SlearShotz

Geese

2012-02-16T17:55:00.000-08:00

While doing some aerial golf work, we spooked some geese. A nice unique angle on these quite large birds. What struck me beside the water pattern was how they were already set up in their customary V pattern before even taking flight. A fast shutter and long 300mm again stops the action of not only the birds but the vibrating chopper.

Stop and smell the daisies

2012-02-02T00:56:00.000-08:00

I was contemplating how very brief we’re here. (Gasping for air will do that). You know the old adages “its never to late”,.....”never put off till tomorrow what you can do today”...and most notably “live today as if it were your last”. Well I really don’t think they meant you should go skydive or race indy cars or aspire to be Ms. America, I think it simply means to appreciate every single moment you have and to love and treat with respect the very next person you come face to face with, because bottom line is.... nothing you can do will make more of a difference than that. So ... Don’t forget to smell the roses...er uhh..... Daisies, like these just below the treeline of the Alaska Range.

Androids everywhere.

2012-01-22T14:21:00.000-08:00

New phones are just amazing, 5 to 8 megapixals with flash and apps of all sorts. Had to just try it out! Just love the texture and color here! I've seen a couple covers already! Just keep your lens clean, if you use yours. It can make a huge difference when you see it large later!

Splash

2012-01-03T01:17:00.001-08:00

Electronic Flash or strobelight is the method of choice for most studio photography. Cooler temps than using old tungsten lights, predictable and portable, with varying modifiers they produce light that at the disposal of a photographer can be used with unlimited possibilities. Filling dark areas, emphasizing shape, revealing texture, creating atmosphere, all exploit light. One of the often used technique of strobes is to freeze action. The duration of a discharged flash is very brief, from 1/1000 to1/40000 of a second at the instant when the camera shutter is open. Camera shutter speed you will remember does not control the flash exposure. Here is a use of flash to freeze liquid. Timing of course is critical, and variations are unlimited. I kinda liked this one. Complimentary colors add to the favorable outcome of this shot!

New York City

2011-12-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

While in NYC, you should get an overview from Rockefeller Center. The immense city spreads before you and with a majestic sky can really be "breathtaking" as they say. This is a composite panorama of 3 images, with some tweaks in Lightroom. Empire state bldg center, Chrysler bldg on left and far right light on top, my daughters new home. If you visit, just be prepared for sensory incitement!

2011-12-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

Was cleaning out some old magazines and such and found this to be of interest. This was Brandons’ first venture into the digital composite arena done by Pat Diamond our original and only artist.(1988).......Along the same lines The paint brush was the first digital image test I did in ‘92 using a rented NikonF3 DCS with a 1.3 megapixel sensor that’s right 1.3..... cost of camera then was 25,000.00. Of course everyone remembers the Sony Mavica and the Kodak DC40 soon to follow for consumers, in 1994. My how far we’ve come!

The Grand Strand

2011-12-01T11:40:00.001-08:00

Sometimes you just get a feeling; to be in the right place, to be ready for 'those' moments. Those times when preparation and timing come together and you're presented with nature at its' best. Such as it was for last nights sunset. Cherry Grove to Murrells Inlet. 1/250@ f8 ISO 800. I just love how the wave lines lead into and are repeated in the sky. Hope you do as well.

Jack

2011-11-30T09:22:00.001-08:00

My friend and fellow photographer Jack Thompson, famous for his historical Myrtle Beach pics. Taking a second after hanging his "Moon over Myrtle" at the Jetport. Single speed light off camera and popup camera fill.

Redeyed owl

2011-11-17T14:16:00.001-08:00

If red eye is giving you trouble when using flash. Then try bouncing or softening the light with a diffusion attachment. If you have control over environment then switch on some light in the room or get the subject to look at a bright light then back to camera. Or simply use the preflash that most cameras have today. There are also easy fix tools in most photoprograms. Heres a really obvious example.

Super Bowl Rings

2011-11-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, had the unique opportunity to meet and photograph Dwight ‘The Catch’ Clark, (thanks to Matthew Phisters' Idealapeel.com) He also wanted images of his FIVE SuperBowl rings! It was my pleasure and if you’ve never seen one of these ........ here you go! They were very large and were only out of his safe just for the pics. Note that I used hard light to bring out the sparkle, of the jewels.

MBREDC

2011-10-31T13:34:00.000-07:00

Rows and rows of circuit boards are pretty dull. By adding just one speed light with a CBO filter you can insert a bit of interest. Mix in available talent, place appropriately on a nodal and at converging lines and the composition is complete!

Farm to Table

2011-10-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

Coastal Uncorkeds’ 2nd annual 'Farm to Table' was a memorable event, successfully and extensively planned by The Brandon Agencys’ own Candace Howell. This will give you a flavour of the evening.

Toma

2011-10-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Its one of the privileges of photography. Sometimes seeing the unseen or being first to experience, or getting behind the scene access. I’ve photographed molten steel, computer inards, and light bulbs being manufactured. Actors in the wings
--Artists creating, and you may remember close up and personal with the Moomba snake. These shots give an inside look at some new technology, that will help save lives. The new TOMO radiation at CRCC right here in Myrtle Beach. Adding some colored gels to the flash gave the scene a bit more drama and interest, and discovering that the laser alignment light was photographable was a bonus. The longer the exposure the more prevalent it became.

September 11

2011-09-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last week, my long time friend Dave Klee suggested we shoot the flags at the old Pavilion site, we decided on a sunrise and were presented with a glorious morning. But a little preplanning was necessary. With such strong backlight we needed to add some light to the front of the flags. See if you can spot them.......

Hawk

2011-09-02T08:12:00.000-07:00

Sooner or later, after kids and flowers, all photographers turn to wildlife for their subjects. This guy was hanging out looking for his next meal. They can be so expressive sometimes....here he’s just posing for a couple quick frames. If you train your lens on anything really, check your viewpoint and change it if the background is distracting, maybe complicated, too bright or merging with the subject, and use a larger fstop to soften the background and separate it from the subject.

Beach motion

2011-08-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

I mentioned previously the endless possibilities of capturing moving lights with slow shutterspeeds. Well if you move the camera with a slow shutter, you have infinite possibilities as well. Add color and you can be your own Matisse.

Lightning

2011-08-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

For something entirely different! At the beach the other day and an ominous storm came up. Over the ocean the lightning seemed to be rehearsing for armegedon. Thought I might improve on previous attempts. So set the tripod and since ambient light of twilight was still glowing, used a polarizer to lengthen the exposure. This gives you the time to capture one or several strikes. The aperature was f22 and shutter was opened for 2 seconds repeatedly till I had captured a few strikes. Got lucky with a few and liked this one best. The serenity of the seaoats and a passing storm, how symbolic of life!

Marina Inn

2011-07-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

Architecture has always been a favorite subject. Studying a building for optimum light and composition is like stealing. The architect has done the hard work, you just have to make him look better. If you can put water in front of a building with lights even better, your half way to the goal. I’ve firehosed or waterhosed parking areas for that purpose. Lakes, ponds or fountains are always welcome, they give a base with the reflection, and produce an aesthetic, that other framing just doesn’t accomplish. You can opt for a mirror finish or like this with a little texture. If you're on a boat, jump up your ISO to increase your shutter speed. Not bad for a grab shot. 1/20@f5.6 Timing of course critical.

Feathery waterfall

2011-07-19T09:13:00.001-07:00

I’m often asked, how do they get those waterfalls to look “feathery”? Well this example was simply shot in low light requiring a longer shutter speed.... Thus producing some “feathering”. But I further increased the desired effect by adding a neutral density filter, a polarizer can also be used, to further lengthen the shutter speed. Of course a tripod or suitable rock was required, to eliminate camera shake. The iso was also set to a low 100, and fstop was 22, final shutter was 1/10 of a sec.. Interestingly just 10 ft from this cool fall the Alaskan skeeters were thick and big, thankfully it was a short hike back to the car.

Skywheel Myrtle Beach

2011-07-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

For those who've not had a chance to see the new Skywheel at night, here's a couple variations. Using a slow shutter speed on a moving object, especially colored and lighted, yields unlimited possibilities. These ranged from 1/30 to 10 secs.

2011-07-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

Another of the almost 100 setups on that day! Using cross light shows the detail of the wood work. Natural light from a window just to the left provided the fill. Framing courtesy of the architect. www.mikesphotostop.com

Driwood

2011-07-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

I've been in some beautiful spaces......this one was particularly lavish. Shot for the trim and mould, it was awash in natural light, but the falloff or contrast was extreme. With 4 speed lights, one in dining area, one behind staircase , one behind main chandelier and one at camera, was able to balance all light sources..... and with all the rhythm, and careful selection of point of view, it was one of my favourite from the shoot.

Bathing Beauties

2011-06-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

I've been kidded my whole career about shooting girls in bathing suits. Never thought it such a big deal, just doing my job! I just don't do this all the time. This was back lit with fill. PM me if you're really interested in the tech stuff.

Power in Heaven!

2011-06-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Just a little self assignment exercise. Saw it in a dream and had to share it.

2011-05-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

Architecturally, a disaster, but still a building so highlighting textural features was still desired. Doing this in HDR seemed to be the natural choice given the bizarre context. The moving clouds from the multiple exposure was a bonus and contributed to the calamity of the scene.

2011-05-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

Sooner or later you’ll be photographing something reflective or shiny. If its convex or concave, it becomes even more of a challenge, as the subject will reflect its surroundings inescapably. With most things like jewelry, appliances, or even chromed motorcycles.....a white tent enveloping the subject will solve most reflections and create the illusion of shinyness and the look of polished gold, silver or chrome. This floodlight however just didn’t work in a tent as the mirror finish took on a milky white appearance that didn’t accurately record the chrome finish. After experimenting with clear plexi on white and white plexi as well as aluminum and stainless, the best choice was simply foil wrapping paper, giving the very surface needed to reflect the best attribute of the bulb. Lit simply with a softbox and umbrella, the detail of the rough surface is also accentuated. Another lucky break finding just the right background, but as I’ve alluded to before, luck is the residue of preparation and design.

Bliss recipe

2011-05-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

Really loving those little speed lights. Adjustable down to 1/128 power. This one was just outside frame and @ 1/16. Add a little fill, long exposure for ambient, add Chardonnay crackers and cheddar.

2011-05-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

I've had the pleasure of photographing Palmer, Nicklaus, Player, Trevino, Floyd, and other great golf industry leaders over the years. This most recent rising star has a quietude the others did not. Maybe because he's so young, and not as exposed yet, but already winning 4 PGA tour events, Dustin Johnson is destined to be one of the greats. He posed briefly for me on a recent video shoot.

Cale Yarborough

2011-04-26T12:53:00.001-07:00

-- Its always a pleasure to photograph someone in their environment. First they are inviting you into their domain, something not always done lightly. Second, it usually gives an opportunity for props that normally wouldn’t accompany a studio session. This day ended with more props than I’d ever need. I met Mr. Yarborough at his dealership and photographed him next to a trophy as large as he was among several others but after he felt comfortable with me, he wanted to show me his trophy room at the ranch. We met his gracious wife and entered the room full of memorabilia from a career of 30 years. Lighting the the room was a bare bulb for the background and the Yarboroughs was a small umbrella. They were quite at ease talking about the past and the collection. One of my favorite celebrity pics.

2011-04-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

If I didn’t mention it before, your light source can be varied including anything you might have at hand, candle? Flashlight? Cell phone even. This image was created with a small flashlight simply moving back and forth across subject during a long exposure. Allowing beam to stay in one spot of course brightens the area exposed. Less and darker. The pattern is up to the artist. Go do some light painting! A soft focus filter adds to the effect and emulates the look of the Hose Master technique brought to my attention by Scott Blaylock of Digital Arts and Graphics.

Broadway night aerial

2011-04-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

Not often do you see night aerials, as the shutterspeed required to stop vibration is at least 1/125 of a second. And exposures such as this can be in the seconds normally. So what to do? The first thing is to bump up your ISO. The new digital cameras go upwards of ISO 6400, thats a long way from film days of maybe 800. This was ISO 800 and with steady hands, a large aperature and successive exposures, 1/15 of a second yielded several acceptable images . Yet to be seen what the new upside down house is going to do to this landscape!

2011-03-29T14:03:00.000-07:00

This was an experiment in 'Painting with light'. My good friend Joe Carr http://www.joecarrphotography.com and I used flashlights to bring an otherwise completely dark scene to life by simply walking thru the scene and highlighting the areas we thought should be exposed, all the while the shutter is opened and exposing the sky. You have complete control in what elements you'd like to emphasize. It gives you the ability to really paint. We did use the tungsten feature of the camera white balance. A fun excersize to try.

2011-03-20T06:52:00.000-07:00

Spring has finally arrived and no clearer sign than the dogwoods budding. The way they leaf out to those beautiful white flowers always amazes me, so delicate and unfortunately shortlived. Much like us!

Dessert

2011-03-16T17:47:00.000-07:00

-- Just a grab shot at a function exhibiting trend in selective focus and tilted framing......Also added a little lighting effect vignette in Photoshop for further emphasis on the main subject. Hope your desserts are as yummy for your Holiday. Lighted with on camera flash bounced.

Magiquest

2011-03-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

The client said it was impossible. I couldn’t resist, so proceeded to evaluate. Considering that this was done on the run among 90 other setups same day, its relatively successful. The challenge is to light a very dark room and the subjects in the foreground, yet still retain the image on the highly reflective movie screen. Previously they have inserted an image over the white screen in post. I simply bounced the light off the wall behind me therefore eliminating direct light on the screen. And since light intensity falls off as the square of the distance to the subject, there was not enough light to reach the screen which was 20 feet from the light source. The foreground however was illuminated enough for the shot. The other challenge was the movie itself, trying to stop the action with a slow shutter speed and yet retain the depth of field required to keep everything in focus. By increasing the ISO I was able to shoot at 1/8 of a second @f8, hand held BTW and maintain a balance that worked reasonably well. The client loved the results and we moved on.

Cecil Story

2011-03-07T13:15:00.000-08:00

As sometimes happens, while searching for one thing you find a gem you've forgotten. Its a Christmas theme, but need to share it now. I typically photograph the Brandon family for their Christmas card each year, this was sometime ago with film. Using umbrellas and Elinchroms. The real challenge was expressions, so with five children, positioned them appropriately and let Cecil work his magic by simply reading The Christmas Story. This portrait has a nice feel about, notice the pyramid posing and the directional light.

New HDR

2011-02-28T10:44:00.000-08:00

As I've noted previously, night shots look best at twilight. And the window of opportunity for balance of twilight and artificial light can sometimes be just 15 minutes. HDR (high dynamic range) has changed that scenario, in that now you have the contrast control to expand or contract your highlight to shadow ratio. My good friend Joe@ joecarrphotography.com convinced me to update my Photomatix for even more control in such instances and It now gives you options previously unavailable. Here's a couple results that give a wide range of exposure that could not be captured in a single frame.To make this more of a challenge the hotel shot was previously done on film with a full frame camera, the new D300 is Not full frame and the vantage point required a mini panorama merge to encompass the whole property, even with a 12 mm wideangle lens. note, you can now click the image directly to enlarge!

Mike and music

2011-02-25T09:15:00.001-08:00

Mike
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

A friend is cutting an album locally, and asked me to document. So was experimenting with snooted speed lights in the sound studio and loved the feel of this image. It really projects the mood of the moment.

sunrise pier

2011-02-21T17:43:00.001-08:00

sunrise pier
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Sometimes just showing up early is rewarding. Like before sunrise, which was nice in itself but clouds on a horizon are always hard to beat. If there’s color you have a pretty good chance of just another pretty photo. But we have lots of those, so, adding the knowledge of shutterspeed and movement of one of the elements of image the result is a little different, giving the sense of the moment, and movement. And as always a little rhythm always adds to a shot. The pier as well as the waves, you can almost hear them.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 21 Feb 11, 8.36PM EST.

Framed

2011-02-16T07:48:00.001-08:00

Framed
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Pictures within pictures are almost always playful, and at the very least entertaining. Framing up frames is even more fun so next time you pickup the camera try framing a frame, see where it may take you. Trying different f stops and focus areas will yield different results. This struck me as it reminded me of an old Led Zep album cover....... I mean Cd cover...

Fun

2011-02-03T07:22:00.001-08:00

Fun
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Funny how things come full circle..... 30 years ago we sold B&C, then Myrtle Beach Farms a multiple page brochure on the Pavilion, I even designed it and wrote the copy. In that brochure was a shot of the Caterpillar and to show the motion, yet freeze the action was a challenge for a rookie, given the limitations of film and equipment and inexperience......got the shot though albeit not quite as successful as this one, 30 years later. Same ride by the way and only couple photoshop clicks. I miss the pavilion.

GlennHunting

2011-01-27T12:54:00.001-08:00

GlennHunting
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Just a grab shot with a pocket camera, but spoke to me. There’s something tribal and primordial bout hunting. Quite a charge if you’re not a regular. A little Lightroom to simulate HDR and Dave Hill and kinda takes you hunting with a good friend. Don't you think?

Bahama Mama copy2

2011-01-24T07:57:00.001-08:00

Bahama Mama copy2
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Color can be used in a supplementary manner or can be the main focus of an image. This example combines the 2 approaches. In outdoor photography, the use of color is a matter of recognizing and selecting combinations that already exist, and the opportunities for manipulating the colours in a scene are limited mainly to the framing or kind of light. In the studio your options are limitless with prop selection, backgrounds and light intensity. This image certainly builds on the rule of thirds, and combines complimentary colors, and note the subtle rhythm of the repeating grass shape with the repeating letters. All combine to produce a pleasing ‘wish you were here’ moment. Enjoy.

Colleton

2011-01-17T12:15:00.001-08:00

colleton
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Patience, as they say is a virtue, and as a photographer if I’ve learned nothing else its a virtue worth possessing. Many times I’ve regretted packing up, assuming the sky wouldn’t part or the people wouldn’t show or the varmint would poke his head out. If you just take a breath and relax, nature will usually come through. As was, in this case at Colleton River, starting off a dismal morning and cold as cold can be and in the lift up where the wind really chills you, waited until the color began to shine and I think patience once again triumphed.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 17 Jan 11, 3.12PM EST.

What's within

2011-01-05T07:03:00.001-08:00

eggs
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Starting off the new year with one of my all time favorite images, simple, uncluttered, and symbolizing a beginning of sorts. Its from a time when Ansel Adams ‘Zone system’ (an exposure / film processing technique) was required for such an image. Today of course photoshop allows for a myriad of adjustments with a keyboard stroke. One of my resolutions is to be more proficient with photoshop, apparently a life long endeavor. Whats yours? Happy New Year!

Christmas Tree

2010-12-23T07:26:00.001-08:00

Christmas Tree
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Everyone takes out the camera this time of year. If photographing your tree and decorations... one word... Tripod tripod tripod (ok 3 words) or a suitable stable platform to eliminate the blurries and out of focus images. Use your self timer and turn off image stabilizers. Don’t be afraid to increase your ISO but a 1 to 4 second exposure is not that unusual for incandescent light. Hold still if you get in front of the lens even if you use a little flash. If you can get your pets to hold still then you’ve really met the Christmas tree challenge. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 23 Dec 10, 10.23AM EST.

sarabella on stairs

2010-12-20T14:10:00.001-08:00

sarabella on stairs
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

As we welcome this holiday season and with all the new additions to the Brandon family this year and next. I am reminded of my blessings particularly my children. Now out of sight, a lot, but never out of mind!. They are a constant source of inspiration, hope, pride and love. My hope for your children and mine is ...... That they have a foundation for happiness—a great passion for excellence. Such a passion erases the distinction between work and play, turning toil into recreation—literally re-creation. This is the best gift a parent can give. Merry Christmas Everyone.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 20 Dec 10, 5.05PM EST.

Astronomer

2010-12-14T17:34:00.001-08:00

Astronomer
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

-- Thought I’d share another interest of mine.....”stargazing”. Scanning the cosmos can be rewarding although frustrating without the right equipment. This setup belongs to Steve Elwood, artist and astronomer. The pic was a combination of flash for Steve and telescope and long exposure for the constellation Orion. A tripod was absolutely necessary and Steve had to remain still during the exposure, the ambient lights in the background and the LED’s on the scope were a bonus.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 14 Dec 10, 8.32PM EST.

cross pocess1

2010-12-09T09:04:00.001-08:00

cross pocess1
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

-- From the days of BPS (before photoshop), This unique treatment was known as cross processing. It was simply processing slide film in the chemistry that you would normally process negative film. The slide film would then appear as an unusual colored negative and prints would be a bit grainy and blow out the highlights giving a unique look. There are now plugins for photoshop that simulate the look. Might be hard to find a lab willing to do it today. What do you think Tony? http://www.803labs.com Check out the blog for more tips and clips... mikesphotostop.com

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 9 Dec 10, 12.00PM EST.

Resident Comic

2010-12-03T06:45:00.001-08:00

Resdident Comic
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Stage lighting varies from venue to venue so it helps to have incremental adjustments for the Kelvin temperature of the lights. Tungsten being close to 3200 degrees and sunlight is close to 5550. Your average point and shoot has the capability to adjust for these generally but sometimes having a finer control is desired as here. Then just added a bit of bounce fill flash for the markee. Also a very high ISO. exposure 1/40@f5.6.

Tomo

2010-11-22T12:51:00.001-08:00

Tomo
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Its one of the privileges of photography. Sometimes seeing the unseen or being first to experience, or getting behind the scene access. I’ve photographed molten steel, computer inards, and light bulbs being manufactured. Actors in the wings
--Artists creating, and you may remember close up and personal with the Moomba snake. These shots give an inside look at some new technology, that will help save lives. The TOMO radiation at CRCC right here in Myrtle Beach. Adding some colored gels to the flash gave the scene a bit more drama and interest, and discovering that the laser alignment light was photographable was a bonus. The longer the exposure the more prevalent it became.

Sgt.Major

2010-11-11T06:14:00.001-08:00

Sgt.Major
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

With the Veterans Day tributes, I was reminded of the image of Sgt.Major Buddy Hewitt. I photographed him in his home for PD magazine. Mr. Hewitt was part of what the movie “We were Soldiers” was based on. A VietNam era veteran, Buddy lived through one the wars most notable and horrific battles, the first one, known as LZ Xray. It was my honor to meet such a man. “just doing his job”, as he was quoted in the article. We spent an afternoon going thru his memorabilia and talked of his long career. He was a lucky one. This holiday is for remembering the lost and we should honor ‘them’, and my friend Buddy.
This image was produced by projecting a slide of the Viet Nam memorial onto the Sgt. Major with the flag behind him.

Fall

2010-11-04T14:56:00.001-07:00

Fall
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

This image breaks compositional rules by centering the subject and having a horizon line split the image. Rules were made to be broken, right? I believe it is still successful, eliciting the emotion of a cool quiet fall morning. When photographing fog or snow or even white sandy beaches, beware of taking an average meter reading as the overall brightness of the scene will fool the meter and give you an under exposed capture.

Owl

2010-10-27T10:03:00.001-07:00

Owl
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Interesting thing bout wildlife is you never know how close you may get. This guy was unduanted by my presence and was actually quite curious. A long lens (300mm) and large fstop enhance already expressive eyes.

Alysha

2010-10-20T06:29:00.001-07:00

Alysha
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Recently had the pleasure of photographing Alysha for her senior portrait. Some studios in the midwest specialize in senior portraits, with hours of sitting time and half dozen wardrobe changes. We did a couple clothes changes and an hour and this was my favorite, where preparation and timing with a special sky came together with a beautiful young lady. A little fill light, a rim light, and a little luck gave us an image she had envisioned. Enjoy!

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 20 Oct 10, 9.24AM EDT

NBPlantation

2010-10-12T11:19:00.001-07:00

NBPlantation
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Your basic twilight shot where the window of time for balanced available, twilight sky and supplemental light is very short. I've attempted 2 twilight scenes on same evening and usually find there is only time for one. A speedlight within the gazebo, one far camera right and one near camera, gave the shape and accent I had previsioned. The rest was up to the models. Enjoy!

RYAN the Golfer

2010-09-29T13:09:00.003-07:00

RYAN the Golfer
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Its always good to shoot in the studio. You get to exercise more light control and usually with less components and distractions. You’ll always have the technical and electronic gremlins but they are more easily handled in the studio environment. Location work demands you make the best of any given light. In the studio the light becomes completely malleable. The effect and construct is up to you or as in this case the art director who knew he wanted drama. So with comp in hand we put together an image, using rim side lights to accent the shape of our golfer and club. The negative space was allowed for copy.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 29 Sep 10, 3.59PM EDT.

River golf

2010-09-23T13:40:00.001-07:00

River golf
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

The new command controlled strobes give you the versatility of using flash more easily outdoors to help fill in shadows or augment sunlight or create your own light. They are not light activated as most remote flashes are and they are light, portable and multiple units can be controlled from the camera. They give imagers a whole new bag of tricks. I used 3 in these pics, one main, one fill and one accent. In addition used a faster than normal shutter speed to darken the ambient light. The Nikon D200 allows up to 4000th of a second and still have shutter sync!!

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 23 Sep 10, 4.36PM EDT.

Private

2010-09-15T11:46:00.001-07:00

Private
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

I was reading Ansel Adams, Letters and Images 1916-1984, and in a letter to his good friend Alfred Stieglitz, he wrote, “ Nothing important lately except a glimmering of wondering what it is all about...work and life in general. Perhaps I am on the edge of making a really good photograph. I hope so. I have a growing awareness of the insufficiencies of my work, I hope it is a good sign!”.....Of course he went on to make many great photos. We all need to know our insufficiencies, and look to make choices to improve whether it be as simple as composition or in our interpersonal relationships and our interconnectivity with each other and the world. Looking though is only part of the process, seeing allows you to grow. When you look you label, analyze, and choose. When you see, you become part of the experience. Go beyond your insufficiencies and grow, like Adams. This image is just entertaining and I always enjoy seeing it.

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 15 Sep 10, 2.42PM EDT.

Untitled-1

2010-09-02T14:53:00.001-07:00

Untitled-1
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Sooner or later if you’re a shooter, you’ll turn your camera on the abstract. I’ve always been fascinated by angular objects and the play of light and shadow on subjects. Sometimes you don’t know which way is up......kinda like life sometimes. The basics of composition still apply, keeping the eye moving about and not static. This one certainly exercises the eye, from any aspect.

cotton fields

2010-08-27T13:05:00.001-07:00

cotton fields
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Showed an example of elevation last week ..... This is another example. I’ve always loved seeing the cotton fields while driving to Charlotte, but never seemed to have a shot present itself. Having the lift on way back from Talamore, I had cottonfields on both sides of the road and sun setting. Getting higher was the key to showing the rows and the depth. Adding a suttle flash to foreground to keep from going black and positioning rows to lead to one of the center of interests, gave me the shot I’d seen in my minds eye for years. http://www.mikesphotostop.com

Talamore

2010-08-19T12:13:00.001-07:00

Talamore
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

The Talamore shoot was blessed with perfect weather, comfortable temps and fast moving clouds for changing compositions and depth and overcast for the interiors to reduce contrast. These 2 images are of not a particularly great golf hole but illustrate the value of a little elevation. Its easy to see the difference. And interestingly one of the very first things our founder Cecil showed me in Fall of 1979. Geez!, 31 years ago.!!

Sandy Nudes

2010-08-09T14:30:00.001-07:00

Sandy Nudes
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

When looking for interesting subjects for your photography, textures and rhythm are two of the best compositional elements available to you. I call this example 'Sandy Nudes' and it presents both texture and rhythm. When photographing sand its very easy to get the reflection of the sky which will give a cyan hue to the image. A warming filter will correct this or depending on location a well placed towel or even hotel will help, because as you may remember from science class the angle of reflection (light from the subject) is equal to the angle of incidence, (light approaching the surface).

Dizzy G Cheraw

2010-07-30T11:38:00.001-07:00

Dizzy G Cheraw
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

In answer to the questions; the more recent 2 day challenge and the obvious follow up to my last post.......After a day of scouting 8 smalltowns in the Sandhills of S.C., A 2 day shoot was planned to include volunteer models at each location. With limited models, props and wardrobe, the challenge was to show everyday folk in an identifiable city locale. This was a favorite where the models and locale presented a more than average look at the heritage of smalltown S.C.. ......If you’re in Cheraw, be sure to stop by the Dizzy Gilespie statue, there’s plenty of history to be found at his feet.

Tara

2010-07-29T06:55:00.001-07:00

Tara
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Every photogs dream, girls in bikinis, right? Well for this Towels Etc. catalogue, we did over 50 separate setups in 2 days. Keeping on schedule is paramount on a shoot of this magnitude. This was one of my favorites. Once again using a slow shutter speed as a tool. I had noticed the highlights on the waterfall while scouting the location. Streaking them made an otherwise frozen waterfall into a “different” background. Note also the natural hair light providing just the right amount of separation and shape. Color coordination was also important in making this a possible cover shot. Enjoy!

Uploaded by Michael Slear on 29 Jul 10, 9.47AM EDT.

SeaMist sunrise

2010-07-22T13:21:00.001-07:00

SeaMist sunrise
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

This image was done for Sea Mist Resort, a very old client that I still maintain contact with. They wanted a new ambiance shot. Remember the sunrise tip about metering off the area away from the sun.?, Worked well here but flowers were too important to silhouette, so positioning a light off camera and adding a flower or two framed this area nicely and another beautiful Myrtle Beach sunrise gave us the ambience requested. Depth of field also needed to be considered here to keep flowers, chairs and fence sharp. Therefore a small f stop was required which also meant light had to be full and close to flowers. Using a remote trigger allowed this option. Enjoy!
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Uploaded by Michael Slear on 22 Jul 10, 4.17PM

Concord Ad proof

2010-07-16T06:27:00.001-07:00

Concord Ad proof
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

This shoot was rather straight forward, follow an established layout that they have used for similar property management companies. When you have two important subjects yet both need to be lighted and need to be in focus, an on camera flash won’t do. So with sunlight as main light, 2 flash heads to the left and one for fill were incorporated to establish a depth of field to keep all in focus. The rest was up to the talent, and composition, keeping in mind the requirements of the layout.

Close to home golf

2010-07-09T12:34:00.001-07:00

Close to home golf
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Simple concept, but we wanted to make it homey looking. By adding strips of tape to to the light source it appears as though this was shot on this guys desk, next to a window. A little soft focus filter and ‘close to home’ .

Blueberry slush

2010-07-02T06:41:00.001-07:00

image
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

I've mentioned selective focus before. Well this new lens for the 35 mm has the capabilities of a 4x5 bellows camera, it that can change the plane of focus in an image, not just from front to back with fstops but from side to side or top to bottom, by angling the plane of the lens with the film plane. Not as precise as with a 4x5 but will give acceptable results, if you like soft focus, for accentuating specific elements within an image.

Thistle

2010-06-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

Thistle
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

I suppose if I were to specialize I would pick aerial photography. The palette of the land before you at any altitude is unlimited and diverse. Put a golf course in the viewfinder and I’ll assure you of something like this. #14 at Blackmoor or Thistle #8 they both have just about everything, water, traps, framing, flowing fairway and undulating rough, and golfers for scale. For aerials a fast shutter speed is needed to reduce vibration of the plane, or chopper, focus is on infinity. Don’t forget to insulate your body from the frame of the plane and keep the lens out of the slip stream.

Lauderdale Bay

2010-06-16T06:55:00.001-07:00

Lauderdale Bay
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Photography is often improvisation, utilizing your tools or what's available around you. A recent shoot returned me to my favorite subject....architecture! Original career path was architecture so I have a love of design and function. Early work here at Brandon was for the local builders and architects and the hotels gave me lots of practice. Every building has its best time of day to be photographed, and if its lit at night by the designer, then all the better. Easy pickins and with minor tweaking, a building, like a face can be enhanced to look its best. Here a portable light thru the back of the guard shack to light the glass block and at this time of year a window of only 10 minutes at twilight to balance the ambient and available, along with car headlights to accent the shrubs and gate, should make the client a happy camper.

image[1]

2010-06-11T07:53:00.001-07:00

Depth of Field (DOF) can be confusing but simply put, its the area of focus that is rendered sharply. These 2 images have the same focus point....the foreground flower. The only difference is the f stop used, (remember the hole in the lens) or iris in your eye? For the first image, a large f stop was used-- f4 and only the point of focus is sharp, and the background is soft. The 2nd image had a much smaller fstop –f22, and the entire image is sharp. So not only does the fstop control the amount of exposure it can also be used to control depth of field, and emphasize an element of a photo. Of course when changing f stops you must correspondingly change the shutter speed to create an equivalent exposure.

Swan

2010-06-07T07:30:00.001-07:00

Swan
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Gotta love wildlife....Hard to beat a swan, they are so graceful....but can be mean as a snake, so don’t get to close. This composition uses the basics foreground, middle ground and background. A slight breath on the lens gave the aura. This technique was taught me by Alectron Dorfman, in the early years at Brandon Advertising. You can see Alectrons terrific work at http://www.studioalectron.com

Black Mamba

2010-05-26T14:35:00.001-07:00

moomba-2
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Another of my favorite subjects besides people is wildlife. This image has both. I wanted to give the ‘otherside look’ if you will. So they let me in the backdoor of the Moomba cage, at Alligator Adventure. I had first recruited the family and set lights for them in the normal viewing area. The glass reflections were reduced using a polarizer. I was able to get just inside the cage with my arms to eliminate the doorway, so was unable to see left or right. I was later told that this bigguys mate was just to my right inside. Which I confirmed later. Interestingly every time the on camera flash went off, this snake would jerk as if he’d been shocked. Black Moombas can strike 3 times their body length, also told me later. He was 8 ft I was 5 ft from him, even closer to his mate. The zookeeper who allowed this was later retired.

Chef

2010-05-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

This was a great concept by our own Jon Leon. We had the theatre for an hour, lights were required camera left to illuminate Cinthia and her “date”, at camera to light John Rusher our chef and at the curtains to brighten them. Specific placement of the people was necessary as we were limited on numbers. An extreme depth of field (we’ll discuss another time) was required to keep foreground chair, chef, lights, & screen in focus. Jon added an additional set of lights and enhanced the curtains. Overall, lots of pieces brought together, and a successful shoot for posters, to promote "Dinner and a Movie".

Witch1

2010-05-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Witch1
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

witch2

2010-05-12T07:59:00.001-07:00

witch2
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

One of my favorite subjects of course is the golf landscape. Late afternoon light is pleasant given the right quality, it will present long shadows and delineate the contours of the land. A sky with clouds will give added depth. Mix in some sunrays and you’ve got the makings of something special. I originally transplanted the flag to be in keeping with the rule of thirds (tic tac toe grid). But kinda like it being framed by bridge. What do You think?

Night Pool

2010-05-06T09:34:00.001-07:00

Night Pool
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

This location shoot was a real challenge with a mixture of tungsten, fluorescent available light and bar inside. But with a few strobes to accent the very dark antique bar and the fountain as well as the pool and roof line, this twilight scene comes off inviting and well lit. It also points out the balance of timing when doing this type of shot. Just 5 minutes earlier or later can change the balance of available light and twilight sky. 1-4 seconds @ f 8

Rainbow

2010-05-03T08:39:00.001-07:00

Rainbow
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Last weeks rainbow, after a late afternoon shower if the sun pops out, check out the eastern sky, you'll usually get a colorful show.

sunrise kayak

2010-04-29T09:22:00.001-07:00

sunrise kayak
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Quick trick, if you’re shooting that beautiful sunrise or sunset, frame your shot then move the sun just out of frame and lock exposure by depressing shutter half way, and keeping it there, most small digitals have this capability. Return to original framing composition and shoot. Metering the direct sun will underexpose your image, but an exposure ‘balance’ can be reached by using this technique.

faucet

2010-04-23T08:25:00.001-07:00

faucet
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Someone asked, what’s an f stop? Technically, its the f-number or focal ratio of an optical system that expresses the diameter of the entrance pupil in terms of the effective focal length of the lens....Whew! Simply its the size of the hole or aperture which can be adjusted and hence vary the amount of light passing thru the lens to reach the film or light sensor. (Just like your pupil.) Think of it like a faucet, if you want to fill a quart jug with water, a garden hose may take a few seconds, switch to a fire hose and jug will fill in a split second. As u try smaller and smaller hoses the time it takes to fill gets progressively longer. Any equivalent combination of time and size of hose produces the ‘correct’ result: a full quart jug or in photography a correct exposure. This shot was one of those confluences, red handle, blue sky, just turn it on, slow shutter to show water movement and slight diagonal to emphasize motion. Note also main subject at intersection of the tic tac toe.

wine

2010-04-14T13:06:00.001-07:00

wine
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

On a recent outing got to do one of those shots just wanted to have being a wine lover, couldn't resist this composition and subsequent softening round the edges to place emphasis on one of my favorites. a 2006 Chardonnay.

UPS

2010-04-14T12:58:00.001-07:00

UPS
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

For another change of pace, some of you may remember our friendly UPS guy. This was simply a matter of propping and the right face expression. Against a white background couldn’t be simpler, right? Well maybe but the multiple package angles and labels created highlights we didn’t want and our model was not expressive for most of images. This was actually taken when he almost did drop the whole bunch. Happy accidents are always part of your portfolio. “Luck is the confluence of timing and preparation”. One more note, dark complexions require more exposure so open up if your using manual or move in close to get your reading, save, reposition, then shoot.

Boardwalk

2010-04-09T07:52:00.001-07:00

Boardwalk
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

This photo has just about everything......primary colors, framing, rhythm, shapes, leading lines, magic hour light and a center of interest. I think all contribute to a successful image. 1/180@f8 ISO400. These new kiwi umbrellas provide an abundance of abstract possibilities. Lots more at my http://flickr.com/photos/slearshotz

ice crystals

2010-04-08T13:39:00.001-07:00

ice crystals
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Something simple today. Photographers typically chase things most people don’t see and look for coincidences of variables. This particular set of circumstances are ice crystals just forming on a lake surface. The back light and rich reflection of the sky make for an unusual abstract. If you’re looking for abstracts, look no farther than your refrigerator. Vegetables were some of the earliest subjects of Ansel Adams, Weston, Stieglitz and Eisenstadt.

Seabrook glasses

2010-03-31T15:15:00.001-07:00

Seabrook glasses
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Changing gears a bit, this was a studio shot done for Seabrook. The client request was for the etched crystal wine glasses on the beach with a rose. The initial attempt proved impossible to clearly show the light etched logo against light colored sand in a natural environment. Glass is typically done against white and black outlined and etched glass needs back light to be seen. The solution was in the studio and raising the subject up off the sand to allow us to control the light on the sand independent of the glass and etching. Simply by placing the glasses on a sheet of glass and raising 4 inches off the sand, this was accomplished. Something different!
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Michael Slear

2010-03-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

When photographing a group of this size be thoughtful of your lighting. You could easily use a single front light, but that would give no ratio and thus no dimension. I elected to cross light 45 with 2 umbrellas to soften the light and reduced power on one side, the side away from the window banks to the right. Tip... Ask your subjects if they can see you and the lights. Also placed a light behind the group to provide separation. Most notably 3 of these gents weren't here and were placed later after allowing for their absence in the composition and individual shots were done later. Rich Gose @Http://803labs.com is the go to guy for composites and retouching of this sort to match shadows light and composition.

Dale and kayak

2010-03-24T12:28:00.001-07:00

Dale and kayak
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Another shutter speed option is to leave the shutter open for longer periods and not move the camera or lens. As in this case of 1 to 4 secs at f8 on a tripod. Of course the subject needed to be still. Note the framing of the tree, and the placement of point of interest (kayak) in the right lower third. This is a typical compositional method employed by the masters from earliest of art. Imagine a tic tac toe grid and placing your item of interest at the intersections, your photos will be more pleasing to the eye. Hey if it works for Michaelangelo it’ll work for you. This was the conjunction (coming together) of Jupiter and Saturn (in the tree branches) a few years ago and appeared inside back cover of Astronomy magazine.
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Michael Slear

Whale

2010-03-17T07:34:00.001-07:00

Whale
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

Since shutter speed was an issue with beginning images, thought this image might be appropriate. Obviously we need to freeze this action, because a pan or zoom would render something unidentifiable, unlike a car which has wheels and recognizable features. Therefore not wanting to take a chance on missing this unusual opportunity, as well as the landscape. I selected a higher ASA or ISO to allow an exposure of 1/1000 of a second at f11, thereby keeping the background from being out of focus. Your normal digital cameras would try to expose this scene on a sunny day at 1/125 of a sec @ f8. When dealing with motion the accepted norm is to have the motion read left to right. Which of these do you like?

Racecar Sebring

2010-03-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterdays pan shot is interpretive, this is an example of ‘freezing’ the the action yet blurring only the background. Again using a tripod and allowing subject to traverse the focal plane. However speed of car was obviously faster so shutter speed is necessarily faster. Final exposure 1/125 of a second at f11, with pan, no zoom. This was one image I chose for slearshotz.com as an example of technique. Check out other images @ slearshotz.com and if something suggests a question email me.
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Michael Slear

Nascar speed car

2010-03-07T20:00:00.001-08:00

Nascar speed copy
Originally uploaded by Michael Slear

OK, for your interest and information, I will be sending out a pic a week just for fun and a bit of instruction, maybe to help in your photographic endeavors. Hope you enjoy! Any thoughts or suggestions or comments, are certainly welcome.

May as well start with a most recent outing...... Thought I would attempt some action at Nascar speed park to help create the feeling of speed and glamorize those pudgy little cars. The idea was to blur the background with slow shutter speed and use a background with color to enhance the motion. You need a tripod and the technique is to pan with the subject as it passes the focal plane of the camera. Although several attempts worked I felt this one better captured the experience or at least the perceived experience. Its reminiscent of an Ernst Hass image of an F-1 car. Note the subject is in the left third of image and has some place to go and is slightly diagonal to the frame further conveying the feeling of motion. Final exposure 1/6 of a second @f 22 pan and zoom employed.

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Michael Slear

2009-02-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

I've entered this cyberzone for the purpose of sharing a little about what I know. If you glean even a bit of knowledge to further your love of photography then I will have accomplished the goal!

Michael.......happy shuttering