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August 28, 2013

Nikonian Northern Exposure # 11

Andre-Gallant[1]Great interview with André Gallant who is a freelance photographer and photography lecturer who travels the world over. Andre?s expressive work appears in magazines and he generates creativity in his approach and style. Gallant is the author of several books; Expressionism: Digital Dreamscapes & other Techniques, Destinations: A Photographers Journey, Dreamscapes: Exploring Photo Montages and Photographing People At Home & Around (https://andregallant.com).In our interview André talks about his experience from being throw in a foreign jail to helping a family in Indiapeter andre

listen to the show

https://andregallant.com/

Posted by pspence at 6:53 PM

Nikonians Academy September highlights

Academy-square-125.jpgThe Nikonians Academy schedule for September brings workshops and photo adventures to two continents.

Highlights include Secrets of Studio and Environmental Portraiture by professional photographer Greg Stangl. Chicago September 9 - 11. In this three-day hands-on workshop, you'll be shooting in Greg's personal studio on the outskirts of Chicago.

Stangl_Portrait_200.jpg

Learn the ins and outs of lighting, metering and posing from a working professional photographer. Small class size and we'll have live models on hand for posing and trying out dynamic lighting setups.

You will learn to pose the male and female form while also understanding how to pose couples and groups. This workshop will help you discover and develop your creativity while offering you lessons in studio, window light, and environmental portraiture.

Emphasis is placed not only on learning and understanding the material, but being able to put these lessons into practical everyday use. You will be exposed to various types of studio lighting as well as on-location equipment, such as the use of light reflectors and flash modifiers.

Whether you are a relative novice or a seasoned pro, you will find the workshop lessons detailed, interesting, and challenging.


W_Hall_175.jpg

Winston C. Hall will be in Colorado in mid September bringing three of our popular Mastery series workshops:

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 1 (Sept 17)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (Sept 18)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 2 (Sept 19)

The venue will be Courtyard Colorado Springs South, 2570 Tenderfoot Hill Street, Colorado Springs


London 

Passionate-Photog.jpg

Steve Simon will be "across the pond" in London September 18 – 22 for five days of photography workshops. Steve will be running some of our most popular classes on topics ranging from the newest Nikon cameras to his signature workshop, the Passionate Nikon Photographer. 

Steve's London Schedule:

- Master the Nikon D600/D7100/D7000 In Depth 1 (Sept 18)
- Master the Nikon D800/D4 In Depth 1 (Sept 19)
- Master the Nikon D800/D4 In Depth 2 (Sept 20)
- The Passionate Nikon Photographer 2-day Workshop (Sept 21-22)

 

Timelapse_250.jpg

Michael A. Mariant brings Timelapse photography to San Francisco September 20-22. Timelapse photography is seeing huge growth all around the world. Learn about timelapse settings, integrating motion, using sliders and how to put it all together in a movie.

Timelapse photography is an excellent visual representation of action moving at a certain rate of speed but sped up through multi-frame capture, to give a condensed view of the motion sequence. Most people recall their first experience with timelapse photography from grade school science class, watching the multi-day sequence of a flower blooming or a butterfly breaking free from its cocoon.

When utilized to capture everyday life, from the hustle and bustle to the simple events within society, we see timelapse transition from a genre not of just scientific documentary, but rather one of an art form. And in the beautiful city of San Francisco, where the hustle and bustle of society is a tourist draw … with cable cars clanging their way up and down the streets and fog pouring over the Golden Gate Bridge … the condensed scene of daily life becomes mesmerizing.

 

Jim Stamates has a double adventure special in late September.

- Yellowstone Wildlife and Landscapes

Yellowstone_250.jpg

After a long National Park moratorium on photo workshops in Yellowstone, the Nikonians Academy was able to secure new permits for 2013 and beyond. We are excited to bring back our Yellowstone photo workshops in one of North America's premier photography destinations.

Your leader is well known for his professional wildlife photography and is an excellent field instructor.

This is an intense four days of photography. You will start early each day before dawn for the best light and best wildlife or landscape options. The trip is designed to take you to the many icons of Yellowstone including Yellowstone Falls, Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Mammoth Hot Springs and more, while keeping a keen eye for wildlife along the way.

Each day ends with your cards filled with exceptional images. Daily lunch will be at one of the local restaurants with time to socialize and get to know fellow enthusiasts. Instruction will be in the field with no strenuous hiking.

Trip Dates: September 23-26, 2013

-Grand Tetons Wildlife and Landscapes

Teton_moose_145.jpg

This National Park is famous for its soaring peaks and accessible wildlife. Instructor Jim Stamates has been photographing here for decades and knows the park in and out.

The fall landscape of Grand Teton NP has turned to brilliant golds, rusts and browns wetting our appetite for great scenics. Your photo opportunities include Schwabacher Landing, where you wait for the sun to kiss the tops of the Grand Tetons. Then on to Mormon Row to get the classic shot of the barns with the snowcapped peaks and fall color backdrop. That’s just the first morning.

You will also head to Oxbow Bend but not for scenics. Instead, you will be looking for river otters, moose, bald eagles, and osprey. Elk, bears, pronghorn, and bison.

Join Jim and Kathy Stamates for four wild days to learn, shoot, and experience Grand Teton National Park.

Trip Dates: September 30 - October 3, 2013

Special Savings -- Sign up for both the Yellowstone Wildlife Photo trip and the Grand Tetons trip and receive a $100 rebate.

Posted by flashdeadline at 6:07 AM

August 27, 2013

Battery Life Care Tips

powerex.jpgThose of you who use NiMH rechargeable batteries (especially photographers who use them in their flash)...

Ever wonder why your batteries start to lose its capacity over time even after a full charge? You need to keep them conditioned every so often. What this means is a slow charge and a slow discharge to break up any large crystals forming in the cells that could affect performance. It also breaks up any high resistance compounds that might have formed on the electrodes. I do this every two to three months.

It is also recommended to cycle your new batteries before using them. This consists of fully discharging the cells first, then a slow charge, followed by another discharge. Repeat this 2-3 times.

It would be a total pain in the behind to do this if you don't have the proper equipment. Luckily, there are a few really good/high-end chargers in the market that can do this for you. My personal favourite is the Powerex MH-C9000. If you have $60 to spend on a charger see availability for purchase at Canada Computers. If you can find them elsewhere, let us know!

Also, don't use cheap batteries. Not all brand name cells are good. Two of the best are Sanyo Eneloop XXX are my choice (regular Eneloop are good as well) and Powerex Imedion. Just my thoughts!

/rant
agnes.

Posted by Ronny89 at 8:39 AM

August 23, 2013

theQ - Shut up and Shoot

mustangQ.jpgWell it seems that there's something new, and flashy in the digital camera world that is definitely taking a few nations by storm. theQ camera, is the world's first social camera, uploading your photos and videos to the internet, automatically. Storage you say? Well, with their unlimited amount in theQ Lab, there's no worry about ever running out of space. They say you can cope with any lighting conditions thanks to theQ ring flash (lights up too, which looks pretty nifty). Not to mention, it's waterproof and as they say, idiot-proof also. So, does it really stand out to any other waterproof cameras, and features that can be found on the market? Let's have a look.

More will come on a full review, with full usage and scopes described to the max, however, for now, let's have it be known for what it claims to do, and see how the interest has grown and why.

cupcake.jpgSo how did theQ come to be? Well, they attest that like many great stories, theQ's started in a bar. While the founders Joe, Brandon, and Andrea were on a night out drinking, they were discussing how displeased they were with their digital cameras. They all came to the conclusion that they could create one that they all like. These three talented folks knew next to nothing about making cameras, or running a business, but, with enough ambition, drive, and passion not to mention A LOT of hard work, they came up with setting up their Headquarters Office in Sweden, and Hong Kong and were well on their way - all in a year. With a unique design, interesting functionality, their team comprised of artists, photographers, musicians, skaters and designers allowed for a chic, modern design, with the "Q" incorporated in the design. See if you can spot it.

Screen Shot 2013-08-23 at 11.02.30 AM.pngFirst off, the camera comes in an array of 9 colours, making this very customizable to your personality. I personally like the Mustard Yellow - probably because I'm a Nikon lover at heart; black and yellow being the brands prime colours, as we know, but also do take a liking to the Peppermint, offering a light robin's egg shell colour - very light and breezy. I'm a pretty cheery person, so I think these colours pretty much suit me and my moods best.

ice,baby_Fotor_Collage.jpgNow, the simple specs on this camera aren't too extraordinary, however for those quick shots, while out and about, giving a bit of a hipster/vintage feel to photos, it's suitable for the die hard #IHaveToPostMyEveryMoveInSocialMedia and simply having the ease of sharing among so many, worldwide. It's very lightweight with only weighing 120grams and measuring 65mm (2.6") in height, 100mm (4") wide, and 16mm (0.64") in depth. Personally speaking, I like a camera with a little more weight, just so that I don't feel like i'm going to lose it, mid shot, but it's definitely got "heavyweight quality and lightweight size"! (in a good way). The camera pixels itself are at a max of 5, offering manual rotation, LED ring flash to really customize to any lighting conditions, and it also offers three capture modes -- Outdoor, Indoor, and Night; as well as 9 new filters. With a 24MM wide lens and F2.4 Aperture, you'll have enough coverage to shoot wide and be able to manually rotate for focusing and getting that macro you want. A neat little feature I find it has, which makes for great ease when you just can't remember where you were at the time of the photo taken, is a simplified Geo-tagging. While uploading to theQ Lab, you'll be able to let everyone know where you were (if you want), making it as memorable as possible.

gallery-img-9.jpg The camera's Micro SIM memory card (same data-enabled Micro-SIM cards in your Smartphones) itself holds 2GB. Now, this seems small, compared to what standard cameras can offer, but surprisingly it does store up 1000 still images. The power and battery consist of a Li-polymer battery 800mAh, and allows for an average of 200 pictures per charge. theQ comes with a USB to computer system or adapter making it easy to take with you and charge on the go. ***Note, this isn't to extract photos from the Micro SIM to your computer -- photos are stored in the online Q Lab. In fact, the only time theQ stores pictures internally is when it can't find a data signal. Might be a bit of downside, considering theQ is a 3G connected camera, thus it only works together with a SIM and a data service, meaning - Call your local carrier for more services and prices. OR! What if I take out my Micro SIM card from my phone, which has an unlimited data plan…hmmmm. Well, either way, I think that's about the only serious downside, if you don't have an extra data plan external from your Smartphone. The display however, is something the team at theQ hasn't skimped out on. With a wide 2.7 inch (6.75 cm), and a resolution of 320 x 240, it's surely enough to see your images and make the mods you need.

theq-camera-explode-view.jpgWhat I like about this camera is that it's not only suitable for those quick shots here and there, but hey! If you decide to go for a little dip in the pool, lake, ocean, or accidentally fall in an aquarium, you're safe! It's rugged ratings being waterproof 1Px7 - 1 meter (3.3 feet) underwater for about half an hour and is dustproof 1P6x. So, besides making it fun for those funny faces underwater, or those National Geographic wannabe River Monsters Documentaries, you can be worry free through a mild sandstorm.

theQ Lab offers a simple way to interact with all your Social Media networks with the push of a button, and if you're not quite ready to have the world see your creations - maybe you haven't applied the right filters yet, or just want to sit on it, no need to worry... With an unlimited amount of storage online, you can save them automatically to your private archive and come back to them at a later time. You can also, download the images from online to your computer (I know, a little redundant, but considering it is a Social Media camera, it's prime goal for that was to upload images right then and there, simple). If we could just extract the pictures from the camera AFTER we had a great night out on the town, well.. that would defeat the purpose of it being socially immediate, we could very well use our "normal/non-social point and shoots". It's to represent the immediateness like status updates, check-ins etc. No one goes out for a 5 hour evening spent at the Fair, only to come home and check yourself into that Fair on Facebook -- lame. Clearly, it's a right here, right now, see what i'm up to camera (without the phone...and waterprooflyness :P ).

So, I bet we're all wondering what this little bundle of joy costs? It's a fair price, to say the least, for all it's tiny, light, colourful, and jam packed mechanisms - $199.00. Careful now, you might want to test them out prior, but they can only be found online, and not in stores. Hopefully this doesn't scare consumers away, but they really do make for an interest live-pocket-snapper that's with you on the go, and offers instant social media interactions and more.

For more information, or to purchase your very own please visit their site.

Cheers!
agnes

Posted by Ronny89 at 10:55 AM

August 21, 2013

Nikonians Academy is gettin' pretty Jammy!

57.jpgNikonians Academy is getting all sixes and sevens! Are you by any chance going to visit Her Majesty's Pleasure? We sure hope not! (that's British, for England's Prison, yikes!) However, if you do visit and fancy a cup of tea, or a good pint, and in the midst want to learn more about photography, be inspired and share - in a beautiful city, then join in!

Join the Nikonians Academy and Steve Simon in London, England next month for five days of photography workshops. Steve will be running some of our most popular classes on topics ranging from the newest Nikon cameras to his signature workshop, the Passionate Nikon Photographer. We'd love to see you there and know you'll thoroughly enjoy the classes.

London Schedule
18 September - Master the Nikon D600/D7100/D7000 In Depth 1
19 September - Master the Nikon D800/D4 In Depth 1
20 September - Master the Nikon D800/D4 In Depth 2
21/22 September - The Passionate Nikon Photographer 2-day Workshop

London Venue
Bankside House
24 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9JA
+44 (0)20 7107 5750
bankside.conference@lse.ac.uk
https://www.lsevacations.co.uk/

Sign up now!
www.nikoniansacademy.com

London Bridge is falling down, falling down, falling down, London Bridge is falling down, my fair lady!

Posted by Ronny89 at 7:22 AM

Mastering the Nikon D7100 features images by Nikonians

D7100_THU_120.jpgCongratulations to the Nikonians community members who will soon have their images featured in a new photography book. Mastering the Nikon D7100 by DarrellYoung (DigitalDarrell) will be released next month for worldwide sales.

Darrell says choosing the images was a tough process:
"There were so many excellent images to choose from that the editorial team had a hard time choosing the finalists. We feel the images chosen show what a skilled Nikonian can do with a Nikon D7100 in his or her hands. It has been my privilege to write this new book for my Nikonian friends and I truly appreciate your support of NikoniansPress and my books. Thank you very much for your wonderful submissions!”

The images headed for the press are shown here, with numbers helping identify the chapter and submitting member listed below.

Chapter-Opening-LEGEND_450.jpg

Chapter 1 – Dave Shaner (dave_17531) — Amur Tiger Cub
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens at 300mm, 1/500s at f/5.6, ISO 400
I took this photo through the observation glass at the Columbus Zoo in Columbus, Ohio. This is one of the four female cubs born at the zoo and she is about 10 weeks old. I would have liked to have gotten lower to have a more head-on look, but there were many children in front of me. It was a partly cloudy day and the cub was practicing her stalking moves, when the sun suddenly popped out and I captured the moment. She immediately ran back to her siblings.

Chapter 2 – Mike Wewerka (mtwewerka) — Smithsonian Institute
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens at 22mm, 1/15s at f/10, ISO 400
I took this image of the Smithsonian Institute on a whim. I was leaving DC for the day when I looked up and saw some great cloud coverage that I thought would be a great backdrop for a shot. I walked to the corner of the Institute building and found a good composition. I had no tripod so I had to shoot handheld. The light was good, but I wanted a slight grain in the image, so I set the camera to ISO 400 and the aperture to f/10 for good depth of field. The kit lens, with its VR, performed surprisingly well.

Chapter 3 – Tony Hernandez (FutureLook) — Thief on Guard
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens at 300mm, 1/320s at f/5.6, ISO 3200
The White Throated Monkey is famous for stealing anything available. This one was following my every move, intrigued by the fruit I purchased from local vendors. I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to capture his vigilant posture, trying to outsmart me. This picture was taken at high ISO since it was very early in the morning.

Chapter 4 – Scott Ashley (scottashley) — Canyon Glow
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens at 40mm, 1/30s at f/16, ISO 200
One of America's most scenically rich spots is Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. I captured this image on a freezing cold April morning shortly after sunrise as the sun's rays illuminated and reflected off some of the hundreds of delicately eroded spires in the park as viewed from the rim of the canyon, making it look like the canyon was glowing from within. I loved the way the D7100 captured the color and exquisite detail so perfectly.

Chapter 5 – Phil Downes (photphil) — American Eagle
Nikon D7100 with a 300mm f/4 lens, 1/1600s at f/9, -0.3EV compensation, ISO 800
This eagle was perched above Nequasset Stream along the coast of Maine, watching intently for alewives swimming upstream before entering a fish ladder. The fish ladder in the town of Woolwich allows migrating alewives to reach Nequasset Pond to spawn in the spring. I wanted to capture the eagle's intensity as it hunted for a fish.

Chapter 6 – Stephen W. Burnes (in4apenny) — Lowry Avenue Bridge
Nikon D7100 with a Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Dill VC lens at 25mm, 15s at f/11, ISO 100
I enjoy taking photos late at night until maybe 4:00 am. Minneapolis was quiet and peaceful when I hopped on my motorcycle with my camera bag. The bridge, which spans the Mississippi river, offers a view of Minneapolis from the North. When I approached the bridge I thought the blue was stunning, especially when I could contrast it with the river running underneath, much like a jeweler’s box can amplify the beauty of a piece of jewelry.

Chapter 7 – Harold Feiertag (Knouff) — An American Bullfrog Born in Canada
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens at 280mm, 1/600s at f/10, ISO 160
I took this picture in the Serpentine Wildlife Area, better known as the Serpentine Fen. This frog spotted me as I walked toward its watery neighborhood and disappeared into the marsh. I had my camera ready, anticipating where the frog would break the surface. It appeared directly in front of me, clearly wanting get a closer look at the human intruder (me). Dedicated to my dear bride and best friend, the late Clarissa Faye Feiertag.

Chapter 8 – Brent Melton (Brent Melton) — Charli Jo
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 lens, 1/160s at f/8, ISO 200
This image was shot at our family Memorial Weekend cookout. She was on the patio with her father and sticking pretty close to him, while playing shy. Charli Jo is a very animated child with lots of personality and loves the camera.

Chapter 9 – Al Scherwinski (cockers) — Spring Snack
Nikon D7100 with a Nikkor 500P f/4 lens on a tripod, 1/400s at f/7.1, -1EV compensation, ISO 800
This image of the Red Squirrel was taken at my cabin in Northern Wisconsin after owning the D7100 for only about three weeks. We had such a long demanding winter and stubborn snow cover that I was very surprised to see this little squirrel eating something green, thereby prompting me to title this image Spring Snack.

Chapter 10 – Richard Gravlin (rb4good) — Red-bellied Woodpecker
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4 lens, 1/1250s at f/6.3, ISO 400
This was taken one morning while out looking for migrating warblers. I had heard him on several mornings, but it wasn't until the third morning out that I finally located him. The male bird had made such a nice nest hole but didn't have a female to share it with and was constantly calling for a mate. The leaves covered up the only view of the hole a few days after this shot. I used manual exposure with the 1.3x digital crop mode. This camera is a delight to use.

Chapter 11 – Janice Van Dyke (janicev) — Sumptuous Tulip
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 35mm f1.8G lens, 1/125s at f/5.5, ISO 360
I took this picture in April. I often drive many miles to special places to take pictures, only to find some of my favorites are taken close to home. This picture came from my brother and sister-in-law's amazing flower garden. I love how this camera captures the sumptuous colors.

Chapter 12 – Dennis Miller (dhmiller) — Elmer the Juvenile Yellow-headed Caracara
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens, 1/160s at f/5.6, ISO 200
After a very successful trip in December 2012, during which we photographed over three dozen species of birds, my wife and I went back to Costa Rica in June 2013. This time we went to the remote Osa Peninsula, looking for something a bit more off the beaten track. While shooting, we spotted this juvenile yellow-headed caracara, a raptor in the falcon family. Typically not a fast aerial hunter, this caracara was sitting on the fencepost of a ranch, hoping to scavenge some food from a nearby cow pen.

Chapter 13 – Tammi Young Pass (DigitalTammi) — Bright Future
Nikon D7100 with an AF-S Nikkor 16-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR lens at 38mm, 1/80s at f/7.1, ISO 100
I took this picture as the assistant photographer at the wedding of Hannah Young and Ian Burr. Hannah is the daughter of this book’s author and fellow Nikonian, Darrell Young (DigitalDarrell). This was the first wedding in which I’ve been an official photographer and the first commercial shoot with my new Nikon D7100. Not having an AA filter makes this HD-SLR one of the sharpest I’ve ever used. I love the camera and will use it in my family portrait business.

rear-cover_350.jpg The rear cover bird image is courtesy of Al Scherwinski (cockers).

Mastering the Nikon D7100 will be released in both printed and ebook formats. The camera is proving to be simply spectacular in its capability, and Darrell hopes the book will help many Nikonians have a better grasp on their complex imaging tool.

The book covers the camera in complete detail, with full-color graphics, sample images, and illustrations. What makes NikoniansPress books unique is that they are presented from the viewpoint of a fellow Nikonian with many years of experience using Nikon cameras. Darrell offers detailed suggestions on camera configuration—based on real world experience and various imaging styles.

Previous NikoniansPress books in the Mastering the Nikon DSLR series have been quite successful, primarily due to your interest and support. The Nikon D7100 book is now available for preorder.

All books in Darrell Young's NikoniansPress/Rocky Nook Mastering series include a special Nikonians 50%-off voucher discount for a one year Gold Membership in the Nikonians community. This will save $37.50 on Gold Membership.

Posted by flashdeadline at 2:08 AM

Fall spotlight: Picker and Stamates at National Parks

Bison_thu.jpg

Nikonians Academy instructors Lester Picker and Jim Stamates are preparing for their annual excursions to some of the USA's most scenic National Parks and you are invited.

Highlights include:

- Yellowstone Wildlife and Landscapes

After a long National Park moratorium on photo workshops in Yellowstone, the Nikonians Academy was able to secure new permits for 2013 and beyond. We are excited to bring back our Yellowstone photo workshops in one of North America's premier photography destinations. 

Bison_145.jpg

Your leader, Jim Stamates, is well known for his professional wildlife photography and is an excellent field instructor.

This is an intense four days of photography. You will start early each day before dawn for the best light and best wildlife or landscape options. The trip is designed to take you to the many icons of Yellowstone including Yellowstone Falls, Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Mammoth Hot Springs and more, while keeping a keen eye for wildlife along the way. 

Each day ends with your cards filled with exceptional images. Daily lunch will be at one of the local restaurants with time to socialize and get to know fellow enthusiasts. Instruction will be in the field with no strenuous hiking.

Trip Dates: September 23-26, 2013

 

- Grand Tetons Wildlife and Landscapes

This National Park is famous for its soaring peaks and accessible wildlife. Instructor Jim Stamates has been photographing here for decades and knows the park in and out.

Teton_moose_145.jpg

The fall landscape of Grand Teton NP has turned to brilliant golds, rusts and browns wetting our appetite for great scenics. Your photo opportunities include Schwabacher Landing, where you wait for the sun to kiss the tops of the Grand Tetons. Then on to Mormon Row to get the classic shot of the barns with the snowcapped peaks and fall color backdrop. That’s just the first morning.  

You will also head to Oxbow Bend but not for scenics. Instead, you will be looking for river otters, moose, bald eagles, and osprey. Elk, bears, pronghorn, and bison. 

Join Jim and Kathy Stamates for four wild days to learn, shoot, and experience Grand Teton National Park.

Trip Dates: September 30 - October 3, 2013

 

Special Savings -- Sign up for both the Yellowstone Wildlife Photo trip and the Grand Tetons trip and receive a $100 rebate.

 

- Acadia National Park in the Fall

Acadia_145.jpg

Join Lester Picker for a 4-day exploration of the exciting photographic possibilities in Acadia, through Maine's coastal regions this October 10 - 14.

You will explore its intimate coves and vaunted mountains, its pristine seashore and lush forests. 

Lester has timed this workshop to take advantage of fall foliage with its resplendent colors. He lived in Maine for ten years and received his doctorate in ecology from the University of Maine, using Acadia National Park for his research.

Some call it the most beautiful National Park in the country, a tiny gem compared to its larger siblings. Whether or not you agree, Maine’s Acadia National Park is most definitely a sparkling jewel for its combination of geology, flora, fauna… and weather.

 

September also brings a whole host of additional workshops including:

Seattle, Washington with Mike Hagen

Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (Sept 5)

Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 1 (Sept 6)

Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 2 (Sept 7)


Chicago, Illinois with Greg Stangl

Secrets of Studio and Environmental Portraiture (Sept 9-11)


Cstiglione della Pescaia, Tuscany Italy with Giuseppe Circhetta

- Glamour and Fashion Photography on Location (Sept 14-16)


Colorado Springs, CO with Winston C. Hall

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 1 (Sept 17)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (Sept 18)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 2 (Sept 19)


San Francisco, CA with Michael A. Mariant

- Timelapse Photography - Going Beyond the Basics (Sept 20-22)


Boston with Richard Hulbert

- Urban and Street Photography Workshop (Sept 26-29)


Posted by flashdeadline at 12:46 AM

August 19, 2013

Speedlight Trick #1

speedlight-trick-1_cover.pngTips and Tricks? Yes, please! Ever run into a situation where you're fairly far from a subject who is in a dim ambient setting, and there is something closer to you that will affect the flash metering? It could be a bird, a plane! a wall!?, a plant! Well, whatever it may be, guaranteed it will reflect the pre-flash pulses back to your camera, and your shot may not look as you'd have wanted it to. What do you do, you ask? Find out with this article that gives you the answer, step by step!

Posted by Ronny89 at 9:01 AM

August 14, 2013

Nikonians Academy Summer schedule heats up

Stangl_Portrait_Comp2_thu.jpg

Approaching mid-month in August, our Nikonians Academy instructors are checking their gear, organizing travel itineraries and preparing for a whirlwind of workshops and photo adventure trips in the coming weeks. 

The schedule includes Academy activities in USA, Canada, The United Kingdom and Italy.

Nikonians Academy instructor Steve Simon concludes his August workshop tour in Canada, bringing his popular Mastery courses to Victoria, BC. He'll be hosting the workshops at the Executive House Hotel, 777 Douglas Street.

Hs workshop topics include:

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (August 27)

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 1 (August 28)

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 2 (August 29)

- The Passionate Nikon Photographer Two-Day Mastery Workshop (August 30-31)

Steve's The Passionate Nikon Photographer Two-Day Mastery workshop is based on his popular book The Passionate Photographer: Ten Steps Toward Becoming Great.

Once he's finished in Canada, Steve jumps "the Big Pond" bringing his workshops to Manchester, United Kingdom, September 9-14.

Santa Barbara

HabbyCam_small_125.jpg

Meanwhile, Michael A. Mariant presents the 3-Day Video & Cinematography with your DSLR workshop in California (August 30-September 1).

Hosted by Samy's Camera in Santa Barbara, this workshop allows you to jump feet-first in the HD DSLR genre at the introductory instruction level.

Get hands-on demos with the myriad of accessory equipment available for the DSLR shooter, including follow focus, matte boxes, shoulder supports, sliders/dollies, monitors and more will be available from High Sierra Workshops for hands-on demo and also for field rental from Samy's Camera.

Aside from a DSLR camera that shoots HD video and a laptop to edit, there is no need to purchase ANY equipment in advance of the workshop!

 

Looking ahead…September

We've already mentioned Steve Simon's Manchester, UK workshops in September. He'll continue the same series in London (Sept 18-22).

Also scheduled, Nikonians Academy Director Mike Hagen will be hosting three sessions in the Seattle, Washington area.

Mike's topics include:

Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (Sept 5)

Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 1 (Sept 6)

Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 2 (Sept 7)

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During the Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 1 workshop you’ll learn how to integrate Lightroom 5 into your digital life. Mike helps you understand how to use Lightroom to import, sort, rate, edit, color correct, and make quick enhancements to your images. Then you’ll learn how to export your digital images for print, email or uploading.

In short, at the end of the day, you’ll fully understand how Lightroom 5 works and how to create stunning images from the program.

After taking this workshop, you will be well prepared for the next workshop in our series: Master Adobe Lightroom 5 In Depth 2.

This version helps you better understand the power and productivity that Lightroom offers. Learn how to develop, map and output your digital images like a pro. We’ll spend ample time helping you understand how to output your digital files for print, web and slideshows.

You’ll learn how to create your own customized workflow along with some of the best tips and tricks along the way. Our Lightroom classes are small in size so that you and Mike can work closely together for the optimum learning experience.

This workshop will focus on the advanced elements of post-processing in Lightroom so that you’ll spend less time in front of your computer correcting images and more time out taking photos.

Spotlight -- Chicago

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Master Photographer Greg Stangl will guide you through a personal journey toward becoming the portrait artist you’ve always wanted to be with his Secrets of Studio and Environmental Portraiture workshop. In this 3-day interactive series (Sept 9-11) you will be exposed to a series of lectures, slide shows, and lighting and posing demonstrations that will make your learning experience fun and meaningful. 

You will learn to pose the male and female form while also understanding how to pose couples and groups. This workshop will help you discover and develop your creativity while offering you lessons in studio, window light, and environmental portraiture.

Emphasis is placed not only on learning and understanding the material, but being able to put these lessons into practical everyday use. 

You will be exposed to various types of studio lighting as well as on-location equipment, such as the use of light reflectors and flash modifiers.

Whether you are a relative novice or a seasoned pro, you will find the workshop lessons detailed, interesting, and challenging.

Students are encouraged to create images during the class as a way to build a personal portfolio. You will be given specific portraiture assignments to complete in class in order to gain a library of images to review after the class is over. These assignments will also allow the instructor to gage your progress. The class is about 2/3 studio and classroom work and 1/3 field work.

September mid-month on:

Nikonians Academy workshops and photo adventure trips will be coming to:

Cstiglione della Pescaia, Tuscany Italy with Giuseppe Circhetta

- Glamour and Fashion Photography on Location  (Sept 14-16)

 

Colorado Springs, CO with Winston C. Hall

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 1 (Sept 17)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (Sept 18)

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 2 (Sept 19)

 

San Francisco, CA with Michael A. Mariant

- Timelapse Photography - Going Beyond the Basics  (Sept 20-22)

 

Yellowstone National Park Photo Adventure with Jim Stamates

- Yellowstone Wildlife and Landscapes - Fall 2013 (Sept 23-26)

 

Boston with Richard Hulbert

- Urban and Street Photography Workshop (Sept 26-29)

 

Jackson, Wyoming Photo Adventure with Jim Stamates

- Grand Teton Wildlife and Landscapes - Fall 2013 (Sept 30 - Oct 3)

Posted by flashdeadline at 3:01 AM

August 13, 2013

ThinkTank August Sizzler

ThinkTankaugoffer.pngOur friends at Think Tank Photo just announced a special offer for August. With this offer, when you order ANY of their highly-regarded photography backpacks you will receive FOR FREE their Camera Strap and Support Kit. This combination Camera Strap V2.0 plus Camera Support Strap shifts the weight of your camera and lens from your neck to the backpack’s frame, thus reducing stress on your neck and shoulders.

The Camera Strap V2.0 features non-slip material on both sides so the strap will not slip off the shoulder, even if the strap is upside down! Designed for less bulk and increased portability, the Camera Strap V2.0 also attaches to Think Tank backpacks by using the Camera Support Straps (included in kit). Using this kit is a convenient and comfortable way to attach one or two cameras to backpack straps - Not to mention it's worth $44.50, yours FREE, yup...Free. Snag yours, here!

Posted by Ronny89 at 12:40 PM

August 12, 2013

Auto FP High Speed Sync Explained

10.auto-fp_cover-image.pngOne of the most confusing aspects of the Nikon flash system is this thing called 'Auto FP High Speed Sync'. And before you can understand FP High Speed Sync, you first need to understand what FP means and how the Normal Flash Sync works. This article will hopefully clear up the mystery about this mode!
(Upgraded Members)

Posted by Ronny89 at 9:45 AM

August 7, 2013

HDR, Video and Mastery Classes coming up

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Nikonians Academy instructor Winston C. Hall brings his Master HDR Photography - 2-Day Workshop to Seattle/Bellevue, WA August 9-10.

You will learn to master the secrets of High Dynamic Range Photography and learn new techniques for creating amazing HDR images in this two-day workshop.

Winston brings the often confusing world of HDR Photography into an easy and manageable process that in turn opens your photographic eyes to the explosive potential that awaits you.

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Your schedule includes classroom and in-the-field instruction and begins with understanding the technical infrastructure of the HDR process, delving into the digital aspects of the methods, followed by a step-by-step explanation of how to go about creating your own HDR images.

From pre-visualization to exposure methods to post-production to the digital workflow to the evaluative comparisons between software options, this workshop explores the whole HDR phenomenon and will de-mystify the process.

 

Portland Workshops

Nikonians Academy instructor Steve Simon brings a week-long series of workshops to Portland August 12-16 and seats are still available. 

The workshops will be held at the Pro Photo Supply Event Center, 1801 NW Northrup Street, in Portland. Steve starts the week with the popular Mastering series, focusing on making sure you get to fully know and understand your camera's capabilities.

In the final two days he combines that mastery with lessons aimed to help you become a great photographer. 

His workshop topics include:

- Master the Nikon D600, D7000 & D7100 - In Depth 1 (August 12)

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 1 (August 13)

- Master the Nikon D800 and D4 - In Depth 2 (August 14)

- The Passionate Nikon Photographer Two-Day Mastery Workshop (August 15-16)

 

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Steve's The Passionate Nikon Photographer Two-Day Mastery Workshop is based on his popular book The Passionate Photographer: Ten Steps Toward Becoming Great.

This workshop helps you create a clear and concise plan of action for becoming a great photographer; maximizing your strengths and talents to move towards achieving your goals.

Steve’s presentation combines humor and poignancy as he takes you on an inspirational journey through his personal, compelling projects and those of other master photographers.

Members within range of Victoria, BC will have the opportunity to attend any of these workshops led by Steve Simon later this month (August 27-31).

 

Santa Barbara

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Rounding out the month of August, Michael A. Mariant presents the 3-Day Video & Cinematography with your DSLR workshop in California (August 30-September 1).

Hosted by Samy's Camera in Santa Barbara, this workshop allows you to jump feet-first in the HD DSLR genre at the introductory instruction level.

Get hands-on demos with the myriad of accessory equipment available for the DSLR shooter, including follow focus, matte boxes, shoulder supports, sliders/dollys, monitors and more will be available from High Sierra Workshops for hands-on demo and also for field rental from Samy's Camera.

Aside from a DSLR camera that shoots HD video and a laptop to edit, there is no need to purchase ANY equipment in advance of the workshop!

 

Posted by flashdeadline at 1:52 AM

August 6, 2013

Nikonians Photo Professors #17

Photo Professors Episode 17: This month the Photo Professors discuss Adobe Lightroom 5 and the Nikon Coolpix AW110 camera

Download Nikonians Photo Professors #17 (NPC-PP-2013-17.mp3;36:04;MP3 format)


Length of the podcast is 36:04

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Posted by richardlpaul at 5:51 AM

August 5, 2013

TTL and TTL-BL Study - Distance and Subject Positioning

9,TTL_TTL-BL_Study_cover.pngSo! You've read nearly as much theory as possible and seen some on hand workflows as to how one operates Flashes with their DSLRs. However, let's have a more practical study to see for certain how TTL and TTL-BL work with respect to the off-center subjects and distances that you use. All you Wedding Photographers out there, this is your article to read.

Posted by Ronny89 at 2:23 PM

August 1, 2013

Scheduled downtime 14-AUG-2013

We will have a scheduled 2 hour downtime for maintenance August 14th 2013. We are taking the site offline 06:00 hours GMT (02:00 AM ESTD) and expect to be online again 08:00 hours GMT (04:00 AM ESTD)

Posted by bgs at 11:56 AM