Photography Photography

ON1 Photo RAW 2018 now available

The last year was a big transition year at ON1, moving from individual plug-ins to an all-in-one, non-destructive RAW processor/photo editor standalone app. Like all things great, this transition didn't happen without its challenges. With the release of ON1 Photo RAW 2018,  ON1 is in a position to deliver exactly what the photography community wants - a single all-in-one photo editing app, without monthly fees and built completely based on community feedback.ON1 Photo RAW 2018 Available today November 9th  CLICK HERE to order

  • New update includes HDR module, Pano module, tons of updates in masking (Luminosity mask, luminosity zone masks, global mask adjustments, color range masks and more)
  • Versions or virtual copies
  • New user interface
  • New color brushes
  • ON1 Photo for Mobile
  • A viable Lightroom® alternative available today

Read More

Panasonic Leica DG Elmarit 200mm f/2.8 Prime Lens and Teleconverters Announced

Press release:The New Compact, Lightweight Ultra Telephoto Lens with POWER O.I.S. For Handheld 400mm Equivalent Ultra-Telephoto ShootingNovember 8, 2017 (Newark, NJ) – Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is proud to introduce a new telephoto single focal length lens, the LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. (35 mm camera equivalent: 400 mm). The LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. is the first large-diameter ultra-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a name of LEICA DG. It boasts sharpest-ever image quality from corner to corner in the history of LUMIX digital interchangeable lenses. Featuring high mobility in a compact, lightweight design, it also realizes handheld ultra-telephoto shooting.With its 400mm ultra telephoto focal length and stunning descriptive performance, the LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. is suitable for wildlife or sports photography. The 1.4x Teleconverter (DMW-TC14) is bundled*1 to extend the focusing distance to 560mm (35mm camera equivalent) for close-up shots.The fast F2.8 aperture lets you capture fast-moving subjects while the POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) effectively compensates for hand-shake movement, making it easy to shoot even without a tripod or in low-lit situations. The lens works with Dual I.S.*2 (Image Stabilizer) and Dual I.S. 2.0*3 system when mounted on the compliant Panasonic LUMIX DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) cameras for more powerful hand-shake suppression.Clearing the stringent quality standard of LEICA, the lens is comprised of 15 elements in 13 groups, featuring two UED (Ultra Extra-low Dispersion) lenses. The use of UED lenses and Panasonic cutting-edge optical technology achieve high resolution, high contrast image from corner to corner while suppressing distortion and chromatic aberration.Incorporating a triple linear motor system and max.240 fps sensor drive, the new LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. achieves high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system for both photo and video recording. This stunning AF performance is excellent to record 4K video, where precise focusing is required. In addition, the micro-step drive system in the aperture control section helps the camera smoothly catch up to brightness changes when panning.It boasts a rugged, dust/splash-proof design and are even freeze-proof down to -10℃ (14 degrees F) to withstand professional use under harsh conditions. Offered in sharp, metallic black color, it stylishly matches the LUMIX G Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) cameras.The LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. can also be used with the 2.0x Teleconverter DMW-TC20 (sold separately), which extends the focusing distance to 800mm (35mm camera equivalent) to capture subjects at a greater distane.*1 The 1.4x Teleconverter (DMW-TC14) is also sold separately as an optional accessory.*2 Dual I.S. is available on GX8, GX80/85*3 Dual I.S. 2.0 is available on GH5, G9, G80/81/85•Some functions of H-ES200 cannot be used with DC-GH5. The firmware for DC-GH5 to fully comply with H-ES200 is scheduled to be released by the end of March, 2018.•Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.•LEICA is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.•ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.The new ELMARIT 200mm lens and accessories will be available in early January 2018. The lens with the 1.4x teleconverter MSRP will be $2,999.99 and the optional 2x teleconverter is $599.99.

Read More

Panasonic Lumix G9 - Announced

 This announcement is not a review of the G9 but having had the opportunity to briefly use and test this camera, I can say, it is as good as the specs and performs exceptionally well.Panasonic's new Lumix DC-G9 is a camera tailored for pro and advanced stills photographers.  The camera uses the same 20.3 MP sensor as the GH5 but has processing enhancements for better image quality and can be pixel shifted to produce 80MP RAW files.  This sensor ship is ideal for architecture, still life and product photography where high resolutions are demanded. The new High Resolution mode produces an 80-megapixel equivalent (10368 x 7776) image combining 8 consecutively shot images while shifting the sensor. This combined image can not only be set for JPEG but also RAW (in camera).The body has a new control and dial layout and adds a LCD display on the right side of the view finder. The power on and off switch is conveniently located around the shutter release. The mode dial and drive mode dial are concentric and lockable. Drive modes include: Single, Continuous I and II, 6K Photo, Post Focus, Self timer and Time-lapse.  The body is slimmer than the GH5 and has a deeper and very comfortable grip.The joystick is similar to the one found on the GH5. What is new is the OLED electronic viewfinder.  It has a magnification factor of 0.83 x equivalent and a resolution of 3.68 million dots, it is truly impressive. A 3" fully articulating touchscreen LCD is basically the same as the GH5. However you now have the ability to keep the LCD closed and use the top LCD display to read your camera settings, exposure etc. The body supports two SD card slots, both are UHS-II capable. Ports are similar to the GH5 and include HDMI, microphone, headphone, flash sync, USB 3.0 (Micro B) and remote control. The body is weather sealed and will operate at temperatures as low as -10C.The G9 image stabilization is as good if not marginally better than the GH5, offering 6.5 stops of image shake reduction. With a majority of the newer lenses the system will use the proven combined lens and bod Dual I.S. 2 stabilization.Another major improvement is in the focusing system.  The Depth from Defocus system has been significantly refined and now has 225 selectable focus points. This system is not only faster but offers superb tracking that uses a “Deep Learning” technology that detects a human body in addition to the conventional face and eye detection. In addition a new “AF Point Scope” magnifies distant subjects allowing for precise focus and capture.As for speed, the G9 will shoot bursts of 20 fps in continuous autofocus mode using the electronic shutter.  In mechanical shutter mode the speed drops to 9 fps. The buffer capacity is 50 RAW files in a single burst.  However with single AF engaged the G9 can shoot at a blazing fast 60 fps (electronic) and 12 fps (mechanical).  In my brief testing there was no blackout at all using the electronic shutter.The minimum shutter speed is 60 sec. and maximum is 1/8000 sec using the mechanical shutter and 1/32000 sec. using the electronic shutter.  The flash sync speed remains at 1/250 sec.Though the G9 is targeted at stills photographer, it is no video slouch. It will shoot 4K video at up to 60 fps, with a maximum bitrate of 150Mbps. For slo motion capture it will shoot 60 fps in 4K and 180 fps if you select Full HD video.The 4K and 6K photo modes are fully supported as they are in the GH5. There is an optional battery grip available.  The camera comes with a new charger.The G9 and accessories will ship in January 2018 for $1699 body only. The DMW-BGG9 grip for $349.Extracted from the press release:Optional Accessories Specially Designed for LUMIX G9

  • Battery Grip DMW-BGG9 - includes joystick and one additional battery.
  • Eye Cup DMW-EC4 for enhanced viewing and comfort.
  • Battery Charger DMW-BTC13 - enables rapid charging.
  • Shoulder Strap DMW-SSTG9 - length-adjustable and can be detached easily.
Read More
Photography Photography

LUMINAR 2018

Luminar 2018 offers everything a modern photographer needs for photo editing, including new filters powered by artificial intelligence, major speed improvements, a dedicated RAW develop module and a forthcoming in 2018; digital asset management platform.

You will also benefit from the new intelligent Sun Rays filterLUT support, and real-time noise removal.

With workspaces that match different styles of editing, Luminar adapts to deliver a complete experience that avoids clutter and complexity.

Luminar 2018 has been re-built from the ground up for dramatic performance boosts. Existing filters deliver richer colors and depth in less time. A brand new streamlined user interface speeds up working with presets, filters, and masks. With full support of pro options like layers, masks, and blending modes, complex repairs and photo composites can be easily accomplished.

Offer Availability:

Luminar 2018 will be availabe for pre-order November 1-15, and released on November 16.

Pre-Order Pricing:

  • Current users of Luminar may upgrade at a special pre-order price of $39 ($49 MSRP)
  • New users can purchase Luminar 2018 at a special pre-order price of $59 ($69 MSRP)
  • A collection of bonuses will also be included with every purchase.
  • Beta testers are eligible to receive and additional $10 discount

Pre-Order Bonuses:

  • A Pack of signature presets and textures fro pro photography Nicolesy
  • An Exclusive pack of LUTs
  • 1-year Power plan from SmugMug ($72 value). For new accounts only
Read More

Out of Acadia

This is a late post but never the less the Out of Acadia conference was spectacular.  Over a hundred participants and multiple instructors made the event a great success.  Between leading excursions and doing classes there was not much time to do a lot of photography but this was photographed on the last day at Little Hunters Beach.  Given the shape of the cove and the direction of the sunrise, one has to wait for the light to hit is peninsula.I used my new Leica 12 - 60 mm with the GH5 that I am loving more and more - particularly with Version 2.1 of the firmware update.  Exposure triad: ISO 200, f/7.1, 6 sec at 12mm (24mm equivalent). Benro filter holder with a polarizer and 4 stop ND and a grad.The image below is the same converted to B&W using Capture One 10.

Read More
Photography Photography

Aurora HDR 2018 pre-order

Aurora HDR is not just a tool for merging bracketed images, it also provides numerous tools and countless options to create perfect HDR photos for every taste - from one-click presets and advanced tone-mapping, to layers, noise reduction and powerful luminosity masking controls.
 
Offer Availability:
Aurora HDR 2018 will be availabe for pre-order TODAY, and released on September 28th.
 
Pre-Order Pricing:
  • Current users of Aurora HDR may upgrade at a special pre-order price of $49 ($59 MSRP)
  • New users can purchase Aurora HDR 2018 at a special pre-order price of $89 ($99 MSRP)
  • A collection of bonuses will also be included with every purchase.
 
Pre-Order Bonuses:
 
  • Trey Ratcliff Deep Dive video (HDR Training by Trey Ratcliff)
  • Travel Photography Tutorials by Matt Granger (2 hours of tips, tricks and techniques to capture the best travel photos)
  • Source Brackets (5 sets of HDR brackets)
  • 3-month Zenfolio Pro website, including a complementary design consultation. $60 value.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER

 

Read More

The New Spectrals

Think Tank Photo have just announced a new line of shoulder bags for DSLR and mirrorless systems.  The new Spectral shoulder bags feature a Fidlock clasp that enables one-handed access to gear and then locks automatically when closing the flap. An additional zippered closure gives peace of mind while traveling and can be tucked away when actively shooting. Constructed with durable yet stylish materials, the Spectral Shoulder Bag offers Think Tank quality and ingenuity at a reasonable price. The Spectral 8 is under $100.  And don’t forget that when you use my URL you will receive free gear and free shipping with your order of all Think Tank gear, including the Spectrals.CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THESE GREAT NEW BAGS

Read More

MIOPS Smart Trigger Review

I purchased the MIOPS Smart Trigger last summer after seeing it being used by a few photographers in Europe. This a combination trigger, intervalometer, remote and a whole lot more. The nice part is that it is well built, small and light. The MIOPS can be purchased for $220 to $240 based on the camera cables you need.The unit measures approximately 2.5 in. X 4.0 in. and weighs just under 4.0 oz. including the battery.The MIOPS trigger has six modes of preprogrammed operation and one “Do It Yourself” port. A really useful feature is that you can vary the sensitivity of each of the modes as appropriate. The controller is very durable. I have had it in my bag for over 1 year and is does not show any signs of wear and continues to perform very well.A 128×128 pixel, full-color display, is mounted just above the large buttons, used for operation and selecting menu options on the front of the trigger.The device is powered by a 3.7 V/1020 mAh. lithium-ion rechargeable battery.The MIOPS can be used with Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, Canon and Nikon, as well as other brands. The trigger hardware is identical for all configurations with the exception of the supplied cables that need to match the I/O ports of your camera.This allows you to use one MIOPS with various camera models as long as you purchase the right connection cables.The trigger unit is used in two ways, either to trigger an external flash or to activate the shutter of your camera. Flash units are connected via the PC sync jack, and cameras are connected via the remote shutter release jack.The MIOPS internal (replaceable) battery can be charged via a micro-USB cable and any USB charger or your PC’s USB Port,The MIOPS is manufactured using a strong plastic with well configured, raised push button controls. The screen is an LED display and is easy to read in most lighting conditions. It has an internal microphone and a light-sensitive sensor for activating laser and lightning modes. For the DIY mode, an additional port is provided that can be connected to an external sensor.The trigger can be mounted using the camera hot shoe or on any support that has a 1/4 20 screw mount.The MIOPS can be used remotely via the free MIOPS smartphone app for IOS and Android phones.For triggering with the MIOPS it is best to set your camera to manual exposure and manual focus.

Lightning mode: allows you to capture flashes of lightning without the need to leave your shutter open for long exposures in the bulb mode. Sensitivity can be set from 1 to 99 to trigger the sensor for capturing lightning flashes. In the lightning mode the MIOPS can be used to trigger the camera with other sources of light. As examples: fireworks, flashes, and other forms of artificial light.
Sound Mode: requires you to use a dark environment with the MIOPS triggering a flash.Set your camera on bulb and open the shutter, the sound activates the MIOPS to trigger the flash and you capture the action.   You can use the MIOPS to trigger the camera but the shutter lag makes high-speed photography nearly impossible. 
Time-Lapse Mode: here you set your camera in bulb mode so the MIOPS can control all the shutter speed and shooting intervals. This is useful is your shutter speeds need to be 1 second or greater. If you are shooting at shutter speeds of less than one second then use your camera's shutter setting and set the MIOPS’s Exposure to 00:00.You can set the interval (this is the time between each exposure), and the total number of images that will be captured for the time-lapse sequence.
Laser Mode: for this mode you will require an external laser directed at the MIOPS sensor. The MIOPS will trigger the camera or a flash when the beam is broken by any object passing between the laser and the MIOPS. This mode requires a constant laser beam to be directed at the front sensor.The MIOPS trigger can be adjusted for a delay before the unit triggers the camera or flash from 1 to 999 mili-seconds. An additional setting allows you to set the number of frames that will be captured after the beam is broken. These can be from 1 to 999 at a maximum frame rate of 2 images per second.
HDR Mode: this is a mode that is good for cameras that either do not have an internal bracketing mode or where the camera is limited to just the 3 shot bracket. The MIOPS trigger will allow you to set 3, 5, and 7 shot brackets. I prefer to use the camera’s internal bracketing/HDR modes.
DIY (Do It Yourself) Mode: this mode is used to connect external sensors to your MIOPS. The external sensor can be of any type if it meets some technical specifications. The DIY mode enables you to trigger your camera or flash unit based on a signal coming from an external sensor. The DIY port is located on the left hand side of the device. It is under the protective cover. It is a 3.5 mm stereo jack. The external sensor should be connected to the DIY port only.The DIY mode has three different parameters as follows:The first one is the threshold value. It is given as a percentage and reflects the required change in the signal level to initiate triggering. As the input signal can be anywhere between 0 and 3.3 Volts, one percent change is equal to 0.033 Volts. You can set the threshold value using this as a guide.The second parameter is the delay. As in the other modes, you can add some delay to the triggering event. The delay can be set to any value between 0 and 999 milliseconds.The third parameter is called the “mode”. This parameter specifies how the output signal of the sensor should change to qualify as a trigger event. There are three options: Change, Rising, Falling. If you set the mode to change, it will not matter whether the voltage is going up or down. Any value above the threshold will qualify as a triggering event. If you want to detect increasing voltage only, the mode should be set to rising. And finally, if you set the mode to "falling", you will only detect decreasing voltage changes.
Scenario Mode: works in combination with the smartphone app. You can store up to three different scenarios to the MIOPS to be executed later. When you create a new scenario and run it, it will be also stored to the MIOPS. You can run each scenario later. To make any change you must do it via the app on the phone. The scenario mode screen lets you choose one of three previously stored scenarios. The screen will display which step is currently running and when the scenario ends, the MIOPS will return to the selection screen.
Smartphone App ModeThe smartphone app has been designed as an interface to configure and control your MIOPS Smart. It is available on iOS and Android platforms. The iOS version must be 7.0 or higher. The Android version must be 4.3 or higher. The smartphone and MIOPS communicate via Bluetooth. Your smartphone has to be Bluetooth 4.0 compatible.. The application's interface is basically the same for most of the functions as in the MIOPS trigger. 

In conclusion, I have no hesitation in recommending the MIOPS Smart.  There are a number of other features that are available when you use the smartphone app that I will leave for a future post.MIOPS Triggers are available at Hunts Photo & Video - here is a link to the Panasonic Version - use the search field for other versions. For more information, you can visit the MIOPS web site at www.miops.com 

Read More
Photography Photography

Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice Photo Workshop - Sept. 22 - 29, 2017

September  22 - September 29, 2017 Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice – is an experience for non-photographers and photographers alike. The country provides the opportunities to capture mighty glaciers, waterfalls and spouting geysers. Majestic mountains, magnificent coastlines and smoking volcanoes. September is the beginning of the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis – the Northern Lights.Iceland is by far an ideal destination for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Its modern infrastructure and excellent location, midway between Europe and the United States and with direct flights, makes it ideal for the sighting of the Northern Lights.In late summer Iceland is truly magical. As this workshop is scheduled for September and solar activity permitting we should have some opportunities for seeing and photographing the Aurora Borealis.Please note: as the northern lights are natural phenomena, we cannot guarantee sightings.On this tour, we will take you to the very best photography locations Iceland has to offer. We will visit the many rugged volcanic landscapes, the iconic giant waterfalls, glacier lagoon, the black volcanic coastline.ItineraryA detailed day by day itinerary will be provided on registration along with recommendations for clothing, equipment and all relevant information to ensure an exceptional experience.Location Highlights Reykjanes peninsula: The lava scarred Reykjanes peninsula lies on the MID-Atlantic Ridge that borders the America’s and Europe. We will photograph, volcanic landscapes, moss covers lava fields, the Icelandic coastline, Lighthouses, ship wrecks and the famous Blue Lagoon. In addition, we will get a chance to photograph geothermal pools and a geothermal plant at night. The Golden Circle: This is the region of Thingvellir – Geysir, – Gullfoss one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls – The Highlands region. We will visit Þingvellir, Iceland’s first national park est. 1930. where the  Viking Parliament was established in 930AD.Geysir geothermal area is known for its erupting springs with the famous Strokkur that spouts regularly every 5 to 8 minutes.Vatnajökull National Park: Vatnajökull glacier is the largest of all the glaciers in Iceland. Jökulsárlón lagoon is beautiful glacial lagoon full of icebergs that range in color from white to deep blue to crystal clear. Exceptional light makes for phenomenal landscapes.Skaftafell, Iceland’s second largest national park.  Here the landscape is representative of the various formations created by volcanic and glacial activityReynisdrangar: basalt sea stacks situated near the village of Vík í Mýrdal. A very photogenic church atop a hill makes for some beautiful photo opportunities. Dyrhólaey: a 120-meter high promontory is the southernmost part of the Iceland. Here you can feel and capture images of the power of the Icelandic seascapes.  Elevated views and sea level views are possible.Skógafoss one of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in the country, 25 meters wide and a height of 60 meters. On sunny days one or two rainbows are usually visible.Seljalandsfoss, one of the most picture perfect waterfalls.  Here you can actually take a path and go behind the falls and photograph through the falling water.  Búðir is the home of a famous inn and restaurant Hotel Búðir and a very old small church. The original old house and Hotel Búðir burned down on 21 February 2001 and was rebuilt to resemble the original old inn house.Arnarstapi or Stapi is a small fishing village at the foot of Mt. Stapafell. In Jules Verne’s A Journey to the Center of the Earth, Stapi is the last stop on the route the protagonists take before they climb Snæfellsjökull and enter the interior of the planet through a tunnel in the crater.Hellnar is a fishing village. The beach has spectacular rock formations. One of these is a protruding cliff called Valasnös, which reaches across the ocean front and into the sea. Here there is a cave known for its colorful changes of light and shade.We will also visit  Djupalon, Svortuloft, Skardsvik, Bjarnarhofn and many other exceptional photographic locations.RegistrationRegistration requires a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10 participants. The trip fees are $3,350. Accompanying non-photographers $2,950 - no special arrangements will be made.The single supplement fee is $950.Fees include accommodation, breakfast each day and all transportation in IcelandThe fee does not include:Your air fare to and from Reykjavik, Iceland, airport taxes, travel insurance (highly recommended). Meals other than breakfast. Personal expenses, tips, alcoholic drinks, telephones, laundry, personal travel if incurred and incidentals.Please complete the registration and release forms A deposit of $1,500 is required to confirm your reservation. The balance is due by September 5, 2017.Please make your payments to Shiv Verma and mail them to 652 Dedham Street, Wrentham, MA 02093-1149.  Credit cards and PayPal are accepted (a 4% fee applies) please call 617.759.0010 if that is how you wish to pay.Travel & Accommodation Please make arrangement to arrive in Iceland Keflavik International Airport on the morning of day 1.  You will take the FlyBus to the Foss Hotel in downtown Reykjavik and check-in to the hotel.  Check-in is in the afternoon but the hotel will do its best to accommodate you. For those arriving very early, breakfast will be available at the hotel.  Fly bus details will be sent to registrants.We will be staying at the Foss Hotel in Reykjavik on a double occupancy basis.  For  two nights we will be on the southern coast in Hali where we will be staying at the Hali Country Hotel InformationContact us at 617.759.0010 or emailsv @ shivverma.com (please remove spaces)

Read More
Photography Photography

Fall Foliage and Landscape Photo Tour - October 6 - 9, 2017

October 6 to 9, 2017.

The Finger Lakes region of upstate New York comprises series of eleven glacial lakes. Native American legend implies that the Creator looked upon this land with special favor and reached down to bless it, leaving the imprint of His hand, hence, the Finger Lakes. Each lake offers it's own unique photo opportunities.  From streams and waterfalls to massive gorges.  This photo tour/workshop will cover two of the regions lakes. This tour/workshop is suitable for all photographers. We will work with individual participants to maximize your experience and to enhance your photography.ITINERARYWe will arrive late evening on October 6, 2017

Day 1 – October 7, 2017

Taughannock Falls State ParkPronounced Tuh-GA-nick.  We will travel the length of this magnificent gorge which is about 1 mile photographing the two unique faces of the gorge. Taughannock falls has carved a 400ft deep gorge through layers of sandstone, shale and limestone.  At the end of the trail we will reach the falls. With a 215 foot plunge, this waterfall stands three stories taller than Niagara Falls.Robert H. Treman State ParkHere we will photograph Enfield Glen with its craggy gorges and winding trails. Here is where we can capture the beauty of the 115ft tall Lucifer Falls and Devil's Kitchen.

Day 2 - October 8, 2017

Watkins Glen State ParkSurrounded by picturesque wineries and a glacially carved landscape of rolling hills, waterfalls, lakes and gorges, Watkins Glen State Park offers unbelievable natural beauty. We will capture the beauty of the spectacular 156-foot She-Qua-Ga Falls and the 165-foot Hector Falls. Both these are roadside shots. We will hike the gorge that is a 1.5 mile trail that follows the stream that has years carved its path creating waterfalls, pools, and cliffs. The park has about 20 major waterfalls.

Day 3 - October 9, 2017

Buttermilk FallsButtermilk Creek descends more than 500 feet in a series of cascades and rapids with a natural pool at the base. Time and weather permitting we will take a trail upstream for some exceptional landscapes.Ithaca FallsThe falls have a  drop of 150ft and width of 175ft, Ithaca Falls is the region’s most powerful and most impressive.Depart mid to late afternoon.Our days will be based on a very flexible schedule allowing us to respond to the opportunities based on the weather and light conditions, so you can have the best experience each day. We start early each day so as to capture images in the best light, breaking at midday for lunch and then head out for more photography, concluding after sunset  Dinner is at a location of your choosing.  We will use our own vehicles, car pooling is suggested.Registration Registration is limited to 6 photographers and the cost is $775 per photographer.We will be staying at the:Quality Inn356 Elmira Rd.,Ithaca, NY, US, 14850Tel: +1 (607) 272-0100Double occupancy and breakfast included. Please complete the registration and release forms. A $300 deposit is required to confirm your reservation.  The balance is due by September 20, 2017. Please make your payments to Shiv Verma and mail them to 652 Dedham Street, Wrentham, MA 02093-1149  

Read More

Lumix GH5 Image Stabilization

 This image was captured last night July 30, 2017 at 9:45.  Panasonic had sent me the relatively new 12 - 60 mm f/2.8 - F/4 Leica lens to show at SWMCCVC so I decided to take it out for a test.  The lens is absolutely amazing but what is more amazing is the GH5 and it Dual IS II when combined with this lens.  I tried this shot by holding the camera and framing the image using the articulating screen.  I did not get very good results so I brought the camera up to my eye and used the EVF.  The extra anchor of my face worked.  The lens was at 34 mm (68 mm FF equivalent). The exposure triad is f/3.8, 1 sec at ISO 200.  I was not very sure if this was going to work but it sure did.  Post processed to correct the horizon, pull back the highlights and open up the shadows a little.

Read More
Photography Photography

Why? - Skip Cohen University

It is clear that that the photography industry has a tremendous number of great photographers who have done a lot for this art.  However, not many combine and bring to us not only the art of photography but the art of education, marketing, social media and business.  One such person is Skip Cohen. As the former President of Hasselblad USA,  the past President/Chief Operating Officer of Rangefinder Publishing Inc., the current President/Founder of Marketing Essentials International and the Photo Resource Hub.  He has been responsible for Rangefinder Magazine, After Capture Magazine, the Wedding and Portrait Photographers International Association and the WPPI Convention and Trade Show, and serves as PPA’s Industry Advisor and Board member.  He has authored six photography books. One of his new undertakings is Skip Cohen University  I would encourage all my fllow photographers to spend some time on this site.Skip started an interesting Blog/Podcast and entitled it "Why?"  - t's a very simple concept - one image, one artist and one short sound byte. Each artist shares what makes the image one of their most favorite. I am thrilled to have one of my recent images "Refugees Welcome" featured on "Why"  CLICK HERE to read and hear this short podcast.Thank you Skip.

Read More

"Refugees Welcome"

After a lot of debate I decided to title this image "Refugees Welcome".  In the past 6 months the topic of refugees has been dominant in the news. With Canada as one of the countries that has openly welcomed refugees, I felt this image represented the statement appropriately.  The concrete totems can be viewed as either emerging or going into the St. Lawrence river in Northern Quebec.A little back story on this image:  we had picked a number of location to photograph this morning but the incessant rain messed up our plans.  So we stopped for a second breakfast and more coffee.  - Well one just cant keep sitting in a restaurant for ever so I decided to get this image rain or no rain.  It was pouring but I had my GH5 with the 12 - 35 mm f/2.8 (version 1) lens attached.  I wanted to slow the shutter down so as to prevent capturing the water drops splashing on the water but was not going to venture back to the car to get my ND filters.  I had my polarizer on so I closed down the aperture to f/18 that was enough to give me a shutter speed of 60 seconds at ISO 100  - yes it was quite dark and miserable.  I held my hand over the front of the lens to prevent rain from ruining the image.  The camera and lens were soaked but I got the image.  I am convinced, first hand - the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is great in the rain.  One day I might consider doing a dust test - Africa or India would be great for that.The following images are ones I have already posted on Facebook but wanted to include them as a record of the trip to Northern Quebec and New Brunswick over the 4th of July weekend 2017.     

Read More
Photography Photography

AURORA HDR 2017 - 72 HOUR FLASH SALE

Aurora HDR 2017 + 26 presets from Trey Ratcliff for the lowest price ever!

OFFER AVAILABILITY: Tuesday June 27th - Friday June 30th

Pricing:

$79 instead of $99 - for all the new users
$59 instead of $69 - for Aurora HDR Basic/AppStore users
$39 instead of $49 - for Aurora HDR 2016 users

Here is what you get:

  • Aurora HDR 2017 - The most awarded HDR photo editor for Mac

  • Trey's Expansion Preset Pack - 26 presets from Pro Photographe and HDR guru, Trey Ratcliff

CLICK HERE FOR THIS DEAL

Read More