deedee_jones

<p>Manual is good for troubleshooting if you know what you're looking for, or if it's a common problem.</p>

<p>But if someone else messes with your camera, then you're kinda lost.</p>

<p>It's my first camera with custom functions. I've been playing with the custom flash functions a bunch.</p>

<p>Yup, it was a custom function. Not sure which one, as I messed around with them individually and nothing changed, so I reset everything. I don't know who might have adjusted them in the first place...but I suspect it was my dad when I let him play with the camera.</p>

<p>Yup, it was a custom function. Not sure which one, as I messed around with them individually and nothing changed, so I reset everything. I don't know who might have adjusted them in the first place...but I suspect it was my dad when I let him play with the camera.</p>

<p>I don't know if I've got a setting screwed up or something, but I can't access F10 on any of my lenses in any combination of ISO/shutter speed on my Canon 60D. I searched the interwebz and referred to the manual, but maybe I'm using the wrong query terms cause I can't find an answer.</p>

<p>It goes from 9.5 to 11 (All right! To 11!).</p>

<p>Any help would be appreciated. I'm sure it's some simple thing I am overlooking.</p>

<p>Ugh, of course...shoulda checked the manual. Duh.</p>

<p>Lesson learned. Not all in vain, I suppose.</p>

<p>Sorry if this is the wrong forum for this...I've tried Google searches and maybe I am using the wrong search terms, but couldn't find a specific answer. So I'm gonna try it out here. Many apologies to the mods if I am wasting anyone's time.</p>

<p>So I've been asked to record a four hour class for a little bit of compensation. Nothing fancy. Just a recording of the class. I do have a really old video camera, but the problem is my MacBook doesn't have a Firewire input. My PowerBook (Which is still going strong!) has such an input, but it's a really dreary task capturing on it, especially since I'd be using iMovie to do so (I'm a film school graduate with a chip on her shoulder, so I got rid of all my editing soft/hardware...rash, I know). </p>

<p>My new 60D makes a lovely image and I can import off the SD card with my MacBook (I know this will also take a long time, but the MacBook is not as likely to crash and burn like I know the PowerBook will). But the thing is it's a four hour class which I imagine will be broken up into 2 two hour segments without pause...so I wanted to know if it would be safe to expose the sensor for that long.</p>

<p>I won't be taking care of the editing. I'm capturing everything to a HD and running it over to a friend who has the processing power....but not the capturing power. </p>

<p>Technology! Sheesh!</p>

<p>>>> But for this shooting scenario, I doubt the artistic function of the final image requires the Flash Exposure to approach equality of the Sunlight across the Background: what I mean is the dominate light will be the sunset and the primary Subject matter will be the Landscape Scene and the Human will be a Secondary in that Scene – at least that is how I understand the OP’s intention.</p>

<p>Yes.</p>

<p>Also, I didn't get closer because he had climbed out onto a ledge and since this was a rather impromptu little walk, I wasn't wearing good shoes, so I didn't feel comfortable climbing out there. Yes, the EC was set at -1.5 for this shot. I've started playing with it more since. I agree that at that distance, I don't think the flash was doing much.</p>

<p>As someone else mentioned, I should have stopped down (Or up? It's late and I can't recall which is which) for the sake of experimentation. I need to simply bracket more when I am out on these shoots...develop a bracketing strategy so I immediately launch into it. It's too easy to get stuck. </p>

<p>Thank you for the tip on the lens flare. I've been running into it and wondering if it was the result of my limited knowledge. I need to get a hood for it...will a hood help?</p>

<p>Awesome responses. Is it okay to feel a little overwhelmed with all the technical terms? I suppose it all comes together with practice.</p>

<p>I've got a nice little 5-in-1 reflector...I'll start bringing it along.</p>

<p>Of course, my partner always makes a face whenever I start setting up shop on what is supposed to be "just a little hike" (It's how I persuade him to come along), but he's ultimately supportive.</p>

<p>So a flash isn't a bad instinct? I've also started trying to set the flash compensation for three stops under (Am I using the right terms?)...is that a good way to prevent it from looking too much like a flash and more like fill?</p>

<p>How can I capture backlighting like this without losing the subject? I have a little Speedlite 270 for my camera, but with it, I could only shoot 1/250 at the fastest (To my knowledge), which left the background too bright. I was trying to keep it at a F2.8 for that shallow DOF...or is that not worth it? I was at my lowest ISO (100). The photo was shot without the flash on at 1/8000. Is this a job for post? Should I bring a reflector along?</p>

<p>I'm house-sitting in the mountains and there are some incredible views and some gorgeous golden hours, so I am experimenting.</p>

<p>Thanks a ton.</p><div></div>

<p>Hey all,</p>

<p>Thanks again for all your help. Planning on getting back in the studio to try out several of your suggestions soon!</p>

<p>Rad...this was totally helpful.</p>

<p>I need to work more on separating models from backgrounds.</p>

<p>I understand you can fix a lot in post, but I'd also like to become much better at replicating lighting and moods. A reflector would have been helpful.</p>

<p>It's a small studio with extremely limited equipment, so flagging and reflectors becomes a creative endeavor. But that's no excuse to not try it, of course.</p>

<p>About to do some Googling!</p>

<p>Thanks a million for the advice. </p>

<p>I tried to create some lighting like the kind in the first and fifth photo here: http://fashiongonerogue.com/magdalena-frackowiak-sean-seng-numero-121/</p>

<p>I used a single key light. It's missing something. And yeah, I think I overdid the 'shopping.</p>

<p>What else can I try ? </p><div></div>

<p>Of course life isn't fair. To be honest, I'm the greatest example of that. I mean, come on...I've been given access to all sorts of opportunities, and it might be said I didn't take enough advantage of them.</p>

<p>I didn't think I'd get as much out of this thread as I have. I really don't mind the harsh criticism...it's actually a relief from parents who may have been overly supportive. Or maybe it's the masochist in me.</p>

<p>I've been really struggling lately trying to figure out what to do with myself. I want to accomplish a lot, and up until recently, accomplishment was easy. But now it's time to get serious, and I think somewhere along the way I lost my faith in myself and my drive. Earlier today I was poring through Craigslist, trying to see if I can resign myself to a receptionist job, or wondering if I can get a McDonald's job...or trying to see how I can marry a rich dude (Fat chance, I'm not trophy wife material...and I really like my current partner)....and then I came back to this thread and realized I've spent a lot of my recent years giving up on things once they become difficult. And I'm sick of it. If I want to achieve the level of personal satisfaction I desire, then I must do the work, as you all have done the work. I am going to keep trying. So thank you for every comment here - harsh, positive, and Apple/Microsoft/Xerox related ; }</p>

<p>That being said...how do I begin finding that assistant or second shooter work? I don't think that one photo is a good example of what I can do. I would like to move to San Francisco sooner rather than later, and I am, of course, worried about finding work in such an expensive city. I know there are lots of ways to garner experience, but I think I'd like to be "on set," so to say. Can I still offer my services as a kid birthday party shooter? Shoot my friends' headshots? What work should I take on my own and what work should I wait to take? </p>

<p>Marios...your response is one of the best things I have ever read.</p>

<p>You are absolutely 100% correct regarding the customer service aspects and I am one who truly values a good customer service experience and when I have worked those positions (Box office, receptionist, etc), I've always strived to be as sympathetic and compassionate as possible. Knowing how difficult the position can be, I try to be really kind to other folks working it.</p>

<p>So I do feel poorly about the initial post...it is, as you pointed out, not the best customer service. I guess my assistant work wasn't quite enough, but that's why I charge so small a fee, because, as someone pointed out, it barely covers the overhead. I don't think I presented myself as anything more than what I am. I showed examples of my work.</p>

<p>But it's a difficult line to walk...I once was told to at least charge something cause working too much for free will undermine the entire industry...you have to present some confidence and you have to take some chances. Freelancing is a courageous endeavor, and to those of you who have been successful, you ought to be proud of yourselves. I'm in a fairly confused position...I went to film school (So I'm not totally clueless when it comes to light...although lighting for movement is different than for a still), but felt ultimately disappointed, discovered photography in my last year after resisting it for so long, got my hands on a digital camera, and started showing up at local indie venues to shoot bands. In the meantime, I've attempted a bunch of things...marketing, writing, graphic design, etc, but found myself consistently returning to photography. I even applied to law school in an attempt to learn "something useful," but a lot of people whom I had taken photos for seemed dismayed that I would give up the art. So I came back, and bought my 60D. This current obstacle came at the end of a couple of distressing weeks and a particularly bummer season of receiving rejection letters from every school I applied to. I've also been unable to find work for a couple of years, and my debt is only mounting. </p>

<p>I don't want to undermine those of who do make a living with this, and I would like to follow in those footsteps, so when do you finally take that leap and start charging the "living wage" and feel confident in what you know, that you can perform the task? And I certainly don't want to be shooting "Uncle Bob" shots. I do take time to read the manual, look at examples, practice shooting, read books...look, I had resisted photography for so long cause it seemed like a medium too many people take advantage of, it seemed too easy for someone to take a bad photo. I take pride in my work and I want other photographers to feel proud of me, like I am a worthy addition to the art/business.</p>

<p>My confidence feels shaken, but thanks to many of the comments here, I feel determined. Maybe I've spent too long giving up at the first sign of struggle. It's time to get serious. I tried my best, I charged what I felt I am worth, and did everything in my knowledge to get the shots. I have a lot to learn, and thank goodness for it. Because I am human, I do empathize with her...and it feels dreadful to think I might have ruined everything. I think there are some much better shots...the one I posted is not my favorite, so hopefully it's not a total loss. I'm refunding the money and still editing their picks. Any other advice on what I can do?</p>

<p>I'm glad to have this resource now, and access to fellow artists. This has all been quite overwhelming and it sucks to feel so alone in it.</p>

<p>Yes! That's what I'm looking for!</p>

<p>How did you do it?</p>

<p>Bummer!</p>

<p>Which manufacturers are those?</p>

<p>>>> I'm fine with being photographed - I just feel sorry for the poor bugger taking the shot.<br>

I've seen myself in daylight. It's not a pretty sight. <<<</p>

<p>Hahah, that's pretty much how I feel about it!</p>

 

<p>Is there anyway to replicate a film double exposure in the digital camera? Like when you rewind the film and then shoot over the frame you just shot on? It was a favorite challenge of mine with film...from what I understand, there's no real way to do it in camera with digital? I'm shooting with Canons (A Rebel XTi and a 60D). Of course you can do it in post, but I was just wondering if there's some sort of trick?</p>

<p>I don't like being photographed by most people. I make exceptions for my partner, because he insists on photographing me (And for some reason, his photos are not that bad?).</p>

<p>But I think most of us like to be behind the camera - yes? Or at least that's what I've discovered so far. </p>

And how grateful I am to have found this space. I think it is exactly what I need to advance to the next level. I've already learned so

much and I am excited to learn more and contribute in whatever small way I can. Hopefully I'll gather up the courage to post some

photos here soon!

 

I think my favorite photography is event photography...because I'm sort of shy and self conscious and have always enjoyed being involved from a distance. The lens is a shield. I enjoy candid moments between posed photos where humanity shines through the seams.

 

I'd like to figure out how to be the best professional I can be at this. I'm also a devout follower of Read the Frickin Manual!

Hey all...I think ALL of your comments are fantastic, even the "harsh" ones. I

think this is just what I've been needing because I would like to continue to

pursue this as a profession. In art classes I was always the "bitch" who

delivered te harshest criticism because I demanded a lot out of my

classmates and I hated getting weak critiques that were like "it looks good"...

I think I will be visiting this site a whole lot more often! : }

 

I present myself as someone who has been trying her hand at this for only

the past year and advertise on Craigslist...and charges only $500. I'd only

hope that I still have a lot to learn cause if I knew everything I needed to

know by 26 I'd have nothing to look forward to ya know?

 

The person who said something about making the clients proud and even

though this is such a duh idea, it's revealed a lot to me. The weddings I

assisted on were smaller and more hippie dippie...so I guess that's what I

learned from. Prior to this particular one they had all been small ceremonies.

I forget that there are also big old grand weddings where people do care

about the small things I would overlook.

 

So thanks for the input...if the work is really so dreadful then I don't feel so

bad about the refund. I've learned a lot for $350 and that's cheaper than my

school loans!!!

<p>Still rather new to the business (I've got about six weddings under my belt at this point), but so far everyone's been really happy with my work, until now.... </p>

<p>I charged $500 for 8 hours of coverage, plus a separately manned photobooth.</p>

<p>She is upset about photos like this:</p>

<p>Because I didn't take it in front of the barn or the house or the whatever at the venue. I was shooting for light and intimacy. Or because I cut a sliver off the top of someone's head or because I cut off the edge of her bouquet or because I didn't capture the "grandness" of the room. She sent me a nice little list of criticisms. I, personally, feel proud of my work, especially considering how a wedding photographer guest/friend present said to me, "I shoot weddings for a living and this wedding is really hard." </p>

<p>I've already agreed to refund her the total minus the $150 deposit.</p>

<p>I'm just looking for validation through commiseration really.</p>

<p> </p><div></div>