SilberStudios.tv

Photoshop’s new Content Aware Fill/Move Tool

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Photoshop’s Content Aware Fill tool is very impressive; but the new Content Aware Move tool is just ridiculous. You can now take part of an image, and move it in the frame with just one tool. Watch the video to see how easy it is to recompose your image with Photoshop CS6.

Sh*t People Say to Photogs

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:01 GMT

You may have seen our post about Sh*t PhotoGraphers Say and now there is finally a video about things that people say to photographers. See if you recognize any of the things said in this video. If so, let us know!

Nikon D800 official release!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:01 GMT

It’s amazing that the price is only $2999.95

It’s predecessor, the D700 sells for $2699.99

The D800 will be available in late March of this year.

Nikon’s D800 page. You can Pre-Order it at B&H Photo (This is the 800E version).

In case you missed the Nikon D800 press release (Google translated):

Sao Paulo, February 6, 2012

Nikon introduces its long-awaited release, the HD-SLR D800, which offers resolution never seen before, amazing picture quality and valuable video resources, still optimized for professional multimedia photographers and videographers. With unparalleled balance between precision and functionality, the Nikon D800 brings innovations such as the CMOS sensor 36.3 megapixel FX-format, 91,000 pixel RGB sensor, advanced Scene Recognition System and many other new features.

Exceptional Image Quality

The new 36.3 megapixel CMOS sensor (7360 x 4912 resolution) and FX format (35.9 x 24mm) is the largest in terms of resolution so far developed by Nikon, and come meet nikonzeiros numerous requests from around the world. It is ideal for situations where you can not compromise the fidelity, such as weddings, photo studio and record landscapes. A resolution of this magnitude gives the photographer the ability to portray even the smallest details with stunning clarity. Every aspect of the sensor of this model was designed to ensure clear images in low light, so it has enhanced features like OLPF converter and a 14 bit A / D to minimize the noise around the picture.

The D800 lives up to Nikon’s reputation of being the sovereign ability to capture in low light thanks to the standard range of ISO 100-6400, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 25600 (Hi-2), which helps create gradient amazing colors when shooting JPEG or RAW.

All these image data are directed to a channel of 16 bits for maximum performance. Photographers can also take advantage of the lenses in FX format lenses for more options and increased focal range (1.5X), while still maintaining the clarity and detail in high resolution of 15.3 megapixels (4800×3200).

The D800 has an advanced Scene Recognition System with its array of colors (3D Color Matrix Meter III), which provides precise measurement in the most challenging lighting conditions. At the heart of this system is the innovative RGB sensor that analyzes each scene meticulously, recognizes factors such as light and bright and then compares all the data using the unique database of 30,000 images from Nikon. This new sensor still has the ability to detect faces with high accuracy even when shooting through viewfinder. The Color Matrix Meter also prioritizes the faces detected, allowing the right exposure even when the subject is backlit.

Novelty is also the exclusive image processing engine Nikon’s EXPEED 3, which controls the entire system and is the catalyst behind the responsiveness of the camera’s auto focus and performance. The new Nikon image processing engine is capable of processing huge amounts of data, with perfect color and tone perfect. 3 The EXPEED also contributes to energy efficiency, allowing the user to use the camera for longer.

Featured in the new and improved white balance system of this model that more accurately recognizes both the sources of natural light and artificial ones, and gives the user the option to retain the warmth of ambient lighting.

Users can also capture a greater dynamic range with the HDR function and enjoy the benefits of Active D-Lighting for balanced exposures even in backlit scenes. In addition, the camera offers a dedicated button for quick access to Nikon’s Picture Controls to adjust the parameters of photo and video in real time, such as color, sharpness and saturation.

True Cinema Experience

The Nikon D800 is a compact and lightweight which is ideal for the production environment. Its features are very practical and functional usable by both filmmakers in the field and in the studio or filmmakers. Filmmakers have the option of multiple resolutions and frame ranges, including Full HD 1080 and HD 720 30/24p to 60p. By using the method of data compression B-Frame, the user can record video in H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC up to 29:59 minutes per clip. The optimized CMOS sensor reads the image data on rates incredibly quick results almost instantly.

The D800 also allows videographers to keep the resolution high definition (1080p) regardless of the selected scene mode. Users can also compose and easily check critical focus for HD LCD monitor 3.2 “and 921 000 pixels with reinforced fabric, automatic control of brightness and wide viewing Anglo.

For professionals, it is important to have a camera that has digital recorders and external monitors. With the D800 is possible to transmit an uncompressed HD signal directly off the camera for an HDMI output (8 bit, 4:2:2). This signal can be transmitted to a display, digital recording device or routed through a monitor, eliminating the need for multiple connections. The image can also be viewed simultaneously on the LCD screen and an external display screen while excluding the state data of the camera for streaming media.

The D800 also includes features to enhance the audio quality, as a specific output for headphones used to monitor the audio levels during recording, which can be adjusted within 30 steps. Have the onboard microphone can be adjusted with up to 20 steps of sensitivity for the faithful reproduction of sound. To complete the recording can be configured to be activated via the shutter button.

Shutter speed and performance with amazing accuracy

The autofocus system Advanced Multi-Cam 3500 AF is the next generation of the proven 51-point AF system Nikon. The fully customizable system offers users the ability to capture fast moving subjects in focus and accurately track, or select a single AF point with absolute precision in detail. The focus system uses 15 sensors of the type AF Crusaders for accuracy and the system also emphasizes human faces even when the viewfinder is used. The D800 also employs 9 cross-type sensors fully functional when used with compatible NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters aperture f / 8 or smaller.

For maximum versatility in different situations, users can also select multiple AF modes, including normal, expanded area and tracking of faces and objects / people, even the optical viewfinder.

Ready to shoot in less than 0012 seconds, the Nikon D800 can capture files in FX mode and resolution up to 4 fps, or up to 6 fps with DX mode with the optional battery pack MB-D12 battery and compatible. To further improve the speed of the camera and the overall workflow, the D800 uses the new standard USB 3.0 for fast transfer.

Format and operability

The structure of the Nikon D800 is designed magnesium alloy for maximum durability and reliability. The camera body is closed and sealed with gaskets to resist dust, moisture and also to electromagnetic interference. You can easily picture of the composition through the viewfinder of course, which offers 100% coverage of the scene.

The shutter was tested to withstand 200,000 cycles, ensuring maximum durability, while the sensor cleaning is made by the vibration of OLPF. The self-diagnostic shutter unit also includes a mirror balancer to minimize the residual impact of the “bounce”, improving the AF and zoom viewing time. Furthermore, the display is coated with a new finish protection thermal which serves to resist to overheating during prolonged use. For storage, the D800 has dual card slot for CF and SD cards, offering the user the possibility of recording up when a card is full, recording RAW / JPEG, separately, and the added option of recording still pictures to and video card to another. For recording and transfers at high speed, data can be recorded on the latest UDMA-7 and the cards SDXC/UHS-1.

The D800 also features built-in flash, and is compatible with the acclaimed Creative Lighting System Nikon, including the Command Mode for embedded control Speedlights wirelessly.

Sh*t Photographers Say

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Lately there has been a flurry of “Sh*t that (insert group of people here) say” videos posted on Youtube. Finally there is one about photographers. Check it out and see how many of the quotes that you hear in the video, you have actually said or heard.

(via PetaPixel via dvafoto)

Imagination, 5 Tips for The Master Tool in an Artist’s Kit

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

John Lennon Memorial, Central Park, NYC

What’s your most essential tool as an artist? While the right equipment can be an enormous aide to your success, we’ve all seen artists who can create with very little. And who runs all that fancy gear and tells it what to do?

Imagination is what gets the creative process started and keeps it rolling. It’s what drives your whole creative flow, as you can see from Picasso, “I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them.”

Michelangelo said, ”I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.” He removed the marble until his vision appeared to others the way he had imagined it.

But if this is such a major tool, why has it been battered down since we were kids? You can remember being hit by zingers like, “that’s just your imagination” or “nice pipe-dream” Yep, there seems to be those who would just as soon send you to camp bummer as see you as create your next piece of art.

So, if it’s the key to the whole game, then what? Are we all born with a certain amount of it and have to just watch it diminish as we grow up?

How about exercising your imagination? I mean like a regular exercise program. Yes, you can develop this creative skill, like any other skill that you practice.

Here’s a few ways to do so.

Practice pre-visualization of your art. Ansel Adams taught photographers to do this in this short video, but this applies to any artist.
Get a notebook-sketchbook and note down your ideas, put your imagination and vision down on paper, and just that simple action helps it comes to life.
You can also use your iPhone camera like a sketch pad and shoot patterns, colors, images of all sorts for later use. That’s how I got the shot above while wandering through Central Park with friends.
Look at other artists’ work and imagine how they did it. Find the parts you love and try it yourself. If you’re shy about this remember one of Steve Jobs’ mantras was what Picasso supposedly uttered, “Bad artists copy. Good artists steal.”
Push yourself to try new ways of expressing your art. If you are always shooting landscapes, make yourself go out on the street and capture people, up close.

Try this out and let’s see what happens. You can post any of the above in our Critique Group (even if you’re not a photographer, go ahead.)

Imagine…

Photographer shoots Mel Gibson, and trips his friend.

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Mel Gibson was outside of a resturant with his friend when a freelance photographer ran up and start to take photos of Mel. Mel’s friend jumped in and tried to trip the photographer. Funny part is, the photographer stumbled but didn’t fall, and Mel’s friend ended up on his butt. The police did show up later, but no crime report has been filed.

(via TMZ)

49ers Inside View from Sports Photographer Michael Zagaris

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

We got to meet up with a sports photograhy legend Michael Zagaris, better known as Z-man in San Francisco. As team photographer for the San Francisco 49ers, Zagaris is an “inside-out shooter”. He took us behind the scenes of the NFC Divisional playoffs New Orleans Saints versus the San Francisco 49ers.

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Carl Kleiner Makes Ikea Beautiful

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Ikea products have never looked so good. Carl Kleiner teamed up with stylist Evelina Bratell to photography Ikea kitchenware for Ikea’s first cookbook. The products are very well arangged and photographed beautifully. Supposedly this cook book will be filled with beautiful photos of ingredents and kitchenware.

(via Co.Design)

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Flickr let’s users darken photos for 24 hours….SOPA

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Flickr has joined the protest against SOPA and PIPA and is letting users darken their images for 24 hours to show their support in the protest. Flickr has also allowed users to darken other’s photos and not just there own to set an example of true censorship and not having control over what gets to be online. Users can only darken 10 photos for the 24 hour period, but 10 photos from millions of members can make a dramatic difference.

Are you protesting against SOPA today? Let us know!

Big Secret of Outstanding Photography & Video Composition

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:01 GMT

Photograph by Jeff Johnson

You remember those photographs that remain etched in your mind and leave you wondering how can you create such an image?

The usual thought is, what you need to add to your work, what fancy tricks do you need to learn?

Look through your favorite photographer’s work and you’ll find the power is in what they didn’t put in the frame or image. Yes, it’s what you don’t see thats is often the secret sauce.

Here’s something I ran across yesterday in The Five C’s of CINEMATOGRAPHY, a classic book by Joseph V. Mascelli (it’s loaded with great tips for still photographers too, I recommend that you add it to your library.)

“The secret of good composition can be explained in one word: simplicity. A complicated or cluttered composition, even though it obeys all rules of good composition, will not be as effective as a simple one. Simplicity does not imply starkness. A simple composition is economical in use of line, form, mass and movement; includes only one center of interest; has unified style which harmoniously integrates camera angles lighting, tonal and color values.

“The test of good composition is whether anything can can be removed from the picture without destroying its effectiveness. Any element in the frame not required for story-telling purpose, attracts unwarranted audience attention. Such distracting pictorial elements may steal the scene from principal subject matter. A simple composition is immediately recognizable and readily assimilated by the audience. The viewer should not have to search the framed area to discover the shot’s meaning. This is most important in motion pictures, which are series of individual scenes. A person may study a still photograph until he is satisfied that he comprehends it. A movie scene appears for a limited time, and is then removed. Confusing or puzzling compositions irritate the viewer, and may cause him to lose interest.

“Simplicity does not depend on the number of scenic elements; or the area included in the picture. A table-top shot depicting half a dozen objects may present a cluttered composition; while an extreme long shot of an advancing army may convey a unity of force and power immediately recognizable, because of its simplicity. If a vast number of compositional elements must be photographed, they should be harmoniously grouped.”

I’d love to see examples of how you have or can apply this to your photography, and how you’ve been able to make it work for you, put your image in our Photo critique group and let us have a look.

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Unique Photography Techniques - Rock Band Photographer Michael Zagaris

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Welcome to a new episode of the Marc Silber Show - Advancing Your Photography! We're in San Francisco with our guest Michael Zagaris, also known as "the Z-man". Michael has shot some of the most amazing rock & roll photos in his career behind the music. He became the band photographer for the Rolling Stones, The Who, Led Zeppelin, and the list of rock legends he captured on film goes on and on. As a rock & roll insider in those days, he took photos of what was, not what one expected to see, and as an insider today he does the same thing for 21st century bands and artists. As team photographer for the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland A's, Zagaris is sports' "inside-out shooter". Zagaris explains his approach to photography, how to "become what you shoot", and focus on your subject. His unique tips on composition will help any photographer capture more raw emotion and energy in their photos.

Chase Jarvis' 5 Secrets for Exceptional Photographs

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:01 GMT

In this absorbing interview Marc Silber gets an inside look at multi-award winning Chase Jarvis' photography. Follow Chase around the globe as he discusses his style, what he loves about being a photographer and his five tips for getting exceptional photos. Buy Chase Jarvis books

Marketing Strategies to Change the World, with Guy Kawasaki

Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Guy Kawasaki is a huge source of business and marketing innovation, inspiration and creativity. He is the co-founder of Alltop.com, an "online magazine rack," and a founding partner of the venture capital firm Garage Technology Ventures. He authors the hugely popular blog "How to Change the World."
Previously, he was the chief evangelist of Apple. He is the author of ten books including Reality Check, How to Drive Your Competition Crazy, The Macintosh Way and his most recent best seller, Enchantment, which we'll be discussing.
He's a serial entrepreneur, and in huge demand as a speaker and topping it all off he's a self proclaimed "Hockey Addict'" which is why we're shooting at his rink, and yes that's him in the #18 Jersey.

Grab your notepad and Join me now with Guy Kawasaki! Then watch our previous video Guy's Marketing Tips

Amazon.com Widgets

Photographer Sandy Puc at her Las Vegas Workshop

Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Behind the scenes footage of professional photographer Sandy Puc as she gets ready for her presentation "The Power of Passion." Follow her backstage as she gets ready for her tour stop in Las Vegas. Brought to you by Bay Photo Lab

Professional Wedding Photographer Kevin Kubota Prepares for his Talk at WPPI

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Behind the scenes footage of professional wedding photographer Kevin Kubota as he gets ready for his presentation at WPPI. Follow him through his unique process and hear a highlight of his talk as he goes on stage at WPPI. Brought to you by Bay Photo Lab http://www.bayphoto.com.

Professional Wedding Photographer Jim Garner Prepares for his Talk at WPPI

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Silber Studios produced behind the scenes footage of professional wedding photographer Jim Garner as he gets ready for his presentation at WPPI. Follow him through his unique process and hear a highlight of his talk as he goes on stage at WPPI.

Professional Wedding Photographer Doug Gordon Prepares for his Talk at WPPI

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:01 GMT

Behind the scenes footage of professional wedding photographer Doug Gordon as he gets ready for the opening presentation at WPPI. Follow him through his unique process and hear his tips for capturing outstanding wedding photographs and a highlight of his talk as he goes on stage for the keynote address at WPPI.