Jack Carlson Photography

Flash: It’s the final class of the year

Learn how to add just a bit of light.

My last class of this year is set for this Saturday, December 8th. It’s a seminar on flash–both on and off camera. There’s still space so if you would like to learn about this all-important photo tool, why not enroll today. After powerpoints, handouts and questions, we proceed to the outer portion of the Wonderland Express exhibit to practice. It’s all great fun and (dare I say it?) the entire morning goes by in a (you guessed it) FLASH.

As always, there are 3 Ways to Register:
1. Call 847.835.8261
2. Visit www.chicagobotanic.org/education
3. Membership and Info Desk staff are now able to take registrations during periods of relative calm.

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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.