Night Photography and Adventures that Accompany the Process

Time to mention some great people who helped me

2010-11-04T00:12:00.001-04:00

I am working on the book on my adventures that I intend to publish next year. I spent an evening outlining my adventures in Belize and Guatemala and the events of one morning made me smile, over and over again.
I met this wonderful man who actually helped me to get to Guatemala on time when I missed the local plane. I trusted this man my rental vehicle at the end. He caught the bus that was living the country and arranged everything so I could be in Tikal on time for the full moon.
I don’t believe that in the hurry I was generous enough with him – but he was happy. I believe because of his wonderful nature and dedication to services he provides to the tourists. This was rare and special.
He is extremely connected with everybody around and he was honest with me. If you or your friends are ever in Belize city, or on the Cayes, or Maya ruins in Altun Ha, don’t hesitate to contact him.
His name is Leon Khan and he runs the following services:
General tours/Accomomdation/Free tourists info/
Packages/Tour guiding/Yacth Master/Dive Master & general supplies(Gift Shop)
His phone numbers are 011-501-223-7611/011-501-624-2859.
I meant to do this a year and a half ago – I don’t know how it happened that I forgot. It’s better late, than never.
Thank you Leon, you made that trip much better and if it were not for you, who knows, maybe the chain of events was different and I wouldn’t be able to take a picture of the full moon eclipse aligned with the Temple I.

Night Photographers Club

2010-11-03T15:17:00.004-04:00

Finally!
After two years of planning and thinking about it, I started a club for Night Photographers.
Since I am in Toronto at the moment, this is a local club for Toronto shooters.
It's a big city with lots of talents and I think it has a lot of potential for promoting Night Photography here.
The group is just a week old, but it is growing. 63 members as of today.
Join if you are in the area, it is open to everybody who lives in the GTA:
http://www.meetup.com/Night-Photographers/

The Elmore R. Chatham Memorial Award

2010-10-13T11:53:00.004-04:00

I am honoured to receive a PSA Journal Chatam award for my publication in 2009.

Received an email from the Journal editor - I couldn't make it to the conference this year with my yet another relocation hiatus.

This award is presented annually to the author of the article considered to be the best feature story in the PSA Journal for the prior calendar year. The award was named for Elmore R. Chatham who served the Society as the Mid-Atlantic Zone Director from 1987 to 1994.
This year’s recipient is Tatiana Slepukhin-Zamachnaia of Canada, for her memorable article Surreal Twilight in the June 2009 issue of the PSA Journal. Tatiana, who
specializes in night photography and light painting, has a talent for sharing her knowledge and expertise.

My Aurora Article

2010-08-08T16:29:00.001-04:00

My article on Aurora chasing is published in the August issues of the PSA. I made a cover too.

Right in time! We should observe a fair amount of activity in the next 2-3 years as Solar Cycle 24 intensifies.

In fact, we just had quite an eruption on the sun and coronal mass ejection (CME) hit Earth's magnetic field on August 3rd.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to capture it. I relocated to Toronto last month and couldn’t stay up all night. The good news is that I am outside of Toronto and I have a clear view to the North from my place.

Stay tuned for fantastic pictures of the Cycle 24.

Series of past storms

2010-04-14T21:25:00.003-04:00

It's been finally stormy, with a big storm on April 11th. Unfortunately, it coincided with the overcast sky.
I just recieved notification that the PK is 5 and the sky is clear. Might worth getting out, although the storm watch in effect for the high latitude.

While I didn't chase this series of the storms, it all looks promising - we are FINALLY getting some activities as we are hitting solar maximum. Better later than never - I was discouraged, but it looks there will be some activity on the sun.

Blue Moon and Happy New Year

2009-12-30T21:32:00.003-05:00

First time in almost 20 years - we have a new moon on New Year's Eve!

Those who are in Europe are twice as lucky - there will be an eclipse at 19:24.

The blue moon happens once in ~91 years, so make sure you do catch it!

Happy New Year!

Email and Site Disruptions

2009-12-05T22:33:00.002-05:00

I learned that the email on my websites didn't function for almost a month and nobody could contact me. There was an issue that is related to the hosting company.

Apologies for the disruption and late discovery - I was down with H1N1 for almost a month. Would not elaborate on details, but I enourage everybody to do vaccination - it is not something you would want to get.

My exhibition is over

2009-10-30T00:13:00.002-04:00

I took down the exhibition at Ottawa Library Central Location in Down Town. I had around 40 works and it lasted for a month.

I am currently helping the local photoclub to organize the exhibition at that venue for the month of February. RA Photo Club is the biggest photo club in Canada. It has 350 member and constantly growing.

I will be presenting for RA Photo Club November 3d.

Harvest Moon (and the rainy one too)

2009-10-03T04:18:00.002-04:00

It’s raining in Ottawa and I got cold anyway, so instead of going shooting Harvest Moon of 2009, I decided to play with Photoshop.

I shot this statue of a chess player in Calgary and decided to mess with it a bit.

I actually ranted about this shot and the original version is posted
there:

And here is the original picture:

Here is my rendition – been playing with Photoshop lately.

But I hope to get out some day and get killer shots.

Yoga in the Dark

2009-09-28T01:01:00.005-04:00

For the best part of the year, I’ve been confined to my studio due to a number of circumstances. I haven’t been playing truant, as I’ve been working on the new concepts for yoga photography.

It all started with black light photography and then grew into something more serious.

It’s first time I started seriously playing with light painting human form.

This is an early stage of the project and I am going to take it to a new level soon. I am brimming with new ideas, most of which are plain crazy.

The website is far from perfect - I am hard pressed for time getting ready for the upcoming exhibition and launching commercial website. Besides, I am not a graphic designer - never had a knack for nice web layout. This will do.

Not surprisingly, it is called "Yoga in the Dark". And yes, most work is done under low light conditions – that is my studio has no light coming from outside whatsoever.

I also kicked off the blog with the same name – I wish I had energy for an entry or two.

Some of the photographs still need cleaning – they were done in haste. I have difficult relationship with this project – while I am absolutely fascinated with the art of yoga, I absolutely abhor certain aspects of its westernization. During this struggle, I figured that one got to love the subject, otherwise the project stagnates. I wanted to abandon it on several occasions, but then decided to throw some stuff on the web. I am glad I did – I feel it’s a good start, albeit far from being at the point of fruition or my satisfaction with execution. At this point I think I made a good start, but there is much more to come – stay tuned.

Back to the future, or best time to get yourself a monitor

2009-09-16T23:21:00.002-04:00

I’ve been enjoying these times – I can pick a good monitor for a song, while the crowd been busy getting rid of perfectly normal monitors and on a shopping spree for the crappy but light-weight LCD screens.

Let’s start with clarifying what we are dealing with:
The CRT – the old huge square monitor that is very heavy.
LCD – flat screen that is compact and light.

I do not want to make this post too geeky – those who don’t know what the acronyms stand for might google it.

When people come to my office to get the photographs, they view them on a 21 inch CRT monitor. I’ve been noticing strange looks, but I really didn’t care. A couple of times somebody pitifully looked at me and said: "Oh, well...the good monitors are under 300 these days".

You bet!

I immediately pull out two laptop (and good quality laptops I must add) and demonstrate the pictures on their LCD screen.

Ok, I do realize there are better screens than those that are part of the laptop computer. Still, the difference is striking. I’ve seen my picture on so many different LCD screens… It is bad.

• Most LCDs can only display a limited amount of colours.

• While not too noticeable on modern LCDs, they all have ghosting issues.

• The LCDs have only ONE native resolution, everything else is scaled.

• None of the LCDs (at least last time I checked) can produce true black.

• The LCDs can never provide contrast as high as CRTs.

• The angle of viewing changes your picture, and while not as noticeable in the latest LCDs, the problem is still there and does affect your picture.

• Many modern LCDs still display less than 32-bit colour.

Ok, there is an Apple with its Cinema Display. I am not really sure it could give me the same accuracy. But even if it could, compare the cost: 1300 for the Apple monitor versus 400 for a brand new CRT. Better yet, you can buy a perfectly normal used CRT for anywhere from 1- to 60 bucks.

Now, as my opening stated, you can pick a great CRT monitor for a song. Some people even give them away for free. You should not be paying more than 40 bucks for a great 21 inch CRT monitor, really.

Sometimes when I see how my images I post on my website render on the LCD monitor, I want to cry. The halos, the ghosting, the all of it...

And yes, sure, there better technologies out there. You will see the flat screens used by such photographers as Leibovitz for instance... Yeh, those start from 2.5 grand. And again, theoretically, I could afford such a monitor, and even justify a purchase. However, what do I do about all of those who are viewing my work on their LCDs?

Next time, do not be in the hurry to throw away your CRT - leave so you can compare the quality of graphic files, or sell it for 20 bucks to people like me.

Appointed to the PSA Regional Director Post

2009-08-20T21:52:00.004-04:00

I am honored to be appointed to the post of the Regional Director for the Eastern Ontario Western Quebec region (Photographic Society of America). It’s a great way to celebrate my 2d Anniversary with PSA. Many great photographers, including Ansel Adams, belonged to PSA. I feel privileged.

My photography experience and my whole live has never been the same since I joined the PSA. I met absolutely amazing people that work for this unique organization – I feel my live been enriched by knowing all these enthusiastic people that help to promote photography at its best.

I’ve been extremely busy entering Internationals (got 4 acceptance award from the last one). I was also working on new concepts as I think I “grew out” of my old style and just snapping perfectly executed light painted night scenes is something that I find not much satisfaction in at the moment. I am on the path of re-inventing low light photography for myself.

Photos – Mine. Light Painting – courtesy of NCC.

2009-08-01T07:34:00.006-04:00

National capital commission organized Ghost walks at the McKenzie King Estate. For that purpose, they wired all the ruins and other spots at the Estate.

I found it by chance – was scouting the area for certain photographic needs and spotted all the installations. Came back next day and enjoyed free ride – didn’t have to light paint, it was all done for me.

Met a man who does light effects for NCC – what a cool job! He is also responsible for light Winterlude.

There were two ghost walks – one in French, and then, a bit later, in English. Website does warn about mosquitoes – and some people took it to the heart. I could not believe people were wearing full body nets!

Gatineau park is fairly close to the city – hence this orange tone in the sky. It is quite interesting though. I’ve never seen such intense orange from light pollution.

Surreal Twilight

2009-07-15T22:57:00.003-04:00

Thought I’d post the link to the article published in the June’s issue of the PSA Journal:

Surreal Twilight

As I already mentioned, I am not pleased with the way I worded it. Neither I am totally happy with the images I submitted for this article. At least, it contains tons of good information. Check it out.

Photographic Society of America Editorial Award Bronze Star

2009-05-31T16:52:00.004-04:00

I am really excited to receive a letter stating that I receive a PSA Editorial Award Bronze Star.

Hurray!

Just when I needed it! Source of an inspiration and a nice kick to get the camera and get out there.

My attempt to think of nothing and just enjoy the summer ended rather quickly – I am starved for good photography and I will be returning to my projects. More schedule adjustments… and I will squeeze it in!

Got to throw some shot - here is a common Alberta scene:

This shot is a bit unusual for me because it was not shot in tungsten - but much warmer.

Noctilucent Cloud Season Begins

2009-05-30T18:10:00.002-04:00

I got an alert from the Spaceweather.com on the beginning of the Noctilucent Cloud Season.

You can browse to the speaceweather website to view gorgeous pictures of this phenomenon.

Below is the picture of Noctiulcent clouds I took in Alberta two years ago, on June 26, 2007 (wow, time flies!).

It was taken in Dorothy.

Below is the information from the spaceweather newsletter:

“FIRST NLCs of 2009: The first noctilucent clouds (NLCs) of 2009 have been sighted over northern Europe. Last night, May 29th, photographers recorded wispy electric-blue tendrils spreading across the twilight skies of Denmark, Northern Ireland and Scotland. This follows a similar display over Russia on May 27th. These sightings signal the beginning of the 2009 NLC season, which is expected to last until late July. Early-season NLCs are usually feeble, but these were fairly bright and vibrant, suggesting that even better displays are in the offing. Check today's edition of http://spaceweather.com for photos.

Noctilucent clouds are an unsolved puzzle. They float 83 km above Earth's surface at the edge of space itself. People first noticed NLCs in the late 19th century. In those days you had to travel to high northern latitudes to see them. In recent years, however, the clouds have been sighted in the United States as far south as Oregon, Washington and even Colorado. Climate change, space dust, and rocket launches have all been cited as possible explanations for the phenomenon. Interestingly, low solar activity seems to promote the clouds, so the ongoing deep solar minimum could set the stage for a good season in 2009.

The best time to look for NLCs is just after sunset or just before sunrise when the sun is between 6 and 16 degrees below the horizon. That's when the geometry is just right for sunlight to illuminate the tiny ice crystals that make up the clouds.

Light Painting Fly Fishing Gear

2009-05-08T21:56:00.005-04:00

It’s been over 3 years since I enjoyed Fly Fishing. As much as I love photography, I was not a happy camper away from physical activities and hobbies, which I slowly abandoned in the past due to life circumstances. Life is back on a tight schedule and wonders of time management that free up some time to indulge in life’s pleasures.

I threw together a modest naturmort that consists of my main gear and the flies (I tie my flies myself btw).

The image below is a composite of 4 in-camera light painting shots.

Tight Lines!

Rosco to Lee

2009-05-08T00:29:00.005-04:00

I have about a couple of hundred different filters available for light painting. Needless to say, I never use them all. Some are for the backup (the essentials), some were a mistake (I mix and match gels to achieve the desired effect that unfortunately doesn't always work).

I am in need of a few specific filters for my current work, and since I moved to Ottawa, I wasn’t able to make a contact with a good Rosco dealer.

I was presenting for the RA Photo Club here in Ottawa, which is the largest and the oldest club in the National Capital.

People left a couple of comments below the presentation's announcement here:
http://www.raphotoclub.ca/smf/index.php?topic=1186.0

Going through those comments, I actually learned about the shop that carries entertainment lights and equipment. When I showed up, I was disappointed, because they had just a few Lee filters. Maybe a dozen or so. I was given a promise that any of the filters could be ordered though.

And indeed, just as one commenter mentioned, they have tons of old wrinkled filters in the shop. Haven’t asked how much they sell those for, but I suspect it would be peanuts.

I went to Lee’s website and tried to identify the filters I’d need.

Here is some info that might be useful:

Rosco catalog (one can be lost for hours in it):
http://www.rosco.com/catalogs/US_catalog48.pdf

Rosco has conversion table here on this page:
http://www.rosco.com/UK/technotes/filters/lee_equiv.asp

Now, that’s where I got confused. When I go to the Lee’s site and enter the Rosco gels into the conversion box, some of the Lee values do not match those quoted in the Rosco conversion table. Here is the gel comparator: http://www.leefilters.com/go.php

Lee’s website has the most impressive java swatch ball. See for yourself: http://www.leefilters.com/architectural/products/colours/
You can download their swatch ball to your desktop.

It also has a mired shift calculator here, which I found cool:
http://www.leefilters.com/go.php

And I absolutely love Lee’s Gobos!

My article will be published in the June issue

2009-05-07T23:32:00.002-04:00

My article on Twilight Photography is coming out in the June issue of the PSA Journal. I got a PDF file with the article and had a chance to go over things before it goes into print.

I have to add that I am not entirely happy with the way I wrote it. It was done rather in haste and it shows. It still is a great article on the subject that provides useful information, but I am not quite happy with the wording. I also realized that I am not quite happy with the images that I submitted for it.

That actually is quite interesting. I haven’t done night shooting for a few months and although I start feeling the itch, I was questioning whether I burned out or simply lost interest. Going through the article made me realize one thing – I grew out of my ‘old style’ and I need to re-invent my night shooting. It actually served well to take a rest – it was a good chance to step back and I know that I will move forward taking a different angle. Neither I was playing a truant all these time – my Black Light project transformed into something special and I’ve been working away on my next baby.

And as I already blogged, I am planning on doing some “traditional” landscape photography this summer. Here is the image from Alberta:

Meanwhile, using the occasion, I would like to introduce the PSA. Below is the text taken from the PSA Website:

PSA is a worldwide interactive organization for anyone interested in photography, be they casual, serious amateurs or professional photographers. Individual, Camera Club, Chapter and Council members are offered a wide variety of activities: a monthly magazine, photo and digital competitions, study groups via mail and the internet, how-to programs, an annual conference and a raft of other activities and services.

The Photographic Society of America was founded in 1934 to "Promote the Arts and Sciences of Photography and to further public education therein". There are members in all 50 states as well as 60 other countries of the world. PSA Headquarters are located in Oklahoma City, OK.

PSA is Worldwide
The opportunity to enjoy your hobby with members in 60 countries throughout the world. Established in 1934, it is the largest association of its kind, bringing together professional and amateur enthusiasts of all ages and levels of achievement. As a non-profit organization, its mission is to promote and enhance the art and science of photography in all its phases, among members and non-members alike.

PSA is People
The opportunity to meet folks from around the globe, to make new friends who share your interests, to reunite at our conference in exciting locations around the country. This annual "homecoming” offers total submersion in our shared craft where members and famous professionals present tutorials, shows, and workshops over four days with one- to five-day field trips before and after.

PSA is Sharing
The opportunity to teach through slide shows circulated to member clubs, councils, and chapters around the country. The opportunity to publish articles in our monthly PSA Journal, a quality magazine filled with stimulating and educational articles and features written by and for members. The opportunity to present shows and workshops at local, regional, and national meetings.

PSA is Learning
The opportunity for your images to be critiqued by experts via Personal Evaluation Services, accessed by fellow photographers in Slide and Print Study Groups, and evaluated around the country using Interclub Competitions.

PSA is Recognition
The opportunity to have your work displayed on the PSA Wesite, in the PSA Journal , and in International Exhibitions throughout the year. The opportunity to earn exhibition achievement ratings -- which can lead to PSA Distinctions for proficiency and excellence (PPSA , EPSA). The opportunity to volunteer your services on a local, regional, or international level which may lead to being elected an Associate or Fellow of the Society (APSA, FPSA) and other awards.vv

On Photoshop and on being a Purist

2009-05-07T22:59:00.006-04:00

I’ve got a CS4 for my birthday and been playing with it non-stop. I am getting quite efficient and just can’t believe all of the awesomeness the software delivers (provided one knows how to use it). I design software for a living, so I can tell a good product from a not too great one. I can also tell when I run into a superb product. Well, the Adobe’s software I think has my highest respect. I’d say I became quite an advanced user in the last little while and it’s only know I can truly appreciate Photoshop.

I am learning software post processing for the composites and for some interesting people photography. While I did go nuts and made a “Martian” version out of some of my night shots, I intend to keep my light painting “organic” and not to tamper with them.

Below is the tame version of the “Martian” shots, which was really intended to mimic the night “IR”.

I used to be quite adamant about any software manipulation and I would always pride myself that I can do required job ‘in-camera’. And that is still valid. I am equipped with enough knowledge, patience and filters to get the shot I want. In the past, I was the first violin in the orchestra that plays the “poo poo” symphony to Photoshop.

Now, I processed my film and printed my pictures since a tender age. The dodging and burning, tinting and performing basic Vodoo moves in the contrast department seemed honest. Was it only because I was honestly inhaling chemicals that accompanied the magic? And how do I do it with digital?

Anyway, this rant could go on and on. And while I am becoming quite proficient in Photoshop (the results will be available in a few months when I am done with a current project), I still feel guilty manipulating my night shots in some ‘untruthful’ way.

Here is the source of the moderate guilt:

I didn’t make any serious offences with this image. It was converted to Black and White, slightly tinted. And that’s fine. There used to be a big stone in front of the cart and the bloody thing was just interfering with a scene too much. This picture was featured on my exhibition (original coloured version), I have a 24 inches print on my wall. I love the level of details and all, but I could never stand the stone.

I Photoshopped it out today. The purists will be disappointed I suppose as it doesn’t represent the reality and I had to compose better so the thing is not interfering with a scene. Sure, I didn’t work hard enough. Driving all the way to the very south of Montana and living over there for 10 days to get few shots. Cost me a fortune. My truck broke down and I had to walk at night to find help. I was sick to begin with when I went there and could hardly walk sometimes as it was just a few months after the car accident. I was sharing that night ghost town with a frigging bear and got frozen when the temperature dropped one night. Did I mention that I hardly slept for over a week? And so, when I finally composed the scene the way I saw it, the bloody stone was right there in front of the cart, and it would be a crime to photoshop it out ‘cause I didn’t try hard enough to get the best out of the scene.

It’s not about raising the bar, but I guess I am getting less rigid about Photoshop usage. Not to be disappointed – I am still going to be doing ‘organic’ light painting. It’s just I won’t feel guilty if I’d have to do adjustments such as in the example above. Especially in historical places, where I should thread lightly and not to move subjects around.

I should restrain myself from going over the Maya ruins I shot in Guatemala ;) grin….

Gels holder test rendered self-portrait

2009-05-02T21:19:00.002-04:00

Testing the new gelling contraption. It’s a mannequin head with a black light wig in my hands.

Black Light Fun

2009-04-26T01:12:00.008-04:00

Here is a picture shot with the Black Light.

It was a picture done rather in haste – at the end of the shooting session. I am in the middle of a big project and can’t post the progress until I am through. But I am doing very exciting stuff.

In between, it is a pleasure to do some people shooting. I especially enjoy shooting gifted kids – they bring so much personality to the shoot.

Here are some images – and yes, they are really on the “flip side of photography”. Very light. But I am on the "very dark" side of things working on my next project, felt like doing something to counter-weight it.

On Light, On Books

2009-04-12T22:53:00.002-04:00

I am absolutely engrossed in work with some complicated lighting solutions.

I am smirking thinking of the ‘old days’ trying to shoot with a ‘bare minimum’.

Can’t really grasp the “documentary style” which is used as an excuse to produce crappy pictures with available light. Of course, there are lighting situations present themselves when extra light might not be necessary. That is rare.

Joe McNally put it real well about “natural” light:

“Hug all the trees you want. Grow hair everywhere. Eat lots of fiber. Run naked through the forest and howl at the moon. Start primal scream therapy.”

That’s how he starts the very first chapter of his book “The Hot Shoe Diaries”.

I got Joe’s “The moment it clicks” book and literally could not put it down until I devoured it from cover to cover.

Some reviewers of the book complained about lack of “recipes” and about the fact that Joe has stars for models and chopper and all. Well, the chapter on stealing garbage can and driving smelly van afterwards doesn’t sound like a glam kinda shoot. As far as the “recipes” go…. I was able to get an idea about every shot that was described in the book. Do people actually looking for every single bit of data there? I guess they have to buy “Photography for dummy” first.

I run fast and ordered “The Hot Shoe Diaries”. Well, the book has a lot of great information. I am disappointed with Joe’s style of writing for this book. I found crude humor and overly ....hmmm... casual language that is very distractive. I am not judging Joe’s witticism, it’s just plain difficult to read sometimes. Although I must say I enjoyed the humorous part when he relates to his daughters, especially party bus. I guess people and myself included are not accustomed when somebody’s personality shines through “the tutorial” that supposed to be “serious”.

But the thing is – Joe could’ve written that book backwards and I’d still read it. It’s a great book and I guess Joe could afford to allocate a big part of text to crude rants – he has something to say there.

I really recommend both his books. They are very inspirational and will make anybody a better photographer.

How I did it

2009-04-12T22:21:00.004-04:00

I already started getting questions on how I did the shot from the previous entry.

Ok, here it is:

Shooting:
Totally dark room.
Black background (black clothes that doesn’t reflect).
Floors and the sides are covered with the black fabric so the light doesn’t bounce around.
The strobe is on full power with the snoot, behind my head, snooted and pointed to the keys about 35 degrees.
Camera is outrigged with the PW (Powerty Wizard) transmitter.
Remote electronic trigger is also connected.
ISO 400, wide open aperture (I am a 2.8 L glass fetish).
Shutter is dragged, I think it's under a second. This is to make sure the light saturates the keys real well.
The camera is on timer. I trigger with the electronic remote and put the remote on the note stand and assume a position, emitting arpeggios and chords of dissonance. Fortissimo!

Post Processing:
Cropped
Cloned out slight halo around my head.
Darkened a bench just a tad.

Music in a Dark

2009-04-12T12:03:00.005-04:00

When you pet project becomes a grudge and gets you tired and burn out, what do you do?

Play music to relax. And then snap it. I will be doing many experiments in the next little while with my piano(s) (I have two) when I feel the need to get away from the ‘routine’ shooting (funny how projects become just another routine and just hard work once the novelty wears off)

The “playing” part is quite fake and I hardly know any musical pieces playing which I could be caught in such symmetrical position. However, for the shot sake, had to do the “posing” vs. real playing.

Had I played for real, this particular shot would not work. I am no Lang Lang and my concert pianist continued and stayed alive only in my parents dreams, but I am pretty fast – enough to raise hell. Rusty though, so can’t do the “real time” blur of fingers. That’s where slow shutter speed comes to aid ;). And the rear curtain sync flash comes like a blessing for this scenario.

Now, I have to find time to work on that one.

Funny photo from intense photo shoot

2009-04-04T19:00:00.006-04:00

I am lucky enough to have a humongous spare room that I cleared from my arts canvas and easels for the purpose of building a photo studio.

With a background a couple of props and all, it’s enough length to comfortably work with the 24-70 on the full frame. Besides, I do like to get close to things.

Now, there are some instances when I do need to use one more meter that I am short of and that’s when I move into the closet. There is a staircase behind the closet and I was joking that I need to make a hole there in the wall, as my legs do not quite fit in the closet.

That’s how I spent almost 3 hours today. The person who is standing just above me is Heather. She runs Mountain Goat Yoga Center, and she was gracious enough to help with the shoot. So, she was a “choreographer” for the session that is a part of a big project I’ve been working on.

She really needed to be at the same angle with the camera to help the actor with proper alignment. So that’s how we spent almost all three 3 hours of shooting. The lighting during the shoot was different - it's just facing "inward" snappy.

And yes, I did need to be at the low angle for most of the shots.

I guess it looks funny. My elbows are raw after this shoot and I really need to invest in pads. And I've been fantasizing about “extending the closet” into the hallway above the staircase.

Thank you so much Heather for your invaluable help today, as well for not stepping on me even once.

My Forlorn Trumpet and me

2009-04-02T20:59:00.008-04:00

I should practice more. That includes piano too.

That makes me think that I shoot myself at piano next.

I can’t get enough experimenting with the lights, so I had this idea to start a 365 days project, but I already had experienced fiasco with it and I know that I won’t be able to commit due to time constraint.

Well, will just shoot while I can.

This lighting setup is not overly flattering for a female face, but I really wanted to do this lighting setup. I also favour high contrast/dark shots more, so I decided what’s the heck. I am not a model and I am happy the way I am.

The nose is a bit burnt, but it sticks out too much I suppose. Other than that, I am very happy with the lighting setup. And again, as far as the nose goes, I wanted to throw tons of light on the trumpet – used the snoot with the grid. The glare from the trumpet kept getting on the nose.

Here is another one:

And finally the really low light image:

Deepest Solar Minimum (me cried)

2009-04-02T19:55:00.003-04:00

From Spaceweather report:

“SPOTLESS SUNS: Yesterday, NASA announced that the sun has plunged into the deepest solar minimum in nearly a century. Sunspots have all but vanished and consequently the sun has become very quiet. In 2008, the sun had no spots 73% of the time, a 95-year low. In 2009, sunspots are even more scarce, with the "spotless rate" jumping to 87%. We are currently experiencing a stretch of 25 continuous days uninterrupted by sunspots--and there's no end in sight.

This is a big event, but it is not unprecedented. Similarly deep solar minima were common in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, and each time the sun recovered with a fairly robust solar maximum. That's probably what will happen in the present case, although no one can say for sure. This is the first deep solar minimum of the Space Age, and the first one we have been able to observe using modern technology. Is it like others of the past? Or does this solar minimum have its own unique characteristics that we will discover for the first time as the cycle unfolds? These questions are at the cutting edge of solar physics.”

Well, it is kinda cool to beat the record, but I am starved for a good Aurora display. I guess I was lucky to catch a good one in March in Alberta prior to my departure back home.

Anyways, the solar maximum is in 2011. I wonder if it’s going to be unremarkable or we luck out.

Canon Really Recalls 5D

2009-04-02T07:29:00.002-04:00

No, yesterday's post (see below) was not an April's Fool joke.

Canon recalls 5D

2009-04-01T23:46:00.002-04:00

James from Henry's (Hunt Club location) kindly pointed out today that Canon recalls 5D.
The problematic part is the main mirror, which can detach in some cases.

Canon encourages to pre-register the camera on the website and then wait for an email with instructions. This way, the camera repairs will be scheduled to avoid long wait and being without the camera as a consequences.

Here is information from Canon website.

I wish I knew this earlier as I’ve just started emerging from a dead season, but now need my 5D on a regular basis.

Oratory from the Borscht Belt

2009-03-29T20:27:00.001-04:00

Was contacted by the BIG NAME magazine. The email came with the “High Priority” and requested to submit my photographs for the article in the next issue. Without consultation, I don’t think I’d want to disclose the name just yet, but I am very tempted.

It was about my work in the Louisbourg. Of course, I was quite flattered. When I asked about compensation (wrong move ;), nobody ever got back to me. And we are talking about like a big name here, big enough to have funds and presumably, staff that has manners.

I giggled about it with my friends today over the coffee during an update on the “artsy” world, which normally is accompanied with healthy dose of sarcasm.

Then I remembered about this wonderful guy and his paramount rant. Enjoy!

CS4

2009-03-29T14:53:00.003-04:00

My creative juices are flowing again. Spring is in the air!

I’ve been doing a lot of reading on studio photography, flash photography, Photoshop, etc. Will post a link of books I found worthy of my time.

Working on a few projects that will take a while. A lot of interesting shooting and experiments. So little time!

While I am polishing my skills to create great images in-camera, whether it’s under the sun, the moon or studio lights, I became less of a former film snob and took a deep dive into the world of software processing.

I am very pleased with Photoshop CS4. I didn’t have a chance to work with CS3 and jumped a version. Quite a difference; it’s amazing what it can do with the RAW format.

I force myself to practice every day. Most of the images I practice on are crappy shots that target a specific area and need for a certain technique, once in a while I get back to my images and redo them using the techniques I learn.

Full Moon in my House!

2009-03-19T23:28:00.002-04:00

Well, I finally was able to hook up the Black Light monsters. Lots of horsepower! Didn’t use any props or fluorescent paint – just threw some light gray and white clothes on me and snapped.

Boy, those running shoes are not even white. Not even gray any more – too dirty. Can’t believe the intensity! I can’t even move around the room without sun glasses and I think I need special shades for this kind of UV. A good thing it’s not bad for health unless I stare at it.

The thing to the left from me is just a small soft light lamp that has the hood over it.

Will be spending the weekend doing final adjustments and tests. On the “TO DO” list is the job for building huge reflectors among other things. Will be functional and operational in a couple of weeks.

I am rubbing my little sweaty hands thinking of all neat effects I am going to create in this Black Light studio.

Rusty, but operational

2009-03-15T02:03:00.003-04:00

I’ve been working on building a Black Light Studio, being sick, surviving bus strike and Canadian winter, and catching up on life.

It seems that in all this hassle there was hardly any time for photography, although I am diligently working on two articles.

Black Light Studio building process has been the only pleasant thing as it’s been going really smooth lately - I finally got a hold of equipment that I am happy with. It’s going to be a “dark room” or a rather studio. I need to be able to use Black Lights whenever I want, not only when it’s dark outside.

It is never ending work – I am designing the mounts for the panels, lights, etc. Boy, will it ever end and when will I start shooting?

Catching on life was the other pleasant thing.

I did start doing some shooting and booking for a few weeks ahead already. I did do some shooting today of a very talented young musician who’s mannerism reminds me so much of Lang Lang.

It was a broad daylight, but I needed it to be darker.

On Photography Competitions

2009-02-14T11:36:00.007-05:00

There are numerous discussions on the merit of competitions, as well as on the choices available for photographers. Unless people do not belong to some organization, it is generally hard to obtain the information on the competitions. I did answer in forums a couple of times in the past, and I just recently received a comment in my blog, so I thought I'd elaborate on the subject.

First of all, why compete? It’s fun and it’s educational. It gives one an idea about his/her photography skills and it’s a great reality check. It also gives an idea of what constitutes a good photography, really. It is recognition if you are successful. And if one is serious about photography and wants to improve, it is a great place to be to see the progress, or have a target. And of course, it is all you make out of it. And it all depends on the kind of competitions you enter. I will mostly cover the reputable international competitions, but I will mention some other options and their pros and cons.

I am brand new to the International competitions, albeit successful, from my very first entrance; my knowledge of the subject might be slightly limited, but I am more than happy to share what I've already learned.

While there is a multitude of competitions to choose from, I enter only serious competitions that are supported and recognized by the PSA, in other words, the competitions that conform to the PSA standards.

I am going to make a separate blog entry on the PSA organization, but for the purpose of this entry I would like to only mention that it is a world-wide photographic society, perhaps the largest that exists. It has its own publication, annual conferences, web site and plethora of services. I am a mentor for the PSA in the light painting category – the honor I cherish. The PSA is superbly organized and quite established – it has its origins as far back in the past as the year 1919.

The Procedure

The competitions are often called “Exhibitions” or “Salons”; and yes, semantec is right - winning works are exhibited.

They are open mostly to anyone – either professional or amateurs. There could be restrictions on that though, so read the Rules and Regulations carefully. In fact, for very important reasons mentioned towards the end of this article, always peruse the Rules and Regulations of the entry very carefully.

There are digital, prints, and slide options. Not every competition offers contest in them all.

Below are the common categories for the entrance:

Color Projected Image
Electronic Image
Nature
Photo Travel
Photojournalism
Pictorial Print
Stereo

Note that not all of the categories represented at the individual competition. For instance, the Stereo category doesn't not appear often.

There are different topics that the competition organizers can define for the category, but quite often it’s “Open”.

Normally there are 4 entries per section and they could be submitted electronically. For some competitions submission is done through snail mail. Be careful to mail your entries far in advance for the international locations. And even for the local – the submissions have deadlines.

Electronically, the images are submitted either through email, web interface, or client application that could be available for download from the provider web site. The organizations that offer a web interface, would normally allow submit and re-submit different work to the server up to the deadline. Be careful though about the fact that it might be counted as accepted once the entry fees are paid. Always make your own research – I couldn’t possibly cover all models that exist out there.

Payment is done mostly via online payment. Most accept PayPal. But in some instances, you’d have to mail the check in.

The fees could be anywhere from $7 USD to &120 USD. Mostly, it is $15 -$45 USD and in general, it’s the fee per category (which would be 4 images normally). Still, there are variations such as paying a flat fee for all entries to whatever variation you’d find.

Judging starts about a week or two after the submission deadline.

Judging

Who judges the competitions?

The judges are photographers who are reputable and happened to be successful in their trade. There are also trainings available to become a judge, but I don’t know much about those, and I’d assume, that although anybody can get that training, it is a big honour to judge a reputable international competition and the training alone will not enough to qualify for those; but I’d assume it would be enough to judge for the local photoclub.

Of course, “judgment” is very subjective. Although I did find that entering a strong competition could be a good “reality check” and the means of assessment where one’s skills really stand, the competition is not an absolute measure of the value for a specific work.

If the picture doesn’t win today, it might be the case next year or next month. I even heard one recommendation somewhere to keep entering the same picture over and over again.

Of course, everybody has different taste. And indeed, I had a winner on one competition that got poor marks on the other. However, I’d say that although judges are different all the time and their background and ideas about art are different, I would get concerned if the photograph doesn’t receive awards with the many submissions attempt for different competitions.

I actually learned a lot about my own pictures since I started compeiting. Because you get the score cards at the end of each competition, you can see how the work performed even if it didn’t receive an award. I am starting to get an idea of what makes successful picture. I am more critical of my own work and it makes me think more about how I am going to be taking my pictures in the future.

Due to a sheer volume of photograph entered for the competition, your work has to be good to catch attention. Judges normally have 15 second for each picture during the process. Although there is a practice that intends to briefly familiarize judges with the general level of the entered material and they have a chance to briefly browse through the pictures before the “Judgment Day”. Time constraint doesn’t allow previewing all the works, and it is normally a small portion of them that gets reviewed.

The maximum possible score for the photograph is 27. Statistically, the HM would fall within 3% of the submissions.

More on submission

Which medium to submit – digital or print? I have never entered print competitions, but I think I will soon. It is just so convenient to submit the pictures electronically. The number of entries in the printed works category is much lower, but the quality of those entries is higher. At least that’s what I heard and it actually does make sense.

Titles of the photographs – sometimes are read, sometimes are not. Some entry form do not offer the entry for the title, some do, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that the titles are read. It appears that when the titles are read, it is announced on the competition entry form. From my experience, a carefully concocted title that helps to impact the effect of the photograph really helps.

Why the fee?

At the end of it all, the catalog is normally printed and mailed. I heard many voices expression discontent with the entry fees that are required for the acceptance. While I have to agree, that in these narcissistic times the competitions are growing like mushrooms and as few bucks here and there is not a big price to pay for “fame”, cases when competition organizers could potentially just collect money receive a lot of support from people who do not differentiate between different competitions.

That’s why there is a PSA list, and the compliance to the PSA standards for the competition to be a reputable one. Not only it guarantees the high level of participant, therefore entering ”true” competitions indeed, but it also means that your money goes towards such things as organization of the venue and such expenses as printing the catalog for example (which is mailed even to those who didn’t get an award). And yes, a serious endeavour will have the money involved.

Very different kinds of competitions

... and they are not created equal.

For instance, there are annual competitions on the Canadian Geographic, Kodak, Ilford, etc. There are always quite a number of the competitions locally, whether it is government organization, an art gallery or a charity; or just competitions that are held by the local community free newspaper, or really, anything – you name it. It looks like everybody is jumping in it. You have to be very careful choosing where you give your money to, and, what’s most important, your work. While competitions such as Ilford are very prestigious, some other competitions are not and they are mostly constructed to collect the pictures as to enter the competition you basically might give away your picture.

There are quite a number of competitions that are open only to professional photographers, but I won’t be covering those since I love my day time avocation and I don’t think I fancy doing photography full time; at least not in the near future.

Read the competition rules and regulations very carefully! Some people would find flattering to have their pictures on the coffee mug (but also, the most strangest or unflattering items to put your picture on). To some, this idea would be appalling. And it’s not about a “coffee mug” per se, there is something about not knowing what they’d do with your image. And, since it would become “their” property in some cases, you might not even get royalties or even a credit.

Most of such competitions are free, which is very attractive and people jump into it. The entity that organizes such competition may even give seemingly generous prizes. But when you think about how many photographs they harvest in the long run, it is actually a sweet deal for them to obtain a “stock” for the price of a couple of cameras and such that they give away at the end. Needless to say, although I’ve seen some great pictures that harvest the prize, the general level of the submissions are just one level above “snappies”. To each its own, but again, make sure that you are ready to part with your work or to have no control over how it is used at the least if you enter any of those competition. Needless to say, I do not enter those competitions.

Where to find the competitions?

I learn about them from the PSA Journal or from PSA website. You could also Google it. You don’t have to be a member of the PSA to compete in the PSA recognized competitions.

Sometimes you wonder after you Google something. Be careful – one can literally be submerged in the amount of calls for submissions that are available there. Use your judgment. What are you competing for? And why? If you have tons of money to throw around and don’t care about retaining rights for your photograph – sure. Do you want to improve or so how you do? At which level? It all remotely, but resembles sport – World Championships, pro vs. amateurs, is it your local club, is it an open competition, or is it your local community that organizes the competition?

There are also certain private art salons that make the call for competitions. Although there are reputable and well established art salons with solid business practices and exhibiting in those would be an absolute honour, somehow the means of being invited to those venues are slightly different. There are also salons that will lucrative cash reward, and quite legitimate, but you better be sure that your work is darn good to qualify for those - otherwise you riks just wasting money and time (and yes, it is actually a lot of work to follow competitions, submitting your work, etc. for any venue). Getting back to the calls for entries for the small private galleries: for the most part, I find that the call for entry ‘pay us $$$’ is a robbery that is thriving on the narcissistic part of the crowd. Since the purpose of this blog entry is educational and is intend to help those who are serious about competition and matching their skills against others in the photographic community, I will not indulge in useless sarcasm here. But it might be an amusing topic for a separate rant – I actually been collecting “material” for the blog entry on “publicity”, “exhibiting” and such and I will soon have enough of it to write something interesting (the amount of thorns under my tongue is already sufficient though).

The PSA endorsed competition or other serious International competition will never claims rights to your work. In fact, for some of the competitions you indicate what would you like to do with your work – destroy or deliver it back to you, and such.

Selecting photographs

It’s a tough one. I’ve been juggling them around, and I know have the “competing repertoire” which is in the state of the constant flux.

Here is a hint: go to the website of the organization and look at the competition results for the previous year(s) – it will give you some insight. It’s never the same next year though, because of different people and different pictures. Still, this will give you some insight about the level of the contestants and what constitutes a successful picture.

I’d say the picture has to have some impact – there are thousands and thousands submissions and the judges have to go through them all. Just imagine how they all would look the same. Try to imagine browsing through the pictures 10 hours in the row – 15 seconds per picture, then to the next.

That’s about it – I tried my best to cover with the knowledge and meager experience with the competitions. I promise to update this information once I get more experience. But for now, I hope that those who were thinking of competing will find that the process is straightforward.

If you have any questions, or would like to add something, or, if you think you are not agreeing with something you’ve read – you are most welcome to email me as I am fairly new to this myself and will be happy to learn more.

Good luck competing!

Yet another International

2009-02-11T21:09:00.007-05:00

Got exciting news from my next International I had entered.

9 (yay!) of my pictures got awarded, and the picture below got an HM:

I fully intend to get into the "Who Is" list by this time next year.

I didn't get ready for strong presence in the Mono category - something to start working on.

More Orange - good for you in the middle of a winter

2009-01-28T21:15:00.003-05:00

I wonder if I simply lack sunshine and warmth in the midst of winter. Well, I will be getting more of that Vitamin D, but meanwhile, here are the orangey nights again.

I added a “Martian Moon II” album with more Quasi-IR Night photos to my web site.

Martian Moon or Quasi IR

2009-01-25T19:48:00.008-05:00

I did a whole bunch of the Quasi IR on my light painting pictures. They are in the photo album on my website. The details are in the previous blog entry. Yes, these are Photoshopped.

They might look bizarre and not really natural, but I love the effect. I think it’s striking and refreshing... Especially for somebody who didn’t go mooning or produced interesting things in ages ;)

I actually like that orange. Very much so. I’ve been “thinking orange” a lot lately, as it is the favourite colour of the model that I am going to be starting a big project soon.

But anyway, Martian Moon it is.

Night IR Photography? No way!

2009-01-25T12:04:00.009-05:00

.... that was the questions I was asked during my last presentation. Can you do IR photography at night?

Of course, you can’t. Like with traditional means. Infrared means putting a filter on (even if your camera is IR-MODed). Normally. And that would normally hike your exposures way up.

Theoretically, one could try to pull a very long exposure during, let’s say the perigee full moon. Ok, but then, you really get into the problem with colours.

So, the answer is still “NO”.

I get questions emailed and I always get many questions asked when I present, because I always encourage interaction. It is always so fun. Besides, it’s very practical as I know what people are struggling with when they shoot under low light condition. I can proudly say that I haven’t run into a question that relates to Night Photography or light Painting that I didn’t know how to answer.

This one been driving me crazy though. I was fascinated with the IR photography and I was going to send my Rebel to have it IR -MODed when I was into the daytime photography. I ended up on a dark side, but nevertheless. The fascination and interest is still there.

So, I had a free evening to spare and I came up with my version of the night “infrared”. First of all, it is digital manipulation, so it’s not da real thing. Second, I use the term “infrared” rather loosely here. I tried to come up with the “weird” “opposite” look, or whatever I felt would be a closest analogy of the IR at night.

No, I don’t do drugs; sober, always sober; neither I felt emotionally disturbed last night. But here are the looks that I finally started liking. It might not be final, but at least I think I nailed down the basic workflow in the Photoshop.

The original images were light painted in real life, not in the Photoshop. I am a “purist” when it comes to light painting. That doesn’t prevent me from learning how to become a Photoshop wiz (not there, but you bech’ya I will be soon).

Light painting is actually something that helps the (Ok, let’s call it quasi IR) look really play. Otherwise, it wouldn’t work, or would be just plain boring. I thrashed my external hard drive yesterday and the evening became an over-nighter that flowed into the early morning of obsessive experiments.

I guess the beauty is in the eye of the beholder. By no means I am looking at these as at the "masterpieces". It was fun experiment, which did produce some striking results. I guess that’s it. I love the effects.

Anyway, I will be setting the album in my gallery for this “look”.

If there were life on Mars, I wonder if it looked similar?

Status Update (or why I didn’t shoot much lately ;)

2009-01-24T19:52:00.012-05:00

I’ve been inactive for a while and this is the result of the various external and internal factors. First of all, my life has been crippled by this bus strike that started on December 10. Although I am not taking the bus, I have to fight ridiculous traffic since everybody started using their cars in this city. Spending 3,4 – 4 hours in traffic instead of regular 2 really shrunk my free time. Days like one Thursday morning with the black ice when there were 117 accidents between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. are really exhausting. The situation on the roads is actually not as crazy really – people get used to everything; and except for the few who lose it here and there, everybody is managing and actually being corteous because we all do have to start co-oping with it gracefully, and I find myself getting used to it all; but not much time left for photography.

The freezing cold we had lately (last week saw –22 to –32 Celsius for the most parts and today actually it was -35 C with windchill) is tiring as well. I have to wake up at 5 in the morning so I can get a parking spot. Not a good thing for a night owl. In fact, I would never thought I could do that until I had to start doing it. It is nearly impossible on some days to find even a paid parking in core down town after 8 a.m. So, I try to get in early, and I can usually find some spot on the street, and since the City did lax the parking regulation and I can just leave the car there, I normally walk many blocks to get to my building as the parking would be ways from the building.

Walking long distances in extreme cold really was helpful, and being on such schedule to the addition of the “official” exercises that I am putting my body through really helps me to get back in shape. I am very close to my goal. Last week I shed a couple of pants that I shrunk out of ;). I am a couple of month away from my goal and I feel like a million bucks already. It’s been three years since I stopped taking a good care of my body and I don't like what it did to me - the more I appreciate active life style these days.

Night photography, and especially the kind of photography I do, is very challenging and demanding on the body. And although I did manage to do some trips that require physical fitness, it was too hard on me; and I was exhausted most of the time. Such exhaustion takes away from the energy I’d rather spend on the picture making. It was really really hard.

I was wondering, at some point, for how long I would be able dragging my feet and that I could carry less and less equipment. It was very upsetting because I wanted to do much more than just getting out of the car, and parking a tripod beside it. I thought that I have really slim chances to keep up with the demands of the trips that I want to go to. It was really upsetting.

Once I am back into great shape, keeping it up will take less energy and time. But for now, it is my main objective and most of my time is dedicated to this goal, as I know that if I am not in a top shape and in good health, I can’t really pursuit my goals in photography.

But for now, except for the experiments with the black light and only a few portraits that I intend to do in the next couple of month, I am taking mini-sabbatical. It actually feels nice to be this “lazy”.

Getting back in shape also coincided with coming up with some concepts and new approaches in photography that I feel I might need to explore. In other words, I think I grew out of my old approach to night photography and I need to move on. So far, it’s been all working very nicely. Although, as I said, I don't have much energy or time for the actualy practice, it all is working on the back of my head, which is becamse amazingly clear since I introduced regular excercises out on the fresh air. I am also branching out to include kewl light effects as well as people (also kewl;) into my future project. That will be so much fun.

Got a word from the editor that my article on the twilight photography is going to be published past March (that’s when it was initially planned to be published), sometimes in the next 4-6 months. I am writing an article on Aurora shooting, and planning two others that are going to be very interesting, but I prefer not to disclose what they are about for now.

I also am thinking of offering workshops, but maybe later this year – not enough time for everything.

I am very busy enjoying winter life in Ottawa. I am so appreciative of what this city has to offer after coming back. Will never take for granted what it has to offer in the winter. The huge path of Nordic ski tracks, snowmobiling trails just outside of the city, and the world longest skating ring that is on the 11 km canal going through down town. I am going to bring a camera with me to the canal one night. It’s absolutely amazingly beautiful out there.

So, that summarizes it all as well as explains the temporary ebbing of night photographs.

I also decided that I will be taking day time photography again. I’ve been exposed to a day-time beauty recently and I would like to capture it.

I guess this posting feels like belated New Year resolutions list ;)

Below is one of the last shots I did during the day. It was shot while waiting for the night to fall. I like its simplicity. It's really worth clicking on it to see the details larger.

Below is the nighttime shot that I’ve never posted. There are so many pictures that I’ve never posted on my web site, 'cause at a time, I think they are not good enough, but then change my mind ;). I guess I can keep dumpster diving for years to come! But no, my sabbatical will not be that long. ;)

That darn black light

2009-01-18T14:02:00.003-05:00

I blogged on conclusion of the Black Light saga... it was a story with a few twists and with ordering and re-ordering da thing.

Yeh, and it ain't funny anymore....

I thought that I can now proceed with my project, and I was about to devote the whole day yesterday to playing with black light and all the alternative lighting that would work. Especially since I had problems getting something decent out of my first black light shooting session.

I turned the lamp on and decided to position it a bit higher. With a 28 pound fixture it required serious considerations, so I posed, and then I move the thing a bit... heard that interesting sound. Looked inside again, and something round of indigo colour was sticking from below that huge bulb.

I could not believe it – it was the piece of the g.d. bulb (the side portion). I look closely, and I saw that the reflector is indeed hit with the “regular” light on that side.

Aha! I remember when I plugged the lamp in for the first time, and then went downstairs to do something on the kitchen while the thing was heating up, I heard a horrible loud blast. I had the studio door closed so the cat doesn’t get inside, so I was surprised how loud it was.

I run upstairs and didn’t see anything suspicious when I entered the room. Now I know. That’s when the part of the bulb snapped as it was heating.

I am just FED UP! That’s where my patience is officially over.

I am going to order yet another bulb, but I am getting a different puppy altogether. It is RIDICULOUS!

I am oficially abandoning this one and getting a 3-channel DMX blacklight. It is LED, and that means very efficient too. It also supposed to be strong enough to “bathe” 20ft by 20ft area in UV light. I is also supposed to be lighter. In fact 6 times lighter than the monster I have at the moment.

A friend who is going to be in that part of Canada next week where the warehouse with those is located….. vouched to bring this in a few days. I hope that is not packaged with grief.

After looking at those shadows, I was lamenting about not being able to use “fill light”, etc., with the black light. I guess the one that I currently have and it gives me such grief will fulfill that role.

I also wonder how much the snapped upper part of the bulb affects the quality of black light. Could be why I had problems shooting, because one part of the reflector was interfering by throwing the “regular” light. That is a good news – it’s not that I am so inadequate with it.

Boy, the pictures got to be really good at the end of it all – I am getting fed up. At some point, this black light saga provided entertainment and contributed to many laughs I shared with the witnesses of my mishap. I refuse to laugh at this point.

Oh, and here is the puppy that casued me grief:

Next International

2009-01-17T20:33:00.004-05:00

One of the pictures I submitted for my next International:

This is a B W version of the photo I did in Saskatchewan.

I am thinking of going back and doing more of Saskatchewan Ghost Towns scene. Took the proximity of great subjects for granted and now regret it deeply.

I really have a blast converting my night images to B W. One of my B W conversions won two month ago. Hope more to come, but I am doing it mostly for fun.

Black Light is finally here (Fiasco would be a more honest title)

2009-01-11T16:55:00.010-05:00

That brings the saga to the closure and marks the beginning of my frustration with the new toy.

And frustration it is.

I got so spoiled by the amount of confidence I have when it comes to low light photography because by now there is not much I wasn’t exposed to (pun intended). Even if there are some challenges that arise, it doesn’t take me long to solve them.

I did play with a “regular-size” black lights and produced few appealing images that are the composites of the dollar store merchandise procurement. I think I did have it all nailed down.

Then the jumbo black light *f i n a l l y “ arrived and the model was invited. Well, it’s a good thing that by now I can call “traditional” (read: boring) people shooting a safe haven and got more than enough skills to send somebody home with good pictures. It also helps when the model is your friend.

And while I was extremely happy with the “regular” shots that will be used for the a-la “Sin City” light and composition, I wish I did shoot something decent on my first shoot (am I spoiled?).

I have a very limited time to nail the technique with this monster light because I am committed to a very excited project; I will be learning fast. I am very experienced with low light shooting, as well as very technical – I will figure it all out in no time at all. Besides, I was getting a bit burned with my night shooting and while I am re-thinking and re-working the process in my head, I get something to play with that is challenging – something I need to taste once in a while in order to keep going.

They say there is a reason for everything.... I guess I now know the explanation on why there are hardly any black light photographers out there....

More about the light itself...

The black light machine is huge. It takes quite a while for it to warm up, and it works with quite a sound. It is a monster, really....

Yesterday there was a full moon - a perigee moon and the brightest moon of the 2009. I couldn't really go out - I have a real excuse - the nasty flu ended up with complications in my lungs. Well, the black light reminds me of the tungsten of the moonlit landscape. Somewhat.

And it is warm inside - but I am not looking forward to one of the tasks I have to do: I have to test about a dozen of different paints on myself. Gee... the things I have to go through... I'd rather be out there harrassing coyotes....

Ok, off to the playground - it is getting dark here!

Oh, and I guess I am secure enough to post crappy shots ;)

RA Club Presentation and Tea Lights

2009-01-07T01:40:00.006-05:00

I had an absolutely amazing experience presenting for the RA Club. They are great folks, very enthusiastic.

I am really sick and slept only a couple of hours last night. I couldn’t believe I could make it, but I am glad I didn’t cancel it.

I love presenting – there is something about communicating with the crowd of people. I tried to keep it interactive and I got some interesting questions.

One question worth mentioning was about my tea lights (thanks to somebody in the audience – I finally know what those are called).

No, they are not the trade secrets – indeed they are tea lights found in most stores. Here is one of the shots I did in Calgary with these lights:

As with all the gadgets I acquire, I get in and out of the phases of their usage. Some of the gadgets I get cool about after a while, although at the moment they seem to be “perfect” for the job.

I guess that’s the case with the tea lights. After shooting them for a couple of settings, I was absolutely determined to bring them with me to Guatemala. I did, and that meant bringing A LOT of those, which added to the weight. I totaled almost 180 pounds during that trip. Had to pay extra for the luggage, but I came back from the trip in amazing shape.

If I were to go again, I’d probably leave those at home. However, I still did get a couple of neat shots with them. They proved to be a great slimming tool in the jungle, and not only when carrying additional load, but also when actually positioning them:

Look closely:

This is not the best picture, but it’s a good representation of a careful placement of the lights. The pyramid is actually quite high as each step is high – they are not a “regular” size steps.

I did have a system in place when positioning the tea lights on each step. Still, I had to come down below the pyramid to have a better look at the symmetry and the lines the lights outlined. Then I would go up again to align a light or two, just to come back and find that I have to reposition something else. So on, so forth…..

So, I actually decided to use them for smaller pyramids.

I will be following up the presentation questions – people were asking some neat stuff and it is always refreshing hear what people do not know about light painting and night photography.

I’ve been slacking off and did spend my time playing with a human subject and started exploring the black light photography, but I guess it’s time to get back to night photography.

Holiday shooting

2008-12-28T22:51:00.009-05:00

Been enjoying some shooting during over the holidays. The big black lights machine (got to come up with a pet name for it) is supposed to arrive on Tuesday, so I am wrapping it up with “conventional” pictures.

Have quite a number of the “Sin City” composites backed up – so will have to hunt for the scenery.

Here are the pictures from yesterday:

And here are the pictures of my friend Ivo from today…. We never stop an interesting conversation, even when I shoot. Hence the expression, which I really like – very natural looking.

Masks and Flying Strobes

2008-12-26T23:13:00.008-05:00

Spent some time shooting from the king-size ladder tonight. Don’t know how I didn’t fall hanging off it like a monkey. Was extra vigilant. Got entangled in a wire though and had too many things in my hands – the strobe fall and landed on my forehead. It works, but the honeycomb is shuttered to pieces. I hope the bruise is not too big by tomorrow. The forehead is not looking symmetrical. I am glad I am behind the camera though – let it swell, as long as I can shoot.

I am pleased with the results though. Below are “conventional” straight from the camera shots that I can upload right away. Will be working on the composites from this shoot for another week or so.

Still feel weak and shaky from this g.d. flu onset, but it feels so good to be able to hold the camera again!

I bought a bunch of masks for the black light photography and I have fun experimenting with them. It was only natural that during the photoshoot today I tried an "unplanned" shot with the mask.

Hmmm.......... I think I solved the problem with annoying "under the chin shadow". Shooting people upside down ;)

Below is the same guy - quite a difference in appearences though....

“The Spirit” Movie and "The Look"

2008-12-25T15:39:00.013-05:00

Went to see “The Spirit” movie by Frank Miller. It is similar to the “Sin City”, but also quite different for many parts. Thankfully, it is different. Although there is tons of violence, at least the hero is a “good guy” and the criminals are not overly glamorized. The element of fantasy also makes it easier to digest the violence.

There is more colour in this one. In fact, it is never totally black and white (for a couple of the abstract frames). It has that low saturation look that I really like. And it is more on a warm side, whereas the "SC" is more cold. And I was more on the tungsten side of things. WIll be interesting to work with warmer temperatures.

Few wonderful shots against crimson background which I found quite striking.

The lighting of the people is a bit different from the “Sin City”. Lots of “half face” and very strong back light with it. Still a lot of contrast, although nowhere near as graphic. Then, there are also very soft lights sneaking in between the frames. No rain, but it snows sometimes.

I’ve read the reviews and I didn’t expect much – went to see at the lighting effects and the work of the camera man. I actually found the movie not bad at all. Few occasional pearls of dry sense of humour – something that I really appreciate. Few subtleties here and there that I noticed that the audience didn’t pick on.

But back to the lighting effect – I am already eager to implement a couple of things. And can't wait until it is out on DVD.

Oh, and the movie makes use of fog and smoke. Ditto to that – I have two fog machines in the garage. Really have an excuse to put them to work.

The image of Death is rather fascinating.

I've been really fascinated with the “Sin City” lighting, and I started fooling around with the look. I am still working on my better shots of that. This one was easier to digest and I guess provides with the inspirations for a more “versatile looks”.

Bottom line – anybody who is appreciate good lighting effects should certainly watch the movie.

Coulnd't resist - had to post all the photos I found:

Dumpster Diving

2008-12-24T13:28:00.006-05:00

I am putting a presentation together. I present the Low Light Photography here in Ottawa for the RA Photo Club on January 6.

Anytime I go through my old images, I always find some pictures that were “neglected” at a time and were never even converted from the RAW format.

Here is one of those:

I was shooting Hoodoos a lot when I live in Calgary. The badlands were just an hour of drive from my home (a dearly missed fact). This is a shot from one night when the snow started rather unexpectedly and quickly. I fooled around with a “Big Bertha” before leaving and I think I got something interesting here.

In fact, I think that it's quite a remarkable and unusual shot of the Hoodoos. Especially since it's such a cliche-producing landmark for anybody who lives in Alberta.

More From the Black Light Field

2008-12-23T23:00:00.004-05:00

Beauty...

Missed Fly Fishing, that’s all.

The Fly Fishing flies are stuck somewhere in the boxes, so I used the first spin casting lure that caught my eye in a Dollar Store.

No, it’s not a “conceptual image” or anything like that. Was not driven by cruelty or anything similar. I have a high-grade fever and missed Fly Fishing, that's all. G-d knows what else I will shoot.

Arachnophobia and More shots from yesterday

2008-12-23T12:41:00.007-05:00

I am stuck at home with a horrible horrible flu. I can’t be even mildly creative. So, I will be moaning and posting crappy pictures for a while.

Here is a shot of the assembled and painted wooden tarantula.

I always had a bad case of arachnophobia before my trip to the Central America. The justification for the fear of spiders provided by the bastard Freud seems to be rather entertaining, but I don’t think it reflects the reality... That guy sure fantasized a lot. But back to the topic...

Not sure whether I ranted about it already or not…. but on my first night in the jungle I found it cute to find the thousands of the tungsten lights all over. I was delighted with everything that first night – there was also an element of novelty. I was so naïve (or in denial) and thought that all those lights are emitted by some plants or some fire flies. All the new sensations and the visual feast (I see like a cat in the dark) made me quite hyper until I realized that all of that tungsten flares are in fact the eyes of the tarantulas and the wolf spiders.

There are not many things that intimidate me. But it was ridiculous when I’d scream when seeing a little spider that is hardly visible. My friends would have quite a kick out of it. I couldn’t never justify that stupid fear. Well, when I found that I was around thousand of spiders that literally covered the first tier of the jungle real thick….. but so, what do you do? How do you freak? Like I had to get a heart attack or suck it up. Oh, well, I proceeded with my jollies keeping my cool. I’d shudder every time my SWAT boots would crunch something, ‘cause I knew what it was.

Those tarantulas were not really big... relatively. There were... well... ‘babies’, although of an impressive size comparing to all the spiders I've seen so far in my life. There are myriads of them and they don’t grow too big, because they get eaten – the multitude of creatures that devour each other is unbelievable in the jungle. But I run into one that was a size of a good-sized bird:

My friend just asked me about the sparrow.... no, the sparrow is NOT good-sized. The full grown-up tarantula is bigger!

The shot is a bit out of focus, 'cause it was taken at night (of course!) and I had problems focusing without tripdd trying to light paint the thing at the same time.

This puppy was sitting on the wall of the entrance of the pyramid complex. The entrance led into the tunnel that I had to walk through in order to get into the structure. The Mayan people were small framed and the tunnel is really narrow – I’d be touching the beast with my shoulder trying to squeeze in. It was enticed to get the h*ll out using the stick. That’s when I learned that critters will not attack you right away. And it actually takes a lot to piss tarantula off. Everything it wanted not to be pestered and to have its supper – I was obviously too big to feed on.

I guess the bottom line is that not only I got rid of arachnophobia, I actually became fascinated with the big spiders. I haven’t had a problem ever since. And that’s also the case when I run into them at home.

There is more about snakes... But more later on... And I need to get back to Guatemala to be exposed to more of them. I need to get back to Guatemala, period. Just got the holiday greetings from my Guatemala friends – they are inviting me to visit and everybody missed everybody. I must do so in some not too distant future – I am getting restless and bored with my mediocre life, or at least it seemed so recently. I need adventures!

The Head

2008-12-19T23:27:00.005-05:00

Can’t get enough of my new toys!

Some more stuff under the black light. Had so much fun, almost stepped on my black cat which is totally invisible under the black light.

More images below. And no, I didn’t cut the model’s head off – these are the props from the theatrical supplies store. The head was purchased.

First Attempt at the Black Light Photography

2008-12-19T20:30:00.010-05:00

Due to the strain that holiday season put on the snail mail delivery, I am still waiting for my big ars black light machine. It was supposed to be delivered on Tuesday, but still no news.

So, I just got absolutely totally restless. Been stocking various neat things and so eager to experiment, that I went out and got a couple of el cheapo black lights to temporarily improve my mood while the big lights are finding its way to Canada.

Of course, the small 15 watts lights are nowhere near what I am expecting. And while I can not shoot people with what I currently have, it’s still to experiment with the small version and to figure out basics things. The really cool thing is to combine the black light with light painting.

The very first subject I got is very special – it’s my new Meccano Erector set. I have special relationship with this toy and no other toy brings as many sweet memories of early childhood and New Year festivities. The New Year is a big thing in Russia, and it was my most favorite holiday. Ever since I remember myself (and that is pretty early), I would consistently get the Erector set every New Year. I still remember my first one – the big plastic with the funny looking red plastic wrenches. My parents were bringing me up as a lady – ballet, music and arts lessons, private tutors, proper table manners, etc., etc. I don’t know where they got an idea about giving me Erector sets (my sis had routinely been given dolls and such), but I guess that’s when I started taking interest in taking things apart and I guess it was my first Erector set that kind of switched my priorities in life :). So, when in a few years I grew out of the Erectors, I started taking all things apart, just to see how they work. I guess it was a sobering experience for my parents when in my teens I announced that I am getting a motorcycle, which at the first convenient occasion I took apart. I tried to modified it and all. Then, I think I was 20, I took my first car engine apart to the last bolt. My second car I boosted just doing mechanical “betterments”, not like modern kids do – buy the “booster can” or whatever - pay 15 grands to have things installed..., and all. Things were not the same back then. So were the engines.

I guess my parents got to be happy now – I lease brand new cars, do not attempt to take them apart, hack software programs for a living and have my nails always clean. Yeh, and I discovered a Meccano set in the Costco this week. I almost pinched myself. Grabbed the thing and ended up cursing for a couple of nights trying to build this copter. I think I entered this world with a pre-set intelligence, or at least, I don’t think I’ve gotten any smarter since I was a kid. However, my fingers are bigger and not as agile to handle the tiny wrenches and the nuts and bolts.

Anyway, here is a copter.

The motor works!

And I actually really liked a B & W version.

This is my first attempt at the black light shooting. Really going to bring it somewhere during this holiday season. Yay!

Stay-at-home Perigee Moon

2008-12-14T15:21:00.003-05:00

December moon was the brightest of the 2008; roughly 30% brighter than the “smallest” one. I was going to get out, but the temperature dropped to the -22 C.

I spent time thrashing the Dollar Stores and the Party Stores buying some crap (mostly in Dollar Stores) and neat things (Party Stores) that I am playing with for my upcoming black light shots.

Finished another “Sin City” shot... Phew... I think I’ve “Sinned” enough. Sick and tired of Photoshop. Can't wait to shoot something cool.

Sin City Shoot

2008-12-10T03:00:00.005-05:00

I had to postpone my planned trips for this fall/beginning of winter and the local weather wasn’t favorable to the light painting. To avoid cabin fever, I’ve been working with a human subject. Traditionally, when the darkness falls.

Moreover, the 400 wt black light machine is being shipped (courtesy of my dear friend). I am rubbing my little sweaty hands in anticipation of combining black light and light painting with “regular” gelled lights.

Here is the picture from one of the night shoots. It’s a Photoshop composite – the car and the model were taken separately from the street background. I initially meant to go for the Sin City look, but opted out of adding the rain. I think the picture loses the punch with the rain.

Shooting for this shot was a disaster. I came to the location well in advance to install the typical Sin City light which includes 2 flashlights with flags and one umbrella. It was –7 Celsius. So, when the model showed up, I offered a snowmobile suit, finished the assembly … and realized that bloody transmitters got frozen.

Ok, I totally freaked out… I knew it would be the last day I could use a convertible because of the imminent winter and the snow as that very evening. I did shoot with the flashlights and transmitters in Alberta at the same temperature, and even lower. I don’t know what happened that evening, but it just wasn’t working even though I did wrap the hand warmers around the strobes.

I kept my cool though, and with a smile I announced to the model that we are experiencing temporary technical difficulties that will be resolved momentarily. Yeh, years of working in software industry and dealing with software bugs and the clients really taught me to pull a straight face in the SNAFU situations ;)

I scrambled some light together, and although I didn’t get what I wanted to, at least I got some decent high key light. Towards the end of the session the g.d. equipment started really dying from cold. Model was seemingly fine as in between very brief shoots she would jump into my snowmobile gear and go to the second heated vehicle (that’s when one appreciates seat heaters). But I ended spending hours removing goose bumps with Photoshop. And for the last shot, I had to use faithful Big Berthas when the strobes completely froze.

Still shooting that darn car

2008-11-29T23:53:00.003-05:00

I’ve been playing with Photoshop lately as I’ve been playing with idea of composite images and the "Sin City" look.

I was shooting the model a week ago specifically for that purpose, and had to drag myself out tonight to shoot the pieces for the composites.

First of all, I had to reshoot the car separately. I was going to drive it to some remote place and shoot it from all angles. Instead, got lazy-tired and just did some rudimentary light painting to bring out what I need.

I just realized that I didn’t light paint one headlight well enough. It’s really the only option to get the shot without some pretty severe flares – to "create" the headlights from the outside by blasting the light into the car’s reflectors. Even the high angled light blast I did from behind the car still produced a flare.

I am getting fed up with this car though. That’s everything I’ve been shooting lately. I will have to find some juice to do some more shots for the other composites I have in mind and it can be finally stored for the winter. Phew....

Here is a B & W version for the Sin City composite (of course, the garage is going to be "extracted").

Re-stocking Lite Light Equipment

2008-11-29T10:15:00.007-05:00

I did some testing of the new lights for the indoor shooting. They are really el cheapo lights as opposed to some of my outdoors stuff. Even my weakest Stinger acts as a lamp when inside of the house. So, had to add to my Lite Light arsenal today.

I was testing each flashlight and decided to post a couple of test results. No, nothing spectacular. It is a test and well, the full moon is soon – I will let the steam out! ;). Anybody who reads this blog knows that my life rotates around the moon cycle.

Here is a very interesting little statuette. It is a wood carving and I find it amusing how I picked it up. I was light painting Mayan ruins in Guatemala and after spending 5 nights in the jungle, I crawled out to the day light and visited the local market where locals were selling souvenirs, etc. I had too much weight and had to pay for it lots of money, so I didn’t have intention to do shopping there. But I got inside of this tent that had the rows of different figured on the tables. There were a lot of things, big and small. Almost right away, I was literally drawn to this figure picture of which I have below:

I grabbed this carving and said to the vendor that I really like it, but I am not sure whether I want to have something with the head, and what exactly does this head represent… To my surprise, the vendor said that it’s Mayan God of Moon, and that’s what that head represents. I found that quite amusing. Out of hundreds of different carvings I just grabbed that one right away and felt drawn to it as soon as I entered the place. It’s 28,5 sm high (11 1/4 inches) and carving is the most beautiful and intricate.

I also picked this snake at that market. Being attacked by the fer-de-lance was my biggest concern while roaming night jungle. Fer-de-lance is considered one of the most dangerous snake; very aggressive – will not back off and will be chasing on the land or in the water. She is a nocturnal serpent, so our “out” hours coincided. Locals taught me that if I spot one with the flashlight, I’d better throw the flashlight at the snake and run for my life. It has the heat glands and would be very inclined to chase the flash light.

Next one is my forgotten trumpet. I hardly play these days. And I’ve never been good with this instrument.

The Rubic’s Cube. This one is a very interesting one – it has all of the sides of the same colour. While it doesn’t provide much mental stimulation, it is a very nice “humble down” little present. It could be also a mean hint if given to the wrong person. That’s why it stays at home ;)

Here it is with the sides painted:

Moody Shot

2008-11-27T16:39:00.003-05:00

I shot this church located in down town Ottawa back in October.

I love the atmosphere – doesn’t even feel this was shot in the center of a busy city.

Click on the picture to view larger size to appreciate the feeling.

Sin City

2008-11-20T00:37:00.006-05:00

I just finished watching the Sin City movie and although the scenes of violence are nauseating, the photography is simply superb.

I run into the “Sin City Look” by chance and decided to create a shot of me that has somewhat similar feel. I’ve never seen the movie itself at the moment of producing that image, and the only ideas I had were the posters and the photographs that depict the attempts at it.

There are also numerous tutorials on how to achieve the “Sin City Look” out there on the www. And it’s mostly the means of “making a scene high key looking” that was actually too cartooney and stole the facial features that slightly put me off and that’s when I deviated from the “standard” look a bit. Again, for the cartoon look, it’s fine, but there is so much more to the photography and the lighting in the movie.

So, I watched the movie and was blown away. I was literally trying to suck in every scene and my brain just kept going on the overdrive trying to figure out the lights each time it changed or the actors moved. To achieve the genuine look, or at least something similar, one got to do a pretty darn good lighting. No, the post processing will just not cut it.

One thing worth noting: when you look at how the subjects are lit, it’s almost like they have two key lights (with one still slightly dominating). Which would normally don’t make sense and it’s something that is really makes a photograph amateurish and unsuccessful – having two source of light on the planet lit by a single sun (never stops to amaze me when I look at the multiple shadows that multiple strobes cast, or other examples that don’t have a pronounced key light). The lighting in the movie does not cast multiple shadows, but you can still see two key lights. .

Maybe I am not reading that properly, any suggestions are welcome, but I am hoping to make a couple of shots tomorrow that would confirm if I figured the major lighting points of the movie. [I anticipate a very frustrating evening ].

While my shot I posted yesterday is not the exact representation of “the look” “rain-wise”, it is so only because:
1. I got a bit lazy at the end of brining it all together (like adding the drops, and other things, the second layer of the rain, not making the rain “patchy”)
2. I didn’t want to go for the B & W and wanted to give a tungsten flavour because tungsten shooting is what I do.
3. As far as the lighting goes, to somebody who knows how much light the moon can produce, the opposite side of face is illuminated, which is off.
4. It was my first attempt at Photoshoping stuff. Period. Be gentle.

However, I must say that after thrashing the WWW in search of the PS tutorials, which are plenty and then further playing with the software, I even think I am going to post where the tutorials are missing some points or at least, I would like to post my modified version that takes care of few more points and offers the complete thing.
I will also try to post the light recipe.

Why the interest in the Sin City look? No, I do not like violence. In fact, some of the stuff is pretty disgusting. But the whole thing is shot in the low light conditions – it just feels right. The work of the camera man is also worth noting.

I’ve been pretty dry artistically in the last couple of months due to the loss of my pet companion, which hit me pretty hard. I guess it’s time to get back to life and to the shooting. Nice to find something that stirred my imagination. It's about time.

Focusing in the dark

2008-11-19T00:57:00.004-05:00

One of the forums I read today had a thread on focusing in the dark. I noticed that some answers are totally off. While there are indeed some subjective aspects in art, when we are dealing with physics of optics and the nature of the USM motors, the wishful thinking doesn’t work.

Still, the thread prompted me to thinking. Last time I was presenting the subject of Night Photography to the local photography club, focusing was the FIRST question that was asked.

It is the question that is actually asked most of the time; it is also the common source of frustration for those who start shooting under the low light conditions.

Different lenses will focus in a different way and there are ones I consider to be winners. Still, you hit the limitations pretty fast even with a superb piece of equipment as it is getting dark.

The key here is to aid the lens in focusing. And after that, testing the results in a fairly efficient manner.

It’s a no-brainer that if you don’t have enough light, you should add it for seeing the picture. I normally recommend not to use the flash light at all and allow the eyes to get used to the darkness. This is of a paramount importance of felling out your composition in the dark, unless you did you scouting during the day (and even then you should be able to see a thing or two).

Once you composed and set up a camera on a tripod, you want to make sure the image will be sharp. That is especially important if you are shooting start trails, or anything that calls for truly long exposures. You don’t want to waste all that time just to get a blurry image, even though you’d be fooling yourself that it “adds to the atmosphere” in that case.

So, let’s assume that you let your eyes rest in the dark, composed and are happy with your composition. Now you are ready to shoot the scene and we want to make sure we focus properly.

Set the lens’s switch to the Automatic focus (if you are using equipment with that switch located on the camera’s body, adjust accordingly). Flood the scene with a strong light. Make sure your hand is sturdy and then focus. Always keep an eye on your viewfinder when you are focusing. And when you did focus, make an effort to RIGHT AWAY switch to the Manual focus. This is very important and I can’t overemphasize this enough. Even with my mileage in night photography, I forget to “pull the plug” and then wonder why the heck the shutter doesn’t trip?

Of course, we assume that the camera is on the tripod during this exercise.

A word on shooting people in the dark: You could utilize this technique and just focus on the closest point to the spot where the model(s) will be posing during the shoot. If you are far enough, that might work. It is still pretty risky. But flooding the model’s face with light will not assure the most relaxed and happy demeanour. You need the strong light and it will blind and irritate any person.

To remedy this, I would focus on the closest spot and then introduce the human to the scene. Then, using the laser pointed at the human subject, I finish focusing. IMPORTANT: laser can seriously harm the eye (and the brain)! Always explain that you will be using the laser as well as the implication. Prior to pointing it, be very clear that you are using the laser and you want the human to close his/her eyes and not to look at you. Do not point the laser to the face, or anywhere close to the eyes.

Of course, this technique will not work with animals (for obvious reasons).

Below is the picture of the Burmis Tree shot under the long exposure (about 40 minutes or so). I failed to focus precisely enough and ended up with a somewhat blurry shot.

New Profile Picture

2008-11-18T14:55:00.004-05:00

Finally finished playing with the picture I wanted to post for my profile. Something that conveys a better idea of me being a night shooter.

Went for the "sin city" look, but modified it a bit. Also, no guns - just the camera. No baloons either.

Having fun with Photoshop!

Shoemaker without the Shoes

2008-11-16T12:07:00.009-05:00

Aside from my big "light painting gadgets" such as gas powered generator and the other "secret weapons" that are stored in the garage, I have the “light artillery” that I store in the house. The arsenal is so big - I have a separate room in the house with the shelving I built for its storage.

I am not a minimalist in my art ;). I’ve collected quite an impressive assortment of various lights, big and small. The collection that requires a separate storage room got to be impressive; and it is indeed.

So, here it is. My smart car (as in "intelligent vehicle" – no, not that small sissy thingy that wouldn't take a tripod in) got a light on a dashboard, which I ignored for a few days just to find out one dark rainy night that it was an indicator of the low pressure in the tire. At a time when I found the purpose of the indicator, the tire wasn’t totally flat, but it was getting there and the car wasn’t steering well as a result. I started an air compressor going, and the extension cord went bad in the process. Using stronger language, I reconnected the compressor and phew… it started going again. I needed to check the pressure in the tire, or at least to have some visual feedback. I am endowed with enough of intelligence to figure out that I could just simply look at the dashboard and wait until the indicator turns off. The problem is, that air-pumping process was taking too long, and that another tire felt soft.

So, since I am committed to keep all my blog entries at least somehow related to the subject of the low light photography... what’s the scoop?

Normally, every responsible person has a flashlight in the car. I have more than that. I have quite a collection. I actually have a big Thule coffin on the roof to bring "having a flashlight in the car" to the next level. That is, when I go light painting, and that particular night I wasn’t.

That’s right, I thrashed the whole car and there was NONE! Not even teeny weeny little thingy.

The frustration! And then the laughter.

Anyway, my car did limp to the destination that day and I am now scratching my head about what would be the better candidate to have in the car? It’s making them decisions, eh?

Could it be this one? Here is a tactical military weapon... oops... a light...

One of the puppies I own:

Introducing the Surefire M6 Guardian and its devastating 500 lumens.

That is not my hand on the picture! [Vain scream of the former pianist]

The puppy is machined from aerospace-grade aluminium, coated in a super-rugged military specification Type III hard-anodized finish.

I mostly keep this one as one of the self-defense tools as it is bright enough to temporarily blind an opponent. It is way too bright for light painting, unless I wanted to light paint the Rockies from Ottawa ;)

Yep, big lights for the big girls ;). But I think I will be choosing something else for the "car resident" kinda light.

My first International Award!

2008-11-16T01:42:00.005-05:00

Yay!

I got an acceptance award in my first International Competition!

It says award "A" for the picture in my profile and that it passed the score. It is an acceptance award to the Detroit Salon of photography. Don’t know anything else at the moment, and it’s not important at this point – it was my very first submission. I blogged about it here, but didn’t actually submit the picture of the light painting that I mentioned in that blog entry. I later re-submitted a different one as I found that light painting still a bit simplistic.

Below is the picture. And yes, it is an award in the Mono Creative category. The title is "Invitation to Beheading":

Invitation to Beheading

Well, ironically, my previous blog entry contained the original picture from which the Mono version was made. Funny coincidence.

Lame November Mooning

2008-11-13T15:34:00.003-05:00

My November mooning trip plans fell through and I am stuck in Ottawa where it rains at the moment.

Went to the Calabogie area to deliver the print of the old farmhouse. The insurance companies wanted to have it down back in July.

Lo and behold, the farmhouse is still around, but the inspiration is not. So, after trying to do something with it, I ended up with a couple of lame shots.

But here is a weirdly painted one from my April shooting.

P.S. Chris’s father said they would have to do demolish it this month for sure - no more delays. Hope to do something with it before it’s gone.

Writing Endeavours (committed to the first book)

2008-11-11T13:55:00.003-05:00

I just finished another article that goes into publication in the spring. This time the subject is Twilight. While I am nonchalant with my English when doing my blog rants, I am capable of verbalizing myself with clarity and grace if pressured ;). At least, that's what my friends friends saying (who were exposed to my “formal” written exercises).

So, here it is... since I think I’ve learned enough English to get away with some minimum editing, I think I am comfy with the idea of working on my first book in English. I am not a stranger to creative writing, and throughout the years I’ve been trying myself here and there, but was always discouraged because of the fact that I’ve been speaking English for only several years. This been driving me crazy, but I am now at the point of being totally committed to my baby and feverishly work on it. My biggest problem is the usage of the bloody definite and indefinite articles (‘the’ and ‘a’). But there are always editors...

Photography-wise, I’ve been shooting a lot around Ottawa, and I will be adding the Ottawa album, as well as my Maritime album to my web site.

For now, here are a couple of shots of the Pagoda behind the Parliament.

That same car

2008-11-05T02:59:00.005-05:00

I was shooting a friend of mine and that same car that I used for light painting downtown Ottawa ;)
This time I decided to light paint the car and the model.

Too bad my friend is an economist (well, almost, finishing her Masters) ;) – she would make an awesome model!

I have fun playing with shadows – will be doing more work on that.

PSA Mentor Services Update, the year summary and future plans

2008-11-03T09:03:00.005-05:00

My mentor page just got updated - check it out!.

I wanted to update links and photographs (and that horrible distorted picture of me that was featured in the profile). While selecting photographs that were taken in the last year, I just realized the sheer size of my current portfolio and the amount of work I’ve done during the course of the last year.

I also realized the expanse of geographical location that I covered in a year. Wow!

It includes shooting the following locations: Adirondacks Mountains in New York, Montana Ghost Towns, Badlands in Southern Alberta, Mayan ruins in Guatemala Jungle, Canadian Rockies, Cape Breton and Nova Scotia, Calgary, Ottawa and Quebec-City urban scenes, Sunset in Belize City, Ghost towns in Saskatchewan, abandoned farms in Ontario and ruins in Quebec.

I also drove coast-to-coast this year, excluding a small stretch in the Western part of the Rockies to Vancouver (although I did visit Vancouver this year).

This is just a beginning and I am exercising like mad to get back in shape as I am planning real adventures – everything else so far was a joke ;)

I am going to cover this whole continent like a blanket, and then move to the rest of the world.

Light paint the world!

Ok, back to the training in the gym and studying languages! ;)

Below is the picture from Montana:

Hunter’s Moon in Canadian Maritime

2008-11-02T10:31:00.002-05:00

I am happy to say that I started exploring Eastern part of this continent.

For Hunter’s Moon I went to Nova Scotia. I did very interesting work around Peggy’s Cove. I actually think I managed to get killer’s shots. Peggy’s Cove is one of the most photographed spots in Canada. I think I did manage to get something absolutely different.

Photographing iconic subjects always were a challenge. Especially since I don’t really like producing cliché shots.

I spent some time in the Louisburg Fortress as I already mentioned. Below is the collage made of some shots from the Fortress.

Click on the image to open a slightly bigger view in the browser.

Different Kind of Light Painting...

2008-10-28T03:42:00.007-04:00

.... that is done with a speeding sport car.

So much fun!!!

Playing with Convertable

2008-10-27T20:43:00.010-04:00

I started a 365 Days Project and I have a dedicated blog for it.

I would like to play with light more and committing myself to daily experiments no matter what should help me improve. I would like to make an announcement about that blog. Also, since the shot I did today was done under low light condition, I think it also belongs here.

Quebec City

2008-10-26T08:27:00.003-04:00

I happened to stop in Quebec City on my way back from Nova Scotia. Although I could shoot for maybe an hour, I was totally captivated by the Quebec’s night scene. The city celebrated 400 years this summer. It reminds me of Europe so much! If it were not for my limited knowledge of French (something that I intend to attend to), I’d seriously consider moving there, as it feels like being back in good old Europe.

Psychedelic Sermon

2008-10-21T08:45:00.001-04:00

I decided to enter the International competition. While I am absolutely thrilled to compete in two B&W categories (B&W was the first photography passion of mine since tender age), the biggest fun is to participate in the “Color Creative” category.
I submitted some of the wonderful work of mine, when my friend remembered an old stunt I did back in Alberta. I laughed and swapped one of the images I had in mind for this one.

While I don’t believe this picture has “regular” merits of a good piece of work and nowhere near advanced as my other work that I submitted (I also prefer a subtle moody style to gaudy colours), it fits into the category nicely as far as the “Creative” word is concerned. Yes, as every night shot it is done in-camera. The process was VERY creative. I wonder if anybody could figure at all how this was done.

Louisburg Fortress Shoot

2008-10-17T19:43:00.006-04:00

I had a wonderful time shooting Louisburg Fortress for two nights. Although my personal circumstances and the timing of my work there were not favourable to being overly creative, I am surprised that I came up with what I think is the most important body of work since I left Alberta.

It was quite an impromptu shoot and I happened to be lucky yet one more time. Without planning and contacting folks who run the Fortress, I did manage to be in the right place in the right time (literally, within 5 minutes window during the Thanksgiving weekend) to meet people who went all their way to accommodate me.

I would like to personally thank the great people of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada, who work for one of the most impressive museum under the open sky I’ve ever been to on this continent:

Blaine Aitkens, whose passion for his work doesn't stop shining through his brilliant eyes.

Peter Chaisson, whom I regretfully have never met in person; the Thanksgiving dinner of this man was interrupted by my calls and his calls to arrange my shootouts.

Chip Bird, who reacted to my unusual request with quite a humour and trust; this person runs the Fortress and actually it was his initial reaction that made my stay there possible.

Troy Allen, who was a wonderful guide and was kind enough to offer to come to be my guide from 200 km (one way) on the Thanksgiving Day.

Ian Harte, a talented photographer himself and another passionate person, who went all his way to show every nook and cranny of the fortress that I was able to get to.

I did hear a lot of the hospitality and a kind disposition of the Nova Scotia folks, but it was the first time I could experience it, in a profound way.

I regret that circumstances of this trip didn’t allow me for a longer stay and to be more prolific. I am quite happy though with what I got. I am also grateful to be in the place where the history of this country started at night, which is the time that is conducive to deep thinking and philosophical disposition.

To be continued...

Trip To the End of the Earth

2008-10-16T22:00:00.002-04:00

The circumstances prompted me to take a vacation and to go to the end of the earth.

The earth ended here:

It’s the ruins of the very first Canadian lighthouse. It was burned down, and the replica erected beside it.

It is located on the Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, near the town of the Louisburg where I had adventures I will write about later.

Sensor cleaning revisited

2008-10-02T17:02:00.004-04:00

I blogged about sensor cleaning method I thought was the safest.

I think the only safest method is the Canon shop.

While I claimed the method John shared with me is heart-attackless, I almost got one today when I whacked the 5D sensor.

The seemingly innocuous brush picked the particle(s) and as I was moving it along the sensor, it just dragged it all the way through the surface.

Here is a result

Took me a while to calm down and try to get rid of it. It was stubborn. While the images do render clear around that spot, I can see the damage on the sensor itself. Darn!

I still don’t know for sure what happened there and what that artifact is contained of. And btw, this is the upper part of the sensor and it goes across the whole thing, that is how big affected area is.

I’ve decided to be extra careful, as I don’t have extra 3 thousand bucks to spare on the full frame rig.

Learning from mistakes:
Important thing to keep in mind that the air can “freeze” on the brush and leave that substance on it. To make sure it doesn’t happen, always keep an eye on the brush (I wish it was dark as it would be easier to spot the frost!).

Keep the brush away from the air nozzle. Maybe even 15-20 sm…. I was almost sticking the brush into the nozzle!

Don’t overdo with the compressed air! I touched my brush and it felt too bloody cold. I do not believe temperature would affect the sensor, but I am just uneasy about anything since I thought I lost the sensor.

The other decision I have to make is to keep a dedicated lens on 5D. I’ve been shooting a lot of people lately and I was rather nonchalant with changing the lenses. I am going to finish cleaning (most likely in a pro shop), and then never open the camera.

All of the telephoto and other lenses will be done on 30D. The replacement cost for that camera in case I scratch the sensor is much cheaper. I guess my only problem is that I am used to full frame sensor too much at this point.

Way too cool!

2008-10-02T05:11:00.002-04:00

I was looking for a decent spot to do the night shots with the model when I decided to check the proportions for the ultra wide lens on this location.

Below is the result. I painted myself with a bigger Stinger. Yes, that’s right, with my own hands, one by one.

I really didn't put too much thoughts into it because I was just outlining the body/limbs so I can render more than ghosting, which would allow me to better judge the person's presence and proportion to this spot. But I quite liked the outcome!

(You can click on the image to see it bigger)

CH342 watch

2008-10-01T00:23:00.002-04:00

CH342 might bring some minor display tonight or tomorrow.

... These are the time I deeply regret being back in Ottawa – it rains so the sky is totally covered.

It doesn’t rain randomly. I noticed the pattern and here is when it rains:
1. Around full moon.
2. During magnetic storm.

Or at least it seems like that. This summer is very unusual though – everybody carries umbrellas and makes jokes about London. I recall (with horror) my idea of moving to Vancouver instead of coming back to Ottawa and think I’d get desperate pretty soon over there.

Here is a nostalgic shot of a very prominent Aurora Arch from good old Alberta.

Lazy Shoot

2008-09-30T01:48:00.007-04:00

Getting reacquainted with Ottawa here.

I (FINALLY!) got out there to do some urban shooting and have to admit that I’ve never truly explored this city.

I didn’t use the tripod. Yes, that’s right – did handheld shots.

Very atypical of me – I don't part with Manfrottoe and use it even during broad daylight.

I punched in the whole paragraph of excuses why I didn’t use the tripod. Then deleted it. Without the danger of getting too verbose here is one simple reason – laziness.

Yes, but here they are – my first back-home-grainy-semi-blurry images of Ottawa.

And I guess, B & W version is a great way to fight sodium vapour ;).

The Light Show presentation announcement, etc.

2008-09-29T02:50:00.003-04:00

Today I presented on the subject of Night Photography for the club organized by my friends. It’s the Crystal Beach Photo-Video club. Amazing folks, great vibes.

I didn’t get into the intricacies of the Light Painting, as I believe that people should have the basics of night photography first. I wanted to make sure people leave armed with some knowledge, not confusion or just the “WOW” kinda thing.

I am presenting in the RA Center on January 6, 2009. That will be a two hours of “light show” (read: smoke and mirrors). I will be assuming the audience is somewhat versed in night photography, or at least has an idea as while I will introduce some basic concepts, I will be concentrating more on the light painting. My take is that there will be some strong photographers in the crowd.

Feels great to be home.

Accidental assault

2008-09-20T23:41:00.006-04:00

This is shot with the 85% of moon disk illuminated. The moon appears as a "whole piece", and it is normally the case even up to only 75% of illumination.

While this image below conveys the peaceful mood of the sleeping yachts, the picture was a bit different half an hour before it was taken.

It was a late moonrise, well into the dark and late into the evening. My friend and I went to Piney’s point. It’s a historical place on the river, where it flows into the lake. Relatively remote and quiet, there is a tiny picturesque bay, which I enjoyed shooting prior to my departure to Alberta.

There is no car access to the waterfront and it’s quite a way from the parking lot to the river. We walked, and when we got to the point from which I could see the moon that already started rising, I realized two things:
1. the bright orange moon and its shimmering path on the water are gorgeous
2. we are friggin’ late

I emitted quite a howl and shuddered in awe, for I sounded like a cow that stepped on its own udder. I added to the pitch and noted, not without satisfaction, that I could probably stop a charging bear with these sounds. I started varying the pitch with each jump as I was sprinting towards the river. I was moving fast so I had my light music turned on. I looked around to make sure that my friend is not getting too far behind. The friend had a “Big Bertha” with 5 cyclope eyes on, which were literally dancing in the dark with each step. I laughed thinking that we looked like two fast moving X-mas trees.

As I was approaching a small cozy bay on the Ottawa River, hidden behind the trees, I further rejoiced seeing the glimpse of the beautiful moon rising above the Quebec shore. At some point, when I turned around to check on my friend, I thought I caught a glimpse of the lights that were not part of our arsenal (yeh, I know all my babies and can tell them from thousands of lights). I thought it was strange, but in a few more seconds I run out into the clear area on the shore, into the spot … illuminated with the flashlights coming from the inhabitants of the small yacht town on the water very close to the shore. There was a silence on the vessels and I am sure I felt the big question in the air as ‘should we pull the anchors at this point?’ coming from these peaceful party that came to the bay to spend the weekend.

Then I remembered chuckling when I was putting a black baklava on before starting our joyful jog downhill; and saying to my friend that I am so glad there is nobody around here to freak out. Now I was standing there on the shore, wearing the outfit as on the picture. I wear a black baklava so I can spend a reasonable amount of time in front of the cameras without ghosting my face into the image. Add the recent frost warning in Ottawa and the 4 degrees Celcius and the need for baklava increases. I could also justify wearing tactical SWAT boots for their anti-slippery outsole and the army pants for the roomy pockets and the cut that allows any movement without constraint. I don’t know what extended Manfrottos can be taken for in the dim light though.

I didn’t get to shoot the orange moonrise after all. We sat down there on the shore and waited until people on the boats calmed down and turned their lights off – I couldn’t shoot towards the yachts anyway with all that light pollution. We were sitting and quietly pondering over the details of our "descend" from the hill to the bay and imagining what these people just been through.

P.S. it was only next day that we realized how funny it was. And I guess we were pretty embarrassed there on the river shore. The yachts are actually closer than they seems on the picture – they were taken with wide angle.

As far as the rendition of my outfit goes – I didn’t have half of the gadgets that are normally found on me as I was too lazy to put them on when I was taking a shot of myself at home. I carry two Manfrottos, a big camera bag, and tons of lights on me. I also look more excited when I am on location.

Oopsie....

2008-09-18T21:12:00.013-04:00

Cops for breakfast?

Almost.

While I am brave enough (or crazy for that matter) to roam night country side, I do know what I am doing and I also take some measures. I leave my friends approximate location where I am heading to. The routine is that I email when I get back home and if not – the idea is to raise hell immediately because I am well aware (and from gruesome experience) that if you get in trouble out there, every minute counts. When I am away from home on a few days trip on this continent, it is harder to do, but still possible to have some system in place. Sometimes it is impossible, for instance, when I was in Central America.

At least, since I got back home from Calgary, I am relieved that it is easier to make precessions when I shoot locally.

Last night, still being sick, I did crawl out to catch the 92% moon disc. Snapped a few shots only and when I got home, I was so tired and sick that I didn’t email back with the report of being safe and sound. I forgot!!!

Knowing that I am not well, and after me hardly making it home from the Papineau-Labelle wilderness few days ago when I came down with something bad really rapidly and had problems making it home, my friend freaks out when not finding email. My phone is left in the car. Oy-yoy-yoy...

It’s a guilt day ;) and the time to make a strawberry pie with organic strawberries I stored for the winter. I just got a confirmation that it will make up for the oopsie....

Oh, well, sh*t happens.

Presentation on Night Photography

2008-09-17T20:09:00.010-04:00

I am extremely excited to give a presentation for the local private photography club run by my friend here in Ottawa.

It is going to be a tiny audience, but I am actually looking forward to this experience. I actually find it easier to "perform" in front of the big crowd and if I am in the mood, I have no problem rocking it. So, it will be interesting, benefitial and challenging to serve a smaller group of people as I think it poses more challenges for me.

I am also happy to get something exciting related to photography, as, unfortunately, I am down with a nasty flu that prevented me from further enjoying harvest moon.

If anybody would like to attend, but is not a member of the Crystal Beach Photography club, please don’t hesitate to contact me and I can easily arrange this.

Here is the agenda (oh, and it’s September 28 – West end of Ottawa):

Night Photography and Light Painting
An introduction to the basic techniques and approaches

After this presentation audience will have a solid understanding what night photography involves.

1. Introduction
2. The appeal and the challenge of Night Photography
3. Basic equipment
4. "Seeing" low light (or "it’s never too dark")
5. Solar and lunar phases and their effects on night photography
6. Physics of light temperature and our perception of it
7. Introduction to basic techniques of Night Photography
8. Light Painting as an element of the Night Photography
9. Questions

The picture is of a local scene from a shootout few days ago (did I mention that I am so happy to be back home and it looks it just started sinking in?)

Finding lost paradise

2008-09-16T03:45:00.013-04:00

I found the spot, mounted the cameras on the tripods and, after quickly assessing the situation, started looking for the lights that do a good job of neutralizing the sodium vapour. They were not in the car. I couldn’t find some other important gadgets either.

That’s never ever happened to me before – to arrive to the location and not to bring the proper equipment. I did bring the light gear, but I was missing some key lights.

At first, I was horrified. It was especially painful after staying put for 3 days due to local rain and then, due to the remnants of Ike that ploughed through the area. I followed my friends’ advise and tried to be easy on myself. So (all in my thoughts, of course), I only kicked myself in the **s a couple of times, then I put myself through the thumbscrew torture, kept myself on the heretic’s fork for a few minutes, but then got over it having decided to make do with what I had.

And I had a gorgeous harvest moon, just barely past it’s full stage, beautiful river and thick fog. What one could wish for?

Well, the interesting thing is that I still wished I have my g d lights with me. Then, after shooting few first shots and seeing results on the big LCD of the 5D, I looked at the scene around me. It was so ironic that I was surrounded by such a beauty, yet I lamented my light gear.

Very quickly I came to realization of becoming the “light painting junkie” and forgetting why I used to go out to take pictures in the first place. I travelled light that night, and again, didn’t load the car properly. Still, we are talking about the CUV full with gadgets; as well as the huge Thule roof carrier filled with the lights.

The collection of lights and gadgets I've built so far and still testing is unbelievable. And I am not through yet. I’ve been doing technical experiments, exercises and everything that requires brain, calculations, and reasoning. I’ve been working on the big project that I think would take a couple of years to get ready. I wonder if somewhere in the process, I started losing appreciation of nature and raw beauty.

I always pride myself in doing light painting in ‘place’ and not manipulating the images. I also pride myself in trying to find an ‘organic’ approach to light painting. I guess the only organic way is an organic way indeed.

I really felt like purging myself. I missed night like this one. I didn’t have to think and calculate and adjust and paint and repaint the scene. I let the moon do the job and I was just a humble recorder. I didn’t have to deploy my smart system of dollies and other things to move around the behemoth collection of equipment. I was kicking around with two tripods. Not even a single flashlight – moon was bright enough.

I spent amazing hours under the harvest moon. I didn’t have to analyze what I have to rebuild, buy, mend, etc. I just enjoyed it all.

I was actually feeling restless about photography. But I guess I found it – the day when the pressure to perform and do something special about it takes over the appreciation of the beauty – I will sell all my gear.

P.S. So much for light painting…. Maybe sometime later, when I feel like losing my soul again and wasting these beautiful moons. But for now – back to innocence ;).

Night at Moorside

2008-09-11T01:38:00.006-04:00

Spent some time under ripening harvest moon in the Mackenzie Estate.

Here is one of the shots:

Time is Implacable

2008-09-09T22:39:00.003-04:00

This is a shot I took a couple of years ago before leaving Ottawa.

I have wonderful pictures of this tree taken in the spring, when it was absolutely amazing. I shot this handsome pair under the moonlight. I light-painted it.

Below is the picture of what I came back to:

The house was in a very bad condition even two years ago. The floor fell through in a couple of places I had a feeling the roof could fold in at any point. When I got back from Alberta, I visited this spot to find out that the house was demolished. I was happy to see the tree still there.

The next month tree was gone. And it looks like from natural cause. It does look it was struck by the ligtening.

I went tonight to spend some time near the ruins and my friend wished me all the best and mentioned the impatience to see the results and what I can do with it. But I felt sad being there and just shot a couple of snappies. Really felt that time is indeed implacable, and it shows no mercy to anything or anybody.

Making them pose......

2008-09-06T23:35:00.013-04:00

I watched a video of how Annie Liebovitz shot Queen of England.

Anybody who followed Annie’s career knows that her approach to shooting is rather bold; and let’s admit, it works.

She stripped clothes from John Lennon and Demi Moor; looks like this time she made a decent attempt at Elisabeth when she asked her to take the tiara off (which is really a crown). To have the Queen without a crown is a no-no, so of course, Annie had to back off. I guess that did the job – the Queen looks quite aloof on the picture.

The video of that shoot where she asks queen to remove Tiara and saying "too much jewelery":

I was actually surprised to learn how many assistants she had and how much preparation time she had available.

Some dude from the flickr made a good attempt to reverse engineer the Queen’s pictures lighting, really cool:

Here's a First Hack

>Second one

It looks like she was using a humble Canon. I was happy to see that she uses the same glass I use for mid range telephoto, and namely the old 28-70L 2.8F. That is one solid piece of equipment.

Getting back to photogs' behavior, I see the continuation of the long-lived tradition that North American photographers follow when shooting the Brits. Canadian Yousuf Karsh exercised indecency while photographing Churchill in Ottawa. That rendition became the most famous photograph of Churchill, and was aptly named “The Roaring Lion”. The roaring look was achieved by snatching a cigar from the mouth of the Lion, and then tripping the shutter right away.

I guess I am getting pretty North American myself ;). I was shooting a guy who was supposed to bit a sh*t out of the punching bug (the guy is a boxer). He was wearing the singlet with the dress pants – I was shooting only the torso- and had a lazy look about him. I guess he wasn’t convincing in his art, so I just threw a pile of water on him. He yelled that it was ‘uncalled for’ (yeh, that’s what he thought) and really started going at that punching bug providing me with realistic shots. I am happy I was behind the camera – I could probably walk under his armpit. I got very convincing images. Disclaimer: he is a good family friend.

Heart Attack-less method of cleaning the sensor

2008-09-06T22:27:00.005-04:00

I tried a couple of different methods of sensor cleaning. It was quite …. stressful. I almost ruined the 30D after I had it for just few weeks. I also tried a couple of places that offer sensor cleaning. In one they left some greasy stuff on the sensor. It was a Rebel sensor, so wasn’t a biggy. But I don’t want to trust my 5D to anybody whose business practices are sloppy (especially since such practices normally are not part of advertising).

I did clean sensors through Canon a couple of times. It is impeccable. And it is absolutely free (I heard a couple of businesses claiming it is 50 bucks – yah, they pocket them). Not only that, they will deliver it to your door after they cleaned it (locally though). The problem is that depending on the season it might take 2-3 weeks to have the job done.

My friend John Dewitt kindly shared this one with me. He cleaned the sensor for me in just few minutes. I got the ‘kit’ and yesterday did cleaning myself. It works flawlessly. And it is SAFE (provided common sense applied)!

You will need the size 10 of the LOEW-CORNELL 797 Flat Satin brush. I didn’t have a problem at all finding it in the local art supply store. Side note: I use coarse sable brushes for painting and wouldn’t imaging using this silky smooth brush, but heck, it does an awesome job of cleaning dirt!

So, here it is…. Get into the ‘ready’ position. That is any position inside of the CLEAN room. I don’t have clean room at home, so I went to my friend’s house who was away on vacation (I went there under the pretence to get the sawing machine for making the housing for the PVC poles – but that’s another story from my DIY photo studio exercises).

Ok, back to the clean room…. Use the Dust-Off to spray compressed air over the brush. Be generous. The rationale behind this exercise is to get the brush static-y, very static-y.
You will notice hair spreading a bit. Then, right away, clean the sensor. Do not press hard. Go really light from one side to another. Do not rub, go back and forth, jerk it, or do any other movement other than just swapping it once, or twice at the most.

The "charged" brush should just pick the most stubborn dusticles (is there such an English word yet for the speckles/particles of dust?). This should be enough. Check the camera for spots again. The way I do it, I put a polarizer on and shoot it pointing to the sky (this one I do during the day ;) ). It is easier to see the dust with the aperture at least 11f (and up – but don’t go crazy all the way to 32 if your lens supports it).

Very important: before starting sensor cleaning, always make sure that you use freshly charged battery. Also, I don’t keep the lens off, but only for the moment when I actually do the cleaning. Don’t forget to dust the lens’s part that goes inside of the camera – dust that sits on the surface there will eventually end up on the sensor. So, I open the sensor, take of the lens, then I put it back on, and only then turn the camera off to finish the process.

It is preferable to do the first part of the sequence rather quickly as not to lose the static.

Note on the size of the brushes. My notes say size 8 and 10, but the 10 that I got is too small for the 5D (full frame sensor). It is good for the sensor that is 1.6 cut (such as Rebel, 30D, 40D, etc.). Please check it out, I believe that I need 12 or 14 for 5D, but I will update this blog entry. The size of the brush should match the size of the sensor, so you ideally swipe only once or twice, covering the whole surface.

Aside from this size confusion, I believe this is the most efficient, and importantly, the safest method of the sensor cleaning.

P.S. While I am claiming it, please refer to the legal notice found on this blog

P.P.S. Make sure that you get rid of the bottle of compressed air that is emitting frozen foam. At least, if this substance ends up on the brush, or the lens, remove any trace of it prior to proceceding.

Pictures from Exhibition

2008-08-19T01:09:00.008-04:00

Time flies – brought the pictures from exhibition, which is over. Making last push to settle in and pictures actually came handy to beautify the house.

I had to put them in tiers and really tight. Although the house is big and (luckily) has an amazing ratio of wall space to living space, I still have to share the walls between my dad’s paintings, my own paintings and photography.

As I am arranging them thoughtfully, I still have space on the wall for at least a couple of moonining trips.

Here are some snapshots (badly taken snapshots... read: shoemaker without the shoes ;) from the “hall of fame” ;).

I mentioned I had an emotional reaction when I put them all (36 works, most of them are big ass 24 inches Kodak Metallic). It is different to see them in the house. First of all, tight spacing really makes it all intense. Second, I can really take to them without being distracted. It is quite a geography, if not history of a short period of my life; and it is interesting how many memories are associated with certain shooting spots. There are some stories I can tell about each picture….

Having them on the wall will make me artistically inclined – something I’ve been lacking recently.

P.S. Some of the pictures are crooked – don’t have any energy left… tomorrow.

Back into the saddle

2008-08-17T14:10:00.006-04:00

Although I planned to shoot three nights in the row, life interfered and I spent only one night mooning Adirondacks. I had wonderful time out there; too bad nights are short this time of the year.

It was great clear crispy night up in the mountains - something that is rare for Adirondacks in the summer.

I finally nailed down the barn that guards entrance to Keene Valley, or at least I produced an image of it that is satisfying. I have a few more images from different angles and perspectives (I spent a good portion of night playing there), and all are great, but this one has that "feel that I am after".

I also spend a bit of time on the golf club in Keene Valley. That's where the US senators play golf. Very upscale spot.

There was a funny little happening while shooting golf field. It was well into the second part of the night and I was getting tired. There was a sudden noise that startled me and I literally jumped. I started looking around and could not see anything that produced it for a while. So, it was like.... ok, what is it that I flee or fight?

The noise was produced by quite a number of the water sprinkles that started watering the tennis court just behind me. Boy, was it ever funny. I had a kick out of it.

But anyway, here is a picture I was shooting when I got scared of the water ;)

More stuff from Ontario

2008-07-20T23:56:00.006-04:00

I've been shooting a lot of water, which is not a hard thing to do: the water is just about anywhere I go here.

I can't upload all of the shots I took this moon to my website, as I am still solving the issue with internet connection. And although I really cut and shrink the images for protection, the speed I got is so ridiculous that I can't update the albums.

Speaking of the size of the images - due to the nature of the internet and the bandwidth, etc., as well as due to protecting my work, I do cut pixels in the pictures that hit internet big time. So, what you basically see online is the remote resembles of them -the original shots looks much better.

Shooting here is still a bit confusing and I am still getting adjusted to the conditions. The night sky is not as cobalt here as it is on an a high altitude. The higher the altitude is – the more blue the colour and the more the depth of it. There is also that special shimmer that I can discern on a higher ground; I guess it’s because the air is more crisp.

While I love to play with the cloud movements at night and to make them a part of a composition, I miss an absolutely clear sky. The moisture in the air here that my skin and lungs enjoy, is not necessarily an ally when taking night shots. On the other side, I am well equipped to fight off the dew; and I don’t have to use the fog generator: I am not kidding, I have two fog generating machines that work from the power generator.

All in all, there are changes in many aspects of the night photography here. And while many of them are exciting, it’s a matter of adjusting to them.

Inspecting my turf… :0

2008-07-18T19:34:00.003-04:00

I finally had a chance to drive around the area last night. The storm was already brewing and although full moon was hidden behind the clouds, it gave enough light even through their thick blanket.

Driving around the country side that not only I could negotiate in a dark, but I think even with my eyes closed gave me a nice cozy feeling – I really started (finally!) getting that I am back home and I am here to stay (at least for now, during all of the years I was changing countries and cities I learned that the only permanent thing is change).

I can’t express how much I missed water while in Alberta. I have to admit that I already miss Alberta’s sky like crazy, I think Ontario has more shooting opportunities for me (if only we had more clear nights!!!). Spending most of the night on the shores of Ottawa river felt like a special treat.

These couple of shots were taken in the spots where I spent numerous hours waiting on Aurora Borealis. My early Aurora shots were taken there; but many times waiting was futile, and that’s when my fascination with night photography and light painting started – while waiting for elusive Aurora.

I am happy to be back and to be a valley gal!

Darn Mosquitoes

2008-07-17T17:22:00.003-04:00

I am ashamed to admit that I was chased away by mosquitoes last night. I think I’ve never seen it worse in Canada.

I went to shoot the barn that is quite a famous local landmark. I got a word from the owner that insurance company wants them to tear it down. The barn caved quite dangerously, and I’ve never ventured to explore it inside. I was ready to capture its last days, but when I stepped out of the car, I was attacked rather savagely.

It a big hatching night – the air was thick with mosquitoes. It didn’t take me long to get discovered. With all the lights I had, I probably attracted them from the adjacent county. I didn’t have any spray with me as I just got back from a part of the country where those beasts don’t really exist. But even before my trip out West, they’ve never been so bad as to bother me.

I made only few shots. I was getting extremely miserable and had to leave. I wasn’t happy with myself. It was a beautiful night – near full moon. I pride myself in being patient, resilient and being able to endure extreme situation, so I feel quite silly having my shooting stopped because of the stupid mosquitoes hatch. But my car is currently loaded with the Buzz Off things.

Here is the barn I went to pay the last tribute to. This is one of extremely rare cases when I didn’t shoot with ultra-wide and instead used a mid-range. I like it – it kept me from going crazy with colours. I added just a touch here and there and let the moon do its job.

Mooning Mackenzie King Ruins

2008-07-15T20:03:00.004-04:00

I spent a night in Gatineau’s. Finally, I could do some shooting. I went colour-happy at Mackenzie King Estate. I feel rusty, and everything is so different from a rather austere landscape I was accustomed to lately.

Mackenzie King was a prime minister of Canada and served remarkable number of terms. He also had quite an enigmatic personality.

He moved to the Moorside’s cottage in 1928. “At Moorside, King expressed his romanticism, laying out formal flower beds, gathering a collection of picturesque ruins from Canada and abroad and tracing trails in the forest that can still be enjoyed today.

When he died, King bequeathed to Canadians his property in the Gatineau Hills, and it is around this land that his government established Gatineau Park, a nature reserve and green space that is vital to the oxygenation of Canada’s Capital.”

Me at my show

2008-07-14T19:25:00.004-04:00

My friend Lois Siegel shot few pictures of me at the venue for the local media.

Here it is:

The Showing Hassle is over

2008-07-09T20:53:00.002-04:00

I finally have 32 of my pictures on the walls for everybody to enjoy.
Put them up today and I guess it was the easiest part of the preparation.

I am keeping my fingers crossed, but I have the serious exhibitions coming, so getting experience with organizing a small low profile one was really needed. I learned a lot and there were a couple of things that went wrong. Most, everything I planned, took at least 2-3 times more to accomplished than I initially thought. Well, that's why the experience is valuable. I did screw a thing or two, but I know I won't next time.

It was a strange feeling to see so many of them on the wall. Kodak Metallic 3D with the punch really works. BTW, not many people realize how much it cost to print and board each of my picture. When I say the amount, I see the jaw-dropping reaction. But I am absolutely anal-retentive about quality of things.

But anyway, the sheer number of them in two rooms was overwhelming in the beginning when I mounted the 16 X 24 sizes. I had printed for people big size and I have somebody who wants to have the 50 inches wide photo, but it's just there were "too many of them". It was the first time for me to get an impact of my own doings - I was really touched. I heard people saying they had an emotional reaction to my pictures, but it was the first time I guess I experienced one myself. Except of the fact that I know that quite a number of my pictures are charged, I rarely look at my photographs from a perspective different from technical. Yes, I do know that my light painting technique rocks and there is nobody who matched me in versatility of the equipment and the usage of different light painting techniques. I also know that my composition really works, and the classical European training in arts shines there. But I think it was the first time ever, that I felt something that went beyond technical satisfaction with execution. It was a very emotional experience I guess.

Relocation Hiatus & Moonless Shooting

2008-07-07T00:20:00.007-04:00

I am ashamed to admit that I didn’t hold a camera since April. I did do a couple of oil paintings while living at my friend’s, but that's all - no photography. I wonder if I’d be able to find the shutter release button by now ;). But if seriously, I am getting quite restless.

I think I had enough of moving around. This time it was really tough.

The amount of stress I got during this relocation was immense. I got out of shape and I guess my immune system cracked down so I’ve been nursing a bad flu for unusually long time.

With everything going around, I am not sure when I can start doing some serious shooting.

I spent the whole day framing the pictures today, putting the strings and the packaging them for the show that starts this week. If it were not for the kind help of my friend, I don’t know if I’d make it.

But I already have one neat night project in mind for the Ottawa area and one for upstate NY. And of course, I am going to shoot a night city album (the Ottawa city that is).

Can’t wait!

For now, I posted a shot taken in beautiful Alberta. No moon whatsoever - that's why Milky Way is so pronounced. I've been doing some research on shooting and light painting
on totally dark nights. Got the shots that I like, but I need more opportunities for experiments.

Hope this crazy times will ebb soon.

Old New Pictures

2008-07-05T15:44:00.004-04:00

Just added a couple more pictures to the website. Been going through the files and finding photos I've never had time to upload.

Here is one taken inside of the haunted hotel in the Montana ghost mining town.

I don't know how come this shot was neglected by me. I like it a lot. It's been almost a year, but I can't forget the eerie feeling I had shooting in that hotel. I went to the second floor and shot the staircase from above. There is a central section of the hotel that I wanted to shoot as I had a couple of ideas about the staircase located over there.

Did I actually chicken out? Perhaps.

Interesting, many people who know I explore all of these abandoned places at night alone think that I am not endowed with such a basic human feeling as fear. Well, I am and it’s always a big struggle to fight it. I guess I wasn’t too successful as I didn’t shot everything I wanted in that hotel. Someday….

My article and PSA cover are out

2008-07-02T19:37:00.006-04:00

My article is officially out. I still didn't get the magazine, but somebody from the PSA sent me a link to a pdf version that is online.
I also did a cover for the July issue.
Here are both of them:

PSA July Cover
Article on light painting "Symphony of Light"

I would like to express my gratitude to Slava (Iaroslava) Petrenko who did my portrait for that article. Slava is a very talented photographer. I didn't expect the picture to turn out that good. I gained weight and was under too much stress due to relocation hiatus; so I didn't look appealing to say the least. Moreover, I didn't have patience for posing and there was no make up whatsoever. All natural light, late afternoon.

Thanks again, Slava! You rock!
Slava's Web site

Back in Ottawa

2008-06-30T22:50:00.004-04:00

I thank you very much everybody who emailed me in the last few weeks. My life has been on a prolonged hiatus, so although I finally moved to a more or less permanent address (in a last few years I learned that the only permanent thing is change), I still live among the boxes and just got basic services along with a flu. I will be able to answer all emails soon

Yes, I moved back to Ottawa from Calgary this spring and I am immensely happy I made that decision earlier than I planned.

I am thrilled to be back home. I needed to get away to appreciate Ottawa and to realize that it is probably the best city overall for me to live in. At nights though, I am dreaming of the moonlit prairies.

I couldn’t stand Calgary – it was driving me nuts, I will forever cherish Alberta, and everything it gave me (and it did give me many a precious gifts). One of these moons I will be back.

Although I am happy to be home, I know that I left a big piece of heart somewhere in the badlands.

My article on light painting

2008-06-11T23:10:00.007-04:00

... will be published in the July issue of the PSA magazine. I just got the softcopy of what will be going into print. I am excited to learn that my photo will also adorn the magazine's cover.

More details when it is actually published.

I would like to express my gratitude to my dear friend, Julene Johnson for her time and patience with editing the article. I believe she did it three times (that's how often it changed I believed). Julene is neuroscientist and musician. She is also very talented in the area of photography. She is talented, period. Here is Julene's flickr web page.

Thanks again, Doc!

P.S. And I just got a request for another article.