Category Archives: Photography Tips & Techniques

Photography Etiquette in National Parks

September 24, 2023 by admin | 0 Comments

As a professional photographer who has had the privilege of exploring the stunning landscapes of some of our national parks and other remarkable landmarks, I’ve witnessed both the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation and the not-so-beautiful behavior of fellow photographers and photo tour groups. It’s crucial that we, as photographers and photograph lovers, set an example for responsible and respectful photography in these precious environments. Here are some essential guidelines for proper photographer etiquette in natural settings:

Respect Nature’s Fragility: The first and most important rule is to respect the environment. Stay on designated paths and trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Never pick plants, disturb wildlife, or leave any trace of your presence.
Know the Rules: Different parks and landmarks may have specific regulations regarding photography. Familiarize yourself with these rules, such as restrictions on drone usage and tripods, access to certain areas, and photography permits. Complying with these rules not only preserves the location but also sets a positive example.
Low Impact Photography: When photographing in delicate environments, use a tripod to minimize soil compaction, especially in sensitive areas. Avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing the landscape to get the perfect shot. Keep your photography equipment in a backpack when not in use and don’t rest that backpack on vegetation or fragile shrubbery.
Be Mindful of Wildlife: Respect the space and behavior of animals. Keep a safe distance and use a telephoto lens for close-up shots. Never approach or feed wildlife, as it can harm both you and the animals.
Minimize Noise and Disturbances: Loud conversations (this is one of my pet peeves) and camera shutter noises can disrupt the peacefulness of natural spaces. Keep unnecessary noise to a minimum and consider using silent mode on your camera when appropriate and if possible.
Share the Space: Popular landmarks can get crowded. Be considerate of other photographers, tourists, and nature enthusiasts. Allow others to enjoy the view and wait your turn when necessary. And when you’re done and have your photograph, move on and give someone else the opportunity of that viewpoint (this is another of my pet peeves).
Leave No Trace: This principle extends beyond trash. Pick up any litter you find, and also be conscious of not leaving behind any photography equipment or props. Preserve the location for other guests and future generations.
Limit Your Impact on Local Communities: If you’re visiting areas near local communities, respect their privacy and property. Seek permission before photographing on private land, and always follow any local rules and customs.
Educate and Inspire: Use your photography to educate and inspire others about the beauty and importance of these natural landscapes. Share your knowledge and tips for responsible photography with fellow photographers.
Lead by Example: As professionals, our actions carry weight. By practicing good photographer etiquette, we encourage others to do the same. Offer guidance and support to those who may be unaware of these principles.

Photography in national parks and other landmarks is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Let’s strive to be stewards of these incredible places, ensuring they remain pristine for other guests and future generations to enjoy. By following proper photographer etiquette, we not only capture breathtaking images but also contribute to the preservation of these natural wonders.

Happy and responsible shooting!

Chris

Tagged National Parks, Photography Etiquette, Photography Tips, puyallup photographer, tacoma photographer |

What Kind of Camera Should I Get

September 14, 2023 by admin | 0 Comments

Hello aspiring photographers.

Selecting the right camera is an exciting yet daunting task, especially when you’re just starting out. As a professional photographer, I’ve seen many beginners struggle with this decision, so I’m here to offer some guidance on what kind of camera you should get to kickstart your photography adventure. For this particular discussion, I’m not considering a phone camera, nor am I considering the advantages/disadvantages of a compact camera as part of this discussion.

The following are 10 things to consider when selecting a camera.

Understand Your Interests: think about the type of photography that interests you the most. Are you drawn to landscapes, portraits, wildlife, or street photography? Do you want to incorporate any video into your work? Different camera types excel in various areas, so knowing your interests will help narrow down your choices.
Consider Your Budget: before diving into camera options, determine your budget. Photography can be as affordable or as expensive as you want it to be. There are excellent options in every price range above a set minimum, so set a realistic budget that suits your financial situation.
DSLR vs. Mirrorless: one of the first decisions to make is whether to go for a Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) or a Mirrorless camera. Both have their advantages, but mirrorless cameras are gaining popularity due to their more compact size and some advanced features such as integrated video. They are often a great choice for beginners but they do come with some negative considerations to be aware of.
Sensor Size Matters: the size of the camera sensor impacts image quality and low-light performance. Entry-level cameras typically have APS-C sensors, which strike a good balance between image quality and portability.
Lens Options: consider the available lenses for your chosen camera system. A versatile kit lens is excellent for beginners, but you may want to explore additional lenses as you progress in your photography journey.
Ease of Use: user-friendliness matters, especially for beginners. Look for a camera with intuitive menus and controls. Some models even offer guided modes to help you learn the ropes but if you can’t manage through the menus and setting up your camera you will struggle.
Size and Weight: think about how portable you want your camera to be. If you plan to carry it around frequently, a compact and lightweight camera might be a better fit.
Research and Reviews: don’t rush the decision-making process. Read reviews, watch videos, and visit camera stores to get a hands-on feel for the cameras you’re interested in. Personal preferences can play a significant role in your choice.
Consider Second-hand Options: if you’re on a tight budget, don’t dismiss the idea of buying a used camera from a reputable source. Many photographers upgrade their gear, offering quality used equipment at a fraction of a new price.
Invest in Education: finally, remember that the camera is just a tool. Invest some of your budget in photography courses, workshops, or books. Understanding the fundamentals of photography is equally important, if not more so, than the camera itself.

So to summarize, choosing your first camera is a personal decision that should align with your interests, budget, and goals as a photographer. Take your time to research and consider your options, and don’t forget that your skills and creativity will ultimately define the quality of your photographs more than the camera you choose.

Happy shooting, and may your photography journey be filled with countless memorable moments!

Chris

Tagged camera, DSLR, mirrorless, mirrorless camera, photography tip, puyallup photographer, SLR |

The Power of Candid Expressions: Infuse your Portraits with Authenticity and Emotion

September 7, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Welcome to our photography blog, where we’re dedicated to helping you enhance your photography skills and artistic vision. In this installment, we’re delving into the world of candid portrait expressions—a powerful way to infuse your portraits with authenticity and emotion. Candid portraits go beyond posed shots, revealing genuine moments that tell stories and connect with viewers. Let’s dive into the world of candid portrait photography and learn how to capture those spontaneous, fleeting moments.

Tip 1: Establish Trust and Rapport. Building a comfortable and trusting relationship with your subject is the foundation of capturing candid expressions. Spend some time getting to know your subject before the shoot, engaging in casual conversation, and finding common ground. When your subject feels at ease with you, they’re more likely to reveal their true emotions, resulting in authentic and heartfelt moments.

Tip 2: Blend into the Background. To capture candid moments, it’s important to become an unobtrusive observer. Rather than directing every pose and expression, position yourself at a distance and use a longer lens if necessary. This allows your subject to relax and act naturally, forgetting about the camera’s presence. The goal is to become a fly on the wall, ready to capture the magic as it unfolds.

Tip 3: Timing is Everything. Candid moments are all about timing. Be patient and attentive, anticipating when interesting expressions or interactions might occur. Keep your finger on the shutter button and be prepared to capture those split-second reactions that can often convey the most genuine emotions.

Tip 4: Utilize Natural Environments. Choose locations that resonate with your subject and provide natural settings for candid moments to occur. Whether it’s a park, a bustling street, or a cozy cafe, the environment can inspire spontaneous interactions and expressions. Encourage your subject to engage with their surroundings, and you’ll capture a rich tapestry of emotions and reactions.

Tip 5: Embrace Imperfections. Candid portraits are all about embracing imperfections and capturing raw, unfiltered emotions. Don’t shy away from capturing genuine laughter, thoughtful expressions, or even moments of vulnerability. These authentic moments have a powerful impact and can create portraits that are both relatable and emotionally resonant.

Conclusion: candid expressions are a window into the soul, revealing layers of emotions and stories that posed shots might miss. By building trust, blending into the background, and timing your shots perfectly, you can capture the essence of your subject in their most natural state. So, step away from traditional poses, let go of perfection, and embark on a journey to capture candid moments that tell captivating stories through your lens.

Happy shooting!

Chris

BTW: you can always looks at a smattering of candid portraits on our SmugMug account. Or for the more formal portraits you can view our portfolio page.

Also posted in Engagement Photography, Family Portraits, Portraits, Senior Portraits Tagged candid portraits, Photography Tips, portraits, puyallup photographer |

The Power of Minimalism: Capturing Emotion Through Simple Photography

August 29, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Welcome to our photography blog, where we’re dedicated to helping you enhance your photography skills and artistic vision. In this edition, we’ll explore the art of minimalism in photography—a technique that focuses on simplicity, clarity, and emotion. Minimalism can transform everyday scenes into powerful images that evoke deep feelings and resonate with viewers. Let’s delve into this captivating world and discover how to harness its potential.

Tip 1: Embrace Negative Space. At the heart of minimalism is the concept of negative space—the empty areas in your composition that surround your main subject. By using negative space, you can draw attention to your subject and create a sense of tranquility in your photograph. Experiment with placing your subject off-center and allowing ample empty space around it, encouraging the viewer to reflect on the emotions and stories within the frame.

Tip 2: Keep It Simple. In minimalistic photography, less truly is more. Choose a single subject or element as your focal point, eliminating distractions and clutter from your frame. This allows your subject to stand out and speak for itself. Whether it’s a single flower, a lone tree, or a solitary person, simplicity can evoke profound emotions and engage the viewer on a deeper level.

Tip 3: Play with Lines and Shapes. Clean lines and geometric shapes play a crucial role in minimalistic compositions. Look for lines that guide the viewer’s eye through the image, adding a sense of structure and harmony. Experiment with using diagonals, horizontals, and verticals to create a dynamic balance that enhances the visual appeal of your photograph.

Tip 4: Focus on Details. Zooming in on small details can often yield powerful minimalist images. Capture textures, patterns, and intricate details that might otherwise go unnoticed in a cluttered scene. By focusing on these finer elements, you can create an intimate connection between the viewer and your photograph, inviting them to explore and appreciate the beauty in the ordinary.

Tip 5: Master Monochrome. Black and white photography is a natural fit for minimalistic compositions. Removing color from the equation emphasizes the play of light and shadow, as well as the contrast between different elements. Monochrome images have a timeless quality that can intensify the emotions conveyed in your photographs.

Conclusion: Minimalism in photography is an art form that challenges us to strip away the excess and reveal the essence of our subjects. By embracing negative space, simplifying compositions, and focusing on details, you can create images that evoke emotion, tell stories, and leave a lasting impact on your audience. So, pick up your camera and embark on a journey of creative exploration, capturing the beauty and emotion in the simplest of moments.

Happy shooting!

Chris

Tagged photographic minimalism, Photography Tips, puyallup photographer |

The Power of Symmetry: Elevate Your Photography with Balanced Composition

August 22, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Welcome to our photography blog, where we’re excited to share a timeless composition technique that can instantly transform your images into captivating works of art. Today, we’re delving into the world of symmetry in photography and how you can use this powerful technique to create balanced and visually pleasing shots. Let’s explore the art of symmetry together!

Tip 1: Identifying Symmetry in Your Environment. Symmetry is all around us, waiting to be captured through your lens. Look for scenes with natural or man-made elements that exhibit perfect or near-perfect reflection along a central axis. Reflective surfaces like water bodies, glass buildings, and even urban streets can offer great opportunities for symmetry. Nature, architecture, and even everyday objects can become your canvas for creating stunning symmetrical compositions.

Tip 2: Centered vs. Off-Center Symmetry. Symmetry doesn’t always mean placing your subject directly in the center of the frame. Experiment with both centered and off-center symmetry to create different visual effects. Centered symmetry can evoke a sense of balance and tranquility, while off-center symmetry adds a touch of dynamism and draws the viewer’s eye through the frame.

Tip 3: Perfecting Reflections. Water bodies are fantastic canvases for achieving stunning symmetrical reflections. When photographing reflections, ensure that the water surface is calm to avoid distortion. To capture crisp reflections, use a sturdy tripod and a lower ISO setting to maintain image quality. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the contrast of the reflection.

Tip 4: Framing and Leading Lines. Use architectural elements like doors, windows, and pathways to create natural frames that guide the viewer’s eye toward the symmetrical subject. Leading lines can enhance the overall composition and draw attention to the symmetry in the scene. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most compelling framing for your shot.

Tip 5: Post-Processing for Precision. In post-processing, pay attention to details and ensure that the symmetry is precisely aligned. Use editing tools to correct any minor imbalances that may have occurred during shooting. Tools like cropping, rotating, and cloning can help you fine-tune your symmetrical compositions and achieve a polished result.

Conclusion: Symmetry is a powerful composition technique that adds a sense of order, balance, and aesthetic appeal to your photographs. Whether you’re capturing urban landscapes, natural environments, or intricate architecture, incorporating symmetry can take your images to a whole new level. Remember to explore both centered and off-center symmetry, use framing techniques, and pay attention to details during post-processing. So, grab your camera, open your eyes to the symmetrical wonders around you, and let your creativity shine through.

Happy shooting and blessings to you!

Chris

P.S. Be sure to visit my portfolios and see if you can find any symmetry within any of the photographs I’ve posted within.

Tagged balanced composition, photographic symmetry, photography tip, puyallup photographer, symmetry |

Unleashing Creativity with Long Exposure Photography

August 14, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Hello friends and welcome back to our photography blog, where we sometimes explore exciting techniques to help elevate your photography to the next level. Today, we’re diving into the captivating world of long exposure photography. Whether you’re seasoned or just starting on your photography journey, long exposure can add a touch of magic and creativity to your images. Let’s explore this fantastic technique together!

Long exposure photography involves leaving your camera’s shutter open for an extended period, allowing more light to reach the sensor. This results in intriguing effects like silky smooth waterfalls, streaking car lights, and surreal star trails. To achieve stunning long exposure shots, you’ll need a sturdy tripod, a remote shutter release (or use the camera’s timer function), and a lot of patience.

Tip: Use a tripod. This is a must as there is no person alive that will not move even just a little during a long exposure.

Tip: Embrace Neutral Density Filters. Long exposures often require shooting in bright conditions, which can make it challenging to achieve longer shutter speeds without overexposing your images. This is where neutral density (ND) filters come to the rescue. ND filters act like sunglasses for your camera, reducing the amount of light entering the lens without affecting the colors. They come in various strengths, measured in stops, and are indispensable tools for extending your exposure times during daylight hours.

Tip: Finding the Perfect Location. Picking the right location is crucial for successful long exposure photography. Seek out dynamic scenes with moving elements like water, clouds, or traffic. Seascapes, rivers, urban cityscapes, and starry night skies are popular choices. When scouting locations, envision how the moving elements will interact during the long exposure to create a sense of movement and flow in your final image.

Tip: Timing is Everything. The best time to experiment with long exposure photography is during the golden hours—sunrise and sunset. During these times, the light is soft and diffused, providing a more forgiving setting for long exposures. Additionally, clear nights with minimal light pollution are perfect for capturing mesmerizing star trails and the Milky Way.

Tip: Experiment with Shutter Speeds. The magic of long exposure lies in its flexibility. Experiment with various shutter speeds to achieve different effects. For smooth waters and dreamy seascapes, try shutter speeds between 1 to 30 seconds. For capturing streaking lights of moving cars, aim for shutter speeds around 15 to 60 seconds. If you want to capture star trails, consider exposure times ranging from several minutes to hours. The key here is there is no absolute speed, but adjust to achieve the result you’re looking for. And remember to adjust your ISO and camera aperture to help to help slow down the shutter if needed.

Tip: Consider your focus point (see my tip on Depth of Field). Are you wanting to capture star trails or something a little more close? Do you want a infinitely large depth-of-field or something more shallow? Turn off autofocus and adjust manually to ensure that the subject is razor sharp. And don’t hesitate to use the focus ring on your lens to assist-you can always make an adjustment if needed.

Tip: Use a Shutter Release Cable. Most camera bodies will allow for some sort of remote trigger to help eliminate camera shake when depressing the shutter release button. If, for some reason, your camera doesn’t have one, set the self-timer for 2 seconds and remove your hand from the camera before the shutter engages. (I don’t endorse any supplier, manufacturer, or brand but see a wide range of options at your favorite camera supply store, such as B&H).

Tip: Cover the Optical Viewfinder. Many DSLRS will have some light spill through the viewfinder during long exposure photography thereby ruining the image. To counter, either keep your eye up to the viewfinder (don’t touch the camera during the exposure) or close the eyepiece/diopter curtain to block ambient light from entering. In some cases, using the camera’s “live view” will work to shut out the stray light.

Conclusion: long exposure photography opens up a world of creative possibilities that can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art. Remember to carry your tripod, ND filters, and shutter release cable or remote trigger, scout for inspiring locations, and perfect your timing to capture the perfect moment. Grab your camera, venture out into the realm of long exposure photography, and let your creativity flow freely.

Happy shooting and blessings to you!

Chris

Tagged long exposure, long exposure photography, photography tip, puyallup photographer |

Mastering Depth of Field: A Guide to Captivating Photography

August 7, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Hello friends,

It has certainly been a long time since I wrote a photography tip and today I am feeling inspired. So in an effort to kick off my tips again, as a topic to share I am thrilled to delve into the fascinating world of depth-of-field and how it can elevate your photography skills to new heights. Understanding and controlling depth-of-field is essential for capturing breathtaking images that will leave a lasting impression on your audience. Let’s dive right in!

Tip 1: Aperture, the key to depth-of-field. One of the primary factors that influence depth-of-field is the aperture setting on your camera, assuming that you have the ability to control it. Aperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens through which light passes to reach the camera’s sensor. A wider aperture (smaller f-number) creates a shallow depth-of-field, resulting in a beautifully blurred background while keeping your subject in sharp focus. Conversely, a narrower aperture (larger f-number) produces a deeper depth-of-field and is ideal for landscapes or capturing a scene where you want as much in focus as possible.

Tip 2: Understanding the Impact of Focal Length. The focal length of your lens plays a significant role in determining the depth of field in your photographs. Shorter focal lengths (wide-angle lenses) tend to have a deeper depth-of-field, making them suitable for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots. On the other hand, longer focal lengths (telephoto lenses) create a shallower depth-of-field, perfect for isolating subjects and achieving stunning background blur.

Tip 3: Distance Matters. The distance between your subject and the background can greatly affect the depth-of-field in your images. The closer you are to your subject, the shallower the depth-of-field will be. To create captivating portraits with creamy bokeh, position your subject a moderate distance from the background and use a wide aperture. For landscape shots, increase the distance between your subject and the background, and consider using a smaller aperture for greater sharpness throughout the scene.

Tip 4: Manual Focus. While autofocus is a fantastic feature in modern cameras, there are times when you may want to take control of the focus for precise depth-of-field. Switching to manual focus allows you to fine-tune the point of focus, ensuring that your subject is tack-sharp and the background beautifully blurred, thereby enhancing the overall aesthetic of your photograph.

Tip 5: Experiment with Foreground Elements. Incorporating foreground elements can add depth and interest to your photos. By positioning objects closer to the camera and using a wide aperture, you can create a sense of depth and lead the viewer’s eye towards the main subject. This technique is especially useful in landscape and street photography, where it adds a three-dimensional feel to your images.

And it goes without saying that in order to keep your photographs sharp and in-focus, try to use a tripod and a shutter release cable or remote whenever possible. This will help eliminate any movement of the camera during the actual image capture.

Conclusion: Mastering depth-of-field is an essential skill for photographers seeking to add artistic flair to their work. By understanding the relationship between aperture, focal length, and subject distance, you can create images that truly stand out. Don’t be afraid to experiment, as each scenario presents a unique opportunity to express your creativity and tell compelling visual stories through your lens. So, grab your camera, apply these tips, and watch your photography skills soar to new heights!

Happy shooting!

Tagged depth of field, depth-of-field, photographer, photography, Photography Tips, puyallup photographer |

We Won a 2023 Telly Award!

June 15, 2023 by admin | Comments Off

Hello friends,

We are excited and thrilled to announce that we have won a 2023 Telly Award (winner banner) for our production of “Maui Dawn to Dusk“, a compilation of video that I shot over the course of a day during a trip to Maui last summer. This is my second Telly Award, my first being last year for a video I produced features some locales around Washington State.

The Telly Awards were founded in 1979 to honor excellence in local, regional and cable television commercials with non-broadcast video and television programming added soon after. With the recent evolution and rise of digital video (web series, VR, 360 and beyond), the Telly Awards today also reflects and celebrates this exciting new era of the moving image on and offline.

The Telly Awards annually showcases the best work created within television and across video, for all screens. Receiving over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents, Telly Award winners represent work from some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers from around the world. The Telly Awards recognizes work that has been created on the behalf of a client, for a specific brand and/or company (including your own) or self-directed as a creative endeavor.

To say that I am excited to have received such a prestigious honor is an understatement. However, I am humbled to have been invited to submit and be even considered for such an achievement as there are so many talented individuals and production companies creating and producing so many beautiful and entertaining programs and I would never want to presume that what we do is anything greater or more significant.

I want to thank you all for your support over the years and encouragement to keep going.

Blessings to you all.

Chris.

p.s. you can find the video at this link on YouTube ,on Vimeo , or click the banner below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsbW_Vmy9-I&t=8s

Also posted in Drone Photography, Landscape and Nature Photography, Shot of the Day Tagged aerial cinematography, aerial video, aerial videography, maui, maui dawn to dusk, photographer, Pierce County, Puyallup, telly award, videographer, winner |

We Won a 2022 Telly Award!

May 28, 2022 by admin | Comments Off

Hello friends,

We are excited and thrilled to announce that we have won a 2022 Telly Award (winner banner) for our production of “Around 2021“, a compilation of video that I shot around the region last year. It is a first for me to win at this level, especially since I haven’t really done much with video in the last few years-at least professionally.

The Telly Awards was founded in 1979 to honor excellence in local, regional and cable television commercials with non-broadcast video and television programming added soon after. With the recent evolution and rise of digital video (web series, VR, 360 and beyond), the Telly Awards today also reflects and celebrates this exciting new era of the moving image on and offline.

I want to thank you all for your support over the years and encouragement to keep going.

Blessings to you all.

Chris.

p.s. you can find the video at this YouTube link or on Vimeo.

Also posted in Drone Photography, Landscape and Nature Photography, Shot of the Day Tagged aerial cinematography, aerial video, aerial videography, around 2021, photographer, Pierce County, pierce county photographer, puyallup photographer, telly award, winner |

Drone Photography Now Available for Business and Personal Use

June 26, 2021 by admin | Comments Off

Hello friends,

I am pleased to announce that I have passed my FAA Part 107 exam and am now a licensed commercial drone pilot with capability for drone aerial photography and/or video.

What does that mean for you? Well, drone photography offers a perspective that ground photography just cannot provide. In real estate, aerial photography is the perfect way to show off the surrounding environment of your property. Why? Because location is everything. And for many industries, location sells. For others, the use of aerial photographs or video can be included in digital marketing (and print with photo) on your website, social media posts, and email campaigns. It really doesn’t matter what your business does or where your business is located, by adding stunning visuals it will truly complement your marketing and creative efforts on getting your message out. And finally, keep your employees and crew safe and out of danger by using my drone services for various inspections and assessment of hard-to-reach or potentially treacherous places and situations.

Our aerial photography and video services are not only just for business, but also for every individual. Consider a personal portrait session and wedding photographs that can now have a new perspective for a truly unique image. We are only limited by your imagination and what is legal and limited by FAA regulations.

Please give a call and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your goals.

Blessings,

Chris.

BTW-don’t forget to visit our Instagram page.