Jack Carlson Photography

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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

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.

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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