's image captures one of the most popular events we had during the festival where instructors Jennifer Wu and Hal Schmitt met with over 40 festival attendees at Pismo Beach to photograph horses on the beach at sunset.

Visit our Favorites Gallery to see the top images from the California Photo Festival, and to see all the awesome photos taken during the festival go to our California Photo Fest Group on Flikr.com

Thanks again to everyone who participated in the 1st Annual California Photo Festival and who shared their amazing images with us. Don't forget about the 2nd Annual California Photo Festival coming this October 12-16, 2011.

Best of Light
With Hal Schmitt
February 7-11, 2011

We're bringing back one of Light's most popular workshops!

The Best of Light workshop with instructor Hal Schmitt is a 5 day shooting intensive course that will take you all over San Luis Obispo County to our favorite shooting locations. Hal will demonstrate and instruct the tips, tricks, and techniques the pros use to capture compelling images. During this incredible course you'll shoot it all! Including horses on the beach at sunset, HDR, macro, and people using studio strobe and small strobe to create beautiful portraits.

Visit http://www.lightworkshops.com/ for additional information on Best of Light and other Light workshops. You can also take advantage of our "Double-Up" offer. Sign up for Best of Light you'll save $50 when you also register for Print Perfection or our Canon Speedlight Intensive workshops!

Witness: Defining Conservation Photography Feature

Awesome photography with a great take home message too!

Witness: Defining Conservation Photography Feature


Directed and produced by Neil Ever Osborne with editing and production by Chad A. Stevens and support from the iLCP

A contemporary account of the emerging genre of conservation photography is explored through the voices and imagery of some of the best environmental communicators working today. Notable anthropologist Jane Goodall, National Geographic Editor-at-Large and iLCP Fellow Michael Nichols, and International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP) president Cristina Mittermeier, among many others, share candid thoughts on the power of photography and its value as an effective conservation tool. The narrative is accompanied by stunning photographic contributions from over 40 iLCP conservation photographers to illustrate the convergence between the conservation and photography realms.
Inspired by “Conservation Photography”, a thesis by Carlton Ward, Jr.



Witness: Defining Conservation Photography Feature from iLCP on Vimeo.

John Paul Caponigro workshops

Discounts on John Paul Caponigro 2011 workshops (some expire January 18)

In March I'll be leading back-to-back domestics workshops in the desert southwest at Joshua Tree and Death Valley.

Mar 11-14 -- Joshua Tree -- Joshua Tree, CA

Mar 18-21 -- Death Valley -- Death Valley, CA

Apr 4-8 -- B&W Mastery -- Studio, Maine

Seminars

Mar 3 -- ASMP New England -- Boston, MA
Mar 30 - Apr 1 -- Photoshop World -- Orlando, FL

2011Workshops -- Price Increase -- On Jan 18 my field workshops will increase in price from $1250 to $1450. You can lock in the old price by registering now. Register by 1/18 and save $200.

Save even more! Combine this with my other discounts. Get 10%, 20% or 30% off.
Save $125 - register early!
Save $125 - if you're an alumni!
Save $125 - bring a friend!
Save up to $375!

Register for two workshops and get the alumni discount on your first workshop!
Learn more here.
Register now!

Joshua Tree, California
March 11 - 14, 2011

In this digital photograph workshop you'll immerse yourself in a desert wonderland. Joshua Tree National Park lies at the intersection of two great deserts (the Mojave and the Sonoran), arroyos, playas, alluvial fans, bajadas, pediments, canyons all interact to form a complex mosaic of exceptional beauty.Keys View, Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, Jumbo Rock, and White Tank are among our many destinations.

The spiky Joshua tree forests and tall standing desert palm oases provide a striking contrast to the twisted rock monoliths and giant boulders that pepper this alien landscape. It's as if Dr Seuss is drew the conceptual sketches for this fantastic setting. It's a rock climber's paradise. It's a photographer's dream. Learn more here.

Death valleyWorkshop
Death Valley, California
March 18 - 21, 2011

In this digital photograph workshop you'll explore an iconic photographic location - Death Valley. Countless photographers have worked in Death Valley, including many of the greats like William Henry Jackson, Carlton Watkins, Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, and so many other contemporary photographers. Hollywood has had a long-running love affair with the location too. There's a reason. It's stunning!

The variety of deep desert forms you'll discover in Death Valley is simply astonishing. Watch sunrise at Zabriskie Point and then walk through Golden Canyon. Witness the painted earth of Artist's Palette. Get dazzled by giant salt flats. Climb along the extinct volcanic Ubehebe Crater. Walk across the cracked mud flats of the Racetrack and see the mysterious moving rocks. Immerse yourself in several vast dune fields. It's North America's driest, hottest, lowest (it's actually below sea level) location.

If you've never been, you must see it. Once you've seen it, you'll want to return again and again. This workshop will offer a complete immersion into this fascinating location. There will be extensive reviews of work done on site. We'll focus on developing a series of images that reflects your unique vision and telling your story in the most effective and compelling ways. Learn more here.

Top 10 iPad Photographic Portfolio Apps

Top 10 iPad Photographic Portfolio Apps

Save 10% on your order this weekend! Outdoor Photo Gear

http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=8819bcc94cd5fa0c347cde75c&id=a5f4d00cfe&e=2bd08653df

Webinar Jan. 20th - ColorChecker Passport RAW COLOR POWER

Free Webinar


Two sessions are available:

Thursday, January 20th

Session One - 1PM Eastern Time (12PM Central, 11AM Mountain, 10AM Pacific)
Learn More and Register Here



Session Two - 3PM Eastern Time (2PM Central, 1PM Mountain, 12PM Pacific)
Learn More and Register Here

For more detailed information please click on one of the registration links listed above.

Topics Covered

Creating and Using Camera Profiles

Custom White Balance with the Passport

Once click accurate color edits

Matching color response of two or more cameras

Matching color response under different lighting conditions

Color editing in Adobe® Lightroom®

Color editing in Adobe® Photoshop®



Who should watch this webinar?

Professional photographers

Photographic enthusiasts

Anyone passionate about accurate color
 

CS5 Superguide

A CS5 Superguide


After a lot of work, we have it ready for download right now.

I know a lot of you signed up for it and were wondering why only the CS4 version was ready. This is because we were still working on the finishing touches. You can now download the CS5 Superguide for free. Either download the PDF directly or, if you have issues, you can get the Zipped version.

This time around, it's interactive, meaning that all the hyperlinks and the table of contents are clickable. You can click back to the TOC from the bottom left of any page.

I hope you enjoy this publication as much as we have in creating it.

You will need the free Acrobat reader from Adobe to view this publication.

http://www.photoshopcafe.com/CSC/CS5_Superguide.pdf



http://www.photoshopcafe.com/CSC/CS5_Superguide.zip



Adobe CS5 Superguide

Feel free to tell your firends about this. Send them to this page to sign up

http://www.photoshopcafe.com/cs5/CSC.htm

Canon Creative Asia Photography Awards 2011 FINALIST IMAGES ANNOUNCED!

The Canon Creative Asia Photography Awards 2011


TOP 175 FINALIST IMAGES ANNOUNCED!

The top 25 images per category are now available for viewing. The finalists names have been withheld until after the final judging round has been completed.

View the Finalist Images

Watch the Judging Live online.

The final judging event will be broadcast live online with video and audio of the judging panel, judges scores, image previews and interactive audience chat. If you can't be there you can still experience the insight and education that comes from watching a live judging event.

Judging is scheduled to begin at 9:00 am (+0800 UTC) on 19th January from the Creative Asia Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Links to view the live judging and scheduling updates will be available from the website closer to the event.

PRIZES & AWARDS

Each of the 7 category winners of the 2010-2011 Canon Creative Asia Awards will receive a Canon EOS 7D. The 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners per category will receive a Canon Creative Asia Awards trophy. Gold, silver and bronze awards will also be awarded based on overall final scores.

The Wedding & Portrait Photographers of the Year will receive a Canon EOS 5D MK II! The Creative Asia Photography Awards is proudly supported by Canon, Nikon, Epson, Lastolite, WPPI, Asukabook, Digital SLR Photography, Triple Scoop Music, AIPP, Clubsnap and Fotograf.net.

Photos of snow sculptures

'Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow' - Photos of incredible snow sculptures

Donald Watt and the Yukon Canada International Snow Carving Team have spent the last ten years travelling the globe creating incredibly detailed snow sculptures.

Magic Wings for a winter photo op

The Lepidoptera source in Western Massachusetts, featuring an 8,000-square foot tropical conservatory
that's home to nearly 4,000 exotic and domestic butterflies, Magic Wings focuses on butterfly-related education, recreation, entertainment and gardening needs.


Fall / Winter / Spring Hours

Now until Memorial Day weekend 2011:
Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with our last admission of the day sold at 4:30 p.m.

ADMISSION PRICES
Adults: $12.00
Seniors (age 62 and over): $10.00
Seniors pay $8.50 on Wednesdays.
Children (age 3 through 17): $8.00
Also for students up through age 22 with valid student ID.
Children under age 3: Free


DISCOUNT COUPONS — JANUARY 2011


Beat those winter blues with discounted prices on Adult admissions!

*** Effective Saturday, January 1 through Monday, January 31. ***

Print out this page, bring it to Magic Wings,  turn it in at the register, and get $2.00 off an Adult admission!

Now for the conditions:

* Applies to Adult admissions only.
* Limit 1 per Adult customer per day.
* Printed coupon must be presented at register.
* Cannot be combined with any other discount.

Datacolor Spyder LensCal

We were lucky enough to have a friend calibrate our lenses for us -- and what a difference it made! My 500mm was off by -19 and the adjustment madea HUGE difference in my photography! I would highly recommend this! Lisa
 

The smarter focus tool!

 

The Datacolor Spyder LensCal provides a fast, reliable method of measuring the focus performance on your camera and lens combinations. Many newer DSLRs allow you to store auto-focus correction data for several of your most important lenses.

The Spyder LensCal allows photographers to obtain razor-sharp focusing or check to see that their lenses are working at their peak performance. The LensCal is compact, lightweight, durable, and has an integrated level and tripod mount.

Features:

Fast, easy solution for your interchangeable lenses and recent DSLR bodies provides razor-sharp auto-focusing, using modern DSLR autofocus micro-adjustment technology

 

Compact, lightweight and durable, with integrated level and tri-pod mount, making this the most convenient way to adjust your own camera gear

 

Save time and hassle of sending your equipment in for service. Now you can check or calibrate your own lenses

 

Accurate and repeatable calibration of your lenses and recent DSLR bodies

 

Worthwhile investment to ensure your camera is focusing your lenses as precisely as possible

 

Click here to view the LensCal User Guide.

Requirements:

• DSLR or other camera with capability to store lens auto-focus corrections
• Auto-focus lenses capable of being driven by this camera
• No OS requirements, as the tool works entirely within the camera's menu

Supports autofocus adjustments:


Canon (50D, 7D, 5DMkII, 1DMkIII, 1DMkIV, 1DsMkIII, 1DIV)

Nikon (D300, D300s, D700, D3, D3s, D3x)

Sony (A850, A900)

Olympus (E-30, E-620)

Pentax (K20D, K7D)

You can Check the autofocus on any camera and lens combination!

For other Cameras that support & store autofocus adjustment please refer to your users manual.

The second Epson International Pano Awards

The second Epson International Pano Awards


If you are a pano photographer you might want to check out the second Epson International Pano Awards. With a combined prize pool of over US$20,000 in cash and prizes this is a photo competition that had some amazing entries last year. This is a paid photography contest which showcases the work of panoramic photographers worldwide and from their claim is the largest and most important competition for panoramic photography. View more information online at: http://www.thepanoawards.com/
Also check out some amazing pano work from the winners gallery here. International Pano Awards 2010 winners.

Croton Shoot with Rick Sammon

Croton Shoot with Rick Sammon

Join me in my backyard, literally!


Explore: Landscape and HDR photography, painting with light, interior low-light photography, working with reflectors, diffusers and fill-flash... and much more!

Digital Darkroom Stuff: Photoshop and Lightroom.... what fun! Bring your laptop!

2011 Dates: September 28 to October 1 and October 5 to 8

Instructors:
Rick Sammon, lead instructor
Joe Brady, co-instructor - Lighting and color
Jeremy Pollack - Lightroom
Andy Williams - Landscape

Interior of the Buddhist Temple - HDR vs. non-HDR

Workshop Fee: (includes workshop, portfolio review, digital darkroom lessons, welcome and farewell dinners - minus drinks): $800.00.

Base: Croton-on-Hudson, NY

Tentative Schedule (Subject to change):

Wednesday
Welcome Dinner/Rick’s Slide Show

Thursday
Buddhist Temple Shoot/Landscape Photography/Download

Friday
Croton Dam and River Shoot/Download and Portfolio Reviews

Saturday
Photograph © Joe Brady
People Photography (indoors and out) and Download
Farewell Dinner/Slide Show

Sunday
Depart

Send check to: Sammon and Sammon One Fox Road Croton, NY 10520

Photographing Snow & Ice - Presented by Warren

Photographing Snow & Ice - Presented by Warren


Tuesday Jan 11th 2011 7:00 PM

New Britain Library 20 High St New Britain, CT 06051

DIRECTIONS:

The Main Library is located in downtown New Britain on the corner of West Main and High Streets. It is two blocks from City Hall. It is located with convenient access to 84, 91, 9 and 72.

From I-84 West: Take Exit 39A for Route 9 South. Take Exit 27 (Chestnut St. exit) off Route 9 and go right at the end of the exit ramp. At the next light, go right onto Columbus Boulevard. Take a left at the third light onto High Street. The library is the second building on the right. Free parking is available behind the library (follow the driveway between the YMCA and the library). Metered parking is available on the street.

From I-84 East: Take Exit 35 for Route 72 East. (This is a left exit.) Take Exit 8 straight onto Columbus Boulevard. At the next light, turn right onto High Street. The library is the second building on the right. Free parking is available behind the library (follow the driveway between the YMCA and the library). Metered parking is available on the street.

From I-91 North:Take Exit 22 for Route 9 North. Take Exit 26 straight onto Columbus Boulevard. At the fifth light, turn left onto High Street. The library is the second building on the right. Free parking is available behind the library (follow the driveway between the YMCA and the library). Metered parking is available on the street.

Top Birds-In-Flight Tips

Top Birds-In-Flight Tips
Photographing birds in flight (BIF) is one of the most exhilarating and exciting photographic experiences available. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most frustrating. The dynamic environment of photographing BIF with constantly changing distance, angle, light, etc. presents us with a challenging task. With that said, most photographers can enjoy success and the satisfaction of a great shot if they keep in mind a few simple tips.

12 Best California photography locations of 2010

12 Best California photography locations of 2010

April is the time to take photographs of flowers. The California Poppy Reserve in Antelope Valley is one of the most spectacular places to see the state flower lighting up entire landscapes.

September is the end of the mating season for the Tule Elk, a perfect time for a visit to the Tule Elk Reserve in Point Reyes National Seashore.

Also, 12 Best California photography locations of 2009

20 Interesting High-Speed Photographs

20 Interesting High-Speed Photographs


Photography is often about capturing that moment in time and freezing it. What’s even more interesting is capturing that split millisecond in time and seeing what the eye doesn’t usually pick up. Here’s a showcase of 20 stunning high-speed photos with a hint of eeriness about them.

Top 40 best photography websites

Top 40 best photography websites

Top 10 iPad apps for photographers

Top 10 iPad apps for photographers

MOUNTAIN GORILLA PHOTO SAFARI - AUGUST 2011

Join professional wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhas in photographing Rwanda’s gentle mountain gorillas.


• Visit the best place in the world to photograph mountain gorillas up close.

• As a tour designed for photographers, we’ll have FIVE gorilla treks to maximize our photo opportunities and chances of good light (most tours only offer two treks).

• We’ll use porters to carry our gear, making the treks much easier and more pleasant.

• Travel as a small group of photographers of all skill levels and receive one-on-one instruction from professional wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhas.

• Suzi’s evening lectures and discussions cover digital workflow, Photoshop, editing your best work and more.

DEPARTURE DATE:

August 13- 22, 2011 (only 2 spaces left!)

About Suzi Eszterhas:

california-based wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhas spends nine months of the year shooting a wide variety of wildlife in the field. Her photographs have been published in books, magazines and newspapers all over the world, including, Smithsonian, Audubon, BBC Wildlife, Scientific American, GEO, National Geographic Kids, Ranger Rick and more. Most recently, her iconic picture of an Adelie penguin was featured on the front cover of Time Magazine. A Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, she has also just won an award in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition and was awarded Ranger Rick Photographer of the Year in 2008. Although Suzi works primarily in Africa, she has undertaken commissions and led instructional photography tours and workshops everywhere from Antarctica and the Arctic to Alaska and Montana.

For more information and bookings, please visit http://www.suzieszterhas.com/toursWorkshops/

or email: suzi@suzieszterhas.com

9 Simple Tips to Compose a Better Photo

9 Simple Tips to Compose a Better Photo

Guy Tal’s “Creative Landscape Photography”

Book Review – Guy Tal’s “Creative Landscape Photography”


“The goal is not to make you creative. Whether you know it or not, you already are. The challenge, rather, is learning to tap into and focus your creativity and to help it find its ultimate expression in a photographic image.” – Guy Tal

Originally designed as a companion to Guy Tal's Creative Landscape Photography workshop, this is the first in a series of instructional texts aimed at intermediate and advanced photographers seeking to evolve their skills beyond the basics. Based on years of real-world experience practicing and teaching the art and craft of landscape photography, this eBook details Guy's process-based approach to unlocking the creative potential already in you. Learn how to take your ideas and sensibilities from raw concepts to expressive images, with an emphasis on understanding visualization, composition and capture techniques.


Pages: 86 Price: $9.95

I am a photographer, writer, and naturalist living and working in the Colorado Plateau - a scenic and diverse desert region of the western United States spanning an area larger than most countries and states. Over the years, this magical and endangered landscape had not only been my home but also my sanctuary and my main source of inspiration. It is my goal as a person, as a writer, and as an artist, to promote and to share its wild beauty, and advocate for its preservation. It is a place like no other - a treasure for the soul that future generations deserve to experience in its wild state as we have been privileged to.


I am often asked about the visual qualities of my work and how they relate to the elusive concept of "reality". I strongly believe that photography is the most restrictive of the visual arts but at the same time also has the potential to make the most impact with the viewer for one simple reason: photographs have a binding connection with real events, real elements, real light, and real moments in time. Any obvious departure from these realities will cause an image to be dismissed outright regardless of any other aesthetic qualities it may possess. The photographic artist's tools are primarily well-crafted composition and careful adjustments of the captured image within very narrow margins.

My goal is to produce images that inspire without venturing outside the realm of the believable. The ability to imbue a photographic image with one's personal thoughts and emotions is indeed what puts the "art" in Fine Art Photography. To be clear, my images may well represent a personal interpretation that may differ from, extend, or even alter what others may regard as a strict documentary rendition of a scene. They are to be regarded as works of creative art, though they are always based on real elements and express a real reverence for the subjects portrayed.

Guy Tal
Torrey, UT


Selections of my work can also be seen at these sites:

http://www.uintaphoto.com/ - Images of the Uinta Mountains

http://www.wasatchmountainphoto.com/ - Images of the Wasatch Mountains

http://www.sanrafaelswellphoto.com/ - Images of the San Rafael Swell

http://www.autumncolorphoto.com/ - Autumn Color Images

 http://www.canyoncountryphoto.com/ - Images from the Colorado Plateau Canyon Country

links to about 500 Bird Photographer's from around the world

links to about 500 Bird Photographer's from around the world http://www.peregrinesbirdblog.blogspot.com/

lists of birding websites

lists of birding websites:
Best North American Birding Websites
California’s Best Birding Sites
http://birdingonthe.net/birdmail.html

Animal Magic - Outstanding animal photographs of 2010

Animal Magic - Outstanding animal photographs of 2010

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHY QUOTES?

Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter. - Ansel Adams



WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHY QUOTES?


"In wisdom gathered over time I have found that every experience is a form of exploration." - Ansel Adams

"When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence." - Ansel Adams

You don't take a photograph, you make it. - Ansel Adams

There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs. - Ansel Adams

There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer. - Ansel Adams

There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept. - Ansel Adams

A true photograph need not be explained, nor can it be contained in words. - Ansel Adams

Photography is more than a medium for factual communication of ideas. It is a creative art. - Ansel Adams

Twelve significant photographs in any one year is a good crop. - Ansel Adams

Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter. - Ansel Adams

No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit. - Ansel Adams

There are worlds of experience beyond the world of the aggressive man, beyond history, and beyond science. The moods and qualities of nature and the revelations of great art are equally difficult to define; we can grasp them only in the depths of our perceptive spirit. - Ansel Adams

We must remember that a photograph can hold just as much as we put into it, and no one has ever approached the full possibilities of the medium. - Ansel Adams

Aaron Siskind: "Photography is like air. I couldn't live without it."


"To take a photograph is to align the head, the eye and the heart. It's a way of life." - Henri Cartier Bresson


"There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept." - Ansel Adams


"The voyage of discovery lies not in finding new landscapes but in finding new eyes."- Marcel Proust

"A creator needs only one enthusiast to justify him." - Man Ray

"With photography, you zero in; you put a lot of energy into short moments, and then you go on to the next thing." - Robert Mapplethorpe

He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands, his head and his heart is an artist. -St.Francis of Assisi

"Why is Form beautiful? Because it helps us meet our worst fear, the suspicion that life may be chaos and that therefore our suffering is without meaning.  - Robert Adams




“Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.”- Henri Cartier-Bresson

However, for the digital age, maybe it needs to be updated to:  “Your first 100,000 digital photographs are your worst.”