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Forum: Lens Clubs
02-23-2012, 04:12 AM
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Forum: Photographic Technique
06-14-2011, 10:40 AM
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It seems to me, based on all of the feedback I get from photographers around the world, that there is more attention placed on the post production segment of the production process than the pre-production preparation for the photo shoot.
I can appreciate the importance of the post production, as so much of what has been done gets realized in the digital retouching phase. However, what I have found, is that if as much of what can be realized for the shoot is done in pre-production, the outcome of the product will not only look and feel more convincing, but it will cost a lot less than the time spent in post production. Of course there are times when getting a real B-52 bomber on to the set may be problematic, but if the prop stylist can prepare a real life model, that is shoot in similar lighting conditions, that will be more convincing.
Pre-Prod is more than just props and effects. It is getting the right team for the job and making sure they are well briefed for it. It is also the preparation of the complete storyboard of how you are going to choreograph each shot. It is knowing what the final look is going to be before you enter the studio. Of course, as things are never carved in stone, leaving room for the "Grand Mistake" When you are on a tight schedule, planning each image is key to the success of your photo shoot.
Often, deciding on the final images before commencing can be problematic, especially if you don't know the exact clothing the stylist has chosen for the shoot. However, it is important to have a general understanding of what it is you will be attempting to accomplish for the outcome. Using storyboard can help, but even that is often too obtuse. I suggest going to the set or location that you will be shooting at and start taking notes regarding where you will shoot and what scenario is associated with that illustration. If shooting in the studio, you may also look in to how you will light and crop your images as to give your story some sense of dynamism and fluidity in how you imagine the layout. You do have a say in this, especially if you are cropping significantly during the actual photo shoot. Knowing the format of the magazine or catalog is also an important consideration and will have an effect on how you crop your images.* These are all part of the pre-production considerations.
Make sure the whole team have been briefed regarding the look of the hair the make-up and manicure that will be used. If using a prop stylist make sure that you share with them what it is you are seeking in the flow of the images, so that you are all on the same page. Of course the leader of the pack will be the fashion stylist followed by the prop stylist. Without great styling or the set design if that is what you are needing, you might as well take the day off and to the movies. Attention to detail and planning for the unexpected will save you from most disasters. Providing each crew member with a detailed list of all that is expected from him/her will not only demonstrate your desire for 100% from that crew member, but it should also make for a smoother production.
And finally, on the day of the shoot and while setting up, you may find that none of what you prepared for will work. It is here where the rubber hits the road and you must shine by being able to think on your feet. But, you will feel secure in the knowledge that you did your best to put all of the loose ends in to a tight little bow before commencing.
http://www.benjaminkanarekblog.com/8ye |
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Forum: Sold Items
01-01-2012, 09:32 AM
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dieda, can I give you a lens? I know it isn't much, but I have an extra 18-55 WR that I haven't gotten around to selling, but if you had all that stolen, it would be better than trying to make $150 off it, and it should at the very least replace a lot of your lost focal ranges of shooting. I live in Germany.
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
06-14-2011, 02:21 AM
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Hi all, I purchased a K-5 recently, primarily for its resistance to the elements. Now that I've taken it out in some harsh environments, I thought I'd share my experiences. (Sorry if this is in the wrong place.)
This includes heavy rain, waterfall misting, semi-heat (high 90s), semi-cold (mid 20s), sand, dust, and even paintballs. The K-5 is always exposed, hanging from a sport strap on my hip and I don't use any special protective gear for it (it doesn't hide away in a bag until I'm ready to shoot, I like it ready at all times). All these shots were taken with the DA* 50-135 (the only WR lens I have until I get the 16-50 next month).
The first "test" I gave the K-5 was near a 40+ ft. waterfall. I didn't have the guts to take it in, but it got plenty of spray by taking it pretty close (maybe 10-15 ft). My sister actually took this one of me running into the waterfall for a bit (very cold since it's ice melt, haha).
Next, I hiked Hidden Canyon at Zion National Park in Utah, in the rain. It started as a light drizzle (at the bottom) and got pretty heavy as I got closer to the top (and very humid). On the way back it really started coming down. Once I got back to the trailhead, I did another, shorter, hike and then headed back to camp. I was drenched from top to bottom, as was the K-5.
I'm not fond of the idea of having to baby my gear when I'm out hiking, so the K-5 was exposed the whole time, with no covering (though in this kind of rain I'd usually keep it covered with something, I just wanted to really test it out). This was a solid 5 hours in the rain. When I changed cards I used a cloth to pat dry the K-5 and provide cover over the card slot. The K-5 got so wet and it felt so humid out that I figured it would develop a problem later on (it didn't).
Sure enough, 100 ft from the trailhead the shutter button got stuck half way down (where you'd AF). Fortunately I use back button AF only so it didn't affect my shooting at all. I stopped for a few seconds, puckered my lips around the shutter and sucked the water out (which pulled the shutter all the way out). I did that a few times and patted it dry around the area and it was back to normal the rest of the day!
By the way, if any of these images look grainy, it's because of the rain. :)
There was quite a bit of sand everywhere that did a great job of sticking to my hands whenever I touched the chains going along the edges or scrambled over rocks/ledges. That, of course, made its way onto the camera. It cleaned off pretty easily, but did get into the crevices around the LCD cover and where the rubber (for your hand) meets the plastic of the camera casing. I've managed to clean most of it out but there's still a few little bits stuck in there.
A couple shots (semi-HDR, single exposure) from some random hiking the following day.
Next, I drove down to Vegas and took a couple friends on a popular hike that ends with a nice overlook of Vegas. It was mid 90's, so not crazy hot but decent enough for sweaty hands and, of course, a dusty/sandy and rough environment for the camera. Piece of cake for the K-5 (I took the K-x out in this stuff all the time.)
Next up, I took the K-5 paintballing in Boise, Idaho. (Part of a bachelor party.) Thank goodness I have quick reflexes, otherwise the K-5 would've been hit a lot, haha. I used a blue cloth draped over the lens so they all knew it was me, but they were still shooting at me until I waved the blue cloth around, haha. The camera got hit once and picked up some decent splatter but it all cleaned off with water very easily.
And in case anyone else wants to do this, and you're new to taking these expensive toys like this into harsh environments, keep the lens pointed down. The lens hood does a great job of protecting the lens (I don't use filters for protection).
Lastly, I thought I'd drop in a couple high-ish ISO night shots from my cousin's wedding (6400). :)
Not high-ISO but one of my favorite photos from that trip. :)
Jumping from the K-x to the K-5 has been spectacular. Not because the image quality is all that much different, but because the build quality and external controls make it the difference between a toy and a tool. So far the K-5 has easily survived some solid abuse (even my nephews climbing on my camera bag, which the K-5 is stored in vertically with the 50-135 mounted) so far and given me the confidence to take it anywhere, any time. It's worked flawlessly so far! :)
And if you're wondering, I had several people stop me and ask about the camera being completely rain drenched, haha. One guy: "Oh, it's a Pentax. I didn't know they made DSLRs that could handle rain."
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
11-29-2010, 08:36 PM
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Thanks guys for all of your information !! Next time I get to paint, I will post a few pics using yall advise and see the difference. I really appreciate your help !
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