Jack Carlson Photography

Natural Light Class is GO on April 21

Soft light is one of the many levels we'll explore

Soft light is one of the many levels we’ll explore

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where flash photography is not allowed? Could artificial light disturb the honesty of a photo?

This 4-week class will explore various ways to capture an image in all types of light levels. We’ll also learn techniques that use natural light from available sources to be able to capture realistic and untouched images. Great fun will be had by all photographic students, even before we get to Browniefest.

Some places are still available, but don’t wait too long.
To Register call 847.835.8261 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org/adult ed/photography

Photographing in Natural Light

April 21 – May 12 (4 Thursdays) 9-12noon

Filed Under: Uncategorized

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.