Jack Carlson Photography

NEW! Photographing Wonderland Express

Here’s a new opportunity to capture stunning images of  Wonderland Express trains before the exhibition opens to the public! Traveling through Chicago landmarks from Wrigley Field to Marina City and beyond, this G-Scale train layout symbolizes the holiday season.  This is the only class permitted to use tripods and flash. Join us on Sunday, December 4, or Wednesday, December 14 from 7 – 10 am. To enroll, call 847.835.8261 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org/adulted. You can also register at the Information Desk in the Visitor Center.

One of the many trains in the Wonderland Express.

One of the many trains in the Wonderland Express.

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Weekly Photo Tip

Just because you’ve filled the frame…

Too much light reduces interest. Like here.

There’s more to think about than just finding a frame-filling flower or any subject for that matter. Yes, I filled the frame by using a 190mm focal length, with an aperture of f8 (what else?) at 1/10 of a second shutter speed. Yes, the ISO was dialed down low (ISO 64) and the camera was on a tripod. So after having thought about all of that, why is this picture not a keeper? Because I didn’t check the light level that was bouncing off the flower so it’s really too hot (aka bright). Use the live view setting on your camera to assess the light, then dial it down if/when it’s too bright. Like here. See–Think–Act.

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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.