Jack Carlson Photography

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December: Holiday Lights Time

December 4, 2022

200mm, F2.8 @ 1/3, manual focus w/full blur.

I’ve been thinking about how to capture images of this season when there is no snow. Since moving to a less or no snow zip code isn’t about to happen, what’s to do, I wondered. Hoping to find inspiration in my image library, I began to scroll through a few hundred images. I’ve always been meaning to arrange the images by season, but it’s yet to happen. So here’s the answer: Look for colored lights of any size. Then, fill the camera’s frame with them either optically (by zooming in) or physically moving the camera, tripod and yourself. Once you’ve done that, use manual focus to blur the lights and the largest aperture your lens has. A cheap, yet pretty cool effect is to zoom the lens while pushing the shutter release button. There’s a distinct difference between the images that’s determined by which end of the zoom range you start with. The first time you look at a successful image, it’s rather like the first time you captured a sun-star, and a congratulatory smile will almost magically light up your face. Don’t ask me how I know.

Another way a zoom lens is your friend.

My classes resume in January so there will be time to add more assorted photo info to the site. Send a note with questions, comments and your images whenever you can. I DO enjoy them.

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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.

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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.

Upcoming Classes

Apr 15
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Documenting Nature at the CBG –5 Saturdays– Starts April 15

Apr 15
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Garden & Travel Photography is Go for June 1

Jun 3
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Beginning Digital begins back at the CBG–Saturdays in June

Jun 21
8:00 am - 10:00 am

Butterflies and Blooms Workshop–June 21st

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