It's all about lighting...

When people ask me what I prefer between natural light and studio light I response without thinking twice: Studio lighting!
Why? Well, it's not a secret that I'm a control freak LOL but, for real... it's much more enjoyable to take pictures when you can control your light.
On the other hand, natural light is a priceless source of energy but... let's face it, to all of us who happen to be living in South Florida is... is kinda difficult to be all smiley and fancy when dealing with over 90 F degrees and... adding the mosquito factor to that :)


So, going back to my favorite source of lighting... how??? is right question:
How do you accomplish your desired lighting for a specific situation @ the studio?
Well, first ---> educating myself. I mean CONSTANTLY educating myself.
As a creative, I am so greatful to be learning from the most humble (usually, the best of the best... without having to show off credentials, LOL) photographers out there who are willing to pass around their techniques and then some. Hat off to them!
Strobes, speedlights, reflectors and a pro camera (yeah, the one with too many buttons to play with) make it happens.
My ideal situation is everything off-camera (got it) and wireless (half way done)... I'll get there, eventually :)
There are many DIY websites out there which give you great ideas on how to create your own lighting devices and believe me, I tried a bunch of them but... the right gear from a reputable vendor (warranty involved) is at the end, the cheapest price... my honest opinion.
Oops, I almost forget... tons of trial and error make perfection and you can tell I breath photography 24/7 :)
Rosie

When flashy becomes "too flashy" - photography tip!

I'm going to give away one of the ultimate secrets I have from when I had not
enough $ to buy every lil' single gadget in photography town :)

How to make the flash not to look all flashy?

If you have a SLR camera and you use the build-in flash
(yeah! the one that pops up) to take indoor pictures you will notice some
photos come out too "flashy"... is how I called them.

"Too flashy" example:


So, this is the trick ---> make a approx. 3 inches tall aluminum paper
tube and insert into your build-in flash. To keep it attached to I use tape.


I know, the aluminum roll is going to be looking up (kinda), which is great
so next time to press the shutter the flash is going to bounce on the
aluminum paper and basically goes up. The flash-light is going to be
spread instead of point just one direction, in this case the subject you
are taking the picture of. Capisce? :) (Do you understand? in italian)

"Good flash" example:

Feel free to practice and find your way to make this idea works for you.
Let me know how it goes, ok?

Have fun and shoot away! Rosie :)

Photos in this post are © all rights reserved and federally registered.

From a good shoot to an unforgettable moment

Apart from the talent people say I have, there are few things I check before taking a picture:

- Lighting. This is a MUST. Not a plus!
- Background. As important as the subject. Make it part of your picture's theme.
- Equipment. Make sure you have enough memory, batteries, etc.
There is not such a thing like 'too many pictures' :)
- Communicate. Taking a picture is (my own opinion) a team effort.
The subject and you should be on the same page.
Talk about the weather , make them laugh...
Whatever it takes to get (what you are looking for) out of them.
- Have fun! It's contagious and the key to a great capture.

Rosie :)