Jack Carlson Photography

A fine autumn time at Volo Bog

 

Class learning about the heart of the bog.

The gold tamarack trees were certainly looking good when our class visited Volo Bog during our annual class trip on November 7th. The day began with commentary (from you-know-who) and some powerpoints. Our guided tour began at 10 am and lasted some 90 minutes. Students waited patiently for a turn a the rail to photograph the heart of the bog.

Photographers in action at the heart of the bog.

After a byo lunch, students were free to re-visit the bog on the floating walkways or explore the area around the quaking bog by hiking one of the trails. I have it on good authority that everyone enjoyed the day. Special thanks go to Mary, the IDNR seasonal specialist for sharing her in-depth knowledge of the bog and surrounding area.

Students pause for a group photo after the tour.

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Weekly Photo Tip

The earlier, the better for soft light

Soft light, f20 @ 1/800, 180mm focal length

There was more light than heat outside the Camera Clubhouse yesterday morning which made a perfect setting for some close-up flower pictures. I decided that an ISO of 400 would work well–especially in the shaded areas–and provide hand-holding shutter speeds. That plan worked quite well with only a few images that needed to be tossed into the garbage can. I had enough time to consider the options for camera settings which were mainly focal length and aperture. You’ll remember that these are the two controls that control both image sharpness and background blur. White Balance is only for changing the color from the light source so I set the full sun mode and forgot about it even when shooting into shaded areas. The images surrounding this article are from the morning shoot. Here’s my advice when the sun is out: Get UP and Get OUT with your camera. On days when the sun sleeps in, Get UP and Get OUT to find locations that are good shooting spots on sunny days.

This is more inclusive. F11 @1/250, 70mm focal length.

Be more inclusive. f11@1/400, 122mm focal length.

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About Jack

A classically trained musician since childhood, Jack Carlson always had the “ear” of an artist. It was only a short step to develop the artist’s “eye” as well.

The portfolio of this certified photographer reveals images that emphasize mood and composition. Their purpose is to present a feeling in addition to portrayal of person, place or thing. Sometimes that feeling is nostalgia; other times it is serenity.

Each photograph tells a story.