A Soldier and Family
I RECENTLY HAD THE PLEASURE OF PHOTOGRAPHING A SOLDIER AND HIS FAMILY. IF YOU ARE NOT AWARE ALREADY, I HAVE JOINED A ORGANIZATION CALLED HEARTSAPART.ORG. WHAT WE DO IS PHOTOGRAPH MILITARY MEN AND WOMEN WITH THEIR FAMILIES, SO THEY CAN HAVE THE PHOTOS WHILE THEY ARE IN THE FIELD, AND THE FAMILY CAN HAVE THEM AS WELL WHILE WAITING FOR THEIR RETURN. WE DO THIS AT NO COST TO THE FAMILY, AS A THANK YOU.
IT'S ALWAYS A GREAT EXPERIENCE TO BE ABLE TO GIVE A GIFT TO PEOPLE WHO TRUELY DESERVE IT. FOR THE SOLDIER WHO IS FIGHTING FOR US AND OUR COUNTRY, AND THE FAMILY THAT AWAITS THEM BACK HOME FOR THEIR SAFE RETURN. IT DIDN'T REALLY HIT ME UNTIL I WAS IN THE ROOM WITH HIM AND HIS FAMILY. DRESSED IN HIS CLASS A'S...MAN ....HE WAS BEING DEPLOYED THE NEXT DAY. I CAN'T IMAGINE HAVING TO LET GO OF SOMEONE THAT I LOVE TO GO TO WAR. THE LAST THING I WANTED TO DO WAS TAKE TIME AWAY FROM HIS FAMILY, FOR HE WAS ONLY IN TOWN FOR ABOUT A WEEK OR SO, AND HIS TIME WAS EXTREMEMLY LIMITED AT THIS PONT. HOWEVER THIS WAS A VERY IMPORTANT PHOTO SHOOT FOR THIS FAMILY AND I HAD TO MAKE THIS FAIRLY QUICK.
I WANTED A SIMPLE APPROACH TO THIS SHOOT, TO GET THE MESSAGE ACROSS THAT THIS IS A MAN OF HONOR, AND HE DESERVES TO BE PHOTOGRAPHED IN FRONT OF OUR NATIONS FLAG...I MEAN HE'S EARNED EVERY MINUTE. I DIDN'T WANT A PLAIN WHITE BACKGROUND OR ANYTHING BORING, BECUSE THAT DOESN'T TELL A STORY.
I ALSO WANTED TO PHOTOGRAPH HIM IN HIS GEAR (GILLY SUIT) THAT HE WOULD BE IN WHILE IN AFGANISTAN. I DON'T KNOW WHAT HE DOES OR WHAT HE HAS TO GO THROUGH WHILE HE'S THERE. HOWEVER I WANTED TO SHOW PEOPLE WHAT HE IS ALL ABOUT WHEN HE IS AWAY. I THINK THIS IS A PRETTY POWERFUL SHOT.
I CAPTURED A QUICK MOMENT WITH HIS DAUGHTER, HANDING A ROSE OVER. I THOUGHT IT WAS JUST A NICE MOMENT FOR BOTH OF THEM, AND COULDN'T LET IT PASS.
FC DALLAS vs. LA GALAXY
I had a great time shooting the FC Dallas game! It was a cold and very wet night. I was having trouble keeping my gear from getting wet, but managed to save it all. Definitely was not ideal weather conditions, but none the less it was a blast getting to be on the field with the teams. I got some nice photos with a Nikon 400mm F/2.8 lens. Take a look, there are some good ones in there. David Beckham and Landon Donovan showed up! I was hoping to get them both and my wish came true. Enjoy.
Shooting at the Masters Tournament
I had a rare opportunity to shoot some of the best golfers in the world, and I would like to share it with you. The Masters is the cream of the crop, the creme de la creme of professional golf. The course is immaculate...almost too perfect, if there is such a thing. Here are a few photos from Monday. Enjoy...
Main player board inside the main gate. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens:16-35mm f/4
Ricky Barnes analyzing his next play. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Vijay Singh digs out of the sand. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Vijay Singh battles the sand trap. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Charlie Hoffman tees off on the 14th hole. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens:16-35mm f/4
Martin Kaymer Tees off. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Jim Furyk gets buried in the bunker. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Jim Furyk heads down the fairway after a solid tee off. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Mike Weir gives me a quick glance. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Mike Weir putts in. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Players on the course for the day. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Nick Watney makes it out of the sand. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Miguel Jimenez looks on discussing his putt. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
Kaymer and Furyk shaking hands after the 18th hole. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
The Masters flag pole. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 VRll
I had a great time being at the Masters, I hope I get to go back next year and have more days to shoot.
The Twins.
Fraternal Twins
This is an unusual post for me. I recently photographed one of my best friends new born babies. Not one...but two! I usually don't photograph children, however I couldn't pass this opportunity up. I'm excited for my friends taking a giant step in life and having children. I'm looking forward to spending lots of time with these little ones. On with the photos...
Held by her Grandfather
Held by his Grandmother
She opens her eyes just for a quick glimpse
My Work published in Digital Construction Magazine
Construction Digital Nov. 2010 issue
Construction Digital is a pioneering digital media site for Construction professionals and executives responsible for all aspects of managing this environment. Construction Digital covers solutions that enable global businesses to improve the way they manage their operations, people, technology and supply chains. Through its digital magazine, online website, daily news and weekly e-newsletter, Construction Digital helps executives stay up-to-date with the most important operational issues in this demanding and ever more competitive global business sector.
The editorial content for Construction Digital is provided by a global network of staff who contact over 1000 Construction executives each week to provide a true insight into real time company reports, breaking Construction news and industry driven solutions that are not just original, but totally business objective.
Each issue of the digital magazine features an in-depth look at specific industry issues such as: Green Building; Building Technologies; Project Management, and Design and Engineering.
Laura Clapper
Construction Editor
I recently had a meeting with Wilks Masonry, and found out that my work has been published in a Construction Magazine back in November of 2010. It would have been nice to know a little sooner, however I'm glad that I found out now, rather than a year from now. Often times, companies forget to tell me that they have submitted photos to these publications and I get left out of the loop to know that my work is out there floating around without me knowing it. Without further adieu...
Overton Hotel/Convention Center Lubbock Texas. Image captured by Sean Willis for Wilks Masonry
Headshots for personal trainers
Here are some headshots that I recently did for a few personal trainers. Awesome girls to work with and we had a lot of fun too!
I've included the lighting setup for this shoot.
Here's a short breakdown:
Profoto - w/beauty dish behind camera pointed over me towards subjuct.
Alien Bees - behind subject w/small reflector pointed towards white back drop.
Camera used - D700
Lens used - Sigma 24-70 ƒ/2.8
ASHLEY
JAN
CAROLINE
Going gaga over Polaroid.
I've loved Polaroid for years...
They have produced some amazing products in their time. They were the digital camera before the digital camera, but I think they have lost the "picture".
I don't think that there is anything wrong with the new product line that was JUST released a few days ago. I just think that they are trying to hard to get back into the game by hyping their new products with Lady Gaga's branding. The only product that I can see being of any interest is the GL30. It brings back the original concept of Polaroid in a new retro digital design. I'm not sure the ZINK quality paper is going to be that great, by the researching I've done of some reviews on this printing. It seems a little bulky for what I would think people are used to now, but I like it. The glasses I think most people will pass on, and the GL10 "portable photo booth" is just a joke. How many items are we going to carry around with us to take a photo and show our friends? How many things are we going to want to carry around, and/or be responsible for? Sure it's a cool idea, but it's not practical. Our phones already do a great job at taking photos and showing them off. We can send photos wirelessly to our friends and family, and post to facebook/twitter to show everyone else too. Most of us have printers that can already print higher quality than the GL10 anyway. I just don't think this is a product that will be successful.
Be the judge for yourself. I'm not sold by Polaroid's come back just yet, and this very well may be a bad romance.
The unseen war in Vietnam, through photographers on the other side.
I just watched this incredible documentary, of Vietnam photograhers and soldiers in the war. See it for yourself and watch what it took for these photographers to get a shot. Developing their film in streams. They used only 50mm lenses and no zooms forcing them to get up close putting them at higher risks of getting killed. One Photographer even used gun powder to light a scene because he had no light in a tunnel, and of course no flash.
2010 photography blogs, online magazines, and websites for photographers. (in my humble opinion)
TOP PHOTOGRAPHY BLOGS
Digital Photography School - Great resource for new photographer learning the art.
Strobist - If you want to learn about flashes, strobes, and other nic knacks concerning light, and off camera flash.
DIY Photography - I love checking this site out, for all kinds of DIY photo stuff. Sometimes things get expensive, and you need a quick fix. They have all kinds of tricks of the trade to help out us photographers on a budget, as well as cool things to do for some creative photography.
Chase Jarvis - Chase has been an inspiration to me as well as many other "photogs" out there. I've never met him, but he seems like a super cool guy that just loves the hell out of helping all photographers out. He's got some great tips, and some great inspiration.
Joe McNally - This is the "been there done that" photographer. Joe has done some pretty incredible things in his career as a photographer. I've been watching every video I can get my eyes on with this guy. He makes everything look so easy.
Photo JoJo newsletter - Awesome site, they always have something new for you from camera accessories to helping you make your facebook page look cool. I'm always on this site looking for something to get my hands on.
Photoshop Killer Tips - If you are a photoshop nut, or even a newbie at this GIANT program. It helps out beginners to professionals for great tips in photoshop. It's helped me a time or 30.
Light Stalking - There is always something fun, and helpful on this site for all photographers.
Fstoppers -These guys are always posting some great things about photographers, gear, DIY stuff, tricks ect. I find it very helpful, and love this site.
Digital Rev - I first found out about these guys buy searching for "Durability of Nikon vs. Canon SLR". The first thing that pops up is just that. A video by these guys putting Nikon and Canon through some pretty rediculous situations. Not only did they make me laugh, but they actually had some great videos and reviews on all kinds of stuff. Lenses, cameras, gadgets, ect. Definitely worth spending the time watching all the videos.
Nikon Rumors - For all Nikon shooters out there...great source of breaking news on new Nikon gear.
ishootshows - I love Todds work, and he actually is one of the main reasons I am getting more into concert photography. He has some great reviews, and some good knowlege on his site.
Stuck in Customs - Trey has inspired many people including myself. His travel photography, and HDR work is some of the best out there. This will make you want to take your camera everywhere you go.
BEST ONLINE PHOTOGRAPHY MAGAZINES
PDN (Photo District News) -
2010 has been a fun year to explore new changes in photography. I'm excited to see what 2011 will bring! Thanks for for supporting me, and I'll continue to support you! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
8 GREAT TIPS TO GET AWESOME PHOTOS FROM AN AIRPLANE
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- Shutter Speed 1/200 at f/11 ISO 200 taken with a Nikon D700
- I recently had the pleasure of taking a trip on an airplane. I am fortunate enough to be able to travel in such luxury, while many are not. So….why not capture some great photos while you are up there! Cause who knows when you’ll be back. It’s a photographers nightmare shooting through glass, and it’s nearly impossible to get clean nice looking photos, . We avoid it at all costs, and most of us photographers downright refuse to shoot through it. I’ve come to terms with it…
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During my travels, I find myself ALWAYS sitting by the window. I still am completely facinated that we can sit in a flying capsule, and view the world from above. I’ve seen some incredible views that many haven’t, and I want to be able to capture those moments.
Here are 8 great tips to ensure that you get great photos from inside an airplane.
1. FIND A WINDOW SEAT, OR DO YOUR BEST TO REQUEST ONE - Without a window seat you are limited with your view of the outside. This tip may seem like a no brainer, however you’d be surprised to see how many people sitting in the aisle or middle seat, try to take photos over the person sitting next to the window. Not only is it annoying to the other person sitting there, but it also makes you unstable!
2. TURN THAT FLASH OFF!!! – You can’t shoot throught the window of a plane or a building, and expect to get good photos with a flash on. The plastic windows of the plane will most definetly reflect the light from your flash and cause you to capture the bright light from the flash instead of your subject. Plus it’s extremely annoying to others on the plane if you are taking multiple pictures with the flash going off.
- Shutter Speed 1/1500 at f/11 ISO 200 taken with a Nikon D90
- 3. GET THE LENS CLOSE – Put the lens of your camera as close as you can to the window without touching it. If you have a lens hood, try and use that 1st to see how that works. What you are looking for is to not get any reflection off the window. Just because you have the flash off doesn’t mean you still can’t get a reflection. The lights inside the cabin of the plane will still reflect, so turn off your overhead reading light, and any others if you can. If you can get close enough to the window, you can increase your chances of getting a clean shot.
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4. ANGLE YOURSELF AND THE CAMERA – Reduce the chance of glare, and reflection even more by angling your camera instead of shooting strait on.
5. CRANK UP THE ISO - If the lighting is too dark, you’re going to need to turn up the ISO to allow more light sensitivity to your cameras sensor. You’ll need to do this at sunset, and after. If you are shooting in the middle of the day, I would recommend an ISO of 400-800. The higher end DSLR’s will allow you to go much higher, for better sunset shooting, and lower lighting.
6. BREAK OUT THE POLARIZER – If you have an SLR, buy a polarizer. This will be useful ALL the time (not only just shooting through glass). Polarizers cut down glare, and it’s just one more way to get cleaner images.
7. RAW IS THE ONLY WAY - If your camera allows you to shoot in RAW format, change your settings from JPEG to RAW. Shooting RAW allows much more flexibility when you go to edit the photo. You can change the white balance, and adjust the brightness and contrast with more flexability among many other capabilities that you can’t do with a JPEG file type.
8. CLEAN IT UP – If you want an even cleaner image you’re going to have to find away to clean the image up further. Use photo editing software, such as: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, and Apple’s Aperture ect. to go in and spot remove like crazy. It’s impossible to find a window, more or less an airplane window that is clean of debris. Scratches on those plastic airplane windows are rediculously common, and the dirt and water spots will clutter your picture.
Nothing is easy, and there is a lot to think about when taking a good picture. So now go take some great photos on your next trip, try these helpful tips and let everyone see what you experienced. You’ll be surprised what’s up there!
Follow Me!
Twitter Updates
- I posted 10 photos on Facebook in the album "HeartsApart.org" http://t.co/7VWTeLP7 3 months ago
- The Caltrans District 7 headquarters http://t.co/52AdFO8 5 months ago
- I posted 2 photos on Facebook in the album "Published Work/Tear Sheets" http://fb.me/GgOYjUi1 6 months ago