Posts for: Thomas902
Jan 4, 2024 13:30:14 #
Couple of images from a recent maternity session...
And a look at workflow and a very cost effective Studio Monolight Key that paid the bills.
Enjoy!
Wishing all aboard a fabulous New Year ahead!
btw, please don't forget to change your embedded copyright from 2023 to 2024
And a look at workflow and a very cost effective Studio Monolight Key that paid the bills.
Enjoy!
Wishing all aboard a fabulous New Year ahead!
btw, please don't forget to change your embedded copyright from 2023 to 2024
Agency Fashion Model on Maternity Leave... Camera: (Nikon D810 @ f/11; 1/200; ISO: 80) (Lens: Tokina AT-X AF f2.8 50-135mm 535 DX Nikon @ 50mm)
(Download)
Silhouette of an Agency Fashion Model on Maternity Leave... Camera: (Nikon D810 @ f/18; 1/200; ISO: 80) (Lens: Tokina AT-X AF f2.8 50-135mm 535 DX Nikon @ 75mm)
(Download)
Camera RAW initial settings (Background Illumination: Paul C. Buff Alien Bee 1600 @ 35% Full Power thru a Giant Octabox) (Key: Smith-Victor Flashlite 120i Head (120 ws) at 60% Full Power))
(Download)
Control Interface on the Smith Victor Flashlite 120i Head (120 ws) bounched off PhotoGenic 28" Silver Parabolic; mounted on an Impact Aluminum Mid-Range Boom Arm; held by Paul Buff 13' Air-Cushioned Light Stand
(Download)
Dec 30, 2023 21:28:25 #
This post is an adjunct to my previous post on 12-27 Studio Photography: Christmas Eve Maternity Photoshoot with Agency Fashion Model which strangely disappeared from this Forum.
Possibly because the two images posted within same apparently offended and caused emotional trauma to another UHH member. I get this, since UHH has to uphold it's Mission Purpose? I would certainly never want to cause emotional trauma to anyone under any circumstances... Period!
Anyway I felt compelled to follow up on several genuine requests received on this initial post from long time UHH colleagues for a more in-depth look on how the imagery was created. So below are several BTS glimpses into on how the shoot happened. Hope this may answers at least some of those queries. Albeit I'm actually hoping this post doesn't meet the same fate as the initial one since the model (AD on the shoot) chose an "implied" for one of these narratives. If it offends I apologize, however it seems to have been well received on other social media sites/platforms that are a little more main stream.
With all the controversy over my previous post I realize that I may not an appropriate fit for posting in the Main Forum on UHH... As one of the very few commercial studio photographers here I believe it may be in everyone's best interest that I simply cease posting on the Main Forum altogether since Studio Photography and/or Fashion Photography obviously isn't on the Lion's share of UHH member's radar.
Of merit in my over half decade on UHH I did meet one other fabulous Commercial Studio Photographer who's work I truly admired and followed. That being a United Airlines senior pilot who's mission was providing his combat veterans with absolutely Superb Portraiture... His moniker was "Captain" and sadly he left UHH several years ago... I dearly miss him... In hindsight I now realize that maybe I possibly should do same. Besides I have way too much client work in my queue now with more pending assignments in January. No rest to the weary...
Also owing to some concern my over use of Industry generally accepted Studio & Fashion Photography terminology I'm providing a brief glossary of terms which I typically use when communicating with other colleagues without even thinking... Thus the aforementioned are for those here who may be either a tad naive on the commercial side of the image equation or the precious few that may actually be interested in working (i.e. assisting) in a commercial studio or in the commercial fashion industry.
Glossary of Terms
AD: Art Director, in responsible charge of the narrative, theme and overall direction of a shoot.
Baby's Breath Bouquet: A floral accent (typically provided by an AD on a maternity shoot)
Baby's Breath has long been used as a symbol of purity, innocence, hope, and new beginnings. For these reasons, it has been traditionally used in wedding bouquets and baby showers. In many cultures, Baby's Breath is given to new mothers for good luck, which is how this flower got its name.
BTS: Behind the Scenes (photo or video documentation of session workflow)
Call Back: Model who has been selected for a second audition.
Casting: When an Agency Booker (or Client) sends out invitations to models and their agencies to audition for a job
Cattle Call: A mass interview where hundreds of aspiring models can show up in the hopes of being discovered.
Catwalk (aka Runway): A theatrical production showcasing clothing designer's creations
Comp Card (Zed Card or Z-Card) Concise aggregate of a Model's portfolio
G&E (Grip & Electric Department) on a production set responsible for rigging, staging, moving and manipulating lights
Hair: Hair Stylist (typically are licensed Cosmetologist)
Hair Light: An overhead light that provides separation of a model's hair from background/foreground
Implied: A narrative where the model appears to be partially nude on set
Key: Main Light (source of illumination) controls the actual position of shadows within an image
Kicker: A light used to give more contrast between the background and the model. Very common setup when photographing corporate headshots.
MUA: Makeup Artist (typically hold a Makeup license in Cosmetology)
Mood Board: A compilation of photographs that represents the desired style for a photoshoot
Lighting Assistant: Analogous to G&E (see above)
Set: Actual physical location where a session is conducted.
Stops: Value or f-Stop being used by the camera (also plus/minus which indicate image exposure adjustment)
Tearsheet: A page featuring a model (or Photographer) taken from a magazine or other publication essentially proving their experience. They work as evidence that you have worked or been featured for a specific brand or publication.
Testing: Sessions with agency talent where a model (or Photographer) work pro-bono (without charge). This is commonplace within the Fashion & Beauty Genre where talent on both sides of the camera need quality imagery (as well as all team members involved). I've meet many of my team players via testing shoots... They are ubiquitous within the industry
Tethering: Real-Time monitoring of studio/location captures via a computer during a photo session
Wardrobe: Responsible for assembling the model's attire for the shoot.
Please Note: All images from the Maternity Session are the result of the Client's Mood Board which she provided on set via her IPhone. My task was simply to recreate same as best I could with the resources available. The only direction I provided was to optimize shadow dimension, density and placement within the image to create the optimum desired narrative effect.
I've also carefully avoided mention of any Vendor and/or Brand of Photographic Equipment in this post in hopes that it won't offend those who chose to establish and/or maintain their persona via the "Kit" they own. The "Fan Boy" syndrome unfortunately abounds here and elsewhere in the hobbyist photography community where Sony, Canon, Nikon and similar "Fans" cry heresy and sacrilege if you should even dare to mention let alone belong to another camp, i.e. tribe... Social group dynamics can (and often do) play heavily in the mix in on-line social forums.
Food for thought...
In the arena of Commercial Photography...
Your worth, credibility and professional reputation depend not only on your ability to create breathtaking imagery of publication quality unrivaled by your competitors but also your ability to nurture and assist in development of other aspiring talent emerging within the industry.
Possibly because the two images posted within same apparently offended and caused emotional trauma to another UHH member. I get this, since UHH has to uphold it's Mission Purpose? I would certainly never want to cause emotional trauma to anyone under any circumstances... Period!
Anyway I felt compelled to follow up on several genuine requests received on this initial post from long time UHH colleagues for a more in-depth look on how the imagery was created. So below are several BTS glimpses into on how the shoot happened. Hope this may answers at least some of those queries. Albeit I'm actually hoping this post doesn't meet the same fate as the initial one since the model (AD on the shoot) chose an "implied" for one of these narratives. If it offends I apologize, however it seems to have been well received on other social media sites/platforms that are a little more main stream.
With all the controversy over my previous post I realize that I may not an appropriate fit for posting in the Main Forum on UHH... As one of the very few commercial studio photographers here I believe it may be in everyone's best interest that I simply cease posting on the Main Forum altogether since Studio Photography and/or Fashion Photography obviously isn't on the Lion's share of UHH member's radar.
Of merit in my over half decade on UHH I did meet one other fabulous Commercial Studio Photographer who's work I truly admired and followed. That being a United Airlines senior pilot who's mission was providing his combat veterans with absolutely Superb Portraiture... His moniker was "Captain" and sadly he left UHH several years ago... I dearly miss him... In hindsight I now realize that maybe I possibly should do same. Besides I have way too much client work in my queue now with more pending assignments in January. No rest to the weary...
Also owing to some concern my over use of Industry generally accepted Studio & Fashion Photography terminology I'm providing a brief glossary of terms which I typically use when communicating with other colleagues without even thinking... Thus the aforementioned are for those here who may be either a tad naive on the commercial side of the image equation or the precious few that may actually be interested in working (i.e. assisting) in a commercial studio or in the commercial fashion industry.
Glossary of Terms
AD: Art Director, in responsible charge of the narrative, theme and overall direction of a shoot.
Baby's Breath Bouquet: A floral accent (typically provided by an AD on a maternity shoot)
Baby's Breath has long been used as a symbol of purity, innocence, hope, and new beginnings. For these reasons, it has been traditionally used in wedding bouquets and baby showers. In many cultures, Baby's Breath is given to new mothers for good luck, which is how this flower got its name.
BTS: Behind the Scenes (photo or video documentation of session workflow)
Call Back: Model who has been selected for a second audition.
Casting: When an Agency Booker (or Client) sends out invitations to models and their agencies to audition for a job
Cattle Call: A mass interview where hundreds of aspiring models can show up in the hopes of being discovered.
Catwalk (aka Runway): A theatrical production showcasing clothing designer's creations
Comp Card (Zed Card or Z-Card) Concise aggregate of a Model's portfolio
G&E (Grip & Electric Department) on a production set responsible for rigging, staging, moving and manipulating lights
Hair: Hair Stylist (typically are licensed Cosmetologist)
Hair Light: An overhead light that provides separation of a model's hair from background/foreground
Implied: A narrative where the model appears to be partially nude on set
Key: Main Light (source of illumination) controls the actual position of shadows within an image
Kicker: A light used to give more contrast between the background and the model. Very common setup when photographing corporate headshots.
MUA: Makeup Artist (typically hold a Makeup license in Cosmetology)
Mood Board: A compilation of photographs that represents the desired style for a photoshoot
Lighting Assistant: Analogous to G&E (see above)
Set: Actual physical location where a session is conducted.
Stops: Value or f-Stop being used by the camera (also plus/minus which indicate image exposure adjustment)
Tearsheet: A page featuring a model (or Photographer) taken from a magazine or other publication essentially proving their experience. They work as evidence that you have worked or been featured for a specific brand or publication.
Testing: Sessions with agency talent where a model (or Photographer) work pro-bono (without charge). This is commonplace within the Fashion & Beauty Genre where talent on both sides of the camera need quality imagery (as well as all team members involved). I've meet many of my team players via testing shoots... They are ubiquitous within the industry
Tethering: Real-Time monitoring of studio/location captures via a computer during a photo session
Wardrobe: Responsible for assembling the model's attire for the shoot.
Please Note: All images from the Maternity Session are the result of the Client's Mood Board which she provided on set via her IPhone. My task was simply to recreate same as best I could with the resources available. The only direction I provided was to optimize shadow dimension, density and placement within the image to create the optimum desired narrative effect.
I've also carefully avoided mention of any Vendor and/or Brand of Photographic Equipment in this post in hopes that it won't offend those who chose to establish and/or maintain their persona via the "Kit" they own. The "Fan Boy" syndrome unfortunately abounds here and elsewhere in the hobbyist photography community where Sony, Canon, Nikon and similar "Fans" cry heresy and sacrilege if you should even dare to mention let alone belong to another camp, i.e. tribe... Social group dynamics can (and often do) play heavily in the mix in on-line social forums.
Food for thought...
In the arena of Commercial Photography...
Your worth, credibility and professional reputation depend not only on your ability to create breathtaking imagery of publication quality unrivaled by your competitors but also your ability to nurture and assist in development of other aspiring talent emerging within the industry.
Camera Raw for the Initial 12-27 imagery
(Download)
Camera Raw for Lens Profile (High Key Silhouette)... Baby's Breath Bouquet with Giant Octa 2 stops over
(Download)
(High Key Silhouette)... Baby's Breath Bouquet
(Download)
Lifestyle Maternity session with Baby's Breath Bouquet floral accent
(Download)
Dec 28, 2023 18:22:03 #
Thank you so much for your very kind words Bubbee...
And those wonderfully enchanting renderings of your great grandchildren which totally made my day!
Assume this is "Baby Leo"? from your Oct 30, 2021 post?
I've always held dear that the greatest gift I've ever received is my son which is the most precious present his mom ever gave me... He has been the absolute Center of my Universe for the past 54 years!
Loving the Little Leo "Rock Star Image" working out on his acoustical six string... His large charismatic sparkling eyes are absolutely captivating! He's an amazing young man and I assume he has already captured the hearts of those who have viewed your lovely photos here... (Your Z50 rocks!)
Child Portraiture has always been a favorite genre of mine...
And I'm growing even more fond of it as I reach my "golden years"
An interesting aside is the Fashion Model in this Maternity Shoot (an ICU Nurse) has many patients who are nearing the end of their journeys... More then a few have shared with her that the thing they regretted most of all in their lives was not having children... She mentioned that this played into the mix in her wanting to start her own family...
btw, this is her first pregnancy and she's so super excited to bring her son into the world...
Again many thanks Bubbee!
Wishing you an Epic New Year ahead especially with your absolutely adorable Great Grandchildren...
And those wonderfully enchanting renderings of your great grandchildren which totally made my day!
Assume this is "Baby Leo"? from your Oct 30, 2021 post?
I've always held dear that the greatest gift I've ever received is my son which is the most precious present his mom ever gave me... He has been the absolute Center of my Universe for the past 54 years!
Loving the Little Leo "Rock Star Image" working out on his acoustical six string... His large charismatic sparkling eyes are absolutely captivating! He's an amazing young man and I assume he has already captured the hearts of those who have viewed your lovely photos here... (Your Z50 rocks!)
Child Portraiture has always been a favorite genre of mine...
And I'm growing even more fond of it as I reach my "golden years"
An interesting aside is the Fashion Model in this Maternity Shoot (an ICU Nurse) has many patients who are nearing the end of their journeys... More then a few have shared with her that the thing they regretted most of all in their lives was not having children... She mentioned that this played into the mix in her wanting to start her own family...
btw, this is her first pregnancy and she's so super excited to bring her son into the world...
Again many thanks Bubbee!
Wishing you an Epic New Year ahead especially with your absolutely adorable Great Grandchildren...
Dec 27, 2023 23:44:17 #
Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback dancers...
I attempted to send you a link to the Model's IG account where you could review over 100 "Likes" and feedback she received when she posted these images but sadly you have blocked me on UHH...
Albeit I'll let her know that she possibly doesn't meet the mores, customs, and norms of behaviors that are acceptable to the society of Melbourne Victoria, Australia...
btw, she is an ICU Registered Nurse at her local hospital... And is still at work as I post this...
Yes she works 12 shifts in the Intensive Care Ward where there is zero tolerance of error...
What do you call someone who saves a life? A Hero!
"What do you call someone who saves a hundred lives? An ICU Nurse...
btw dancer she is going to have a Natural Delivery primarily because epidurals dull "feeling" of the contractions so a women won't know precisely when and how hard to push her baby out... Besides all analgesic and anaesthetic drugs are lipid soluble and will cross the placenta and can slow the baby's fetal heart rate.
Of merit in the UK and Australia nitrous oxide is a widely used inhaled anesthetic that doesn't adversely effect the baby... Albeit it isn't nearly as effective in reducing pain...
Wishing your much Joy over this Holiday Season dancer and much success in the New Year ahead!
Cheers! Thomas
I attempted to send you a link to the Model's IG account where you could review over 100 "Likes" and feedback she received when she posted these images but sadly you have blocked me on UHH...
Albeit I'll let her know that she possibly doesn't meet the mores, customs, and norms of behaviors that are acceptable to the society of Melbourne Victoria, Australia...
btw, she is an ICU Registered Nurse at her local hospital... And is still at work as I post this...
Yes she works 12 shifts in the Intensive Care Ward where there is zero tolerance of error...
What do you call someone who saves a life? A Hero!
"What do you call someone who saves a hundred lives? An ICU Nurse...
btw dancer she is going to have a Natural Delivery primarily because epidurals dull "feeling" of the contractions so a women won't know precisely when and how hard to push her baby out... Besides all analgesic and anaesthetic drugs are lipid soluble and will cross the placenta and can slow the baby's fetal heart rate.
Of merit in the UK and Australia nitrous oxide is a widely used inhaled anesthetic that doesn't adversely effect the baby... Albeit it isn't nearly as effective in reducing pain...
Wishing your much Joy over this Holiday Season dancer and much success in the New Year ahead!
Cheers! Thomas
Dec 27, 2023 23:10:29 #
Thank you so much for your very kind words and support Bill_de...
They are truly appreciated! btw, totally love the collection of your work posted on NIKON IMAGE SPACE
They are truly appreciated! btw, totally love the collection of your work posted on NIKON IMAGE SPACE
Dec 27, 2023 23:00:04 #
"What's an "AD"? the Art Director Longshadow
"The art director is the head honcho of the shoot. They figure out the overall visual direction of a shoot and how to execute that vision with the team and resources they have. The art director is responsible for communicating the vision to the team and managing the team."
"Art directors are a crucial part of a design team. They inspire and guide the vision of the design team, oversee the work of illustrators, graphic/visual designers, photographers, and others who are engaged in artwork or layout design."
Since this highly experienced Agency Fashion Model is indeed the client on the session as well as the Art Director her vision is paramount to the ultimate outcome of the deliverables.
Hope this helps Longshadow or at least brought some clarity to the narrative provided...
Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback...
"The art director is the head honcho of the shoot. They figure out the overall visual direction of a shoot and how to execute that vision with the team and resources they have. The art director is responsible for communicating the vision to the team and managing the team."
"Art directors are a crucial part of a design team. They inspire and guide the vision of the design team, oversee the work of illustrators, graphic/visual designers, photographers, and others who are engaged in artwork or layout design."
Since this highly experienced Agency Fashion Model is indeed the client on the session as well as the Art Director her vision is paramount to the ultimate outcome of the deliverables.
Hope this helps Longshadow or at least brought some clarity to the narrative provided...
Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback...
Dec 27, 2023 19:57:44 #
Kit Used:
Paul Buff Alien Bee 1600; Paul Buff 60” Foldable Octabox; Pro-Elite Bike Repair Stand; Paul Buff Cybersync Transmitter/Receiver; Smith Victor FLASHLITE 120i MONOLIGHT; Paul Buff 13' Air-Cushioned Light Stand; Impact Aluminum Mid-Range Boom Arm; Tokina AT-X AF f2.8 50-135mm 535 DX for Nikon; Nikon D810; Induro GHB1 Gimbal Head; Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod
Lighting Gear Notes:
The Paul Buff 60” Foldable Octabox with Alien Bee 1600 is mounted on the Pro-Elite Bicycle Repair Stand (modified to hold Lighting Accessories (Load rating: 75 lbs))
The Smith Victor FLASHLITE 120i MONOLIGHT with PhotoGenic 28" Silver Parabolic is mounted on an Impact Aluminum Mid-Range Boom Arm which is mounted on the Paul Buff 13' Air-Cushioned Light Stand
This aforementioned "Kit Listing" is embedded in the .jpg file for posting on flickr where they are parsed out as "TAGS" same with IG where they are again added as "Image Tags"
This Maternity Session was shot several days ago... 12/24 (8 hours including prep and wardrobe changes)
The Model was the AD on the Shoot and managed Wardrobe
Her significant other was the lighting assistant
Both were absolutely critical for a successful outcome in as there is no way I would attempt this solo.
The greatest challenged was by far Illumination...
It took several days to setup and balance illumination
I used a Nikon D300s with an AF-S 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR-II DX Nikkor for that task (the D300s is pretty much identical to the D810 in required features & controls) and with the VR-II the Gimbal Mount was redundant i.e. only used for the actual session shoot.
Please realize that nearly all my Kit is either Refurbished or Previously Owned. What I'm sharing with you here is there actually is a relatively low barrier to entry for Studio Scenarios. In my experience as a commercial makeup artist on many many commercial jobs the greatest challenge to a DYI home studio are 11 foot ceilings. This is critical for working with 5'11" fashion models who can't do vertical narratives (jumps etc.) even without arms raised. Albeit I can Beauty Genre work with a typical 8' ceiling (however for serious Beauty Genre a Hair Light is Critical to the mix and thus requires at least 10' ceilings)
Posted Below is the AD's first pick... Delivered in 24 hours... another dozen to go (at a more civilized rate)
If you are serious about shooting commercial assignments you'll likely need a Studio (they are readily available in nearly all major Metro areas) many even have rental kit available also. However to master studio illumination by renting studio space is akin to taking an Uber for a cross-country vacation... a.k.a. It is very time intensive...
Hope this helps or is at least food for thought...
Wishing all a fabulous Holiday Season and an Epic successful Photographic Journey in the New Year ahead!
Cheers! Thomas
Paul Buff Alien Bee 1600; Paul Buff 60” Foldable Octabox; Pro-Elite Bike Repair Stand; Paul Buff Cybersync Transmitter/Receiver; Smith Victor FLASHLITE 120i MONOLIGHT; Paul Buff 13' Air-Cushioned Light Stand; Impact Aluminum Mid-Range Boom Arm; Tokina AT-X AF f2.8 50-135mm 535 DX for Nikon; Nikon D810; Induro GHB1 Gimbal Head; Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod
Lighting Gear Notes:
The Paul Buff 60” Foldable Octabox with Alien Bee 1600 is mounted on the Pro-Elite Bicycle Repair Stand (modified to hold Lighting Accessories (Load rating: 75 lbs))
The Smith Victor FLASHLITE 120i MONOLIGHT with PhotoGenic 28" Silver Parabolic is mounted on an Impact Aluminum Mid-Range Boom Arm which is mounted on the Paul Buff 13' Air-Cushioned Light Stand
This aforementioned "Kit Listing" is embedded in the .jpg file for posting on flickr where they are parsed out as "TAGS" same with IG where they are again added as "Image Tags"
This Maternity Session was shot several days ago... 12/24 (8 hours including prep and wardrobe changes)
The Model was the AD on the Shoot and managed Wardrobe
Her significant other was the lighting assistant
Both were absolutely critical for a successful outcome in as there is no way I would attempt this solo.
The greatest challenged was by far Illumination...
It took several days to setup and balance illumination
I used a Nikon D300s with an AF-S 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR-II DX Nikkor for that task (the D300s is pretty much identical to the D810 in required features & controls) and with the VR-II the Gimbal Mount was redundant i.e. only used for the actual session shoot.
Please realize that nearly all my Kit is either Refurbished or Previously Owned. What I'm sharing with you here is there actually is a relatively low barrier to entry for Studio Scenarios. In my experience as a commercial makeup artist on many many commercial jobs the greatest challenge to a DYI home studio are 11 foot ceilings. This is critical for working with 5'11" fashion models who can't do vertical narratives (jumps etc.) even without arms raised. Albeit I can Beauty Genre work with a typical 8' ceiling (however for serious Beauty Genre a Hair Light is Critical to the mix and thus requires at least 10' ceilings)
Posted Below is the AD's first pick... Delivered in 24 hours... another dozen to go (at a more civilized rate)
If you are serious about shooting commercial assignments you'll likely need a Studio (they are readily available in nearly all major Metro areas) many even have rental kit available also. However to master studio illumination by renting studio space is akin to taking an Uber for a cross-country vacation... a.k.a. It is very time intensive...
Hope this helps or is at least food for thought...
Wishing all a fabulous Holiday Season and an Epic successful Photographic Journey in the New Year ahead!
Cheers! Thomas
Dec 26, 2023 13:01:38 #
Thank you very much Bill Burkholder for sharing your White Paper...
You, kind sir, are one of few reason's I even bother to check into UHH anymore...
And yes I concur that transparency copy via camera is indeed expedient and cost effective.
Besides I had a high value transparency damaged by a clueless commercial scanning service... Never again...
Wishing you much Joy and Continued Success on your career journey Bill.
btw, had to smile at your comments on the younger generation's mindset.
Working with many brilliant young aspiring fashion & beauty models who's enthusiasm is a priceless and precises gift in itself which keeps me keenly focused and on an even keel...
Team synergy latent on a commercial fashion/beauty set is an amazing thing, which likely so very few are actually aware of... each player from a multitude of disciplines bring there own expertise to the mix...
Cheers! and happy Holidays to all who practice in the Art and Craft of photography
You, kind sir, are one of few reason's I even bother to check into UHH anymore...
And yes I concur that transparency copy via camera is indeed expedient and cost effective.
Besides I had a high value transparency damaged by a clueless commercial scanning service... Never again...
Wishing you much Joy and Continued Success on your career journey Bill.
btw, had to smile at your comments on the younger generation's mindset.
Working with many brilliant young aspiring fashion & beauty models who's enthusiasm is a priceless and precises gift in itself which keeps me keenly focused and on an even keel...
Team synergy latent on a commercial fashion/beauty set is an amazing thing, which likely so very few are actually aware of... each player from a multitude of disciplines bring there own expertise to the mix...
Cheers! and happy Holidays to all who practice in the Art and Craft of photography
Dec 22, 2023 13:34:18 #
"...use manual settings ... Is this practical for flash photos? " rorsborn the Lion's share of my commercial assignments are via Studio... virtually all are with flash (strobes, speedlites etc.) Since the resulting images meet and/or exceed client expectations.... So yes manual flash setting are indeed "Practical" for me since flash pays the bills... Albeit others may (and often do) have other outcomes...
My honest and sincere advice here is to purchase an Incident and Reflective Light Meter...
Here is a Sekonic L-308S which is the same model I've been using for over a decade that recently sold on UHH for $100. I personally highly recommend it...
To validate this recommendation please see the image below which PhotoVOGUE Italia recently selected for publication on their Web Portal... btw this image was made "practical" by use of a Sekonic L-308S light meter, an Agency Model and a very hungry Hummingbird...
Maybe ask those who respond to your query to show examples of their images using what they are suggesting.
You may be amazed at the magnitude of silence that follows.
Wishing you much Joy and Success on your photographic journey rorsborn
My honest and sincere advice here is to purchase an Incident and Reflective Light Meter...
Here is a Sekonic L-308S which is the same model I've been using for over a decade that recently sold on UHH for $100. I personally highly recommend it...
To validate this recommendation please see the image below which PhotoVOGUE Italia recently selected for publication on their Web Portal... btw this image was made "practical" by use of a Sekonic L-308S light meter, an Agency Model and a very hungry Hummingbird...
Maybe ask those who respond to your query to show examples of their images using what they are suggesting.
You may be amazed at the magnitude of silence that follows.
Wishing you much Joy and Success on your photographic journey rorsborn
Dec 21, 2023 14:00:16 #
Such a compelling sequel to your endearing Travelin' rendering joel...
You are indeed a master of "Street" genre...
I totally get this, albeit seems that it may possibly have fallen on fallow soil here...
In the Spirit of Dorothea Lange's iconic image of Florence Owens Thompson i.e. her immortal (Migrant Mother) which opened America's eyes to the plight of those caught up in the throws of the Great Depression
Having been been there... It is such a long arduous climb back up to any semblance of normalcy...
Again thank you so much for sharing the poignant latent beauty of your Craft Joel.
Wishing you much continued you success with your noble mission...
And much Joy on your journey Joel...
Cheers! Thomas
You are indeed a master of "Street" genre...
I totally get this, albeit seems that it may possibly have fallen on fallow soil here...
In the Spirit of Dorothea Lange's iconic image of Florence Owens Thompson i.e. her immortal (Migrant Mother) which opened America's eyes to the plight of those caught up in the throws of the Great Depression
Having been been there... It is such a long arduous climb back up to any semblance of normalcy...
Again thank you so much for sharing the poignant latent beauty of your Craft Joel.
Wishing you much continued you success with your noble mission...
And much Joy on your journey Joel...
Cheers! Thomas
Dec 19, 2023 11:47:11 #
OMG! The entire collaborative is SMILING! And not a single set of closed eyes!!!
You're bless EJMcD... And yes Hallmark's Key Words "happy fact that we're part of each other's lives" are so very apropos here...
Splendid Flash Photography of such a charismatic Family Gathering!
Thank you so much for sharing the Joy of this Holiday Season...
You're bless EJMcD... And yes Hallmark's Key Words "happy fact that we're part of each other's lives" are so very apropos here...
Splendid Flash Photography of such a charismatic Family Gathering!
Thank you so much for sharing the Joy of this Holiday Season...
Dec 19, 2023 11:40:11 #
EJMcD I'm with Eddy Shapiro, one of the last few remaining Commercial Photographers left on UHH...
Sadly virtually all inferences about Kit posted on UHH is sans validation in the form of imagery...
The Lion's share of said inferences are only comprised of regurgitated Vendor Hype...
In regard to that below are two images taken with Flash...
The first with a cluster of 4 Nikon SB-910 clones (SHANNY SN600SN) which has the same build quality as Nikon's SB-910 (btw the Nikon SB-910 is made in Japan not off-shore like the Nikon SB-700) and has extensive documentation as well... this cluster of Speedlights was through a 78 inch parabolic high above and in front of the Agency represented Fashion Model.
The second was with the built in flash on a Nikon D7200, yep if you know how to use a built in Flash it can (and does) pay the bills...
That said the major difference here is I validate with appropriate imagery... Enough said...
Wishing you much Joy and Success with your Nikon SB-910 moving forward...
btw, Loving your Christmas Grandchildren Group Rendering...
Simply Stellar Flash Photography EJMcD!
Cheers! Thomas
Sadly virtually all inferences about Kit posted on UHH is sans validation in the form of imagery...
The Lion's share of said inferences are only comprised of regurgitated Vendor Hype...
In regard to that below are two images taken with Flash...
The first with a cluster of 4 Nikon SB-910 clones (SHANNY SN600SN) which has the same build quality as Nikon's SB-910 (btw the Nikon SB-910 is made in Japan not off-shore like the Nikon SB-700) and has extensive documentation as well... this cluster of Speedlights was through a 78 inch parabolic high above and in front of the Agency represented Fashion Model.
The second was with the built in flash on a Nikon D7200, yep if you know how to use a built in Flash it can (and does) pay the bills...
That said the major difference here is I validate with appropriate imagery... Enough said...
Wishing you much Joy and Success with your Nikon SB-910 moving forward...
btw, Loving your Christmas Grandchildren Group Rendering...
Simply Stellar Flash Photography EJMcD!
Cheers! Thomas
Dec 17, 2023 17:57:50 #
"...I owned an A6500 and A7III and made great shots with them..." Gerald please share those "Great Shots" k?
I had to winnow through hundreds of your recent posts to find an Image you claim to have taken.
https://static.uglyhedgehog.com/upload/nt/2018/11/13/660252-_lee_marvel_comics_2_777_2.jpg
Please post more © images to validate your credentials for the benefit of UHH members...
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of the aforementioned Gerald...
btw, UHH is a Photography Portal... Let's see your photography Gerald... I and possibly others would seriously love to see how you personally deploy all this magnificent Kit you constantly rave about...
Wishing you all the best with your photographic image captures...
And have a fabulous holiday season Gerald... Cheers! Thomas
I had to winnow through hundreds of your recent posts to find an Image you claim to have taken.
https://static.uglyhedgehog.com/upload/nt/2018/11/13/660252-_lee_marvel_comics_2_777_2.jpg
Please post more © images to validate your credentials for the benefit of UHH members...
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of the aforementioned Gerald...
btw, UHH is a Photography Portal... Let's see your photography Gerald... I and possibly others would seriously love to see how you personally deploy all this magnificent Kit you constantly rave about...
Wishing you all the best with your photographic image captures...
And have a fabulous holiday season Gerald... Cheers! Thomas
Dec 17, 2023 11:23:06 #
Ron totally love your stellar capture on an Osprey in flight with your Nikon D300 and a 70-300mm lens...
Stands in Epic Testimony that for a Working Pro it's the skill and artistic vision of the Photographer that truly matters...
Wishing you a rapid full recovery from your current medical issues Ron and excellent health moving forward...
Cheers! Thomas
Stands in Epic Testimony that for a Working Pro it's the skill and artistic vision of the Photographer that truly matters...
Wishing you a rapid full recovery from your current medical issues Ron and excellent health moving forward...
Cheers! Thomas
Dec 15, 2023 11:12:45 #
Thank you so much for your very kind words Real Nikon Lover (Jim E.) and delder on my posts in this thread... They are truly appreciated. Believe we all are on the same page here...
btw, I believe the OP (bobforman) could use a little help right now...
He just responded "...Do you have the original packaging for the camera?" to this post
"Nikon Z gear for sale...all pristine condition recently purchased" today (12-15-2023)
There is likely hope here since Bob has UHH Feedback: (4, positive 100.0%)
So I honestly believe Bob is trying to mitigate his accumulation of excessive "Kit"
Personally I now only purchase Kit to meet and or exceed a client's expectations.
This has worked well for me... And I deeply appreciate UHH's Members Buy/Sell/Trade -- Classifieds since it allows one to winnow and ferret through potential buyer's post and quickly eliminate Dealers who are only interested in "turning a trick" and have zero interest in the Art and Craft of Photography.
We seriously need more UHH active members dedicated to creating Image Excellence and post their work to validate their inferences in the Main Forum which sadly is now becoming overrun with "Arm Chair" photographers who post few if any images on UHH...
Owing to the aforementioned I now truly enjoy the stellar work of Gifted Photographers on flickr.
There one can find many who work at the Zenith of our Craft and their posts are truly inspirational...
Wishing all here much Joy and Happiness on your Photographic Journey
Cheers! Thomas
btw, I believe the OP (bobforman) could use a little help right now...
He just responded "...Do you have the original packaging for the camera?" to this post
"Nikon Z gear for sale...all pristine condition recently purchased" today (12-15-2023)
There is likely hope here since Bob has UHH Feedback: (4, positive 100.0%)
So I honestly believe Bob is trying to mitigate his accumulation of excessive "Kit"
Personally I now only purchase Kit to meet and or exceed a client's expectations.
This has worked well for me... And I deeply appreciate UHH's Members Buy/Sell/Trade -- Classifieds since it allows one to winnow and ferret through potential buyer's post and quickly eliminate Dealers who are only interested in "turning a trick" and have zero interest in the Art and Craft of Photography.
We seriously need more UHH active members dedicated to creating Image Excellence and post their work to validate their inferences in the Main Forum which sadly is now becoming overrun with "Arm Chair" photographers who post few if any images on UHH...
Owing to the aforementioned I now truly enjoy the stellar work of Gifted Photographers on flickr.
There one can find many who work at the Zenith of our Craft and their posts are truly inspirational...
Wishing all here much Joy and Happiness on your Photographic Journey
Cheers! Thomas