Camera Action Blog - CameraAction.com.au

'THE IMAGE MAKER' Bruce Postle

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:28:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:37:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:58:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:30:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:23:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:58:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 04:40:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:52:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 07:13:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Kellie) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 06:41:00 +0000

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.

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 02:32:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 06:03:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 02:01:00 +0000

Olympus PEN. Fast & Furious

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 02:56:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 02:13:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:47:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 03:41:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 03:49:00 +0000

Fujifilm X100

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:40:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 22:21:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 21:30:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 05:52:00 +0000

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!

theLightRoom - one year on

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:12:00 +0000

The fine art printing and photo-education arm of the Camera Action group theLightRoom celebrates its 1st anniversary.

During this week long event you're invited to join us at any one of our several lunch time lectures FREE.

There are a variety of subjects including a camera launch from Olympus with an introduction to the new Olympus DSLR the E5. Portrait Basics with our resident tutor Robb Duncan. Wedding basics with AIPP Wedding Photographer of the year Rocco Ancora graciously sponsored by Nikon Australia.

2 sessions per day 12:15 – 1:15pm and 1:30-2:30pm Monday November 29 – Friday December 3.

Finishing with our last Master Class for 2010 on the 4th of December, Travel Photography with Richard I'Anson Lonely Planet author and free lance travel photographer.

Morning Traffic

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 22:07:00 +0000

The scene outside Camera Action Camera House in Elizabeth Street Melbourne this morning was one best avoided. The smell of oil pungent in the air, debris underfoot, lights a' flashing, best we pull out the Canon 5D and whack on an L series 24-105 IS. Nice photo-journalism Gursel of Hillside.

I'm thinking that's the hydraulics reservoir. A hit like that in to the fuel tank would have made for an entirely different photo, I'm sure.

INDIA: essential encounters

noreply@blogger.com (RikyRoad) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 23:39:00 +0000

Richard I'Anson's India: essential encounters

Our Travel Photography Master Class tutor Richard I'Anson is ready to release his next book.

If you would like an invitation to Richards book launch just drop me a line and I'll send one out. Tickets are $89 and include drinks, canapes and a signed copy of Richard I'Anson's India: essential encounters