Jack Carlson Photography

Autumn Photo Workshop at Mettawa Manor

Mettawa Manor and the Kurtis Conservation Foundation (KCF) has invited the Chicago Botanic Garden to offer courses set on the extensive grounds of the Foundation and at Mettawa Manor and Gardens. Built in 1927 and now the part-time residence of Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra, KCF and Mettawa Manor offers 75 acres of land with formal gardens, woodlands, ponds and prairie.  Photo students are actually spoiled-for-choice of subjects due to the ponds, vegetable and flower gardens in addition to the manor house itself. What an honor it is to again have been selected as one of only 5 courses to be offered at this dramatic setting!Mettawa-Autumn Color 2279

The Autumn Photo Workshop at Mettawa Manor is a one-day offering, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m on Wednesday, October 2.  Lunch is included in the registration fee.  Register early because class enrollment is limited to 10 students.

A map to Mettawa Manor will be sent to registered students in advance of the class.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Weekly Photo Tip

Bright Light and Melting Snow Shots

Don’t leaf good subjects in the snow.

Even though it may be melting, the snow that’s still around the Carlson Camera Clubhouse is acting like a giant white board when it comes to reflecting light. When set to either A (or Av) or S (Tv), the camera’s light meter may want to shut down a bit since it’s only goal is to even out the light in any scene. If your snow shots are looking a bit gray they are either (very) old monochrome snaps or under-exposed newer images. What’s to do? Remember your old friend , the exposure compensation setting. You may be lucky enough to have a +/- button on the camera body which you can press then turn the thumb wheel to add or subtract light in 1/3 stop increments. If no button, look for light or exposure adjustments in the camera’s menu where you can find, then change the light level.

Remember this old bromide: When it’s bright, Add Light. No, I didn’t come up with that line, but I continue to perpetuate its use. You should, too.              

Also, remember to shoot BEFORE action happens to capture movement in the frame. Once you see it, then push the button, it’s too late.

Shoot before you see it drop.

Read more tips

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *