GKPE: Serious Photography Thread

[Nzshrimper]

Well I wasx going through some older photos picking out what I want to print at the 10c Harvey Norman special tomorrow, and I came across some photos that I hadn't bothered to do anything cos I thought they were crap at the time. But after running them through DPP and tweaking a bit, I actaully quite like some of them. Here is my favourite:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a310/scotttnz/IMG_4056.jpg

Taken on a foggy morning last month

nice...

[akiwi]

That photo oozes autumn. Very seasonal withall the leaves on the ground and still on the trees. Cool gnarly trees too.

[S-S]

i like your favourite scott, very woodsy

[scotttnz]

thanks everyone....funny how you can look at the same photo you thought was crap a month ago, and see some potential in it.

[weka2000]

thanks everyone....funny how you can look at the same photo you thought was crap a month ago, and see some potential in it.

Advantage of digital. Fresh eyes often see better.

[Runera]

Hay Guys.

Havent done anything for a while but just finished up on this.

C&C would be cool

cheers


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2309/2681181367_4c78611e26_b.jpg

[Mediation]

The blurred background that is created through photoshop. In my perspective. As a photographer. Shows that you are trying to hide the somewhat. wrong scene / back ground.

White walls. Plain backgrounds are your friend. Technically it is a well executed photograph. Now I don't like critiquing other peoples work... So please dont take much of what I said into account.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3045/2663965160_21e12d1dbf.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3225/2663960268_22d14dc6f1.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2620674506_303c6ff232.jpg?v=0

color is evil.

[weka2000]

Hay Guys.

Havent done anything for a while but just finished up on this.

C&C would be cool

cheers




Yes watch the back grounds ...mind you sometimes youjust have to use a narrow depth of feild to blur it out. This isfine and dandy but you have 5 ladys you need to keep in focus as well.
I would loose the diffused glow.

[S-S]

Hay Guys.
Havent done anything for a while but just finished up on this.
C&C would be cool
cheers


...why are they all glowing? the effect is a little bit too weird for me, i keep noticing it and following the blur around their edges instead of seeing the portraits... let me guess, you duplicated the layer and gaussian blurred the one below, then masked out the bg of the one above, but all the blurred people are still showing through the bottom layer because the blur expanded their size?

if you are going to blur the bg seamlessly that probably isnt the most successful way to do it... can you redo it and repost?


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2620674506_303c6ff232.jpg?v=0



i dont know why exactly but i kept looking at this one, i think its the way you used light & shape to draw the eye to the cyclists... it is quite a clever shot even tho it seems so simple

[scotttnz]

Matt, the second one doen't do anything for me, but the 1st and 3rd I really like.

Do you ever do anything in colour?

[lil_miss]

Hay Guys.

Havent done anything for a while but just finished up on this.

C&C would be cool

cheers


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2309/2681181367_4c78611e26_b.jpg

Not so keen on the artificially blurred background either...

[jasestu]

Matt, the second one doen't do anything for me, but the 1st and 3rd I really like.

Do you ever do anything in colour?

Black and white is so refreshing in these days of over-saturated over sharpened images...

[weka2000]

Black and white is so refreshing in these days of over-saturated over sharpened images...

I need some good books on how to do it correctly.

[manipula]

Which bit? The B&W or the over tarted up coloured stuff?

[weka2000]

Which bit? The B&W or the over tarted up coloured stuff?
B&W

[Philternz]

I need some good books on how to do it correctly.


If you use the the libraries, they have some good B and W books, at least Waitakere Libraries do, and their system is pants compared to Auckland City.

I have a good book on B and W manipulation in PS out at the moment. One day I will read it with the computer in front of me.

[Philternz]

Taken yesterday on a rainy walk in the Waitakeres.

[scotttnz]

don't get me wrong, I thing a lot of Matt's work suits B&W, I just can't remember any colour ones he has posted.

[harroz]

It's a great way to see if your image is a goodun.. turn it into b/w. if it sucks then colour isn't going to help much. a great way to learn photography light and composition is to shoot for a year in ONLY b/w.

going I dare ya ;-)...

[jasestu]

don't get me wrong, I thing a lot of Matt's work suits B&W, I just can't remember any colour ones he has posted.

have a squiz at his flickr

[tag141]

When I was about 5 or 6, my sister was bought a camera. It was a Kodak Instamatic (like the one in SS photo a while back). It took 126 cartridge film and our parents bought us colour film as and when they could afford to develop and print it. Mostly it was black and white. My father had a Pentax SLR and printed his own black and white prints. So being the younger sibling I was jealous of my sisters camera and for a birthday, probably 6 or 7 years old, I demanded a camera. This demanding usually consisted of lots and crying, screaming and probably wetting the bed (some things never change!). My parents gave in to my demands and bought me a similar camera to my sisters. It accepted 126 cartridge film as well. To save confusion over whose camera was whose (even though hers said Kodak and mine said El Cheapo Woolworths Brand) I covered mine with glow in the dark E.T. and Star Wars stickers. (Pimp My Camera circa 197?). Why do I reminisce about days gone by? Well, today going through some photos I find this one below. This is photo 0001 of my photographic journey. Taken in the front garden of the house we lived in, in London. The woman in the photo is the next door neighbour Mrs Higgins. She was in her front garden after my father and I had loaded the film. Calm down gents, I know she's a bit of a hottie and could probably be a pit girl but resist those urges.

http://tph1.orcon.net.nz/numberone.jpg

For younger viewers there is no EXIF attached. I think scanning the photo may have stripped the exif information. No, not really. But there it is, in all it's black and white glory. IMG_0001. I also notice, even from day 1, I was observing the rule of thirds. Did I even know what a third was, it was a mathematical term after all !!!! Why post it in the serious thread...so you bas***s can't rip my story or pic to pieces...much.:D

[lance v]

Taken yesterday on a rainy walk in the Waitakeres.

oooooo i like that

[kaypony]

Taken yesterday on a rainy walk in the Waitakeres.
Stunning. So colourful. I like

[Moppie]

When I was about 5 or 6, my sister was bought a camera. It was a Kodak Instamatic .................:D



You know, you should start your own thread about this, I doubt many people have the very first they ever took, and after can remember it and the details around it.

[tag141]

You know, you should start your own thread about this, I doubt many people have the very first they ever took, and after can remember it and the details around it.

There are other threads?;)

[S-S]

Taken yesterday on a rainy walk in the Waitakeres.

thats very cool

When I was about 5 or 6, my sister was bought a camera. It was a Kodak Instamatic (like the one in SS photo a while back)... :D

thats totally cool - i used to biff my photos if they didnt work out to my satisfaction, so altho i do have a film that dates back to about age 7 or so, i dont have my first first shot

lets see shot #2 - you can post one a day until we get to see your entire life's work ;)

[Mediation]

I don't know. Some things in life are best viewed without color.

Just came back from a model shoot. Was awesome. Photographed two people. Male and female in the city. Good times.

I used the DEP mode for the first time. It is an amazing feature!! plus activated 7 hidden focus points to help me with DOF.

[weka2000]

I don't know. Some things in life are best viewed without color.
I agree but the skill is deciding which ones :rolleyes:

[Mediation]

here goes one shot from today.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3599/10fv2810samplesw7.jpg

Theme was Tim Burton crossed with fashion.

[manipula]

It's a great way to see if your image is a goodun.. turn it into b/w. if it sucks then colour isn't going to help much. a great way to learn photography light and composition is to shoot for a year in ONLY b/w.

going I dare ya ;-)...

Funny that, as I'd say you can't take a good B&W unless you can take the shot well in colour.

here goes one shot from today.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3599/10fv2810samplesw7.jpg

Theme was Tim Burton crossed with fashion.

That's erm, interesting. Wondering where the rest of the shots go tbh...

[lil_miss]

Matt - I notice you always have tight crops - as in only millimetres to the edge of the photo... is there a reason for that?

[manipula]

Had a chilled out day today taking a few photos with Brent, chewing the fat and so on. My red sofa got some action... :D

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/manipula/For%20POTN/Brent.jpg

[joeseph]

Had a chilled out day today taking a few photos with Brent, chewing the fat and so on. My red sofa got some action... :D

nice - something about the perspective annoy's me but great idea. Bet Bob is well pleased... :)

[manipula]

She says: "The dinner's in the dog and you're sleeping outside!" :D ;)

[::John::]

Tell her that attitude inclines you towards leaving the couch at the beach...


Great idea, well executed. I like it.

[Nzshrimper]

keeping warm

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u185/nzshrimper/fire-2.jpg

[Sancho]

When I was about 5 or 6, my sister was bought a camera. It was a Kodak Instamatic (like the one in SS photo a while back). It took 126 cartridge film and our parents bought us colour film as and when they could afford to develop and print it. Mostly it was black and white. My father had a Pentax SLR and printed his own black and white prints. So being the younger sibling I was jealous of my sisters camera and for a birthday, probably 6 or 7 years old, I demanded a camera. This demanding usually consisted of lots and crying, screaming and probably wetting the bed (some things never change!). My parents gave in to my demands and bought me a similar camera to my sisters. It accepted 126 cartridge film as well. To save confusion over whose camera was whose (even though hers said Kodak and mine said El Cheapo Woolworths Brand) I covered mine with glow in the dark E.T. and Star Wars stickers. (Pimp My Camera circa 197?). Why do I reminisce about days gone by? Well, today going through some photos I find this one below. This is photo 0001 of my photographic journey. Taken in the front garden of the house we lived in, in London. The woman in the photo is the next door neighbour Mrs Higgins. She was in her front garden after my father and I had loaded the film. Calm down gents, I know she's a bit of a hottie and could probably be a pit girl but resist those urges.

http://tph1.orcon.net.nz/numberone.jpg

For younger viewers there is no EXIF attached. I think scanning the photo may have stripped the exif information. No, not really. But there it is, in all it's black and white glory. IMG_0001. I also notice, even from day 1, I was observing the rule of thirds. Did I even know what a third was, it was a mathematical term after all !!!! Why post it in the serious thread...so you bas***s can't rip my story or pic to pieces...much.:D

Hahahah that is awesome tag, both the story and the fact you still have your first photo ever taken, great stuff, and some nice light hearted words to go along with it! Errr one question, why did I think you were like 19 or something?

[Sancho]

Had a chilled out day today taking a few photos with Brent, chewing the fat and so on. My red sofa got some action... :D



Hey, how is that brother doing?

[tag141]

Errr one question, why did I think you were like 19 or something?

The immaturity I show in posts. (19 is my mental age)

[akiwi]

When I was about 5 or 6, my sister was bought a camera. ....
F...ing cool story.
I started photographing in the early 70's, but I don't have any idea where my first photos are though.

Taken yesterday on a rainy walk in the Waitakeres.
That is really cool.


here goes one shot from today.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3599/10fv2810samplesw7.jpg

Theme was Tim Burton crossed with fashion.
Matt.. I Like it.
Looks like something you would see in a magazine.

Had a chilled out day today taking a few photos with Brent, chewing the fat and so on. My red sofa got some action... :D

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/manipula/For%20POTN/Brent.jpg
Another cool photo.
That I something I always wanted to do. Take a red sofa to all sorts of different places and photograph someone on it.
I had invisioned In a field, in the middle of Munich, on a hill, in a church etc. Never had the right sofa or motivation to do it though.

[Nzshrimper]

here goes one shot from today.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3599/10fv2810samplesw7.jpg

Theme was Tim Burton crossed with fashion.

that dude has clown feet... :D

[Mediation]

Matt - I notice you always have tight crops - as in only millimetres to the edge of the photo... is there a reason for that?

Hey. Its the nature of using primes. Have to use foot zoom. So I often get really close. But I like filling the frame.

Thanks Akiwi :)

[kaypony]

I feel like I haven't posted anything for awhile so here is a wee collection of random shots:
Reminiscing about summer 1) My little cousin at you guessed it, Piha. 2) Looking out over our farm in Taupaki out West. I'd like to do a pano from here.

[kaypony]

3: Dressage
4: Our farmlet in Levin. I know it's super dark.The sky looked so amazing, I couldn't do it justice.

[manipula]

Hey, how is that brother doing?

Brent? He's good, just plodding along.

Matt.. I Like it.
Looks like something you would see in a magazine.

Now you see, I cry wolf there. With all due respect to Matt, as he's blatantly trying some fairly out there model stuff which in itself deserves respect particularly after only doing it for so long, IMO these shots have in general missed the mark by a country mile.

If it's a Tim Burton fashion hybrid, where's the darkness and spooky side? If it's high fashion the played down tones and desaturated images don't work. The wardrobe for her, is pretty good I think, but when attempting something as ambitious as a Tim Burton/fashion crossover, I wonder whether it's as well to bring in someone who's a stylist. You know, someone who actually understands wardrobes the same way as we understand cameras. Case in point being the dude's outfit. It's so close but no cigar, and if you're aiming for that you have to hit the nail on the head or he looks like that, which is in my own opinion (feel free to disregard Matt) frankly laughable. He looks rediculous, not spooky chic.

Ultimately if I saw that in a magazine, I'd wonder what went wrong. :?

That I something I always wanted to do. Take a red sofa to all sorts of different places and photograph someone on it.
I had invisioned In a field, in the middle of Munich, on a hill, in a church etc. Never had the right sofa or motivation to do it though.

Interesting. I admit tbh the idea came from Brent originally, and we both kinda went with it. I knew as soon as he said it, the red sofas we have would work really well. The one you see above is currently airing out after being attacked by sea spray in the entrance but I do wonder if it'll not appear again at some point. ;)

4: Our farmlet in Levin. I know it's super dark.The sky looked so amazing, I couldn't do it justice.

It does indeed look cool Katherine. Obviously there are ways to have improved the shot, and in the spirit of some learning going off around here as opposed to pure willy waving, I'd point out that if you have/had a grad filter, it would have helped you to balance the exposures between the foreground and the sky, making the overall thing less dark. The main thing though is that you saw it, recognised it, and took frankly a good stab at getting it with the camera. Kudos and keep it up! :)

[theflyingkiwi]

Now you see, I cry wolf there. With all due respect to Matt, as he's blatantly trying some fairly out there model stuff which in itself deserves respect particularly after only doing it for so long, IMO these shots have in general missed the mark by a country mile.

If it's a Tim Burton fashion hybrid, where's the darkness and spooky side? If it's high fashion the played down tones and desaturated images don't work. The wardrobe for her, is pretty good I think, but when attempting something as ambitious as a Tim Burton/fashion crossover, I wonder whether it's as well to bring in someone who's a stylist. You know, someone who actually understands wardrobes the same way as we understand cameras. Case in point being the dude's outfit. It's so close but no cigar, and if you're aiming for that you have to hit the nail on the head or he looks like that, which is in my own opinion (feel free to disregard Matt) frankly laughable. He looks rediculous, not spooky chic.

You know I think your right up to a point.

However I think while the style of clothing and the way it's shot is fine, what lets the photo down is the PP that should be applied to the photo. to give that tim burton look.

If you have a look at any of his photos, they are styled so much of the same cloth. what would sell the photo is that type of PP added to the photo.

[Nzshrimper]

i must say there are faults with the image but he has come on a lot in a very short space time... (matt that is)

but that guys does look silly...

[theflyingkiwi]

i must say there are faults with the image but he has come on a lot in a very short space time... (matt that is)

but that guys does look silly...

yes you are right, and in what way?

[akiwi]

I agree with a lot of what Dave is saying, However, I also see that Matt has come a long way and is out there trying stuff.
He is directing two people at the same time, This is the first time he has tried funky clothes (As far as I know), It looks as if he has directed the people in to positions and poses. Also has chosen a cool location.
It may not be perfect, but I want to encourage him that he is on th eright track.
OK Maybe as Tony says my post is just an ego boosting only praise post, and not enough critique. But that doesn't hurt sometimes either does it?

Maybe this will help
I love the location... that stairway leading diágonally up the picture looks cool.

I take it you where going for that catalogue fashion pose manequin look.
I like the pose of the female.. though she looks a little stiff.. but thats OK.
The Guy seems to be leaning away from the female. From the body language side of things looks like he wants to get away from the female (Or the photoshoot) Maybe with a little more interaction between the models it would bring the photo together more.
Lighting and exposure look pretty good.

Costumes.. Well they are interestig and a little different.

[manipula]

Likewise, I'd hope by now that there are few bigger fans of Matt's work than me. And frankly, doing so much so soon is both ambitious and highly cool. Within reason it seems Matt has got it all down and running with it waaaay before any of the rest of us, and I totally admire that.

That said, and I hope Matt appreciates this in the critique fashion it's meant as opposed to me being a cock, the shoot is lacking something fundamentally. It's either PP or wardrobe or stylists or the whole thing. It's a highly OTT target to aim for but on this occasion (and annoyingly I'm sure not the next) the target was missed.

[Mediation]

haha. Trust me. I don't take any of your comments to heart. All I care for is that I love photography and I like to protect my clients. I am not looking to impress you Dave. And if you don't like them. Well im sure there is work on the Internets that you can admire.

[manipula]

I wonder sometimes, why I bother. :?

[theflyingkiwi]

I wonder sometimes, why I bother. :?

keep trying mate, the message might get thru. But I know how you feel.

[tag141]

I wonder sometimes, why I bother. :?

http://benjskramer.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/businessman-banging-his-head-against-the-wall-ispc026073.jpg

[Sancho]

I wonder sometimes, why I bother. :?

Well you made a difference to me last week, and I really appreciate it now, even though at the time I thought your words were a bit harsh, but between yourself, Moppie and Harroz I actually learnt something :)

And heres a shot from a shoot I had on Sunday. Local metal band so yeah its supposed to be dark and stuff :)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/dissolution_promo/2.jpg

[manipula]

I like it. :) Would like to see 1/2 a stop extra light in the dude on the left's face, but other than that, sweet.

*For reference*

Any comments or critique I leave on this forum are always done in good taste and with a good nature intended. Even when they sound harsh they're harsh for a reason. From this forum, to teaching for two years in a college without pay and recognition in evenings, to uni to degree shows to Flickr to turning up at cool photo shoots and never getting my own camera out the bag-just helping others with their own shots, I always try and help. I enjoy doing so, and I feel as though it allows me to go some way to giving what others gave to me.

I know that might sound like I'm being a self-publicist, but I am in despair tonight, so bugger it. Matt, you can shoot what you like and it matters sweet FA what I or anyone else here thinks. That much is without doubt, but seeing as many often ask for opinions on work, including you Matt, it's a bit rude frankly to throw it away so readily. Cheers for that.

*Reference mode off*

I am in the mood to go post eight of that last lot of nudes I did in the G&N forum and see if the admirers of silk and cr@p lingerie have anything useful to say! 8)

[Nzshrimper]

I wonder sometimes, why I bother. :?

sorry did you something to impart....

i was listening honest.... ;)

[manipula]

sorry did you something to impart....

i was listening honest.... ;)

You skirt close to the lines at times young Shrimper! :p

[Nzshrimper]

*For reference*

Any comments or critique I leave on this forum are always done in good taste and with a good nature intended. Even when they sound harsh they're harsh for a reason. From this forum, to teaching for two years in a college without pay and recognition in evenings, to uni to degree shows to Flickr to turning up at cool photo shoots and never getting my own camera out the bag-just helping others with their own shots, I always try and help. I enjoy doing so, and I feel as though it allows me to go some way to giving what others gave to me.

I know that might sound like I'm being a self-publicist, but I am in despair tonight, so bugger it. Matt, you can shoot what you like and it matters sweet FA what I or anyone else here thinks. That much is without doubt, but seeing as many often ask for opinions on work, including you Matt, it's a bit rude frankly to throw it away so readily. Cheers for that.

Dave dont waste your time justifying yourself - myself and many others here do welcome your comments and need them...

Some people cant see a good thing when its on a silver plate and handed to them... others can thou...







*Reference mode off*

I am in the mood to go post eight of that last lot of nudes I did in the G&N forum and see if the admirers of silk and cr@p lingerie have anything useful to say! 8)

go for it - just post a link here please...

[Nzshrimper]

You skirt close to the lines at times young Shrimper! :p

jez thats a first - i am normally well over the lines... MUST TRY HARDER

[manipula]

MUST TRY HARDER

Perhaps another night eh? ;) I'm on short fuse mode tonight... :p

[Nzshrimper]

haha. Trust me. I don't take any of your comments to heart. All I care for is that I love photography and I like to protect my clients. I am not looking to impress you Dave. And if you don't like them. Well im sure there is work on the Internets that you can admire.


just a small piece of wisdom - you have two ears and one mouth.
its best to use them in that ratio... esp when the noise you hear is valuable. Dave has more knowledge than you can ever gain from reading just books.

*end of my speech and have a great day*

[Belmondo]

Here's my sense of things, directed to no one in particular.....


if you ask for an opinion, people will usually give you one.
If you disagree with that opinion, thank them for their time and move one.......it's not the end of the world. It's one person's opinion, and since you asked for it, you certainly had to know up front you were running the risk of hearing something you didn't want to.

To those whose opinions have been rejected.....It's not the end of the world. It's just someone's opinion of your opinion.

We exchange ideas here. We don't have to defend perceptions. We note them and move on.

Let's not poison the well. We're supposed to be having fun here.





Moderators are your friends.

[scotttnz]

Here's my sense of things, directed to no one in particular.....


if you ask for an opinion, people will usually give you one.
If you disagree with that opinion, thank them for their time and move one.......it's not the end of the world. It's one person's opinion, and since you asked for it, you certainly had to know up front you were running the risk of hearing something you didn't want to.

To those whose opinions have been rejected.....It's not the end of the world. It's just someone's opinion of your opinion.

We exchange ideas here. We don't have to defend perceptions. We note them and move on.

Let's not poison the well. We're supposed to be having fun here.





Moderators are your friends.

With wisdom like that, it's no wonder they made you a moderator! :D

[kaypony]

It does indeed look cool Katherine. Obviously there are ways to have improved the shot, and in the spirit of some learning going off around here as opposed to pure willy waving, I'd point out that if you have/had a grad filter, it would have helped you to balance the exposures between the foreground and the sky, making the overall thing less dark. The main thing though is that you saw it, recognised it, and took frankly a good stab at getting it with the camera. Kudos and keep it up! :)
A grad filter you say. I may invest in Hong Kong. Thanks for the helpful suggestions Dave.

[lil_miss]

Hey. Its the nature of using primes. Have to use foot zoom. So I often get really close. But I like filling the frame.


Fair enough... Remember to check sometimes.. i notice you've cut hands/arms off in a couple on your flickr

[weka2000]

Oh wait my 2 cents :lol:

Matt has come a long way and I for 1 have a lot of time for him. Dave ive meet once but he has been around a long time and is the only "qualified" photographer in our group that I know of, so I respect his knowlegde.

There is a balance between young and experence.

Matt keep up the good work but do listen to the likes of Dave he has taught me a lot never be afraid to use and ask for honest input from him.
Its not about weather you agree or disagree with the person, it is about seeing things from there point.

[Sancho]

I may invest in Hong Kong. Thanks for the helpful suggestions Dave.

Best start saving, land there is VERY expensive!

Fair enough... Remember to check sometimes.. i notice you've cut hands/arms off in a couple on your flickr

"If you don't like them. Well im sure there is work on the Internets that you can admire" - Matt '08




*hides*

[weka2000]

Sancho love the style.

[Sancho]

Sancho love the style.

Thanks, you talking about the sarcasm or the photo? :cool:

[weka2000]

Thanks, you talking about the sarcasm or the photo? :cool:
As this is a "serious" thread the photo :lol:

[lil_miss]

Well you made a difference to me last week, and I really appreciate it now, even though at the time I thought your words were a bit harsh, but between yourself, Moppie and Harroz I actually learnt something :)

And heres a shot from a shoot I had on Sunday. Local metal band so yeah its supposed to be dark and stuff :)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/dissolution_promo/2.jpg

I quite like this :)

[Sancho]

Thanks Sarah, yeah I was pretty happy with it too :) Pretty sure the guys will love it going by what they were wanting.

[Sancho]

ok, really putting myself out there now :)

here's a shot from my first real attempt using my backdrop and stuff. My Niece came to town recently and bought her two kids with her. Sooo not my style of photography but had fun which is the main thing.

C&C please, especially from Akiwi and Sarah :) (only coz you two use studio gear more than most here from my knowledge)

Lighting was 2 off camera flashes.

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/1.jpg

[akiwi]

Well you made a difference to me last week, and I really appreciate it now, even though at the time I thought your words were a bit harsh, but between yourself, Moppie and Harroz I actually learnt something :)

And heres a shot from a shoot I had on Sunday. Local metal band so yeah its supposed to be dark and stuff :)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/dissolution_promo/2.jpg
That is really excellent. I love that.
Good use of the sky and environment. I also like the ground.

If you had another 2 flashes (I know.. you have them coming out your ears, then a bit of rim lighting would also look cool on this.

ok, really putting myself out there now :)

here's a shot from my first real attempt using my backdrop and stuff. My Niece came to town recently and bought her two kids with her. Sooo not my style of photography but had fun which is the main thing.

C&C please, especially from Akiwi and Sarah :) (only coz you two use studio gear more than most here from my knowledge)

Lighting was 2 off camera flashes.

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/1.jpg
Very very well done.
Completely different from anything I have seen from you up till now.
My only suggestions for improvement would be.

1. Move your key light up higher. In this photo I think you have it parallel to the eyes. I think getting it above the eyes causes a little more natural light that shines down. Like what we see every day with the sun.
What I have started doing recently is doing butterfly lighting with my silver umbrella above my camera shining down. It is called butterfly lighting as it creates a shadow directly below the nose which is shaped like a butterfly (I think). Anyway it creates a very flattering light for childrena and models.
2. I think your light source looks pretty hard. If you look at the shadows under the chin and behind the straps, they have very sharp edges. Use some sort of light modifyer like an umbrells to soften the light and get rid of the sharp edges of the shadows. It will create a more flattering light.

Your background lighting looks great. Seems to be pretty even and hasn't blown out the hair strands.

The model is very cute.

I'm sure everyone will be happy with uncle sancho!

[Sancho]

Thanks Peter :)

What do you mean by 'rim lighting'? do you mean having a flash each side of them pointing at them? If so these would be powered very low would they not?

I did use an umbrella on that shot above :| Its a white bounce one. Was it too close perhaps? As far as the backdrop goes, there was a little help with Mr Photoshop there just to blow the white out :)

Thanks very much for the comments and suggestions :)

[akiwi]

Thanks Peter :)

What do you mean by 'rim lighting'? do you mean having a flash each side of them pointing at them? If so these would be powered very low would they not?

I did use an umbrella on that shot above :| Its a white bounce one. Was it too close perhaps? As far as the backdrop goes, there was a little help with Mr Photoshop there just to blow the white out :)

Thanks very much for the comments and suggestions :)
Rim lighting is normally a bit behind and pointing forwards.
It is normally without modifyers so it has sharp contours and can be set relatively high.
On Strobist it is often used. Look at this photo HERE (http://flickr.com/photos/ajorgensen/2397643698/)The guy on the left is lit with rim lighting.
As for the hard light, normally the closer you get, the softer the light is.
Maybe you had a fill on or near the camera that was too bright then?
One of the advantages of white shoot through umbrellas is you can get them really close but still just out of the picture, and therefore create a softer light.

[Sancho]

Aha, yup, that is actually something I had in mind to play with, just didnt know what it was called :)

Ok, a few more.

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/2.jpg

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/3.jpg

[akiwi]

Oooooh in the dogs basket again!

The second one is classic.

Here is the article (http://strobist.blogspot.com/2008/04/like-martin-only-more-spartan.html)

[S-S]

Aha, yup, that is actually something I had in mind to play with, just didnt know what it was called :)

Ok, a few more.


very cool

[arbnz]

Hi Everyone,
I am new on POTN and thought I better introduce myself, I have been following the GKPE thread for a while.

I am student at VUW here in Wellington and have recently got into serious-ish photography since April when I got my 400D with 18-55 IS lens. Thats the extent of my kit at the moment.

Heres a few of my photos from Wellington for you to have a look, I am a beginner so I am sure there will be some real amatuer mistakes.:lol:
Two from Tribute 08.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/b1d7707b.jpg


http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/135border.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/edaabb80.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/5dcf4470.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/e2a26cf1.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/3ea13270.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/13f8c2f9.jpg

[Raikyn]

Welcome aboard :)
One of the best first posts I've seen in awhile.

[manipula]

Cheers Tom. ;)

Snacho, for me with those kids shots you're onto a winner. I personally find that style of photography makes me want to gouge out my eyes, so sickly sweet and soppy, but that's me, not the photos, and it's a thing that seems to sell very well. These are IMO a good stab at it too and I've seen FAR worse sold. Regularly. I think the PP is still out, the first shot looks like there's too much work gone on with her skin, the others have something strange about them too but I cannae put my finger on it. Maybe too much USM, maybe been hammered by web sizing. :?


I am student at VUW here in Wellington and have recently got into serious-ish photography since April when I got my 400D with 18-55 IS lens. Thats the extent of my kit at the moment.

Heres a few of my photos from Wellington for you to have a look, I am a beginner so I am sure there will be some real amatuer mistakes.:lol:
Two from Tribute 08.

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/135border.jpg


http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/3ea13270.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/arbnz/Wellington%20Photography/13f8c2f9.jpg

Welcome to the nut house! :)

Firstly there are a few Wellingtonians here and occasionally we get our asses into gear enough to meet up, so hang around and say hi when that happens.

Secondly, some good shots in there. The monument is a very well controlled and technically bang on shot. For someone who claims to be a beginner that's quite admirable. The telegraph shot has either been thumped with resizing for the web or you've got way too much unsharp mask going on there. One of the best PP tips I ever got was to USM for each and every prints size, and for each and every print. Takes time but makes your work look its best all the time.

Last shot; where was that taken? I might need the location! ;)

[Sancho]

Cheers Tom. ;)

Snacho, for me with those kids shots you're onto a winner. I personally find that style of photography makes me want to gouge out my eyes, so sickly sweet and soppy, but that's me, not the photos, and it's a thing that seems to sell very well. These are IMO a good stab at it too and I've seen FAR worse sold. Regularly. I think the PP is still out, the first shot looks like there's too much work gone on with her skin, the others have something strange about them too but I cannae put my finger on it. Maybe too much USM, maybe been hammered by web sizing. :?



Haha, yeah its not overly my style of photography really either (as you probably know), but I want to give most styles a crack. I havn't PP'd the skin at all, just a bit of sharpness/saturation on all 3, so it must be something there. The second one I think you are right, a tad too much usm, wasn't using enough last time so over compensated I think. and i think the 3rd one the basket is a little burnt out when I upped the exposure a touch to bring his face up, could mask it out really I guess.

[Sancho]

ok, last one of the kid pics I promise :) Don't want to flood a photography thread with photos after all do we :)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/4.jpg

[Nzshrimper]

peri peri sauce does not go well with nutra grain cereal (oops wrong thread sorry)

[akiwi]

Hi Everyone,
I am new on POTN and thought I better introduce myself, I have been following the GKPE thread for a while.

I am student at VUW here in Wellington and have recently got into serious-ish photography since April when I got my 400D with 18-55 IS lens. Thats the extent of my kit at the moment.

Heres a few of my photos from Wellington for you to have a look, I am a beginner so I am sure there will be some real amatuer mistakes.:lol:
Two from Tribute 08.




Hi Arbnz & welcome. Have fun.-
Some great looking pictures there.

ok, last one of the kid pics I promise :) Don't want to flood a photography thread with photos after all do we :)


She looks like a right little madam.
Cool picture.

[arbnz]

Thanks for the Welcome guys, I am looking forward to learning alot:)
Welcome to the nut house! :)

Firstly there are a few Wellingtonians here and occasionally we get our asses into gear enough to meet up, so hang around and say hi when that happens.

Secondly, some good shots in there. The monument is a very well controlled and technically bang on shot. For someone who claims to be a beginner that's quite admirable. The telegraph shot has either been thumped with resizing for the web or you've got way too much unsharp mask going on there. One of the best PP tips I ever got was to USM for each and every prints size, and for each and every print. Takes time but makes your work look its best all the time.

Last shot; where was that taken? I might need the location! ;)

Thanks Dave, you are very right about the antenna way too much USM! The last shoot was taken on the top of Mt Vic just underneath the antenna in the second shoot.

[Nzshrimper]

dave likes mt vic...

[manipula]

dave likes mt vic...

Whachoo saying dawg? I'll cutchoo up!

[Nzshrimper]

Whachoo saying dawg? I'll cutchoo up!

"i gonna take you gear bro... gunna take your camera...."



"erm no you are not.....you really have not thought this through "

chavs - gotta luv em...

*back to serious photography*

[::John::]

http://www.our-phoenix.com/vb/images/smilies/popcorn.gif


Who won? Who won? Don't leave us hanging!


;)

Loving the pix here tonight, too. Keep 'em coming.

[Nzshrimper]

http://www.our-phoenix.com/vb/images/smilies/popcorn.gif


Who won? Who won? Don't leave us hanging!


;)

Loving the pix here tonight, too. Keep 'em coming.

well dave and i still have all of our camera gear... ;)

[::John::]

Yeah - I know - I read the original story - but I didn't want to waste the gif - and you had slightly changed your post (the last line about getting back to photography) so, instead of me coming out with

http://www.our-phoenix.com/vb/images/smilies/popcorn.gif

COOL

Act one, Scene one and ACTION!!!


you got what you see ;)

[Raikyn]

ok, last one of the kid pics I promise :) Don't want to flood a photography thread with photos after all do we :)



God someone is going to have a hand fill over the next ten years.

[S-S]

ok, last one of the kid pics I promise :) Don't want to flood a photography thread with photos after all do we :)


i like this one even tho the pose reminds me of fairies for some reason lol - the only neg thing that struck me (for the style of the shot) was her hands are casting a very strong defined shadow - reflector under there would have fixed that

Thanks for the Welcome guys, I am looking forward to learning alot:)

yeh welcome to the (why does hotel california come to mind) scene :)

[wendyc]

i like this one even tho the pose reminds me of fairies for some reason lol - the only neg thing that struck me (for the style of the shot) was her hands are casting a very strong defined shadow - reflector under there would have fixed that



yeh welcome to the (why does hotel california come to mind) scene :)

:lol: because you can check out any time you like but you can never leave! Thats two people back this week after a long absence. GKPE is an addiction.

Hi I am Wendy and I am a GKPEaholic :p

[lil_miss]

ok, last one of the kid pics I promise :) Don't want to flood a photography thread with photos after all do we :)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/belle_leighton/4.jpg

Prob my fave - but would like to see it with the background completely white (you know what i'm referrring to :P)

Also maybe slightly lighten her skin on her arms a bit

I think you've done a great job :)

[Sancho]

i like this one even tho the pose reminds me of fairies for some reason lol - the only neg thing that struck me (for the style of the shot) was her hands are casting a very strong defined shadow - reflector under there would have fixed that


MMM, true, thanks for that. It was my first time on the umbrella/backdrop so was just focusing on the basics, that and she was all hypo after pizza and coke and was no way going to sit still long enough to line up a reflector :)

Prob my fave - but would like to see it with the background completely white (you know what i'm referrring to :P)

Also maybe slightly lighten her skin on her arms a bit

I think you've done a great job :)

Thanks Sarah :) Yeah I originally had the BG all white but thought it was a little bare. Needed the Vignette I thought. Agree with you on the arms, good call, thanks.

[Sancho]

Jeepers, i seriously killed this thread didnt i :)

[S-S]

haha looks like it
maybe you have made everyone feel inadequate with your photo greatness ;)

[S-S]

i did some photos at church today, was playing with f/1.8

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3107/2700751984_b44759d6e3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/2699938111_4182902ba1_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3243/2700752762_3f1dd4f78c_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3170/2699937959_96e5b8efaa_o.jpg

a few more here (http://flickr.com/photos/availablelightphotographyltd/sets/72157606357602530/)

[akiwi]

Interesting. I like the subdued tones.

What is the last one?

They would all look good together on a collage.

[S-S]

the last one is steps leading into a baptistry
theres a few more on flickr - thats kind of like a collage lol

[Sancho]

haha looks like it
maybe you have made everyone feel inadequate with your photo greatness ;)

pRehaps ... or disgusted them into never coming back ... the latter I think

[kaypony]

I like those SS. They've got a cool look to them.

[kaypony]

pRehaps ... or disgusted them into never coming back ... the latter I think
I don't think so. I loved those kids photos. So very cute.

[Stinger]

Hi Everyone,

Just thought I'd go out and take a photo before the storm of the decade...

[naqs]

Hi Everyone,

Just thought I'd go out and take a photo before the storm of the decade...

Storm of the decade?

[Stinger]

Storm of the decade?

That's what's been forecast, 150kph gusts.. metservice warning everyone to stay inside etc. Apparently its going to hit Auckland around midday tomorrow.

[Belmondo]

That's what's been forecast, 150kph gusts.. metservice warning everyone to stay inside etc. Apparently its going to hit Auckland around midday tomorrow.Wow!! That's a pretty fast gut.

[tag141]

Wow!! That's a pretty fast gut.

A particularly spicey curry.

[scotttnz]

Hi Everyone,

Just thought I'd go out and take a photo before the storm of the decade...

Are you sure it wasn't the wind making the sky tower lean to the right?

[Stinger]

Are you sure it wasn't the wind making the sky tower lean to the right?

It could be the wind blowing your monitor to the left ?

[scotttnz]

It could be the wind blowing your monitor to the left ?

Nah, then everything on my monitor would be leaning over;)

[lance v]

Any1 in Auckland had there house blown away yet? ill take no replies as a yes

[naqs]

Any1 in Auckland had there house blown away yet? ill take no replies as a yes

I'm still here!

[S-S]

still here too
actually its a LOT less windy than it was 2 hours ago
still raining but

[lance v]

o thats slightly not as fun as i thort lol, we havnt even had rain yet.....

[Stinger]

The storm seemed pretty mild here... storm of the decade ?!?

[amitch]

Running from Christchurch to Belfast and back this weekend. More in Transport, shame about the rain.

http://www.warbirdsovernewzealand.com/fm/1236-2246.jpg

[manipula]

A few I finally tarted up from the efforts with Brent last weekend. :)

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/manipula/For%20POTN/IMG_0899.jpg


http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/manipula/For%20POTN/IMG_0895.jpg


http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/manipula/For%20POTN/IMG_0860.jpg

Enjoy. :D

[akiwi]

Amitch.. I like the train. Seems all front though. Not a photography problem, just a train with a big nose:

Dave.. we are getting all deep and artsy there.

I like the first photo wht the hopscotch markings. It makes me think of a long lost childhood. Sort of the twilight of childhood or something.

Number 2 . It's cool but I didn't get any vibes from it.
Number 3. Yell, I love that red sofa stuff.

Right up my alley. Great.

Throw in a model in a black dress next time. (Brent won't do.. even with two oranges!)

[manipula]

Dave.. we are getting all deep and artsy there.

I like the first photo wht the hopscotch markings. It makes me think of a long lost childhood. Sort of the twilight of childhood or something.

Number 2 . It's cool but I didn't get any vibes from it.
Number 3. Yell, I love that red sofa stuff.

Right up my alley. Great.

Throw in a model in a black dress next time. (Brent won't do.. even with two oranges!)

Cheers Peter. I kept shot 1 for the same reason you spoke of really, and the fact that the fact there's a high chance it was probably adults that drew it not kids made me smile.

Shot 2 I kept because something about it kept attracting me to it. I took it whilst just wandering around with Brent, nothing pre-meditated for once. But then I get into wondering about if the reason I still like it is the same sub-conscious reason I took it in the first place. Maybe it's a personal thing, but I see the open hand and see offers of help and saviour. Actually given the state my head's in at the moment, that probably is a personal thing! ;)

Shot 3, well, kinda had that one in my head (or something like it) weeks in advance of taking that! ;)

[Philternz]

Nice set Dave, I really like the hopscotch shot as well.

No 2 works better for me without the blue light top right, it is too distracting, the crop is perfect, maybe clone it out ? Otherwise I like it .

[akiwi]

Cheers Peter. I kept shot 1 for the same reason you spoke of really, and the fact that the fact there's a high chance it was probably adults that drew it not kids made me smile.

Shot 2 I kept because something about it kept attracting me to it. I took it whilst just wandering around with Brent, nothing pre-meditated for once. But then I get into wondering about if the reason I still like it is the same sub-conscious reason I took it in the first place. Maybe it's a personal thing, but I see the open hand and see offers of help and saviour. Actually given the state my head's in at the moment, that probably is a personal thing! ;)

Shot 3, well, kinda had that one in my head (or something like it) weeks in advance of taking that! ;)
Maybe subconciously you are gay.. and have an urge to hold Brents hand..;)
This is your opening up statement.

[weka2000]

Maybe subconciously you are gay.. and have an urge to hold Brents hand..;)
This is your opening up statement.

Wonder how Bob is going to take it :lol:

Dave did you add noise to #3?

[tag141]

Maybe subconciously you are gay..

Wonder how Bob is going to take it :lol:

2+2 = 5 ;)

[manipula]

Nice set Dave, I really like the hopscotch shot as well.

No 2 works better for me without the blue light top right, it is too distracting, the crop is perfect, maybe clone it out ? Otherwise I like it .

Cool idea, I'll have a play! :)

Maybe subconciously you are gay.. and have an urge to hold Brents hand..;)
This is your opening up statement.

:lol: You knows it big boy!

Dave did you add noise to #3?

S**t yeah! Added noise to almost every image I've shot since being in NZ! Literally! All this rubbish about high ISO performance, what's the point when you wanna add it back in!? :lol:

2+2 = 5 ;)

:lol: Quality!

[harroz]

been a while.. been a busy boy. had a quick trip up the Mtn yesterday though.....

ps. hopscotch I like, gives a sense of homeless kids playing hopscotch in the night for me. creating their own fun. kids enjoying life even though they have nothing. splendid.

Hand i love. splendid image.
couch.. na, balance in that image is waaaay out. what were you thinking... do it again.

[harroz]

I likey. really nice. these could be the best I've seen come from you in my short time on here SS. the door handles and the piano are awesome.

i did some photos at church today, was playing with f/1.8


a few more here (http://flickr.com/photos/availablelightphotographyltd/sets/72157606357602530/)

[S-S]

I likey. really nice. these could be the best I've seen come from you in my short time on here SS. the door handles and the piano are awesome.

:D thanks

[amitch]

Amitch.. I like the train. Seems all front though. Not a photography problem, just a train with a big nose:
For some reason (I assume no way to turn the engine around) it was running backwards, so what you are seeing is the rear, not the front!

[akiwi]

Aaaah.. you are right. That explains it then.

[low orbit]

Wow this thread has gotten quiet of late. Great images folks, rather liking those Dave, very ooh ah.

My rather mediocre effort from this evening - haven't used the camera in weeks, lost the want to. Good gig though, also had some circusy type people there which I got some ok shots of, will post after I've run them through the process.

32nd film festival at Rialto

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc83/low_orbt/Blutopia_at_play.jpg

Cheers, Shane.

[akiwi]

Looks pretty cool Shane.

[low orbit]

Thanks Peter, much appreciated.

Cheers, Shane.

[Sancho]

ok, heres a pic ... only cos its so quiet in here, plus its not the usual type of photography I do so would be interesting to hear some thoughts, very little PP to this entire set. View the set here ... clicky (http://www.lightwork.co.nz/people/mo-marj)

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/people/mo_marj/6.jpg

[lil_miss]

I really like it :D

[Sancho]

Thanks man :) Did you see a familiar looking shot in that set? :P

[faithb]

Cool set, love the first one!

[low orbit]

ok, heres a pic ... only cos its so quiet in here, plus its not the usual type of photography I do so would be interesting to hear some thoughts, very little PP to this entire set. View the set here ... clicky (http://www.lightwork.co.nz/people/mo-marj)



Yup, I'm liking that one quite a bit. Keep it up Mark :)

Cheers, Shane.

[akiwi]

I like it a lot too. Particularly how the background is almost missing

[harroz]

nice set, some of them have some a lot of essence which is nice to see, the first one in the set is great, punchy and different.

[Sancho]

Thanks guys, Yeah I was pretty happy with them considering it was a rushed shoot and done in between downpours. The female was cold and not impressed and didn't even really smile untill after her leapfrog! That was the idea, something drastic to warm her up.

[S-S]

i like the one you have posted, because of the way the background glows and gives more punch to the couple. also they look relaxed and happy, and very close

[lil_miss]

Thanks man :) Did you see a familiar looking shot in that set? :P

Haha yup :) Hope you've been practicing :P

[S-S]

that 'we're leaving' shot is odd, with all the angles, solid black clothes and the elongated arm on the girl it almost looks like a cartoon. and the guy's scarf covers part of his face. but the shot has a lot of energy and emotion, so its cool too

[akiwi]

I just loved the We're leaving one too. It worked well.

[S-S]

today...