Camera Action Blog - CameraAction.com.au

2012-06-20T11:24:00.000+10:00

3 Environmental Portraiture Tips

An Environmental Portraiture aims to show a person in their natural environment. Whether that be in their home, workplace or during one of their favourite activities. By photographing a person in their natural surroundings, you are able to approach them comfortably and truly illuminate their character. Environmental Portraits allow you to really connect with your subject and capture their personality with the trip of your shutter.

Connect with your subject.

An Environmental Portrait showcases a persons true personality through a photograph. How can you as the photographer truly capture that personality if you don't know of it yourself. Spend time talking with your subject. The more you talk to your subject the more you will learn about them and consequently the more comfortable they will become around you. Some people are very shy when being photographed. A good way to combat this is to slowly talk to your subject without holding your camera. Have it near by on a table and get to know your subject a bit first. Once you have engaged with your subject you can hold your camera but not pointing it at them. Hold it in the crook of your arm or have it hanging from your neck. While you are interacting with your subject be sure to watch their mannerisms and body language. When you feel like they are opening up and becoming comfortable, you can start working towards your first frame. During conversation casually ask them to hold a position that you find appealing and shoot it, then continue the conversation with the camera back around your neck or in the crook of your arm. This slow approach to your portraits will often break down any walls your subject may have in regards to being photographed.

Location and Props.

A location that showcases your portrait is just as important as your subject. It does not make sense to photograph the worlds best chef playing chess if you understand what I mean. Locations and back grounds can make your photos just as easily as a heavy handed prop. If using props, try to make them as subtle as possible. There is nothing worse than a forced portrait. Try not to instruct your subject too much. All models need some form of coaching but there is a fine line between controlling and contorting your subject.

Lighting is key.

Making use of the available or natural light on an environmental shoot is essential. Whether your subject is outside or near a window, if they are in direct sunlight, or backlit. All of these factors come into play and will in the end determine how your portrait can be interpreted. As a photographer you can use light to your advantage. Bed sheets as diffusers, white walls as bounce cards, there are hundreds of different household items that can be used to transform the light around you. Knowledge of what light will best suit your subject in their environment is key. Just remember the cute old granny becomes very menacing under godfather lighting.

At thelightroom we have an exciting Environmental Portraiture class approaching on the 24th where you can learn how to put these tips and many more into use with a real model. Follow the link for more details. http://www.thelightroom.com.au/pages/educate/classes.asp?sku=210986&brand=Master%20Class&dept=103

2012-05-20T09:58:00.000+10:00

CameraAction's top 10 Landscape Photography Tips

This weekend we have a Landscape Masterclass with professional photographer Trav Munro. Here are a few tips to whet your Landscape appetite.

10. Use a Tripod.

The beauty of Landscape photography is that you can shoot literally anywhere. What this means is that you can lead yourself to some unstable grounds. A sturdy tripod will assure you can get a sharp shot, even in the most precarious of locations.

9. Consider your Horizons.

When the Horizon is visible, make an effort to keep it as horizontal as possible. You don't want to have to crop your image and lose an element in your photo just because your tripod wasn't level.

8. Use a Remote

A remote shutter release will attempt to remove any unnecessary camera shake being transferred from your body to the camera while releasing the shutter. If shooting a long exposure, eliminating camera shake is a top priority.

7. Maximize your Depth of Field.

Depth of Field within Landscape Photography is one of those "Rules of Photography". Most times, you should be attempting to get your entire shot in focus. However, rules are meant to be broken. You can achieve fantastic Landscape shots using a shallow depth of field.

6. Foreground Elements

Using a prominent foreground element in your shot will give depth to the image. It can also be used to add scale or simply give the landscape a sense of location. Flowers, trees, a barn, a car, anything can be used. Get creative.

5. Accentuate Movement

A slow shutter speed can be used to accentuate movement amongst your composition. Waterfalls, clouds and car headlights can bring life to an image. A slow shutter speed of usually more than a second or two is generally enough to begin to see the benefits of this technique.

Top Tip: Neutral Density (ND) Filters placed in front of your lens will allow you to use a slower shutter speed even on a bright sunny day.

4. Use Lines to Draw in your Audience

Roads, paths and rivers can all be used as guiding lines into your Landscape composition. Lines also give your shot depth, scale and another point of interest for your viewer.

3. Compressing your Landscapes

You don't always need to use a wide angle lens to get great landscape shots. A Telephoto lens can be used to "Compress" your subject. The more you zoom into an object, the closer the background will appear to be. For more clarification on this topic have a look at the image below. The only change between all of these photographs is the focal length of the lens.

2. Watch Your Sky

The sky can make or break your photograph. Dramatic clouds can really enhance your landscapes but an overcast bland sky can be quite an eyesore. Use the sky to your advantage. Compose for the sky. If its an overcast day, don't over emphasize the sky. Use your rule of thirds in order to best suit your current situation.

1. Magic Hour

The softest and nicest light to shoot in is generally half an hour before sunrise or half an hour after sunset. Your camera can see a lot more light than the human eye and you will be amazed at the colours your camera will see even when it appears to be dark. Use a combination of a tripod, remote and long shutter speed for the greatest results.

If you would like some more information on the Landscape Masterclass please follow this link over to the Light Room.

Tommy Woodcock and Reckless

2012-02-15T16:59:00.001+11:00

It's through pictures that most of us absorb the greater world. I'm talking about the world outside of our everyday boundaries. Coffee table books are a great example of this. A beautifully bound, big glossy, tactile book of images of a distant dream destination perhaps or a compendium of historic images.

News papers, celebrity magazines, even the television news are all examples of picture delivery that we use to learn about the outside world.

Every now again an image sticks.

It's like... you see the image and a few years later you see it again. Then a bit further on in life, it appears again. And every time you see it, all those memories come trickling back and then those memories remind you of other memories and the trickle is soon a flood. Those images become icons.

This is one of those images. An Australian icon of an image. Tommy Woodcock with Reckless, Melbourne Cup eve 1977.

Hear the story behind the image, straight from the horses mouth, as it were, and many others.

Bruce Postle 'The Image Maker' at theLightRoom March 16^th. Proudly presented by Nikon.

'THE IMAGE MAKER' Bruce Postle

2011-12-01T16:28:00.001+11:00

I remember stuff - sometimes.

I don't remember where I put my keys, I don't remember why I walked into the back room, I don't remember my PIN and I always come home from the supermarket without what I went there for.

But I do remember the long hot summers of my child hood, school swim meets and blue ribbons, my grade four teacher, Miss Campbell, and I remember the day one of my class mates was called out of class on October 15 1970. His Dad was crewing on the West Gate Bridge that fateful day. (His Dad was OK by the way.)

You see, I remember the big stuff.

I recently had the great pleasure of meeting Mr Bruce Postle, Australian Iconic Photojournalist and true gentleman. Bruce remembers a lot of things, but Bruce's life has been one great string of big events.

Bruce has recently compiled a book of big things. It's a book of images spanning his 50 year career in the field. It's a fascinating pictorial history of Modern Australia. For me, it's wander down the memory lane of front page news with all the markers along the way that point to my own life's memories.

Bruce graced us with his presence at theLightRoom, this past week, where, over a glass of red and a beer, Bruce had us enthralled as he revealed the stories behind some of his greatest images.

Bruce's book is now available at theLightRoom. 'The Image Maker' $165.

Images by Bruce Postle – www.brucepostle.com

The Beatles – 1964

Sammy Davis Jnr – 1977

Tommy Woodcock & Reckless – 1977

Bob Hawke & Queen Elizabeth – 1988

There are more than 450 images in Bruces book 'The Image Maker', you'll know many of them. See a small sample here.

Put Your Camera Down: Enjoy Photography

2011-11-23T16:37:00.000+11:00

We're going to let you in on a secret: photography isn't always about cameras. Sounds a little crazy but today's post is about enjoying - and getting involved with - your subject. Don't forget the feeling behind your artistic passions!

In the beginning a passion for photography can develop from simple pursuits: family, capturing memories, or recording adventure. Curiosity leads to discovering new techniques, mastering old ones, and before you know it you've progressed to the stand-in at weddings and celebrations! It's in this transitional period that technology and technique can sometimes weigh heavily on your mind and prevent you from photographing with feeling.

If you're photographing a group of people make sure to be involved in what they are doing first. Ask questions; talk about them and their interests. Make them comfortable first before raising the camera to your eye. People can often communicate using the eyes and tend to be more comfortable when they can read the facial expressions of others. If you have already built rapport before beginning to photograph it will be easier to direct them while the camera is covering your face. If it's just not working, don't be afraid to ditch the camera for a little while to get them to relax again.

Likewise when photographing in a new location, scout the area without a camera first. Take the time to walk around and get the feeling for where the activity happens; take note of how the light falls and pre-visualise some images ahead of picking up your camera.

If nothing else, photograph things you love, get caught up in the moment, and shoot like nobody's judging. Do it because you love it, not because you have to!

Compact System Camera - Cases

2011-11-22T11:58:00.000+11:00

A new range from Lowepro fills a gap, that up to now has been a huge annoyance. At last, a collection of appropriately sized camera bags designed specifically for CompactSystem Cameras and their accessories.

Check out the video.

My Weekend with the Nikon 1 J1

2011-11-09T16:30:00.001+11:00

I took a Nikon 1 J1 home on the weekend: I'd really wanted to get my hands on one of these ever since they were announced a couple of months back.

The first thing that stood out to me was the build. The weight and balance of this camera is not only impressive, it's perfect. There is substance to the camera. It's not that the J1 is heavy, it's just a great feel, something lacking in most cameras today as they get smaller and smaller.

Using the camera is a breeze, I favour another brand, often is the case that you get so used to a menu layout it makes moving to another brand somewhat of a trial. But the Nikon 1's menu system is so well thought out, so intuitive, that using the camera was quite simply a breeze.

My one disappointment was using the Nikon 1 J1's screen in bright sunlight. My eyes just aren't what they used to be. So... It's the Nikon 1 V1 for me, where I'll get both an eye-level viewfinder and a big 3inch LCD screen like the Nikon 1 J1.

Lights! Camera! Action!

2011-10-12T13:23:00.003+11:00

Please excuse the tired phrase, we're a little excited - we've just launched our own YouTube channel!

Our first clip is a snappy little video (and great music!) featuring theLightRoom. The Master Class on show was a very successful Food Styling & Photography session with Dario Milano of Food Pixels - which we look forward to holding again soon.

Have a look at the video and tell us what you think. We'd love to hear your feedback!

Our Master Classes cover a range of photographic styles. If there is a class you would like to see added to the syllabus please leave a comment below.

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week

2011-09-14T17:58:00.001+10:00

Last week we had the pleasure to join Nikon Australia at Show 2 of the Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Designer Series. It was an exceptional evening showcasing Melbourne's talent and diversity with boutique and artisan designers. It was not just about beautiful clothes and beautiful people for us though! We had Peter P. on the ground photographing the runway from the press pit.

The face of MSFW, Sophie Van Den Akker, was at her stunning best and the crowd were thrilled to soak up the show. They definitely enjoyed the atmosphere!
Lighting in a runway event is notoriously tricky, but Peter was quick to add it was nothing his Nikon couldn't handle.

Behind The Lens with Jeff Reynolds

2011-09-06T14:40:00.001+10:00

Showing off the skills of Camera Action staff for World Photography Day sounds easy enough, but if you're new to photography you may be wondering how you can get the same results.

Our interview with Jeff Reynolds (theLightRoom) shows with just a little extra attention to detail in-camera, or later in post-production, you too can achieve great results.

Left: original file. Right: final image. © Jeff R.

Equipment used: Nikon D40x, Nikkor 18-55mm Lens, Hoya UV Filter, Nikon SB-900 Speedlight, Adobe Photoshop CS5.

Why did you choose this equipment? When I was shopping for my first DSLR, the D80 was the camera to get if you were a Nikon user. I did some research and found that the D40x at its core had most of the same specifications, for several hundred less. As I was at University [at the time], I followed my wallet. I now also own a Nikon D7000. The 18-55mm lens is the kit lens that came with the D40x and I purchased the SB-900 after using one the University had available for loans. It was and still is brilliant.

Where was the photo taken and what were the lighting conditions like? The shot was taken at Harbour Town Shopping Centre, Docklands. It was shot during the late afternoon in winter, so the light was quite blue and cool. The flash was on TTL mode, to provide some extra fill and was bouncing off the reflector card.

Describe the post-production techniques used and why: Initially I cropped the image for a better framing, then I brightened levels and adjusted contrast. I then did a little blemish reduction on the face, and recoloured some railing and wall panels to mirror the colour of her shirt. I did the recolouring so there was more of a colour flow through the image and so that it wasn't too washed out; it was also part of a series of images that each featured a bold colour.

How do you prefer to light your subjects? I prefer shooting outdoors with flash. Even though the lighting conditions change dramatically during the day, I find I get better overall images from an outdoor shoot, compared to one indoors.

We love hearing about other photographers' work: share your photo story or tips with us in the comments.

World Photography Day - 19th Aug 2011

2011-08-23T10:52:00.001+10:00

You might have seen the internet abuzz with talk of #WorldPhotoDay on Friday, but what is it? World Photography Day is a movement amongst photographers all about celebrating photography. On August 19 photographers everywhere capture their world and share it with the rest of the world.
Camera Action staff were keen to celebrate their passion and below is a small sample of what they got up to.

Join in by sharing your photos here or submit your entries online for the Camera Action Photo Competition.

Camera Tips: Photo Storage For Travellers

2011-08-17T17:13:00.000+10:00

We get asked a lot of questions in store at Camera Action Camera House about ideal cameras, bags, and tripods for photographers of all skill levels and styles. Recently, the queries have been about the best gear to use while travelling and we thought it was an ideal time to share some suggestions on recording and storing your trip memories safely.

First things first: memory cards. Some photographers prefer to have large capacity cards so they can continue shooting without interruption - there's nothing worse than having to juggle a large pack, two cameras, and four cards in the middle of a steamy jungle. Not exactly subtle or easy.
However it can also be beneficial to split your photos over multiple smaller memory cards, in case (heaven forbid) something happens to one of your cards, you will have at least saved half of the photo memories from your trip.

Depending on your destination, you may also come across a store similar to Camera Action in your travels that offers CD/DVD services to copy photos directly from your memory card. Check that all photos have been transferred to the disc in store and then you can format the card for even more holiday snaps.

If you intend on travelling with a laptop or will have access to a computer, a card reader is ideal for safe and fast download of photos directly from your memory card using a simple "drag and drop" method.
Card readers plug in to the USB port of your computer and do not rely on battery power from the camera during transfer. Once the images have been copied to your computer, it is safe to format the memory card, ready to shoot again.

A popular alternative for heavy shooters is to carry a portable hard drive. This allows for immediate backup of your photos, with up to 500GB storage and directly from your memory card in some units.

Got a tip of your own? Share your suggestions on photo or other storage in the comments field.

Olympus Launch a Real Camera

2011-08-09T16:41:00.001+10:00

As a general rule it's fair to say people like new technology. Now imagine a room full of photographers and photo enthusiasts awaiting the unveiling of the latest compact system camera from one of the world's leading digital camera brands.
Eager doesn't quite cut it.

Last week we had the joy of hosting a launch event at theLightRoom for the new Olympus PEN series of compact system cameras: the Olympus E-P3, E-PL3, and E-PM1. Karl and Lucas joined us from Olympus to officially launch the three cameras and explain the technology that makes the latest PEN series the most impressive yet.

All three models feature the world's fastest autofocus speed due to the unique FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF system, and new 35 zone AF system with tighter focusing points for improved AF tracking capability. The series incorporates an improved dynamic range and image quality thanks to the new 12.3 megapixel High Speed Live MOS Sensor with 1080i Full HD movie capability, and new TruePic VI image processing engine.

Guests were also impressed by the touch-screen panel on the E-P3's 3.0-inch 610,000-dot OLED display, and the reduced recycling speed between frames. We also noticed handheld video capture was remarkably shake-free even when the user and subject were in motion.

As always we enjoyed having Karl and Lucas come in to share the new Olympus cameras with us. What camera would you like to see in our next event? Let us know in the comments field.

WIN a BlackRapid RS-W1.

2011-07-28T12:32:00.000+10:00

World's first camera strap designed specifically for women.

Coming up in November is our FamilyPortraiture Master Class with Katrina from inVision Photogrphy. Because this is a 'Ladies Only' event, we've got together with BlackRapid and we're putting up a BlackRapid RS-W1. So, from all those attending one of you will walk away with a Black Rapid RS-W1 camera strap. The camera strap designed by and for women, 'cause women are designed different, even I know that.

Olympus PEN release dates

2011-07-07T16:03:00.000+10:00

We now have Australain release dates for the new PEN gear:

Olympus PEN E-P3 and 12mm f2 lens -
3^rd week July
Olympus E-PL3 and FL-300R flash -
3^rd week August
Olympus E-PM1 (mini) and 45mm f1.8 -
3^rd week September

Olympus quick Vid 5

2011-07-04T12:01:00.000+10:00

Olympus PEN. Fast & Furious

2011-07-01T12:56:00.000+10:00

There's no denying I'm a huge fan of the Micro Four Thirds PEN range from Olympus. I pre-ordered my PEN E-P1 back in '09 and I'm currently running an E-P2. Now the E-P3, fastest Auto-Focus system in the world. And what I really, really can't wait for are the 2 new lenses in the range.

A Zuiko digital 12mm f2 and a magnificently fast 45mm f1.8, a dream of a portrait lens.

Another Quick Vid from Olympus

2011-06-28T12:13:00.001+10:00

The Olympus PEN was a revolution in camera design. A super compact body and lens combination, with lens interchangeability. The quality and versatility of SLR photography with the covienience and portability of a compact camera.

Can't wait to see what's coming next from Olympus in the microFourThirds arena. Expect something NEW with-in the next few weeks. Stay tuned.

Olympus Quick Vid 3

2011-04-20T10:47:00.001+10:00

Olympus were the first with the all weather compact digital camera and have continued to be the leader in the field ever since.

The Olympus TG-810 continues that tradition.

Olympus Quick Vid 2

2011-04-13T13:41:00.002+10:00

The Olympus XZ-1 is one of the stand out compact cameras of 2011.

A superbly built and sleekly designed camera, the XZ-1 is the first Olympus compact camera to wear the respected 'Zuiko' lens brand.
And the lens is something to shout about. A magnificently bright f1.8-2.5 the brightest in a compact (April 2011) and a respectable 28-112mm in the old money.
The XZ-1 is one of those cameras that defies the current build trend. It has a distinct feel of quality in the hand and positive dial control.
A very sexy camera.

Quick Vid from Olympus

2011-04-12T13:49:00.001+10:00

Fujifilm X100

2011-03-17T11:40:00.002+11:00

Another huge hit prediction for 2011.

Inspired by Fuji's classic range-finder Fujica range of the 50's and 60's this is an elegant take on the current trend of retro look digital cameras.

The X100 sports a fixed 23mm f:2 Fujinon lens, large ASP-c sensor, 2.8inch LCD, and innovative hybrid viewfinder; switchable between optical and electronic modes.

While obviously not a range-finder camera (being an Auto Focus camera) flash and viewfinder are arranged in such away as to continue the range finder retro appearance of its Fujica marque predecessors.

Not only a gorgeous looking camera the Fujifilm X100 will out perform many in its league. A fast f:2 lens and super responsive sensor (ISO rated 200-6400) achieving the depth of field missing in images from most compact cameras, is suddenly achievable again in almost any lighting condition.

Grab it while it's Made in Japan.

Master Class Syllabus 2011

2011-02-16T09:21:00.000+11:00

Together, CameraAction.com.au, Camera Action Camera House & theLightRoom have just published their 2011 Master Class Syllabus.

With over 70 classes scheduled for the year including Basics Digital SLR, and Video classes, Intermediate D SLR classes and a series of specialist Master Classes covering areas of Photographic Studies such as Travel, Photojournalism, Portraiture and Wedding Photography, there's something here for everyone.

Several new classes for 2011 include, a very special Ladies Only, Family Portraiture day. Vicki Bell will lead the ladies through a day of Family portraiture technique with out the tech-speak and any interruptions from the 'Boffins' or the male of the species.

Photojournalism with Trav Munro, accomplished free lance photographer who's work has appeared in magazines such as Inside Sport and newspapers of the HWT family.

Also newly available for 2011, One on One camera tuition and Night Photography City Walks ending at an 'undisclosed location'.

For further details visit http://www.thelightroom.com.au/edu

Working with Speed Lights - Rocco Ancora

2010-12-03T08:30:00.001+11:00

Last Chance

Come spend an hour or so with Rocco Ancora. AIPP Australian Wedding Photographer of the Year 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2010. Rocco will be discussing and sharing his skills of Flash Lighting.
Rocco's lighting style is distinctive, its romantic and is reminiscent of a 1940s-50s cinematographic feel.

Plus a special 2 hour session this evening.
To day only. Friday December 3 1:00 – 2:00pm & 6:00-8:00pm.

BOOK NOW! Or just roll up.

theLightRoom

Lvl 3 Somerset Place

Melbourne 3000

Directly behind Camera Action Camera House

FREE seminars - Book On-Line

2010-11-25T16:52:00.000+11:00

Book on line for any one of our FREE mini seminars next week.

Monday

Master Class Sampler – Portrait Photography
Monday Evening

Printing in theLightRoom with Canon

Tuesday (afternoon and evening sessions)

Olympus E5 DSLR launch

Wednesday

Studio Lighting with Elinchrom

Colour Management with Spyder

Thursday

Edit to Image with NIK software & Ilford paper

Friday (afternoon and evening sessions)

Shooting with Speedlights with Nikon ambassador, AIPP Wedding Photgrapher of the year Rocco Ancora.

Book Now!