Model Shoot DVD - 4-6 weeks away ....

[nickjcuk]

Hey Jason

I got my DVD today.. it was ok, but I really wanted to learn more.. I feel after watching it I didn't learn much or find out any "secrets" of your success ..I wanted more of a learning experience and I don't think it satisfied me in that way. The production quality was pretty good, and the models were hot.. But hey.. as a noobie I wanted to learn learn learn...

[Jason Cole]

Thats cool, the DVD is designed to appeal to a much broader audience, hence i got technical enough to show what i do, but not so technical that i bogged everyone down.

Can you be more specific...?

[ABrownPhoto]

Half a pair of panties from one of the shoots and Jason has the other half and will prove it by posting a picture of his half and having Squeeky post an image of the other half ... something from the infamous BOB!Now what would/could I do with half a pair of panties.... :o It makes a difference if it were cut down the middle from side to side, or back to front.... OK subject change http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/shady.gif

It wouldnt spoil it, it would just mean you would be sharing it with the rest of us.... Comon be a sport!......LOL:Dhmmmmm... lets see, whats in it for me? :D

You are going to love it.....

BTW no one has close to guessed it yet....I just hope it isn't another picture of you with no shirt on... http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/ugh2.gif

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/rotfl.gifhttp://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/rotfl.gif

[ABrownPhoto]

Hey Jason

I got my DVD today.. it was ok, but I really wanted to learn more.. I feel after watching it I didn't learn much or find out any "secrets" of your success ..I wanted more of a learning experience and I don't think it satisfied me in that way. The production quality was pretty good, and the models were hot.. But hey.. as a noobie I wanted to learn learn learn...
This is an interesting review, I wasn't expecting this DVD to be a let down for anyone..... Did he not stay on any 1 subject long enough, or just not go into as much detail as you would have liked?

We have to keep in mind if he gets TOO technical, we might not understand ANYTHING!


OMGoodness i want mine already!!!!!!!!

[nickjcuk]

I'm very much a beginner and I like EVERYTHING explained.. If somebody says "do this" I always ask "why?" - I guess im a bit of a techie also.. I dont mean I want Jason to tell me how the camera works etc, just technical aspects of the basics. if that makes sense!

I feel I couldn't watch this again and learn anymore.. I would of like more explanation as to where he likes to put his softboxes, closer, further back.. Why he chooses ISO speeds of 400iso indoors with flash heads etc.. maybe also have a 3 light set up indoors.. main light, fill light, hair light etc.. how he meters each one..

Maybe I need a "shooting glamour for beginners" DVD :D

[ABrownPhoto]

I'm very much a beginner and I like EVERYTHING explained.. If somebody says "do this" I always ask "why?" - I guess im a bit of a techie also.. I dont mean I want Jason to tell me how the camera works etc, just technical aspects of the basics. if that makes sense!

I feel I couldn't watch this again and learn anymore.. I would of like more explanation as to where he likes to put his softboxes, closer, further back.. Why he chooses ISO speeds of 400iso indoors with flash heads etc.. maybe also have a 3 light set up indoors.. main light, fill light, hair light etc.. how he meters each one..

Maybe I need a "shooting glamour for beginners" DVD :DOh, see everything you mentioned makes 100% sense. I too would like that kind of information explained.


I wanna judge this DVD for myself!!!!! C'mon, get here already!!!!
I'm too excited to sleep!!!!!

[flipstyle72]

I just got home today and.... still nothing.

[Jason Cole]

See the way i approached this DVD was ground up. I think knowing how the camera works is an integral part of photography. After speaking to many many people it was obvious to me that a lot of people dont know the basics.

I dont really understand what you mean about more of an explanation about where i put my soft boxes as i explained that on the dvd, where i put them, why i put there there, the angles, distances, what else do you mean here? I explained ISO 400 indoors and why i do that in the garage shoot, i talked about the lights i use and why, I had several three light setups in the garage.. i showed metering each one? I really dont understand what you mean here...

[Jason Cole]

See the way i approached this DVD was ground up. I think knowing how the camera works is an integral part of photography. After speaking to many many people it was obvious to me that a lot of people dont know the basics.

I dont really understand what you mean about more of an explanation about where i put my soft boxes as i explained that on the dvd, where i put them, why i put there there, the angles, distances, what else do you mean here? I explained ISO 400 indoors and why i do that in the garage shoot, i talked about the lights i use and why, I had several three light setups in the garage.. i showed metering each one? I really dont understand what you mean here...

[saturnin]

wasnt it addyd to you? lol if my woman did that id have a fit... lol


Unfortunately Mrs Wardie is a uncontrollable Ebay addict so any package that arrives is gleefully ripped apart without checking the address label.

In my defense I did tell her that I ordered it but I think she initially thought it was an XXXX DVD and thus the call.

Haven't had the time to sit through it all so far but it's looking good.

Wardie

[shime]

I feel I couldn't watch this again and learn anymore.. I would of like more explanation as to where he likes to put his softboxes, closer, further back.. Why he chooses ISO speeds of 400iso indoors with flash heads etc.. maybe also have a 3 light set up indoors.. main light, fill light, hair light etc.. how he meters each one..

Maybe I need a "shooting glamour for beginners" DVD :D

I agree with nickjcuk,

I would of liked it to be more technical, I actually have a kit similar to Jason's and I was really looking forward to learning something new. In my opinion though, it was directed more towards the beginner looking to see what equipment is used and how a basic shoot is executed.

All up, I have to say I did like the dvd even know I did not learn anything new. If you release a volume 2 I will buy it.
Maybe the second release could be aimed more at the semi experienced photographer that actually uses similar equipment to what you plug in the dvd. :)

Job well done Jason.

[ABrownPhoto]

hmmm.... sounds like Sir. Cole has covered everything, based on the latest post....

OK, I'll be patient!

[rcanzano]

Hit SoCal today. No chance to watch yet, but soon. As a photographer and videographer, I'm interested to see it from all aspects.

[Inspired Photography]

While i disagree that the technical information is not deep enough (there is a fine balance between need to know and who cares! and i think it hit the mark), the main objective of the DVD really (IMO) is to show you how to shoot girls... not how to jog the aperture dial on your camera.

I mean come on guys... if you want to go into that sort of crap in any more depth than what is covered in the DVD, then you need to memorise your Canon manual or something. Wouldn't you rather see an extra hour of how to make hot girls look even hotter in your pics than "if it gets dark you can up your ISO" and absolute basic stuff that you should all know anyway?

IMO, if you need more technical guidance on basic camera settings than what is on the DVD, you really need more knowledge because no amount of hot girls is going to make it work if you don't understand the fundamentals.

I think Jason has hit the mark with the level of detail. Instructional DVDs like this are meant to build a little on your knowledge, not teach you from the ground up. They need to cater for a wide range of skill levels and styles, which is no mean feat.

I must ask though... You say you learnt nothing new... so why don't your photos look that good?

(NB, some of us do produce similar work, and some of the technical aspects may be very familiar to more experienced photographers. If this is you, then you shouldn't be surprised if the technical section is familiar, as you should know that sort of stuff).

Rob

[mzad]

I feel I couldn't watch this again and learn anymore.. I would of like more explanation as to where he likes to put his softboxes, closer, further back.. Why he chooses ISO speeds of 400iso indoors with flash heads etc.. maybe also have a 3 light set up indoors.. main light, fill light, hair light etc.. how he meters each one..

Maybe I need a "shooting glamour for beginners" DVD :D

I think maybe you should watch it again because unless you got a different copy to me I found that all of the things you wanted answers to were in the DVD!

[Jon Foster]

Hmm... Southern California is getting them... I hope they make it to Michigan soon. By Saturday would be perfect...

Jon.

[shime]

While i disagree that the technical information is not deep enough (there is a fine balance between need to know and who cares! and i think it hit the mark), the main objective of the DVD really (IMO) is to show you how to shoot girls... not how to jog the aperture dial on your camera.

I mean come on guys... if you want to go into that sort of crap in any more depth than what is covered in the DVD, then you need to memorise your Canon manual or something. Wouldn't you rather see an extra hour of how to make hot girls look even hotter in your pics than "if it gets dark you can up your ISO" and absolute basic stuff that you should all know anyway?

IMO, if you need more technical guidance on basic camera settings than what is on the DVD, you really need more knowledge because no amount of hot girls is going to make it work if you don't understand the fundamentals.

I think Jason has hit the mark with the level of detail. Instructional DVDs like this are meant to build a little on your knowledge, not teach you from the ground up. They need to cater for a wide range of skill levels and styles, which is no mean feat.

I must ask though... You say you learnt nothing new... so why don't your photos look that good?

(NB, some of us do produce similar work, and some of the technical aspects may be very familiar to more experienced photographers. If this is you, then you shouldn't be surprised if the technical section is familiar, as you should know that sort of stuff).

Rob

I guess I should respond since you directly quoted my post :confused:..
In case you did not notice my post was in praise of the dvd. Saying I did not learn anything new was not an insult, or negative, it was only an observation, an observation that I am sure plenty of others will share, especially considering photographers of all levels and backgrounds will watch and enjoy the dvd..
Like most here I had no real idea of what to expect when I ordered the dvd. Would I have liked to see a more varied and slightly more advanced dvd? Yes of course but thats for the next dvd. As I said, it was a job well done.

You should not take offense and target others abilities for their honest opinions, if thats how you react over a simple observation and praise of the dvd I cant wait to see your reaction if someone actually posts something negative.

I am curious though, what photos of mine are you actually referring too?

[Jason Cole]

Hey Guys, ok ok ok lets not get into a **** fight over this...

I always knew that there would be different opinions about the DVD which is great.

What i would like anyone that thinks something is missing or should be better explained to do, is to email me the questions. Im already looking at topics for DVD2 now...

Think of the amount of work and money I have put into this project to show you how i shoot. I think that saying you learned absolutely nothing from the DVD is a little harsh though, no one can know everything (even me) so there must have been some value in it for you. All 13 of the Beta testers loved it for different reasons. And i have had many many people complimenting me about the DVD too so it cant be all bad :-)

[Jason Cole]

And for around $100 Australian its a cheap resource for many photographers ot even know what is out there.. I really wish when i had started that I had had a DVD like this ... it would have helped me so much....

[bolantej]

Yeah, don't let low post counters bash your stuff. ;) I KEEED! I KEEED!!
I am still anxiously waiting for mine. I'm in the capital, where is it??!!

[Inspired Photography]

I guess I should respond since you directly quoted my post :confused:..
In case you did not notice my post was in praise of the dvd. Saying I did not learn anything new was not an insult, or negative, it was only an observation, an observation that I am sure plenty of others will share, especially considering photographers of all levels and backgrounds will watch and enjoy the dvd..
Like most here I had no real idea of what to expect when I ordered the dvd. Would I have liked to see a more varied and slightly more advanced dvd? Yes of course but thats for the next dvd. As I said, it was a job well done.

You should not take offense and target others abilities for their honest opinions, if thats how you react over a simple observation and praise of the dvd I cant wait to see your reaction if someone actually posts something negative.

I am curious though, what photos of mine are you actually referring too?

To be correct, i didn't directly quote or target anyone.
I am not directly referring to your photos at all.

Your post actually played very little to my response.

As a side note, I actually quite like some of your photos (seen on MM, not here).

My post was more about keyboard warriors who bash **** to people when they have no clue. It's like getting BS critique from people who are still yet to produce anything CLOSE to what you have post - while they are entitled to their opinions, we are also just as entitled to reply back.

Rob

[wardie]

A quick look at shime's shots will show he is more than qualified to comment, post count means nothing. As his comments were positive (and I agree with them) where does the "bashing" come in.

Jason's DVD reinforced to me that I'm on the right track and has opened my eyes to some other aspects that I hadn't realised and I say this after spending a day with him shooting one of his models. I just need to practice more and hone my skills.

I too did want more technically, but Vol 2 (hey Jason) is just around the corner. If I was a newish photographer this DVD fits the bill nicely.

[Inspired Photography]

A quick look at shime's shots will show he is more than qualified to comment, post count means nothing. As his comments were positive (and I agree with them) where does the "bashing" come in.

Jason's DVD reinforced to me that I'm on the right track and has opened my eyes to some other aspects that I hadn't realised and I say this after spending a day with him shooting one of his models. I just need to practice more and hone my skills.

I too did want more technically, but Vol 2 (hey Jason) is just around the corner. If I was a newish photographer this DVD fits the bill nicely.

I am going to leave this all be i think, as forum wars are all too common.

I will say however, that i absolutely agree post count means nothing.
Post count can simply mean that they spend more time shooting than filling forums with junk :D

Rob

[TeeJay]

... something from the infamous BOB!

Now thats just teasing! - how is he to know what a BOB is until he's SEEN the DVD! :rolleyes::D

TJ

[ABrownPhoto]

Who is this BOB character? One of the assistants that oil/spray the models?



OK, It is Friday morning (1:54am) here in SoCal and I learned that someone has already gotten theirs in this area.... I have a day off today and REALLY REALLY HOPE to receive my copy as this is the only day I'll have available to watch it. If not then I'll have to wait a whole week to watch!

(Working 55-63 hours a week at age 22 isn't fun!)

[nickjcuk]

To be correct, i didn't directly quote or target anyone.
I am not directly referring to your photos at all.

Your post actually played very little to my response.

As a side note, I actually quite like some of your photos (seen on MM, not here).

My post was more about keyboard warriors who bash **** to people when they have no clue. It's like getting BS critique from people who are still yet to produce anything CLOSE to what you have post - while they are entitled to their opinions, we are also just as entitled to reply back.

Rob

So I guess this was aimed at me then.
I'm no keyboard warrior and I am no expert either, however I have been learning to shoot glamour models for the past 4 months and have managed to shoot to a good level in that amount of time. All Im saying is that I didn't really learn anything new.

Remember Rob.. Opinions are like *******s, everybody has one ok?

[dispatchermike21]

Well this has been fun but it was bound to happen. still waiting in the PNW but it's cool.

[elbirth]

Remember Rob.. Opinions are like *******s, everybody has one ok?

And they all stink.


Still nothing here on the east coast in the US. If California is just starting to get them, I imagine we may not get ahold of them until early next week, unless the shipping method delivers on Saturdays (and even then that might be pushing it)

[ferio-moreno]

the south florida boy has been waiting eagerly for his copy :*-(

somethings telling me that i'll be the last one to get mine, lol.

[Paulice]

Who is this BOB character? One of the assistants that oil/spray the models?



OK, It is Friday morning (1:54am) here in SoCal and I learned that someone has already gotten theirs in this area.... I have a day off today and REALLY REALLY HOPE to receive my copy as this is the only day I'll have available to watch it. If not then I'll have to wait a whole week to watch!

(Working 55-63 hours a week at age 22 isn't fun!)
BOB is so cool.:D

[DwightMcCann]

First, let me assure you, POST COUNTS ARE IMPORTANT ... please don't ask me why 'cause I don't know! :-)

My copy has not arrived.

I posted a model shoot here this morning and none of you guys have said a word ... was it that bad or just not sexy enough?

[ABrownPhoto]

First, let me assure you, POST COUNTS ARE IMPORTANT ... please don't ask me why 'cause I don't know! :-)

My copy has not arrived.

I posted a model shoot here this morning and none of you guys have said a word ... was it that bad or just not sexy enough?haven't been checking the G/N section lately.... Just my CP to see who els in SoCal has received their DVD.... and to check the SMGG ;)

[ABrownPhoto]

DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD! DVD!

is HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Going right into the DVD player NOW!!!!!!! WOOOT wOOOooOOTTTT

The awesome Sir. Cole was kind enough include an autographed 5x7 print of/by Stacey-Lee!!!!! If I weren't so excited about watching the DVD, I would go to my scanner and scan the image for posting here. I know Sir. Cole has "the proof" with him, so look at his next few posts to include the evidence ;)


Sir. Cole, http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/bow.gif Thank You! http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/bow.gif

[Jason Cole]

hahaha thats good Sqweekie, now the proof.. just so you know Stacey really did sign it for you...

http://www.jasoncolephotography.com.au/POTN/Squeekie.jpg

The last pose in the first series is what Stacey calls her "Sqweeky" pose.. when we are shooting she always jokes around and asks me if she can do a "Sqweeky" pose.. haha


http://www.jasoncolephotography.com.au/POTN/Squeekie2.jpg

[ABrownPhoto]

^^^^^ Awesome!!!!! that post is now saved on my HD!!!!

[ABrownPhoto]

OK Firt off, the DVD was excellent! I really enjoyed the information about what equipment was used and WHY. There was a lot of information that I did already know, but that is OK because where would I be if I hadn't known the information previously, and how would he cater to EVERYONE if he just talked about things NO ONE knew?


Using the skrim in the first shoot was excellent. That was something new I learned, and LOVED the example that was given to show W/ and W/O the skrim. I have a pretty small TV and when the shots were side by side, I didn't actually notice the difference on the FLOOR, only the model's shoulder, but the way Sir. Cole set up the DVD, by darkening the photos and only highlighting the differences, made everything clear. Following that, he showed the difference it made by filming the model in the harsh sunlight, then kept filming while his assistants held the skrim above the model, to give us a real time preview. Excellent work on this.

Noticed a small clip (right after talking about posing the model in shoot 1, where it seems like the editor forgot to end the scene on time, and we saw Sir. Cole and one of the camera men walking away from the model, and heard some loud noises in the BKG. ;)

I learned why he purposely shot with the model off center. I thought it was a nice touch to explain why room was left for any magazine editors to add text. Great!

I like how professional Sir. Cole is with wanting the models to give a little more BOOB. He simply asks them to give more BOOB! :D

Great job explaining the shots you are GOING to be taking in scene 2 with Stacey. It helps me to know what is going on when you explain what you are going to do first, and then explain it as you go along. Another great job here!

WOW, even explaining why he chose to use a BLUE gel for the BKG in scene 2 with Stacey was great and useful information.

OK, I feel like I am accidentally hurting the DVD sales because I am giving out information that is covered in this masterpiece, although not my intension at all! I don't want to prevent purchases because folks can just read my small review.

Sir. Cole, Excellent DVD! Very well put together and informative. Your pace was perfect, not too slow that I get bored, and not too fast that I cannot understand what is going on. I would also like to thank you for my pleasant surprise!

This DVD rocks IMHO! WELL WELL WELL worth the money! #2 is a MUST!

(Haven't quite finished it yet, but am afraid to give out any more information so i am posting my review or the 80% that I have seen so far. Still watching it now!)

[Jason Cole]

Awesome Sqweekie, thats great mate, glad you like it.

See IMO if I buy a resource (book, DVD, seminar) and I get even one really good thing out of it, then i consider it money well spent. Im sure most of will get a LOT of good things from my DVD, but even just ONE thing that really helps your craft is money well spent.

P.S. Stacey now calls Sqweekie the "Sqweekster" ... she has been asking if the "Sqweekster" has replied yet.. haha

[ABrownPhoto]

YAY I'm famous!!!!! I guess I'll have to use my life savings and sell all my equipment to afford a round trip ticket to Wollongong NSW to "personally" thank Stacey!

..oh, and that weird looking guy that kept talking throughout the entire DVD :p

I am learning/have learned many many things from this DVD!

[DwightMcCann]

I got mine, too. I'll look at it later!

[flipstyle72]

haha MORE BOOB! That should be Coles tag under username now...lol

[akhoopes]

i still havent gotten mine in va beach, that sucks

[GA_Teg]

Haven't gotten mine here in the ATL either.

[amonline]

Haven't gotten mine in FL either.

[Jason Cole]

Just for everyones record the DVDs shipped last thursday week (around 9 days ago) and are all in the mail :-)

[Jason Cole]

Sqweekie... who's your fav model on the DVD???

[ABrownPhoto]

Sqweekie... who's your fav model on the DVD???If i say YOU can I get another surprise?? http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y162/andyrsxs/shady.gif

[LCF]

:| I didn't get a signature! :'(

Got the DVD though, haven't watched it yet!

[ABrownPhoto]

:| I didn't get a signature! :'(

Got the DVD though, haven't watched it yet!:cry: sorry bro, I was greedy and got Two :(

[LCF]

That's just mean *snif snif*, i came up with the autographed DVD idea and didn't get one

Ok, i'm jumping off a cliff, cya!

[ABrownPhoto]

I don't think you did!

Lets ask the man himself, but I have been requesting an autographed copy via PM (in case he wouldn't want to sign everyones) since the VERY beginning ;)

Sir. Cole......... who was the first?

[Jason Cole]

Sqweekie as first guys, but sorry LCF for not singing yours :-( oops...

I was in a rush to get everyone's out...

And Sqweekie, your fav model should have been Stacey haha (wait until i tell her you though i was better looking) hahahahahahaaa

[adam LC]

I just watched it! Fantastic job, really impressed. I'll definately watch it several more times. Just need to watch all the extra bits now. I watched the outakes, the cap on backwards was funny:)

The girls are stunning!

[elbirth]

looks like it's made its way to the South Eastern US, mine came in the mail today here in North Carolina. I left the house earlier this morning and came home to it! Getting ready to go watch it now.

Oh yeah, don't feel too bad, mine wasn't signed either, even though I did email Jason a while back :(

[ABrownPhoto]

looks like it's made its way to the South Eastern US, mine came in the mail today here in North Carolina. I left the house earlier this morning and came home to it! Getting ready to go watch it now.

Oh yeah, don't feel too bad, mine wasn't signed either, even though I did email Jason a while back :(
I probably requested an autographed copy a good 4-6 times!

Persistence pays off ;)


And Sir Cole, In all seriousness I did like Stacey out of the models! That Skweekie face is awesome BTW
-The Squeakster ;)

[dispatchermike21]

Not here yet?

[bolantej]

Mine hasn't showed yet either. maybe come tuesday due to the holiday.

[elbirth]

edit: I just saw how long this ended up being, so I apologize for that, but I do feel that it's justified comments and criticisms.
---


ok, I've now watched the whole thing, and I have to say, it's fantastic. I have absolutely no studio experience or any sort of lighting beyond very basic on-camera flash (external flash, but still attached to the camera, not on a bracket or using a cord and holding it off to the side or whatever), so I did in fact learn a lot of good tidbits, but I'll have to go back and watch it another time or 2 to get the full benefit. it's hard to watch and stay focused on what Jason's saying when he's got a very beautiful model off to the side striking a pose to grab your attention :lol:

I don't follow the comments that have said they wished he had explained about why he was doing something. I found that he did a superb job of telling you what he was doing and why. I did wonder why he almost always chose 1/125 for his shutter speed, though.
I do recall having a few moments where I wished he had done one thing or another but didn't, and I plan to take notes on that sort of stuff on my next viewing and mention to Jason for constructive criticism for the next DVD. As a whole, however, I found this to be a top-notch instructional DVD and could tell that Jason, his crew, and the models all put a significant amount of effort into it to make it what it is.

All of the models were great (I couldn't believe it when you said how old Emma was... she doesn't look her age at all in the shoots). I was particularly fond of Sarah, however, and since my copy of the DVD didn't get the requested signature, I'll accept a signed photo from her :) the shot featured at around 39:40 into the DVD will be perfect :cool:



Having said all that, i do have a couple gripes, one of which I actually find significant, considering the cost of the DVD, and how much Jason seems to have put into it. Yes, I realize it may be cheaper in comparison to other instructional photography DVDs, but I still think it should be improved upon.

First of all, when I pulled the DVD out of the packing envelope, I did also feel that the DVD case itself feels very flimsy and of lesser quality than what you may get with a DVD movie from the store. The insert and the printed DVD are outstanding; that's not my complaint. The actual case itself just feels very flimsy. I wonder if it's due to it being clear? Maybe the material is different from and less stiff than the colored ones? Using a colored one wouldn't allow for the cool effect of the image inside, though.

And my other issue has to do with the quality of the footage itself. I've heard people saying that they found it to be fantastic production work, and I agree that the scene cuts, transitions, etc were all great. However, I immediately noticed once the video started that the image quality was lacking significantly in comparison to what I was expecting after hearing rave reviews and Jason mentioning how much went into it. To be honest, it looks like a DVD rip that has been compressed quite a bit. When viewed fullscreen on my 24" LCD, there was a lot of compression artifacts and jagged edges. It made on-screen text slightly difficult to read at times, and it took away from the image quality of the final shots that were displayed on-screen throughout the shoots. In some instances when the camera was at a wide angle on the models, their fingers (Emma's in particular) appeared as though they were rapidly tapping their fingers on their waist when it was just the artifacts going wild and the hand wasn't actually moving. At other times it gave images (especially the menus) a fuzzy, slightly blurry or out of focus feel. Here are a couple screen grabs to illustrate the quality at fullscreen to show what I mean. They don't include the models or any of that, but if Jason wants me to take them down for copyright issues or whatever, I will
Screen 1 (http://img.skitch.com/20080525-fatyidmnp21pi55cmm4bdi5ptk.jpg)
Screen 2 (http://img.skitch.com/20080525-x9gbjp1n9d11q9xucmk39p19c7.jpg)

I was honestly expecting much higher image quality. I've seen other DVDs of this genre that have far inferior content, but the image quality is far superior, so I know it can be done. Maybe shooting in HD next time would be a good idea, if it fits into the budget.

I don't want to sound like I don't like the DVD, because I very much do and greatly appreciate Jason's effort put into this. It's an amazing resource that I am very fortunate to have. But the flimsy case coupled with the inferior image quality gives me a bitter sweet feeling towards it; while I love the information inside, it does have a "cheap" feel to it due to those issues.

[kharr]

Just finished watching it. Great Job Jason - and VERY MUCH THANKS!

I paid $300 US for a Intermediate Level Studio Lighting class through Betterphoto.com and got much more usefull info from your DVD.

One question though. On the bonus shoot, you have two softboxes on either side and ground level pointing up towards the model. Doesn't this give odd catchlights in the eyes? I've always had them above the model pointing down.

Thanks again for your hard work,

John

[Inspired Photography]

edit: I just saw how long this ended up being, so I apologize for that, but I do feel that it's justified comments and criticisms.
---


ok, I've now watched the whole thing, and I have to say, it's fantastic. I have absolutely no studio experience or any sort of lighting beyond very basic on-camera flash (external flash, but still attached to the camera, not on a bracket or using a cord and holding it off to the side or whatever), so I did in fact learn a lot of good tidbits, but I'll have to go back and watch it another time or 2 to get the full benefit. it's hard to watch and stay focused on what Jason's saying when he's got a very beautiful model off to the side striking a pose to grab your attention :lol:

I don't follow the comments that have said they wished he had explained about why he was doing something. I found that he did a superb job of telling you what he was doing and why. I did wonder why he almost always chose 1/125 for his shutter speed, though.
I do recall having a few moments where I wished he had done one thing or another but didn't, and I plan to take notes on that sort of stuff on my next viewing and mention to Jason for constructive criticism for the next DVD. As a whole, however, I found this to be a top-notch instructional DVD and could tell that Jason, his crew, and the models all put a significant amount of effort into it to make it what it is.

All of the models were great (I couldn't believe it when you said how old Emma was... she doesn't look her age at all in the shoots). I was particularly fond of Sarah, however, and since my copy of the DVD didn't get the requested signature, I'll accept a signed photo from her :) the shot featured at around 39:40 into the DVD will be perfect :cool:



Having said all that, i do have a couple gripes, one of which I actually find significant, considering the cost of the DVD, and how much Jason seems to have put into it. Yes, I realize it may be cheaper in comparison to other instructional photography DVDs, but I still think it should be improved upon.

First of all, when I pulled the DVD out of the packing envelope, I did also feel that the DVD case itself feels very flimsy and of lesser quality than what you may get with a DVD movie from the store. The insert and the printed DVD are outstanding; that's not my complaint. The actual case itself just feels very flimsy. I wonder if it's due to it being clear? Maybe the material is different from and less stiff than the colored ones? Using a colored one wouldn't allow for the cool effect of the image inside, though.

And my other issue has to do with the quality of the footage itself. I've heard people saying that they found it to be fantastic production work, and I agree that the scene cuts, transitions, etc were all great. However, I immediately noticed once the video started that the image quality was lacking significantly in comparison to what I was expecting after hearing rave reviews and Jason mentioning how much went into it. To be honest, it looks like a DVD rip that has been compressed quite a bit. When viewed fullscreen on my 24" LCD, there was a lot of compression artifacts and jagged edges. It made on-screen text slightly difficult to read at times, and it took away from the image quality of the final shots that were displayed on-screen throughout the shoots. In some instances when the camera was at a wide angle on the models, their fingers (Emma's in particular) appeared as though they were rapidly tapping their fingers on their waist when it was just the artifacts going wild and the hand wasn't actually moving. At other times it gave images (especially the menus) a fuzzy, slightly blurry or out of focus feel. Here are a couple screen grabs to illustrate the quality at fullscreen to show what I mean. They don't include the models or any of that, but if Jason wants me to take them down for copyright issues or whatever, I will
Screen 1 (http://img.skitch.com/20080525-fatyidmnp21pi55cmm4bdi5ptk.jpg)
Screen 2 (http://img.skitch.com/20080525-x9gbjp1n9d11q9xucmk39p19c7.jpg)

I was honestly expecting much higher image quality. I've seen other DVDs of this genre that have far inferior content, but the image quality is far superior, so I know it can be done. Maybe shooting in HD next time would be a good idea, if it fits into the budget.

I don't want to sound like I don't like the DVD, because I very much do and greatly appreciate Jason's effort put into this. It's an amazing resource that I am very fortunate to have. But the flimsy case coupled with the inferior image quality gives me a bitter sweet feeling towards it; while I love the information inside, it does have a "cheap" feel to it due to those issues.

I am sure Jason will chime in here, but the whole thing was actually shot in HD. I think the compression etc was a result of trying to jam all that footage into a DVD.

Rob

[ABrownPhoto]

It might be due to my TV only being 23" but the quality that I witnessed was no where near as bad as those two screen shots posted above. Now I know the quality had to jump down a bit when saving the image as a JPEG and then having the quality reduced to 72pixels.... but I am trying to figure out why the quality of my copy was better than ELBIRTH's? I don't have a HD DVD player nor HD TV .... could this be why?

Maybe it is because I watched mine ON the television with a DVD player, and not my computer??

[Paulice]

The quality on my setup is fine!
37" hd LCD TV. Could it be you were playing it on a PC? if so could be the graphic card letting it down??

[Jason Cole]

Im really surprised about the video quality (i understand about the case - and have requested different cases next time but the clear ones are the let down).

With the video quality it was a case of fitting everything on too, we could have most likely done better video quality at reduced content and given the choice i made the decision that more content would be better. Having said that i have watched it on a 42 and 62" plasma right through and haven't seen what your talking about. The screen grabs dont look anything like what i see on my plasma or even on my cinema display. I wonder if the PC decoder has anything to do with it? Maybe using an outdated Codac? not sure other than the video quality here being fine. We also use PAL too, which is a better quality video than NTSC (sorry guys lol but it is), but having said that the NTSC version looked fine too.

This being our first DVD it was never going to be a cinematic blockbuster, it was designed as an educational resource at a reasonable price. Lets face it too, as photographers we are used to shelling out all over the place for stuff, so $80 IMO is a drop in the ocean for such a high value product.

Think about it from my point of view too, I did this to help you guys out too. I am still WAY behind financially here. How many people would sink the $$$ into this that I did to help out people they dont even know? im doing my best here... i never once claimed to be the next Spielberg....

[Paulice]

I've just done a photo of one of the screen shots.
See for your self, this was taken with the DVD in pause mode,
TBH the case is not the best but good enough to keep the DVD safe from dust, it's the content of the DVD that's important to me.

The only niggle i have is the intermittent hiss in the back speakers,

[Paulice]

Sorry Jason not a very flattering shot but this is a screen shot from the DVD playing on my PC's 22" monitor, just re-sized nothing else!
Even better than off my TV.
I'm very happy, Learnt heaps Good job well done!

[adam LC]

I watched it on my 42" Pioneer XD with a Samsung upscaling dvd player.... there were some jaggies on some text but that's it. No it isn't a movie and there isn't $30m worth of CGI involved. I didn't get any of the promblems shown in these screen grabs.

I'm very happy with the quality and would have paid more and still be happy with it.

I'm surprised that there was a comment saying pretty much "I didn't learn anything new"... I learned "heaps".... actually I still feel like a newbie when it comes to photography.

I'm a happy customer and hope Jason comes out with Volume 2 sooner rather than later.

[TeeJay]

Just to add my 2p's worth, I found the quality on my PC just a tad disappointing, HOWEVER, played on my pretty standard DVD player, and watching on a 37" TV, the quality is absolutely fine.

Thanks Jason.

TJ

[LCF]

I don't think you did!

Lets ask the man himself, but I have been requesting an autographed copy via PM (in case he wouldn't want to sign everyones) since the VERY beginning ;)

Sir. Cole......... who was the first?

In my head I did ;)
You got the autograph, leave me with my dreams! :lol::lol:

[Inspired Photography]

I know watching a DVD on my computer always look pixelated on my 23" HD screen...

Quality looks top notch on my 42" Flat Screen tho.

Rob

[i2iSTUDIOS]

Jason, I did not receive mine, could you make sure you sent it?

[ANGUS]

Jason, I did not receive mine, could you make sure you sent it?

I would not be worried yet. seems to me not many people have them yet. Jason, is it too late to order?

[Inspired Photography]

I would not be worried yet. seems to me not many people have them yet. Jason, is it too late to order?

You can order through his website.

Rob

[ANGUS]

You can order through his website.

Rob

thanks ill have a look in the morning.

[TeeJay]

... I did wonder why he almost always chose 1/125 for his shutter speed, though.....

A "1D" series camera requires this shutter speed when using "studio" type flash heads (check your manual for settings for other cameras). Setting it faster than 1/125 (although I find 1/160 can just be achieved) will result in a dark band across the bottom of the image - or down the right-hand side if using the camera in portrait orientation.

I remember the first time I used my 1DMkIIn in the studio, I set the shutter at both 1/200 & 1/250 and wondered why my right-hand light wasn't working properly! :o

Using an "on camera" flash, you can set it at 1/250 (or higher using HS sync option)


TJ

[davidfig]

I've just done a photo of one of the screen shots.
See for your self, this was taken with the DVD in pause mode,


Wow! I would think photographers would understand this.

Lets see, DVD is 720x480 NTSC and 720x576 PAL, so pal has an advantage. But be that as it may. So you are watching widescreen which means that the top and bottom are cropped off (unless its anamorphic). So assuming its not anamorphic, that would be about 560x480 (guess, I'm not going to look it up). So take a 560x480 picture and up-size it to your 1650x1050 monitor, or whatever you have, and see what it looks like. Get it.

From the pictures here, it looks great to me.

[DwightMcCann]

A "1D" series camera requires this shutter speed when using "studio" type flash heads (check your manual for settings for other cameras). Setting it faster than 1/125 (although I find 1/160 can just be achieved) will result in a dark band across the bottom of the image - or down the right-hand side if using the camera in portrait orientation.

I remember the first time I used my 1DMkIIn in the studio, I set the shutter at both 1/200 & 1/250 and wondered why my right-hand light wasn't working properly! :o

Using an "on camera" flash, you can set it at 1/250 (or higher using HS sync option)


TJ

Well, this isn't quite right. The sync speed (the fastest shutter speed possible with studio strobes) varies from model to model. It is the fastest speed at which the first and second curtains are both open and therefore the entire frame is exposed. Anything slower than the sync speed will work but you will have problems with ambient light if you go too slow. My 1DMIII and 1DsMIII are supposed to sync to 1/300th but I haven't experimented. I have also heard that sometimes the rated sync speed does not work exactly correctly for studio strobes on all bodies. Again, I haven't experimented.

In case you are not familiar with high speed sync, it is an arrangement where the strobe does multiple flashes as the two curtains move across the sensor plane, exposing each section of the sensor separately. It seems a bit counter intuitive but this allows for very high shutter speeds with the appropriate speedlite. However, it does require significantly more power due to multiple flashes per exposure very close together.

[elbirth]

Im really surprised about the video quality (i understand about the case - and have requested different cases next time but the clear ones are the let down).

With the video quality it was a case of fitting everything on too, we could have most likely done better video quality at reduced content and given the choice i made the decision that more content would be better. Having said that i have watched it on a 42 and 62" plasma right through and haven't seen what your talking about. The screen grabs dont look anything like what i see on my plasma or even on my cinema display. I wonder if the PC decoder has anything to do with it? Maybe using an outdated Codac? not sure other than the video quality here being fine. We also use PAL too, which is a better quality video than NTSC (sorry guys lol but it is), but having said that the NTSC version looked fine too.

This being our first DVD it was never going to be a cinematic blockbuster, it was designed as an educational resource at a reasonable price. Lets face it too, as photographers we are used to shelling out all over the place for stuff, so $80 IMO is a drop in the ocean for such a high value product.

Think about it from my point of view too, I did this to help you guys out too. I am still WAY behind financially here. How many people would sink the $$$ into this that I did to help out people they dont even know? im doing my best here... i never once claimed to be the next Spielberg....

Jason, please don't take my comments the wrong way, I am very grateful for all of the time, effort, and money you'd dropped into this project. I was simply commenting on that aspect because I did see it as an area of improvement and wanted to bring it up since no one else had seemed to comment on it, which I found incredibly odd.

And to clarify, I've watched plenty of DVDs on my computer before, some with text on-screen like this, etc, and none have looked nearly as jagged as that. I'll try it on my TV and normal DVD player later, but I would expect it to look fine on my computer as well, considering everything else does. Looking at Paulice's screenshots is more along the lines of what I'm used to seeing in everything else.

And for the record, I'm watching it on a 3GHz 8-core Mac Pro with all the updated video card drivers, codecs, etc. I have 3 24" LCDs attached via DVI, and I've watched it fullscreen on all 3 to make sure it wasn't just something funky with one of the connections to my video cards/monitors. I played it also both in the DVD Player app as well as VLC and saw the same results as well.

[Jon Foster]

Jason, I did not receive mine, could you make sure you sent it?

Being that you are in Ohio I'm sure you'll get yours when we get ours in Michigan. If Florida is getting them now, we should be getting them by Tuesday or Wednesday at the latest.

Jon.

[tekkie]

guys I am in Clarkston, MI and I got mine, I dont know if it came on friday or saturday because I did not check the mail until today, so Jon your should be right behind since your just down the road :)

in regards to the jagged text I will say that at the beginning I noticed it immediately, I mean on the startup titles and such not within the movie. I am watching it on a 52" panasonic plasma using a HD-DVD player that does upscaling, other than that text the rest looks ok, for me I am not to concerned about that

watching the DVD right now, so far I am pretty impressed, Jason you make this look so easy, and the models are super

[TomTomTuning]

I hope mine comes soon.. I am in PA...

[Jason Cole]

Hey All,

Ok to answer everyones questions since my last post.

All DVDs have shipped (every last one of them). All addresses have been cut and pasted from the PayPal order, so as long as you got your own address right the DVD will be there soon. All DVDs have shipped.

I use 1/125th Sec Sync speed as the Broncolour gear has a maximum sync speed of 1/250th sec, and even at 1/250th of a sec you can see the very start of a "shutter darkness line". Also my mentor taught me 1/125th second and how to shoot properly at that speed with tripods etc and a lot of tricks i showed on the DVD. There are times where i need a faster shutter speed but then I use a speed-light (if i absolutely have too) in High Speed Sync mode (that Dwight talked about earlier). The studio lights i use wont fire any quicker than 1/250th second.

I dont see the video being an issue. I appreciate everyone commenting on it just for general feedback but I have spoken at length with Daniel cartwright (No limit Pictures) and we feel the video is the best quality for the amount of content on there. We even used a DVD9 to fit more space on the DVD.

Daniel emailed

"The DVD quality is fine. You had to show and explain so many things we could not have cut out any more content as it was way too important. Even with 2 hours+ footage the compression is WAY above par from other standard DVD Productions.
I do not see why certain people are complaining about this DVD. I have seen many other DVDs like this one that are more expensive, harder to understand, bad quality, bad graphical layouts, no thought process and most of all THEY ONLY HAD ONE CAMERA. You cannot show things clearly with one camera. You get more personal with 2 cameras also giving the viewer more sense of comfort. Certain people shouldn’t complain about anything until they have a valid point. You should be charging a lot more for this DVD as it is well worth it. Heck I even learned a **** a load from it."

I think from both our point of views we know how much work went into this. I had so many late nights, early mornings, organizing stuff, etc etc ect that the fact that the video doesn't work super clear on some monitors is unfortunately a fact of life (but only seems to be affecting a few setups) and there is nothing we can do about it. I did the absolute best I could do here. It was always going to be a fight between video quality and quantity on the video. We cut out about 45 minutes of video already from the production. We could have done super sharp HD/BR quality but at the expense of content on the DVD.

Finally in other news i just brought myself a new toy 70-200 F2.8L.... :-) (because i deserve it) hahah

[Jason Cole]

P.S. Anyone that wants a DVD soon can you please order today as im going to the post office this afternoon to ship a small bunch of orders. Next shipment will be next monday (I have decided mondays are a better ship day as more people seem to order over the weekend).

[Jason Cole]

DVD Story

Yesterday I shot with Rafael from Halo agency (the owner that likes to shoot photography). He had brought my DVD and had asked me to come out on a shoot with him. it was such a pleasure seeing him using many of the techniques i had explained on the DVD in real life. He said the DVD made a lot of sense to him and he had learned heaps from it (he had watched it about 5 or 6 times he said). it was a cool to see him shooting using my ideas and techniques. The Photos came out great too. During the day he kept referring back to the DVD all day... Overall a very successful day.

[elbirth]

Hey All,

Ok to answer everyones questions since my last post.

......
I use 1/125th Sec Sync speed as the Broncolour gear has a maximum sync speed of 1/250th sec, and even at 1/250th of a sec you can see the very start of a "shutter darkness line". Also my mentor taught me 1/125th second and how to shoot properly at that speed with tripods etc and a lot of tricks i showed on the DVD. There are times where i need a faster shutter speed but then I use a speed-light (if i absolutely have too) in High Speed Sync mode (that Dwight talked about earlier). The studio lights i use wont fire any quicker than 1/250th second.


Thanks (as well as to those that answered in regard to this as well), that makes more sense now. As I said, I have no studio experience at all, so there are some things like that, that just don't click with me until it's explained. Now it makes perfect sense, and now that I think about it, I should have been able to figure it out for myself since I've heard similar things about the camera shutter and light getting to the sensor before it closes back.



I dont see the video being an issue. I appreciate everyone commenting on it just for general feedback but I have spoken at length with Daniel cartwright (No limit Pictures) and we feel the video is the best quality for the amount of content on there. We even used a DVD9 to fit more space on the DVD.

Daniel emailed

"The DVD quality is fine. You had to show and explain so many things we could not have cut out any more content as it was way too important. Even with 2 hours+ footage the compression is WAY above par from other standard DVD Productions.
I do not see why certain people are complaining about this DVD. I have seen many other DVDs like this one that are more expensive, harder to understand, bad quality, bad graphical layouts, no thought process and most of all THEY ONLY HAD ONE CAMERA. You cannot show things clearly with one camera. You get more personal with 2 cameras also giving the viewer more sense of comfort. Certain people shouldn’t complain about anything until they have a valid point. You should be charging a lot more for this DVD as it is well worth it. Heck I even learned a **** a load from it."

I think from both our point of views we know how much work went into this. I had so many late nights, early mornings, organizing stuff, etc etc ect that the fact that the video doesn't work super clear on some monitors is unfortunately a fact of life (but only seems to be affecting a few setups) and there is nothing we can do about it. I did the absolute best I could do here. It was always going to be a fight between video quality and quantity on the video. We cut out about 45 minutes of video already from the production. We could have done super sharp HD/BR quality but at the expense of content on the DVD.


I'm not trying to put a sour spin on the DVD by discussing this ad nauseum, but I really disagree that the image quality is superior to other DVDs. One other DVD I like quite a bit is Portrait Lighting Techniques with Bobbi Lane, produced by Calumet. It's only $40 at Amazon and although it wasn't shot in widescreen, HD, or anything, the images and text show far fewer jagged lines in comparison. See this screen grab (http://img.skitch.com/20080525-kqwrigdjaxgx2ssyx5ebpqdhx3.jpg) for a crop from the video at fullscreen on the same computer I've been using.
And yes I do have a good a good idea of just how much content you've crammed into this thing- I loaded your DVD into my DVD ripper and if I were to make an uncompressed copy, it would take up about 6.5GB of hard drive space (note that DVDs only really hold 4.7GB, and not even that much when you consider, for example, that a 250GB hard drive doesn't have 250GB of usable space). The other DVD I've mentioned here would be just under 4GB and has a runtime of just right around 60 minutes.

I would have much rather seen this video be placed on 2 DVDs with a better compression algorithm used, than for it to be overly compressed to the point of being very noticeable. Putting it on HD DVD or Blu-ray would be overkill and would limit people's abilities to view it, not to mention drastically increasing your cost.

I've also now tried the DVD on another computer, two standard DVD players on a 32" and 47" TV, as well as my Xbox and its HD DVD player on the 32" TV and they all show the same level of jaggedness, so it's not just my computer's fault.

Again, I'm not trying to dismiss or undercut any of your effort put into this because I still love the DVD and will watch it several more times with pleasure, as well as recommend it to lots of other people. I just feel that, with your extremely high quality of photography that I've seen, this DVD's quality does not do you or your photos justice, and I think that responsibility falls onto the shoulders of the people that produced it for you.



Finally in other news i just brought myself a new toy 70-200 F2.8L.... :-) (because i deserve it) hahah

Congrats! I wondered why you chose the 100-400mm over the 70-200mm, and I guess that's probably why, since you didn't have one :lol: The 70-200mm f/2.8 is definitely my favorite lens of my current setup.

[shime]

A "1D" series camera requires this shutter speed when using "studio" type flash heads (check your manual for settings for other cameras). Setting it faster than 1/125 (although I find 1/160 can just be achieved) will result in a dark band across the bottom of the image - or down the right-hand side if using the camera in portrait orientation.

I remember the first time I used my 1DMkIIn in the studio, I set the shutter at both 1/200 & 1/250 and wondered why my right-hand light wasn't working properly! :o

Using an "on camera" flash, you can set it at 1/250 (or higher using HS sync option)
TJ

Thats weird, there are many times when I am unable to efficiently use a tripod. I have never had a problem shooting at 1/250 with a 1DMkIIn, or any 1D series camera. Maybe it has something to do with the flash duration? I use the Bowens quadX 3000, Bowens 500dx mono's and the profoto B2 and they are all fine at 1/250 with a 1D series.

[DwightMcCann]

Yes, had I known you simply didn't have a 70-200mm f/2.8L IS I would have loaned you one of mine ... I have two ... can't be without one! :-) It's what I used with my recent shoot with Amber Rhodes. It's my most used lens and second favorite to the 300mm f/2.8L IS.

[DwightMcCann]

Thats weird, there are many times when I am unable to efficiently use of a tripod. I have never had a problem shooting at 1/250 with a 1DMkIIn, or any 1D series camera. Maybe it has something to do with the flash duration? I use the Bowens quadX 3000, Bowens 500dx mono's and the profoto B2 and they are all fine.
I have Bowens QUADX 3000's, too. Maybe I'll check in with you offline for advice if that's OK ... mostly about modifiers?

[shime]

I have Bowens QUADX 3000's, too. Maybe I'll check in with you offline for advice if that's OK ... mostly about modifiers?

yep sure, hit me up :)

[akhoopes]

some people are never happy and just have to complain about anything, anybody getting there DVD in VA yet, still havent seen mine.........

[elbirth]

some people are never happy and just have to complain about anything, anybody getting there DVD in VA yet, still havent seen mine.........

Don't run that lame line. Anyone that knows me knows that I don't complain about everything and only say something when I feel there's a valid point. The issues I've stated are very valid. Are they affected by everyone? Maybe not. But if you look at my screenshots you'll see what I'm talking about and not make erroneous accusations.

[Inspired Photography]

Max sync is determined by camera and strobe more often than not.

As a general rule 1/250th is the max, but there are a few cameras out there that sync up to 1/500th.
Most wireless triggers have a max-sync of 1/250th.

I usually shoot at 1/125th (or at least start there), as it is a good point between hand-hold-ability and max-sync. For instance, if you need to adjust your exposure for ambient, you have one stop to go either way. If you are already at 1/250th or 1/60th, then and you need to go darker or brighter respectively, you have to change aperture, which means also changing your strobe output etc.

It is quicker and simpler to simply jog your shutter a touch.

Of course that is why i do it... i am sure there are other reasons.

Rob

[Jason Cole]

Well anyways... the video is sufficient quality to watch, its not like you cant see it right? A few jagged edges here, a slightly grainy letter there is a small price to pay for the wealth of knowledge thats on the DVD. Im not sure what the USA is like but i can tell you the Australian market is very hard to crack. Pretty much no one will help you with anything here .... I had to learn it all via my mentor and via hard work. The fact that I have even done a DVD should be considered a privilege as most photographers i know wouldn't dream of even telling you one trade secret, that will own an entire DVD full of goodies like this one. The fact that I have more published work than most photographers will ever have should also be another reason why people should be more accepting of the DVD contents as well. I can tell you for a fact that when I was trying to get into the Magazine industry as a photographer not one photographer helped me to get started (until WD came along). they wouldn't even return my calls. If I had have had a DVD like this to get me started it would have been a LOT smoother start...

I have always put myself out there to help anyone that asks me for help. Anyone at all, i have answered hundreds of PM's in detail and god knows how many email as well. I have even invited a select few out on shoots (something that no other photographer here would ever dream of doing). I have even had nasty emails from other photographers since releasing the DVD asking why I have given away so many secrets and saying I should have more respect for the rest of them.. etc etc etc... so im getting my fair share of flack too.. dont worry about that...

Anyways thats the last I will discuss the video quality with anyone. the point has been made. I have said my bit and for the people that aren't happy there is a very easy way to show your disapproval. If/when we do another one (which im thinking not but who knows) then don't buy it. Show your protest with your wallet. Problem solved :-)

P.S. If you can find a link to a Photographic instructional DVD thats got as much quantity and quality and has better quality video than mine please send me the link and I will buy it and make sure DVD2 is of that quality. Send away...

P.P.S. Also this DVD was designed for a DVD player, not for a computer. It was designed and optimized to be played on a television and a dvd player.

[dispatchermike21]

Ok to answer everyones questions since my last post.

All DVDs have shipped (every last one of them). All addresses have been cut and pasted from the PayPal order, so as long as you got your own address right the DVD will be there soon. All DVDs have shipped.

done super sharp HD/BR quality but at the expense of content on the DVD.

Finally in other news i just brought myself a new toy 70-200 F2.8L.... :-) (because i deserve it) hahah


OK just so I understand ( because I haven't gotten mine yet ) your web site uses paypal thats were I went and ordered it and I don't have have a paypal account?

congrats on the new lens, I deserved the 300 2.8 got it Friday.

[Inspired Photography]

Well anyways... the video is sufficient quality to watch, its not like you cant see it right? A few jagged edges here, a slightly grainy letter there is a small price to pay for the wealth of knowledge thats on the DVD. Im not sure what the USA is like but i can tell you the Australian market is very hard to crack. Pretty much no one will help you with anything here .... I had to learn it all via my mentor and via hard work. The fact that I have even done a DVD should be considered a privilege as most photographers i know wouldn't dream of even telling you one trade secret, that will own an entire DVD full of goodies like this one. The fact that I have more published work than most photographers will ever have should also be another reason why people should be more accepting of the DVD contents as well. I can tell you for a fact that when I was trying to get into the Magazine industry as a photographer not one photographer helped me to get started (until WD came along). they wouldn't even return my calls. If I had have had a DVD like this to get me started it would have been a LOT smoother start...

I have always put myself out there to help anyone that asks me for help. Anyone at all, i have answered hundreds of PM's in detail and god knows how many email as well. I have even invited a select few out on shoots (something that no other photographer here would ever dream of doing). I have even had nasty emails from other photographers since releasing the DVD asking why I have given away so many secrets and saying I should have more respect for the rest of them.. etc etc etc... so im getting my fair share of flack too.. dont worry about that...

Anyways thats the last I will discuss the video quality with anyone. the point has been made. I have said my bit and for the people that aren't happy there is a very easy way to show your disapproval. If/when we do another one (which im thinking not but who knows) then don't buy it. Show your protest with your wallet. Problem solved :-)

P.S. If you can find a link to a Photographic instructional DVD thats got as much quantity and quality and has better quality video than mine please send me the link and I will buy it and make sure DVD2 is of that quality. Send away...

P.P.S. Also this DVD was designed for a DVD player, not for a computer. It was designed and optimized to be played on a television and a dvd player.

Great comeback Jason!!!!!
I am surprised this thread has taken this sort of turn... the content of this DVD is so good i would pay twice as much for a shaky hand held and noisy version if it had the valuable content this does. People don't realise what they have in their hands.......

In my own words:
"Stop complaining about a few stray pixels and start shooting!"...

You're pictures aren't going to get better complaining about nothing...

Rob

[adam LC]

OK just so I understand ( because I haven't gotten mine yet ) your web site uses paypal thats were I went and ordered it and I don't have have a paypal account?

congrats on the new lens, I deserved the 300 2.8 got it Friday.
You can just use your debit/credit card with paypal just like you did. You don't need to have an account.

[Jason Cole]

Yes mate you can use your credit card without having a paypal account :-)

In other news judging by the number of emails I have had it looks like the DVD has been quiet a hit... :-O

[mzad]

I can see clouds building up over Wollongong Jase, it must be from the steam coming out your ears! Nice comeback LOL... Hopefully everyone can get back on track here now and stop being so bloody critical about picky little things.

When it all boils down to it this is a photography forum not a video forum and you have produced a DVD with bucket loads of information about photography, In watching the DVD I did not see anything wrong with the video quality that would warrant complaining about it. Anyone purchasing it should be more than happy with the content, I know I would be happy to pay ten times what I paid for this DVD ;)

[elbirth]

Well anyways... the video is sufficient quality to watch, its not like you cant see it right? A few jagged edges here, a slightly grainy letter there is a small price to pay for the wealth of knowledge thats on the DVD. Im not sure what the USA is like but i can tell you the Australian market is very hard to crack. Pretty much no one will help you with anything here .... I had to learn it all via my mentor and via hard work. The fact that I have even done a DVD should be considered a privilege as most photographers i know wouldn't dream of even telling you one trade secret, that will own an entire DVD full of goodies like this one. The fact that I have more published work than most photographers will ever have should also be another reason why people should be more accepting of the DVD contents as well. I can tell you for a fact that when I was trying to get into the Magazine industry as a photographer not one photographer helped me to get started (until WD came along). they wouldn't even return my calls. If I had have had a DVD like this to get me started it would have been a LOT smoother start...

I have always put myself out there to help anyone that asks me for help. Anyone at all, i have answered hundreds of PM's in detail and god knows how many email as well. I have even invited a select few out on shoots (something that no other photographer here would ever dream of doing). I have even had nasty emails from other photographers since releasing the DVD asking why I have given away so many secrets and saying I should have more respect for the rest of them.. etc etc etc... so im getting my fair share of flack too.. dont worry about that...

Anyways thats the last I will discuss the video quality with anyone. the point has been made. I have said my bit and for the people that aren't happy there is a very easy way to show your disapproval. If/when we do another one (which im thinking not but who knows) then don't buy it. Show your protest with your wallet. Problem solved :-)

P.S. If you can find a link to a Photographic instructional DVD thats got as much quantity and quality and has better quality video than mine please send me the link and I will buy it and make sure DVD2 is of that quality. Send away...

P.P.S. Also this DVD was designed for a DVD player, not for a computer. It was designed and optimized to be played on a television and a dvd player.



I'm assuming most of this is directed at me since I'm the one that's brought up the issue of the image quality.
Yes the video is sufficient quality to watch it and see everything clearly, and the audio is great as well (I had no issues understanding your accent at all either). If it wasn't sufficient, then I imagine a lot of people wouldn't be overlooking it and whining for a refund. As I said earlier, I played it in a normal DVD player on a television and the compression issues were still there. Do I think this makes the DVD useless? Absolutely not.

But let me reiterate that I have an incredible amount of respect for you and your work, and for the eleventy hundredth time, I am grateful for the DVD you decided to put together and share; you had absolutely no obligation to do this. I am in no way trying to discourage you for what you've done. It is BECAUSE I have so much respect for you that I am trying to explain where any issues are that are entirely fixable to help you out when you decide to make a second DVD. What good is any of us doing by only showering you with praise instead of helping you find areas of improvement? You surely wouldn't have gotten where you are photographically if you only had your mom telling you how much she loved your work when in fact it was subpar but you didn't really know it because she didn't want to hurt your feelings.
I'm very sorry to hear that you're getting a lot of complaints from other photographers for sharing trade secrets. I can't prevent that, but I can help you locate areas of improvement that you CAN control to at least prevent complaining from the buyers. (Again, I am NOT complaining; only trying to help you.) My job involves a lot of quality control, so I'm naturally on the look out for areas of improvement and I thrive on helping people achieve the best results possible.

I'll step back now and stop discussing it any further as well, as I see you and everyone else are taking my advice in a very negative way for some reason and think I'm dissatisfied or unhappy with my purchase. That is quite the opposite, in fact. But I know when my help isn't wanted, so I apologize if I've offended you in any way in my attempt to help you out. I quietly look forward to volume 2.

[Jason Cole]

Thats cool mate, im not offended and I will take it onboard for next DVD too. The DVD is designed to run in a DVD player, not so much a computer screen, but next time I will try and make that clearer to everyone before purchase. I guess it would have ben a good thing to PM me about rather than putting it out here as it has definitely affected sales (which effects DVD2 production). I have noticed a pretty steady flow of orders until this topic came up, then the orders dropped off to nearly nothing.... not really what I wanted considering im still over 20K behind in this project.

[elbirth]

wow, I'm very sorry for that, it wasn't my intention at all. There were a lot of others posting in the thread what they liked and disliked, so I figured I would do the same. I didn't intend for it to be such a big topic of discussion or harm you in any shape or fashion.

For anyone reading this thread and still considering buying, I fully recommend still buying it, it is well worth much more than it actually costs us to purchase. The content on the DVD is fantastic and I have seriously learned a great deal from it, and suspect it will help me out as I approach doing photography for money in the coming future.



And Jason, I would also recommend checking out Amazon for sales as well. There are a lot of products sold through Amazon that are shipped from the 3rd party seller, so you could do something very similar, and the buyers can leave their feedback there to encourage others to buy it

[Mike6158]

Hmmm... I didn't read all of the quality complaints but I'm surprised by them. I played mine through a Sony DVD player (that up upconverts to 1080 HD) into a 47" Sony Bravia and I was very happy with the quality and content of the DVD. Someone mentioned a hiss... that's not a sound problem, that's something the editor added. It happens when text moves off the screen (think slideshow).

Awesome stuff Jason.

I'm glad to hear you picked up a 70-200 f2.8L It's a phenomenal lens (Canon's best IMHO) that I'm sure you will make magic with.

[adam LC]

Do you need to up the power of the strobes if you use the gel?

[Jon Foster]

guys I am in Clarkston, MI and I got mine, I dont know if it came on friday or saturday because I did not check the mail until today, so Jon your should be right behind since your just down the road :)

watching the DVD right now, so far I am pretty impressed, Jason you make this look so easy, and the models are super

What? You have yours? Hold the fort, I'll be right over! ;)

Jon.

[Freff]

Jason.. you do not need to justify yourself to anyone. You are clearly top of your field and the DVD is 1st rate. Even the greatest films ever made contain faults in lighting, continuity etc. It's a sad day when unjustified inaccuracies due to unqualified testing effects someones income or future projects. Keep up the great work.

[adam LC]

If people don't buy this DVD over someone elses opinion, then they clearly don't want to improve on their photography.

I've learned so much from the first viewing that i think JC should put his price up before starting a decent marketing campain. I've seen a few instructional dvd's on different aspects of photography and this wipes the floor with all of them. I'm 100% going to watch it several times over so it all sinks in.

Jason, sort out your marketing strategy, contact the shops, ads in the paper.... whatever, I want a volume 2. There's no way this dvd can do anything but succeed.

[TeeJay]

Thats weird, there are many times when I am unable to efficiently use a tripod. I have never had a problem shooting at 1/250 with a 1DMkIIn, or any 1D series camera. Maybe it has something to do with the flash duration? I use the Bowens quadX 3000, Bowens 500dx mono's and the profoto B2 and they are all fine at 1/250 with a 1D series.

Hmm.. OK, I'll quote page 114 of the MkIIn's manual...

"Sync Speed

The EOS-1D MkII N can synchronise with compact non-Canon flash units at 1/250 sec or slower shutter speeds. With large studio flash, the sync speed is 1/125 sec, or slower. Be sure to test the flash to see if it synchronises properly with the camera."

Just passing on my findings, I agree with the recommendations and found that at 1/250 I get a shadow across one edge of every photo - at 1/125th I don't

TJ

[Jason Cole]

Using the Bowens gear is can shoot at 1/1250th sec no shadowing, using the Broncolour gear I get shadowing at 1/1250th sec.

Also the Gel makes little difference to the light, unless the Gel is a really dark Gel then i usually compensate 1/3rd to half a stop...

Thanks for all your kind words. It really is a steep learning curve here...

[Kagemaru]

My Review

This is my first time reviewing anything so bare with me.

Finally got my hands on this DVD and I have to say that I'm quite impressed. The DVD was far more organized and professional than I expected. I really liked the multiple camera angles and the editing choices that were made to pull the DVD together. The DVD certainly isn't boring like most instructionals can be and I found myself quite entertained.

What I like:

- The editing and pacing was perfect and made the DVD easy to watch.
- Professional production by the camera and editing crew
- Great explanation of equipment and set ups by Jason. He seemed very comfortable being able to shoot and explain what he was doing at the same time.
- I liked the shoot set ups he chose; The mechanic shop and beach locations are common themes that I like to shoot
- The extras are full of really good information.
- The models are hot, I wanna go to Australia Wink

What I was hoping for:

- Since this is a glamour DVD, I was hoping for more "Glamor" type shots, like perhaps in a studio, hotel/bedroom, lingerie etc.. What we have here are essentially 3 location shoots, a mechanic's workshop and 2 beach locations that are a little too similar. Edit: I found the studio shoot, it's hidden way in the extras... hmmm seems like it should be included with the main part of the DVD.

- More complex light set ups. Although I liked the simplicity of the lighting he used, as a more advanced shooter, I wold have like to have seen a more complex light set ups for the indoor work.

- Post process workflow.

Overall I would say the DVD is great, well thought out, and well executed. I think this DVD is perfect for anyone sincerely interested in shooting glamour and has their own lights and equipment to get started. If you've been shooting glamour for a while, some of the information may not be new.

[shime]

Hmm.. OK, I'll quote page 114 of the MkIIn's manual...

"Sync Speed

The EOS-1D MkII N can synchronise with compact non-Canon flash units at 1/250 sec or slower shutter speeds. With large studio flash, the sync speed is 1/125 sec, or slower. Be sure to test the flash to see if it synchronises properly with the camera."

Just passing on my findings, I agree with the recommendations and found that at 1/250 I get a shadow across one edge of every photo - at 1/125th I don't

TJ

I am glad for what ever reason that I am not limited to 1/125, Hand holding a 70-200 f2.8 @200 while attempting to catch a dancer in full flight @1/125 could make things very interesting. Very short flash durations and fast shutter speeds are very important to me.

Out of curiosity I have attempted to shoot at 1/320 a few times, I found that using the flash at its lowest settings will sometimes (read rarely) produce an image without the shadow.

I forgot to mention I can also shoot 1/250 with the Canon D60, D10, D20 and the 30D.

Both the Bowens quadX 3000 and the Profoto B2 are known for their very short flash durations, but the 500Dx units are fairly slow. I am sure someone out there can explain.

[Jason Cole]

Hey Kagemaru, thanks for the detailed review. Some very good points there.

With more complexed lighting setups, give me an example of what you mean, if we do a DVD2 I intend on getting into the lingerie set much more too. I have this hotel we have shot at, the Hydro Magestic, where i shot Stacey a few weeks ago. That would definitely be the location of choice for the video next time.

Im not sure if post process workflow is really a topic that is related to actually shooting Glamour. Maybe an extras chapter might do it though?

Yeah with the studio shoot we hid it deep in the extras as we had a metering about that and decided it wasn't really glamour so we changed the location...

Also in the extras chapter there was a really cool section on what i have shot... but somehow the DVD pointer didn't seem to get to the menu, so its there, but you cant access it... lol

The next DVD will definitely be more advanced too... I tried to cater to a much wider audience here and not get so technical that we couldn't shoot...

[Jason Cole]

P.S. For DVD we will have all new models too.. except most likely Stacey.. shes a keeper im thinking ...

Anyone that would NOT like to see Stacey on DVD2 let me know now...

[akiwi]

Wohoo. I just arrived back from holiday, and all my post arrived today. DVD was there.
I Just watched it.
I was very impressed with the quality of the images particularly in the introduction. It all looked great to me. I'm surprised that someone is complaining as I was quite impressed with the quality. OJ I saw a jaggie on a moving text once.. whoopie.

Just loved the content. I just got a tronix explorer & can't wait to get out any try some of the techniques you showed. A shame there aren't any beaches here.

What I particularly liked is seeing how Jason directs his models. The clear instructions. and a single shot. Pow.. Perfect. next Pow... Perfect. I have to work on that.

Thanks again Jason for the great cd & all your effort.

[ABrownPhoto]

Hey Sir. Cole,
I had no idea the amount of $$ you invested in this project. To think that you are that far behind (I don't even want to guess how much you spent all together) actually saddens me. I think you honestly could have gotten away with selling this DVD for MUCH MUCH more! It really shows your dedication to helping ALL OF US out when you create (IMO the BEST instructional photography DVD that I've watched) something to help us, and not charge $100+ as a minimum.

Hats off to you sir!

I was crunching #'s on the little built in calculator on my lappy top here and figured that to get you to the $35k mark, you will have to sell 500 copies at the price of $70USD

I think I recall you already sold 200+ copies... well to sell that many and still be $20k down, we as your friends need to help you make some sales! I personally have been mentioning your DVD to customers here at Ritz Camera (nation-wide camera store in the U.S.) and hope folks will take the bait and buy a copy.

I am willing to do whatever I can to boost sales for you, because I believe in your product, and believe that we all NEED a Vol. 2! I am honestly honored to be one of the folks that ordered during the PRE-Orders because again, you could have sold this DVD for $100+ easily, but are oober generous for the current price you are selling them for.

On a side note It also shows the amount of trust you have in your fellow POTN members. Everyone (more than likely) has illegally duplicated, bought a pirated, downloaded a torrent...etc DVD, Movie, Video, Software..etc, well for you to KNOW that there is a "possibility" that this could happen with your DVD, you COULD have easily upped the price to help compensate the folks out there that might copy and resale your DVD for half price. Now I know we all gave you our word that we wouldn't do it, but there are/will be many folks out there that aren't even members here, and those are the folks to watch out for... What I am trying to say is, "Thank you for having enough trust in ME, to offer the currently awesome price!"

EDIT: I was rereading this post and forgot that PayPal takes out 3% and you have to pay taxes on every sale, so the number of copies you would have to sell is much much more than I previously calculated :(



LET ME HELP YOU PROMOTE!!!!! What do you need?

[Jason Cole]

Thanks Sqweekie!!!

Yeah the piracy thing is just a given, like i shipped one to the Philippines, im hoping the end user does the right thing but there is nothing i can really do to stop it either...

With the camera store you work in, how does one get products into that chain of stores?

Another way would be for people to email B&H Photo video in the USA and ask for a copy of the DVD... I have approached them and they said no, as everyone does these dvds already... but mine is different! they said everyone says that... lol

[tekkie]

Jason I am guessing you tried this already but did you tell them you would send them a free one to judge?

[Jason Cole]

No not to B&H but the guy was pretty sure he didn't want it as they had heaps of them already...

[Freff]

I know a few guys in the Pro section of Jessops here in the UK. I'll ask them about doing an in house review and see if they will promote it.

[adam LC]

I know a few guys in the Pro section of Jessops here in the UK. I'll ask them about doing an in house review and see if they will promote it.
Did you say "PRO" section? never seen that in Jessops before:lol:

[Freff]

Did you say "PRO" section? never seen that in Jessops before:lol:


Some of the bigger stores like the one in Cardiff has a dept where they sell studio equipment and have a better range of high end gear in store.:)

[ABrownPhoto]

With the camera store you work in, how does one get products into that chain of stores?
to be honest I am not sure. It is a private owned company (David Ritz), so I have no idea how interested he would be in the investment. It sounds kinda funny, but I think your DVD is too risque for Ritz to WANT to carry :(

But I will honestly ask my DM to see what he thinks!

[adam LC]

I was just kidding, the one in Tottenham Court Road also has a "pro" section downstairs, although the guy I spoke to about the
"488RC2 ball head" didn't have a clue what it was.

[ABrownPhoto]

....emailing B&H right now and asking if they do/will carry the Instructional DVD by Jason Cole :D

....If we ALL keep this up, there might be some hope! I'll ask if the do/will, and when they say NO, I'll ask if there is any way i COULD order through them!
...Maybe make mention that I would be interested in buying 20-30 copies to Give out during workshops.... no, that would be dishonest! But nice idea huh?

[sevans16]

I got mine Sat May 24. I just got it out of the mail. I will be watching it soon!!

[Freff]

I was just kidding, the one in Tottenham Court Road also has a "pro" section downstairs, although the guy I spoke to about the
"488RC2 ball head" didn't have a clue what it was.


I'm with you now...sorry.;) There are some who know what they are taking about, (not many I'd admit) and seem wasted at Jessops.

[DwightMcCann]

I just shot my first glamor shoot with a newbie glamor model whose done about six shoots. We kept her for dinner and we chatted a lot. One thing she said was that she really liked the way I talked to her with that Australian accent I learned from Jason (just kidding about the accent, but she did say that it was really helpful the way I talked to her the whole time, which I learned from the DVD.) It will be a few days before I can get anything posted but I think both Frank Doorhof and Jason Cole has made a huge difference in how I approach and execute and I thank you.

[Kagemaru]

I just shot my first glamor shoot with a newbie glamor model whose done about six shoots. We kept her for dinner and we chatted a lot. One thing she said was that she really liked the way I talked to her with that Australian accent I learned from Jason (just kidding about the accent, but she did say that it was really helpful the way I talked to her the whole time, which I learned from the DVD.) It will be a few days before I can get anything posted but I think both Frank Doorhof and Jason Cole has made a huge difference in how I approach and execute and I thank you.

What ami? Chopped liver? :mad:

[Inspired Photography]

I think both Frank Doorhof and Jason Cole has made a huge difference in how I approach and execute and I thank you.

I absolutely agree, and thank Frank and Jason also.

I can even do the "Aussie accent" ahahahah.

Rob

[ghosh]

Can you please add the purchase link to the very first post? its hard to go through all and figure out the link.

Thank you.

[Jason Cole]

Done, the link is now on the very first post :-)

And thank you to everyone for your kind words too. Awesome that you mostly find the DVD very useful :-)

[ghosh]

Thank you.

[Jason Cole]

Skweekie, Stacey has a bone to pick with you....

[sarumann]

Jason...

the DVD is great! I have picked up so many little things from it. I am really glad I bought it.

Skweekie.... let her pick whatever she likes :) I would definitely let her LOL

Thanks again Jason


Mark

[DwightMcCann]

What ami? Chopped liver? :mad:

I don't think so! But I've only shot with you once and you ran off to the back room ... I'm counting on you to come up here (Did you get my email?), maybe next week! :-)

[ABrownPhoto]

Skweekie, Stacey has a bone to pick with you....Fly my over there and I'll deal with the issue mouth to mouth...er humm.... face to face! :p



......and the issue she has is????

[adam LC]

Fly my over there and I'll deal with the issue mouth to mouth...er humm.... face to face! :p

:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

[akhoopes]

any body on the east coast of the US getting there DVD yet.......

[SiriusDoggy]

I just got my DVD! Looking forward to watching it in the next couple of days when I have a break.

[elbirth]

any body on the east coast of the US getting there DVD yet.......

yes, I got mine in central NC on Saturday

[ABrownPhoto]

Hey Sir. Cole,

Tell Stacey that I will have a surprise for her too... Cannot do it here at work, so she'll have to wait!

[akhoopes]

just got mine, bout to watch it thanks.....

[TomTomTuning]

Just wanted to say, i really enjoyed the DVD. Just got done watching the whole thing, and i think i might watch it again. (just not right now, lol)

Very well explained, very beautiful models, great shots. Awesome attention to detail.

Looking forward to a vol2

[GA_Teg]

Haven't got mine here in the ATL yet.

[ferio-moreno]

yay! just got mine from the mail :).

watching it now. I'm not gonna lie, visually its pretty jagged but i guess its a small price to pay for the amount of info i'll be getting from this :)

EDIT :

about 25 min. into the DVD and loving every minute of it. :)

"Nice curve in your bum!" lol, I love that line, haha. Had to ask a quick question though Jason, for your indoor locations, how do you usually approach the owner's of those places to shoot in them?

[akiwi]

Maybe the jaggie problem is an NTSC thing. As I said already, I am quite impressed with the quality of my PAL DVD. It is truly sharper than most DVD's I have seen.

[Jason Cole]

Sqweekie: Stacey wanted to know where the photo of you holding her framed photo was???? So come on man, hand it over... you know you want too...

I usually go and see a location about a month before, suss it out, see how receptive the owner is to the photo-shoot, explain EXACTLY what is going on... what photos will be taken etc etc. Then I see the reaction, see if its positive or half baked, if its half baked where the owner is saying "maybe.. but not sure" then I dismiss that location...

the most important thing to do is plan ahead, dont rock up on the day for a shoot... its not fair on the owners and it will most likely end up in a no...

[Kagemaru]

yay! just got mine from the mail :).

watching it now. I'm not gonna lie, visually its pretty jagged but i guess its a small price to pay for the amount of info i'll be getting from this :)

EDIT :

about 25 min. into the DVD and loving every minute of it. :)

"Nice curve in your bum!" lol, I love that line, haha. Had to ask a quick question though Jason, for your indoor locations, how do you usually approach the owner's of those places to shoot in them?

Yeah I like that too.. Actually I was quite surprised when Jason said "Stick your boobs out". I've never referred to a model's boobs before.. hhaha I usually just say chest.

Maybe the jaggie problem is an NTSC thing. As I said already, I am quite impressed with the quality of my PAL DVD. It is truly sharper than most DVD's I have seen.

maybe that might be it. Was the DVD originally shot in PAL and then converted to NTSC?

[Jason Cole]

If you take NOTHING else away from my DVD other than the fact that you need to talk to your models more and be straight with them, say what you want, dont hint... say it.. then I will consider my job well done :-)

Like everything else, good direction is essential. Most models wont know what to do and are relying on you guiding them. Even an experienced model will still look for you for guidance too. You NEED to work as a team.. even if the models on fire you still need to direct her as well. Its a team effort, not a solo job.

Chest doesn't really mean boobs, chest could be there whole front in some models minds, so be specific.. say what you actually want. The model is there to pose for sexy shots, she WASN'T her boobs in the shot... so no harm in saying what you want as long as it comes across professional and for the photo, the model will have no issue with that.

There are certain things I dont say though, for instance if i was to do a model in lingerie and i wanted her legs open for a shot (not that i do that very much) but just saying I did, I would ask her to "open your legs a little more and lean forward" rather than just telling her to "spread her legs" as I have heard others say to models. See the way you say it is as important as what you ask the model to do...

You also need to be specific and honest with the model... if your doing a shot where her nipple will be on camera make sure she knows this, if your doing a shot where her nipple may be exposed but a leg or another object will cover that nipple in the photo, make sure she knows this.

Communication is vital for a good shoot :-)

[Jason Cole]

I was thinking about running a seminar too.. i know every other photographer wants to do it too, but I think i have a unique set of skills to train people.

The Hydro Magestic (the Grand Mecure) in the Blue Mountains would be a perfect location for a two day seminar. Day 1 of theory, and discussing the industry, a round table sort of event... Day 2 shooting... (where you all get to meet the lovely Stacey Lee)

Email me if you would be interested (its only an idea at the moment and i have no idea of pricing etc). Also mention what you would like to see covered in the seminar.

[Kagemaru]

hehe I'm gonna try that this Sunday, I'll let you know if I get slapped or not :) But I understand what you are saying.

[DwightMcCann]

LOL ... yes, the models do want their assets to show and monitor for it. I was very surprised shooting the five Ring Girls after my last ShoBox: The New Generation fight night in the ring with the TV lights. They needed almost no direction and almost any mumble would throw them into a fit of posing ... lots of fun. We did the Charlie's Angels thing with hands for guns. But, when they were pushed together they were very aware if ANYTHING was blocking their assets at all and were very, well, er, um, brazen in get things out of the way! It was wonderful but I was amazed ... "Hey, you're blocking my boobs!" "Hey, don't push so hard, you're flattening me!" They are really nice, fun girls but they know what is important to get hired again. If you haven't seen it, my collage from shooting them is at http://modelmayhm-4.vo.llnwd.net/d1/photos/080504/21/481e5d5087f67.jpg and it was fun.

[DwightMcCann]

I was thinking about running a seminar too.. i know every other photographer wants to do it too, but I think i have a unique set of skills to train people.

The Hydro Magestic (the Grand Mecure) in the Blue Mountains would be a perfect location for a two day seminar. Day 1 of theory, and discussing the industry, a round table sort of event... Day 2 shooting... (where you all get to meet the lovely Stacey Lee)

Email me if you would be interested (its only an idea at the moment and i have no idea of pricing etc). Also mention what you would like to see covered in the seminar.

Hey, schedule it while I'm down there and I'll assist!