Jack Carlson Photography

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Macro Seminar is GO for this Sunday, June 27 at CBG

June 22, 2021

Macro Seminar: Frame-filling fun.

Yes, you read that right. The June 27 Macro Seminar is go at the Chicago Botanic Garden. We will meet at 9 am in Classroom 4 of the Learning Center. Park in Lot 5 or 6, then walk over to the building. Don’t go thru the Visitor Center or you’ll miss us.  What follows are some FAQs that should answer most, if not all of your questions. To register for this fun-filled one-off seminar, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/adulted. Then scroll down to photography.

 FAQ’s

Q:  Will I need a tripod for the seminar?

A:  A tripod will not be 100% necessary but bring yours if you have one .

Q: I have other lenses in addition to a macro. Shall I bring them?

A:  Yes—they will be good for comparing image sizes.

Q: My lens says “macro” but I’m not convinced that it is. Will it work for close-ups?

A:  Bring the lens to class. The definition of “macro” and close-up have changed.

Q:  Can I use close-up filters or extension tubes instead of a macro lens?

A:  Certainly! Bring them to class.

Q: What are close-up filters and extension tubes?

A: You’ll find out on Sunday, June 27.

Q: Will I receive information on which macro lens I should consider purchasing?

A: Yes.

Q: I would like to purchase a macro lens. How much should I spend?

A:  That decision can be made only by you and your banker. Especially if you don’t live alone.

 

 

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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.

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.

Upcoming Classes

May 15
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Water and Reflections Returns May 15-June 5

Jun 9
8:00 am - 10:00 am

Photographing Butterflies and Blooms, Monday June 9, One Day only

Jun 29
8:00 am - 11:00 am

Photographing the Rose Garden on Sunday, June 29

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