Topic Wiki

Quick tips on random subjects that come up in between classes (will add as we go along):

Food photography tips
Newborn photography tips

Table of Contents (I'll change each line to a link as we go along.)

Introduction

1) Choosing a camera: Point and Shoot vs. Mirrorless vs. DSLR
2) Camera specs: What do they mean, and which ones matter to me?
3) Exposure Basics Part 1 - the shutter speed/aperture/ISO triangle
4) Exposure Basics Part 2 - getting to know your mode dial, and other exposure controls
5) All about memory cards
6) Using ultra-wide lenses





Lenses 101 - technology, terminology, and specs, zooms vs. primes, basic/advanced/unique lenses

Lighting 101 - focusing specifically on easy to afford and easy to use setups
Small flash - on camera, off camera, modifiers and accessories
Studio strobes
Continuous lighting - fluorescent, LED, and halogen
Basic light modifiers - umbrellas, softboxes, gels, reflectors
Basic supports - lightstands, umbrella brackets, backgrounds, etc.

All about accessories - memory cards, tripods, bags, filters, remotes, adapters, grips, geotaggers, and more)


So I bought all my stuff - now what?

What makes a compelling photograph?
Depth of field
Composition basics - rule of thirds, perspective, framing
Advanced composition - negative space, inclusion and exclusion, compression
Light - natural, golden hour, basic flash usage.

Let's start shooting...

Kids:
In the park
Playing sports
At home

Landscapes and wildlife:
"Grand" landscapes
"Intimate" landscapes
Seascapes
Waterfalls
Cityscapes
Wildlife
Birds in flight
Shooting in bad weather

Portraits:
Babies and newborns
Single person - indoors
Single person - outdoors
Families/siblings/groups
Natural light
Artificial light - simple
Artificial light - complex
Mixed light

Others:
Close up and macro
Product photography

How do I...? (Some specific scenarios/techniques - Basic)
Shoot out of a plane window?
Shoot underwater?
Shoot compelling black-and-white?

How do I...? (Some specific scenarios/techniques - Advanced)
HDR
Long exposures
Light painting
Twilight landscapes
Milky Way
Star trails

Basic editing concepts:
Exposure
Contrast
Clarity/sharpening
Color
Layers and masking

Poll

What type of camera do shoot with?

Point & Shoot - basic (Canon Elph style) or Smartphone
123 (36.8%)
Point & Shoot - advanced (Canon S100 or G Style)
52 (15.6%)
Mirrorless
27 (8.1%)
DSLR - consumer (Up to a Nikon D5200 or Canon Rebel)
74 (22.2%)
DSLR - prosumer or pro (Nikon D7000 or Canon 60D and up)
30 (9%)
P&S, but I plan on getting an SLR or Mirrorless in the near future
28 (8.4%)

Total Members Voted: 278

Author Topic: Learn Photography Master Thread  (Read 422923 times)

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Online Lou Bob

  • Dansdeals Lifetime Platinum Elite
  • *******
  • Join Date: Apr 2010
  • Posts: 2042
  • Total likes: 163
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 3
    • View Profile
  • Location: Hidden City
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #161 on: August 23, 2013, 12:35:55 AM »
Idk how to work this from phone.....but....
I took this pic in san juan,PR @sunrise using Samsung galaxy s2
Thoughts?

 http://imageshack.us/photo/photo/541/4hxi.jpg/
« Last Edit: August 23, 2013, 12:43:50 AM by Lou Bob »
Always use an Amex, you'll thank me one day.

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #162 on: August 23, 2013, 12:54:01 AM »
Idk how to work this from phone.....but....
I took this pic in san juan,PR @sunrise using Samsung galaxy s2
Thoughts?

 http://imageshack.us/photo/photo/541/4hxi.jpg/

Here's the shot, embedded:



I like it. I like the color, the mood, and the fact that I'd much rather be there than here right now. Silhouettes are much harder to pull off properly than most people think, but this one works extremely well.

As far as composition, it's pretty good, with my only real issue being the bottom - a good quarter of the picture is taken up by black nothingness. I think cropping most of it away would help a lot - the picture will be wider, adding to the feeling of space and freedom. This will also move the horizon line down to the lower third of the picture, making it far more engaging. A wider crop will also accentuate the beautiful curve of the water - the viewer's eye would start at the lower left, travel along the beach to the right, and then follow the far beach all the way back to the left. This is called a leading line, and is something with you pulled off perfectly here.

I'd also clone out the person all the way on the right, as well as the two white lines next to him. Both are distracting and only take away from the image.

Here's a two minute edit I made, incorporating some of those changes:



Overall I'd say this is a lovely, well executed shot.
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline gunit770

  • Dansdeals Gold Elite
  • ***
  • Join Date: May 2012
  • Posts: 170
  • Total likes: 1
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 0
    • View Profile
  • Location: Philadelphia
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #163 on: September 04, 2013, 06:16:02 AM »
While the 5r doesn't have a built-in flash, it does include an external flash. It folds down and hardly takes up any space; I keep mine on the camera all the time and I never even notice it. Mind you once you'll see the image quality of that camera in low light you'll never use the flash anyway. I've taken thousands upon thousands of pictures with my 5n and maybe 50 of those with flash.


As far as the lens, the 16-50 isn't quite as pocketable as you'd expect; mounted on the camera the thickness is 2.16". I don't see how this'll fit in a pocket. There are also some issues with this lens that you have to keep in mind - the quality isn't as good as the 18-55, and there is lots of distortion on the 16mm end. Also, since it's a power lens, every time you turn on or wake up the camera the lens has to extend; this means that for about 2 seconds the camera is inoperable, making you potentially miss the shot.

The 18-55 on the other hand, being mechanical, has no startup issues. From when I wake up my camera (I always keep it on, so a tap on the shutter is all I need for it to get going), till I could take a picture is about a quarter of a second, if that. It's also sharper and has no distortion. Also, since it's mechanical, I could zoom much faster just by giving the lens a twist. And size-wise, it's only 1.18" bigger than the 16-50. Not so much I think, especially like I said the 16-50 doesn't really fit in a pocket either.

The touchscreen is absolutely amazing and IMO one of the best features of the cameras. Just tap a face for example and the camera will track it in all directions so that it's always in focus, no matter how wild the kid is ;). This is also amazing for video.

I think the only real reason for someone like you to get the 6 is for the viewfinder. It's extremely useful for outdoor shooting, but I don't think it's reason enough to go with the 6 over the 5r. And hey, Sony'll happily sell you a viewfinder for $240 if you're that desperate ;D.

As far as new ones coming out, the only NEX really due for an upgrade is the 7, so I don't think we'll see a 5r/6 update in the near future.

I believe there is a new version of the 5r coming out september 8th labeled the NEX-5TL. Any opinions on the new one Fishy?

Also, the 5r can now be had for $450 on amazon and best buy with the 18-55mm lens. I am assuming thats a good deal but would love a second opinion on that.

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #164 on: September 04, 2013, 07:59:35 AM »
I believe there is a new version of the 5r coming out september 8th labeled the NEX-5TL. Any opinions on the new one Fishy?

Also, the 5r can now be had for $450 on amazon and best buy with the 18-55mm lens. I am assuming thats a good deal but would love a second opinion on that.

So far everything we know about the new one is from rumors, but it seems like it'll be a pretty minor upgrade, so the old is is probably the better deal.

The 5r and lens for $450 is a steal, go for it.
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Yeki89

  • Dansdeals Presidential Platinum Elite
  • ********
  • Join Date: Mar 2011
  • Posts: 3853
  • Total likes: 20
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 5
    • View Profile
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #165 on: September 04, 2013, 08:35:44 AM »
em, can we move on to the next lesson? Please?

Is this a good Lighting set?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160972138510

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #166 on: September 04, 2013, 08:47:30 AM »
em, can we move on to the next lesson? Please?

After the yumim tovim iy"h.

Is this a good Lighting set?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160972138510

What'll you be shooting with it?
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Yeki89

  • Dansdeals Presidential Platinum Elite
  • ********
  • Join Date: Mar 2011
  • Posts: 3853
  • Total likes: 20
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 5
    • View Profile
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #167 on: September 04, 2013, 10:23:03 AM »
rebel XSi

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #168 on: September 04, 2013, 10:41:06 AM »
rebel XSi

I meant what's your subject - portraits, items for eBay, something else?
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Yeki89

  • Dansdeals Presidential Platinum Elite
  • ********
  • Join Date: Mar 2011
  • Posts: 3853
  • Total likes: 20
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 5
    • View Profile
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #169 on: September 04, 2013, 11:16:17 AM »
Both

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #170 on: September 04, 2013, 12:10:00 PM »
Both

Not a good choice then. For occasional ebay work with fairly small items you could get away with it for a bit. It won't work for portraits at all though (far too weak, bad color, etc.etc.).

In any case, it's a piece of junk quality wise. It'll break after a short while (the stud on the lightstands for example will break off very quickly). A kit of this size should cost $120-$150 at least if it's decent quality.
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #171 on: September 04, 2013, 12:21:37 PM »
And for the record - this is what I do for a living. I'm a product designer/developer making studio and portable lighting. I've made many variations of this kind of kit (example and example), so I know a thing or two about 'em :P.
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Dan

  • Administrator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime 50K Diamond Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: May 2008
  • Posts: 70662
  • Total likes: 20193
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 16442
  • Gender: Male
    • View Profile
  • Location: CLE
  • Programs: UA GS, AA EXP, DL Dirt, Hyatt Glob, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, DD Diamond, Blocked By @NeriaKraus
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #172 on: September 04, 2013, 12:36:46 PM »
And for the record - this is what I do for a living. I'm a product designer/developer making studio and portable lighting. I've made many variations of this kind of kit (example and example), so I know a thing or two about 'em :P.
Better money in that than being a professional photographer?
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #173 on: September 04, 2013, 01:24:31 PM »
For sure. For one, it's a highly specialized job vs. a market where everyone and their mother becomes a "professional photographer". Photography has become a very tough market in the last in the last few years - the supply of photographers has skyrocketed, while the perceived value if their work has plummeted. It's simply not worth it for me to go full-time pro at this point of time.
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Dan

  • Administrator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime 50K Diamond Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: May 2008
  • Posts: 70662
  • Total likes: 20193
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 16442
  • Gender: Male
    • View Profile
  • Location: CLE
  • Programs: UA GS, AA EXP, DL Dirt, Hyatt Glob, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, DD Diamond, Blocked By @NeriaKraus
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #174 on: September 04, 2013, 02:00:27 PM »
True, though the good ones still command (and get) a small fortune.
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #175 on: September 04, 2013, 02:22:09 PM »
Of course, but until you get to that point...
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline Dan

  • Administrator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime 50K Diamond Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: May 2008
  • Posts: 70662
  • Total likes: 20193
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 16442
  • Gender: Male
    • View Profile
  • Location: CLE
  • Programs: UA GS, AA EXP, DL Dirt, Hyatt Glob, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, DD Diamond, Blocked By @NeriaKraus
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #176 on: September 04, 2013, 02:29:12 PM »
Based on your pics I doubt it would take you too long!

I'd have hired you for my wedding in a blink of an eye, most of our pictures are mediocre.
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

Offline Something Fishy

  • Global Moderator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime Presidential Platinum Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 9056
  • Total likes: 6892
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 44
    • View Profile
    • Kosher Horizons
  • Location: Iceland
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #177 on: September 04, 2013, 05:37:32 PM »
Based on your pics I doubt it would take you too long!

I'd have hired you for my wedding in a blink of an eye, most of our pictures are mediocre.

That's some compliment ^-^. I don't know what to say ;D
Check out my site for epic kosher adventures: Kosher Horizons

Offline gunit770

  • Dansdeals Gold Elite
  • ***
  • Join Date: May 2012
  • Posts: 170
  • Total likes: 1
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 0
    • View Profile
  • Location: Philadelphia
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #178 on: September 04, 2013, 05:47:42 PM »
So far everything we know about the new one is from rumors, but it seems like it'll be a pretty minor upgrade, so the old is is probably the better deal.

The 5r and lens for $450 is a steal, go for it.

Just purchased and on its way. Going to play around with it after RH. My budget for my first foray into the non-P&S world was $700 so I'm definitely happy I was able to stay well below that. Thanks Fishy for all the advice and keep it coming!

Offline Dan

  • Administrator
  • Dansdeals Lifetime 50K Diamond Elite
  • **********
  • Join Date: May 2008
  • Posts: 70662
  • Total likes: 20193
  • DansDeals.com Hat Tips 16442
  • Gender: Male
    • View Profile
  • Location: CLE
  • Programs: UA GS, AA EXP, DL Dirt, Hyatt Glob, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, DD Diamond, Blocked By @NeriaKraus
Re: Learn Photography Master Thread
« Reply #179 on: September 04, 2013, 05:56:21 PM »
Just purchased and on its way. Going to play around with it after RH. My budget for my first foray into the non-P&S world was $700 so I'm definitely happy I was able to stay well below that. Thanks Fishy for all the advice and keep it coming!
Looks like a good deal, but the 6 was a lifesaver.

Would not have gotten half the pictures we had in Banff when it was sunny out without the amazing digital viewfinder that the 6 has.
And unlike the 5 it was able to fit into my pocket.
Plus indoor pics of food need the flash which is conveniently built in on the 6.

/.02
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.