5 Lighted trees in the Heritage Garden.

It’s that time of year once more! Holiday lights all around the garden, just waiting to be photographed. Lots of photographers are planning to join us for the Holiday Lights Workshop so we’ve opened additional sections. From 6-9pm on at least 3 evenings, we’ll be outside with cameras and tripods capturing all the color on the trees that’s made even more dramatic by the dark/black surrounding area. It’s great fun and the evening goes by in just a blink. Don’t wait–enroll soon. See the lights even on a Black Friday. To enroll, call 847.835.8261, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/adult ed, or stop at the Info Desk in the Visitor Center.

Capturing the Holiday Lights 6-9 pm

Beginner Level, Monday December 5

Intermediate Level, Thursday December 15 (Note: the 12.8 class is full)

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.

Holiday Lights Workshops Return

Bright Light and Melting Snow Shots

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

Garden & Travel Photography is Go for June 1

Beginning Digital begins back at the CBG–Saturdays in June

Butterflies and Blooms Workshop–June 21st

About Jack