Jack Carlson Photography

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Use the right lens for the scene

April 12, 2022

 

Program cover sums it up.

As a fan of old-time radio, I just had to go the the 50th Anniversary (plus 2) for Those Were the Days, the currant program that broadcasts radio shows each Saturday afternoon. I knew that cameras would (surprisingly!) be allowed so I left the camera clubhouse with a camera, 2 lenses, several batteries and memory cards.

ISO 800, f2.8 @ 320, 200mm focal length

There were no reserved seats so I arrived early enough to find a seat on the aisle in row 4. Perfect chance to try the new lens and the distance to the stage was just right for the 70-200 focal length. No flash was permitted so shooting at either f 2.8 or f3.5 worked out at ISO 800. Here’s what determined the lens I used: bright stage lighting = no really dialed up ISO, moderate camera to subject(s) distance = 200 max focal length, no available camera support = Vibration Reduction lens.

Some radio actors with scripts. ISO 800, 102mm, f2.8 @ 30.

Since this was a celebration of old time radio, you know there was a recreation of a radio program from 1947 using the actual scripts with period-appropriate music from two groups. A friend asked if I was the youngest person in the auditorium. No, some people brought their grandchildren.

Think about your next photo venue before you leave home so you will have the appropriate gear when you get there.

 

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Weekly Photo Tip

Wondering if you need a tripod? Don’t be lazy.

Magnus the Camera Clubhouse cat deciding whether to help re-pack Christmas decorations.

I had 2 shots remaining on the roll of Tri-X 120 black/white film. Magnus, the Carlson Camera Clubhouse Cat was hanging out on the table as I was about to dismantle the Christmas tree. What a perfect time for an impromptu portrait session. The camera’s built-in flash was just high enough so that the light output didn’t get directly into his eyes, but was reflected by the lights on the tree. The cat is actually much sharper in reality than he may appear to you in this scan of the print. A tripod could have helped here and I do own several of them but the clubhouse floor was covered with boxes so making a trip to get one of those 3-legged camera supports just didn’t seem worth the time and effort. 

As I’ve written countless times, a tripod is your friend. Please remember that when you’re about to be overcome by laziness.

The camera I used for the shot of Magnus

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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.

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