Jack Carlson Photography

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Photography
  • Classes
  • DIY Challenge
  • Tips
  • Contact

Two ways to Zoom

April 7, 2025

YES, there are two ways to control the size of the subject in an image: 1.  Optically by zooming the lens or 2. Physically by moving the camera (and yourself). I used both methods just yesterday when I rediscovered these flowers growing around and under a conifer in the front garden here at the Camera Clubhouse. Read the new Photo Tip in that section of this site. Hopefully, you’ll get up and get out on days that have sun and those that don’t. Days without sun are perfect for scouting out locations that will be good for a photo shoot when the light level increases. After all, shadows and angles add interest to any image. Soft light is also and always your photo friend so increase the ISO just a bit to ensure a hand-holding shutter speed that’s right for you and the lens you’re using at that moment. Remember to See–Think–Act for keeper images.

A bit of sunlight makes everyone (and thing) happy!

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Weekly Photo Tip

Filters can make a difference

18mm, f8 @ 1/30, no filter

18mm, f8 @ 1/80 with 3-stop ND Grad

I received a 3-stop, soft-edge ND grad filter from the Camera Clubhouse cats. They decided to purchase from Breakthrough Photography since I mentioned that one of my students brought Breakthrough Filters to a recent class and, on inspection, the filters seemed to be very well made. An ND Grad filter starts dark and fades to clear so the placement of the dark portion is determined by both the bright part of the scene and the photographer. This filter made quite a difference in holding down the sun in the upper part of the image. Check out the “no-filter” image and ND Grad image. The difference will amaze you. Please note: I have no affiliation with Breakthrough Photography and chose them only based on student referral. 

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

Feb 15
8:00 am - 11:00 am

The Orchid Show class begins Feb. 15 at 8am

Feb 25
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Composition in Landscape Photography (2.25-3.25)

View Calendar

ALL PHOTOS Copyright © 2012 - 2026 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED · Website by With A Voice Like This