Jack Carlson Photography

Great news: Natural Light and Intermediate classes are GO!

WOOHOO! They’re both running!

I’ve just received notice from the CBG school staff that these two classes have reached the MTR numbers (Minimum to Run) for enrollment. Either way, why not join us? There’s always plenty of photo phun. Visit www.chicagobotanic.org/adulted then scroll down to photography and you’ll see these classes. Hope to see YOU in at least one of them!

02/01/2023 9:00 AM
Photographing in Natural Light
Plant Science Lab – Regenstein Center
This class meets in person on Wednesday mornings (9-12 noon) at the Chicago Botanic Garden
02/02/2023 6:30 PM
Intermediate Digital Photography: Online
Online Course 2-Zoom

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Weekly Photo Tip

Wondering if you need a tripod? Don’t be lazy.

Magnus the Camera Clubhouse cat deciding whether to help re-pack Christmas decorations.

I had 2 shots remaining on the roll of Tri-X 120 black/white film. Magnus, the Carlson Camera Clubhouse Cat was hanging out on the table as I was about to dismantle the Christmas tree. What a perfect time for an impromptu portrait session. The camera’s built-in flash was just high enough so that the light output didn’t get directly into his eyes, but was reflected by the lights on the tree. The cat is actually much sharper in reality than he may appear to you in this scan of the print. A tripod could have helped here and I do own several of them but the clubhouse floor was covered with boxes so making a trip to get one of those 3-legged camera supports just didn’t seem worth the time and effort. 

As I’ve written countless times, a tripod is your friend. Please remember that when you’re about to be overcome by laziness.

The camera I used for the shot of Magnus

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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.