By KEVIN ROOSE from NYT Technology http://ift.tt/2xyYM7u
via IFTTT
Saturday, 30 September 2017
New video by Tech Insider on YouTube
Animated map shows how cats spread across the world
You can find house cats on every continent except Antarctica. But that wasn't always the case. Here's how cats spread across the world. Read more: http://ift.tt/fxZ2E2 FACEBOOK: http://ift.tt/1fEbtRI TWITTER: https://twitter.com/techinsider INSTAGRAM: http://ift.tt/1S8jzxH
View on YouTube
You can find house cats on every continent except Antarctica. But that wasn't always the case. Here's how cats spread across the world. Read more: http://ift.tt/fxZ2E2 FACEBOOK: http://ift.tt/1fEbtRI TWITTER: https://twitter.com/techinsider INSTAGRAM: http://ift.tt/1S8jzxH
View on YouTube
Check out Marantz Professional PodPack 1 Plug & Play USB Microphone Marantz Professional https://t.co/E14CGWBy8B #InternationalPodcastDay
Check out Marantz Professional PodPack 1 Plug & Play USB Microphone Marantz Professional https://t.co/E14CGWBy8B #InternationalPodcastDay
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 09:23PM
via IFTTT
Check out Wireless Doorbell By Tenswall- Waterproof Door Bell Kit- 1000 F... by Tenswall https://t.co/S2WgKwtnkw via @
Check out Wireless Doorbell By Tenswall- Waterproof Door Bell Kit- 1000 F... by Tenswall https://t.co/S2WgKwtnkw via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:45PM
via IFTTT
RT @pluralsight: Before your tech team forgets half of what they learned, here are steps to help them improve their memory. https://t.co/6xrandZDo2
Before your tech team forgets half of what they learned, here are steps to help them improve their memory. https://t.co/6xrandZDo2
— Pluralsight (@pluralsight) August 8, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:39PM
via IFTTT
RT @mindset_blog: #motivation #inspiration #success #life #quoteoftheday #quotes #happy #business #entrepreneur #dreams #leadership… https://t.co/StU0wB1Uls
#motivation #inspiration #success #life #quoteoftheday #quotes #happy #business #entrepreneur #dreams #leadership #dailymotivation http://pic.twitter.com/rh8XKEmNyU
— Mindset&Success Blog (@mindset_blog) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:39PM
via IFTTT
Check out Wireless Door Bell HOMORE Door Chime Kit with 300-feet Range, 5... by HOMORE https://t.co/guORMzm0Uu via @
Check out Wireless Door Bell HOMORE Door Chime Kit with 300-feet Range, 5... by HOMORE https://t.co/guORMzm0Uu via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:38PM
via IFTTT
Check out NETGEAR Mini N300 Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender with External Anten... by NETGEAR https://t.co/r8oiD9byYb via @
Check out NETGEAR Mini N300 Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender with External Anten... by NETGEAR https://t.co/r8oiD9byYb via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:38PM
via IFTTT
Check out FM Transmitter, [Update Version]Pictek Bluetooth Car, Car Radio... by PICTEK https://t.co/0QnwypTd1H via @
Check out FM Transmitter, [Update Version]Pictek Bluetooth Car, Car Radio... by PICTEK https://t.co/0QnwypTd1H via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:37PM
via IFTTT
Check out Iceworks 5000 Portable Charger – [ MFI Apple Certified ] Ultra-... by Iceworks https://t.co/OVSCSsYlcP via @
Check out Iceworks 5000 Portable Charger – [ MFI Apple Certified ] Ultra-... by Iceworks https://t.co/OVSCSsYlcP via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:37PM
via IFTTT
Check out APEMAN In Car Dash Cam 1080P Full HD Dashboard Camera DVR 170° ... by apeman https://t.co/4Thkl7GjW6 via @
Check out APEMAN In Car Dash Cam 1080P Full HD Dashboard Camera DVR 170° ... by apeman https://t.co/4Thkl7GjW6 via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:36PM
via IFTTT
Check out Philips Sonicare EasyClean Electric Toothbrush with Pro-Results... by Philips https://t.co/wPqRno4L3g via @
Check out Philips Sonicare EasyClean Electric Toothbrush with Pro-Results... by Philips https://t.co/wPqRno4L3g via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:35PM
via IFTTT
Check out DBPOWER 9.5'' Portable DVD Player, 5 Hour Rechargeable Battery,... by DBPOWER® https://t.co/AQTwEm8T1j via @
Check out DBPOWER 9.5'' Portable DVD Player, 5 Hour Rechargeable Battery,... by DBPOWER® https://t.co/AQTwEm8T1j via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:35PM
via IFTTT
Check out Philips OneBlade Pro Hybrid Trimmer & Shaver with 14-Length Com... by Philips https://t.co/4nrnbJEKZC via @
Check out Philips OneBlade Pro Hybrid Trimmer & Shaver with 14-Length Com... by Philips https://t.co/4nrnbJEKZC via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:34PM
via IFTTT
Check out Philips Sonicare AirFloss Power Flosser with Bonus Nozzle (UK 2... by Philips https://t.co/vrqj26O3YT via @
Check out Philips Sonicare AirFloss Power Flosser with Bonus Nozzle (UK 2... by Philips https://t.co/vrqj26O3YT via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:34PM
via IFTTT
Check out Microsoft Office Home and Student 2016 | PC | Download by Microsoft https://t.co/iRwuzecKx8 via @
Check out Microsoft Office Home and Student 2016 | PC | Download by Microsoft https://t.co/iRwuzecKx8 via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:33PM
via IFTTT
Check out Philips Lumea SC2009/00 IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device on Bod... by Philips https://t.co/KO7WQY8xre via @
Check out Philips Lumea SC2009/00 IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device on Bod... by Philips https://t.co/KO7WQY8xre via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:32PM
via IFTTT
Check out Furbo Dog Camera: Treat Tossing, HD Wifi Pet Cam and 2-Way Audio by Furbo https://t.co/399XTxYSnC via @
Check out Furbo Dog Camera: Treat Tossing, HD Wifi Pet Cam and 2-Way Audio by Furbo https://t.co/399XTxYSnC via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:32PM
via IFTTT
What If Everything Were Your Fault?
I got this idea from Derek Sivers — what would your life be like, if you imagined like everything were your fault?
This means that everytime something bad happened in your life — what if you never blamed anybody else, but only blamed yourself?
There is a Zen saying — that when the archer misses the target with his arrow, he only blames himself.
Liberate yourself
I love this contrarian idea: what if we took no credit for our successes, but only blamed ourselves for our failings?
I feel this would be more liberating than depressing.
Why? Because you realize your entire fate is in your own control.
By no longer blaming anyone else for your shortcomings, flaws, or failures — you have all the power in your life to transform your life.
And not only that, but if you never took credit for your successes — you stay humble, and continue to work hard. You don’t let your ego inflate, and screw up your life.
How can you fix it?
So the next time you get into an argument with your spouse, and they blame you for something, think to yourself: “This was my fault. Now how can I fix it, and prevent this argument or issue from coming up in the future?”
You hate your job, and you’re not where you want to be in life. Rather than complaining to fortune, think to yourself: “I am exactly where I am because of my life decisions. Rather than complaining, how can I make a change or difference in my life, which will improve my lifestyle and my position in life?”
By not complaining, by not blaming others — we gain more optimism. Rather than becoming more negative, we think more positively. Rather than focusing on words, we think more about action. Action to change our lives.
How to take positive action in life
How are some ways we can take action in our lives? Some ideas:
- Figure out what distractions, negative people, or negative energy you can subtract from your life.
- Stop blaming others, stop complaining, and stop accusing others.
- If you hate your job, start looking for a new job and sending out applications.
- If you hate the relationship you’re in, don’t complain, and break up or divorce your partner and start looking for a partner who empowers you.
- Rather than feeling dissatisfied with your creative abilities or your photography, think about what kind of art or photos you can make. What kind of project or focus you can have.
Let us focus on positive and optimistic action in our lives, not blame or negativity.
Always be strong— I believe in you friend.
Always,
Eric
Learn more: Life Lessons >
from ERIC KIM http://ift.tt/2fzrCub
via IFTTT
7 Steps to Improve Your Closeup Candid Street Photography
Many people want to improve their street photography or get involved with this genre for the first time. But the major aspect that holds them back is the issue of taking close candid pictures of people without their permission. While I promise that it gets much easier over time, it can very difficult to get over the hump early on.
However, there are some steps you can take that will help ease you into the world of street photography if you do it right. Here are a few important tips that I believe will make shooting candid street photography much easier for you.
1. What to do if you get caught
Before we talk about how to get closer to your subjects, the first step is knowing what to do if something happens. The toughest aspect of getting into street photography is the fact that you will feel very uncomfortable with the idea of someone catching you and asking what you are doing, at first. However, while those situations are usually rare, if you handle them the right way, they don’t have to be all that bad.
To help ease your fears, it is important to know what to say if anyone should stop you and ask you if you took their photo. Smile, own up to it and say that you are a photographer or photography student doing a photo project on the area and the people in it. Tell them you thought they looked great and wanted to add them to it. Just be honest and open about it. If they then seem uncomfortable, offer to delete the photograph. It can even help to carry a business card with your photography information and to offer to email them the photograph after. The more direct and pleasant you are, the more disarming it will be.
To further keep yourself out of trouble, pick and choose the people you photograph carefully. It can help to stay away from photographing anyone who looks like they are in a bad mood, anyone with some sort of mental disability, or anyone who is homeless.
2. Light camera and prime lens
Street photography can certainly be done well with an SLR and a zoom lens. I shot for a long time with that setup. However, using a smaller camera such as a mirrorless, micro 4/3rds, or a Leica will make you much less noticeable. In addition, it will be lighter, which will make you faster and can only help with street photography. The difference is night and day.
By using a prime lens you will get used to the fixed focal length which will make you much more spontaneous. You will be able to intuitively know what your camera can capture before you even bring it up to your eye. That, and your camera will be smaller since zoom lenses are usually very large. With a light camera and lens, you will eventually notice yourself capturing images so quickly that your subject barely even notices you. This is the type of thing that is much tougher to do with an SLR and big zoom lens.
3. Picking a spot / getting in the middle
The next tip, which is often the most important, is to go where the action is and get right in the middle. It will be important for you to eventually photograph in all types of situations, from less busy to very crowded, but particularly when you are learning, go where a lot of action is happening. Go to fairs, get out at busy times, shoot from busy corners. The more that is happening, the more invisible you will be, and the less you will be noticed by other people. This will help a lot with your comfort level.
By picking a spot and letting your subjects come to you, you change up the dynamic of the situation. Instead of you entering their personal space, they will be entering yours. You will seem less creepy and intrusive because you will already be there with a camera. It will look like you belong.
In addition, when a moment occurs, you will already be the right position. You will be able to spend more of your energy watching your surroundings for a good moment to occur. This, of course, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t photograph while you are walking and exploring, just that you should carve out some time to linger in a specific spot.
4. Acting
There are some photographers who will run up to people and get right in their face. If that’s your thing, more power to you, but many photographers prefer to be less conspicuous about it. We want to capture an interesting moment, we love to people watch, but we want to try to make the situation as comfortable as possible for both parties, and we want to be inconspicuous enough to not ruin the moment.
This is where a little acting can come into play. The most important thing is to act like you don’t notice the person you want to photograph that much. Look at things behind them, and to the side. They just happen to be in your way. Play the role of tourist, looking around. The more you do this, the more you will be able to get away with taking the photo unnoticed.
5. The camera snap and the way you move your camera
Similar to the last point, the way you move your camera can play a big part in keeping the situation candid. There is one thing that most photographers do, called the camera snap, where they take the camera away from their eye instinctively right after they take an image. Of course, there will be shots that you take so quickly that people won’t notice. But for other moments when the people notice you, this will often give away the fact that you were taking their photograph. Instead, take the picture and keep the camera up to your eye. Then move the camera away like you were taking a picture next to them and slowly remove the camera from your eye.
Similarly, you do not always have to point your camera directly at people right away to capture the image. Instead, point the camera above or to the side of your subject as if you were taking an image of something behind them. Then at the last second, move the camera over them, take the image, and move on.
6. Hold the camera up high
Whenever possible, try to keep your camera in your hands and at attention when you are photographing. If you allow it to hang off your neck, then when an amazing moment occurs you will have to locate and grab the camera before putting it to your eye. This is the least conspicuous way to capture an image.
Instead, try to keep the camera up high as much as you can. Then, when you take an image you will stand out less. It will feel much less conspicuous.
7. Zone focusing
Zone focusing is the technique of turning your camera to manual focus mode, pre-focusing it to a distance of about 8-10 feet, and then capturing your subject once they are in the range of sharpness for your camera. This is easier to do with a wide-angle lens with a medium to small aperture such as f/8 to f/16 so that there is more area of your image in focus. Keep in mind that this is a skill that can be improved – there are many photographers who can zone focus well even at f/2.
You can read more about zone focusing here, and while it is a little difficult to learn at first, you will quickly get much better at it. The main benefit of this type of focusing is so that you no longer have to lock the autofocus in on your subject. This allows you to be a little more spontaneous with your shooting, and it will give you an added split second to take the photograph. That, in turn, will allow you to better capture those very fast moving moments.
Most importantly, it will allow you to be a little more candid than you can be using autofocus. Since you won’t have to point the camera directly at your subject to lock in the focus nor will you have to look through the viewfinder to make sure you are focusing correctly, you can be much more inconspicuous. This will allow you to shoot from the hip and still know that your shots will be sharp.
Conclusion
I hope these tips help you do better candid street photography, and with more confidence.
So get out there, get close, and capture some amazing and spontaneous photographs!
The post 7 Steps to Improve Your Closeup Candid Street Photography by James Maher appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2xRbFKc
via IFTTT
New video by UrAvgConsumer on YouTube
My Favorite Tech of the Month - September!
The month of September is now over but here are some of my most used and favorite tech during the month! My Massive iPhone 8 + iPhone 8 Plus Unboxing! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmkyEPfL864&list=PLllvXU2Kt6Mfyhfz1MHJAs5Ct8hJJWe1r iPhone 8 Plus VS Galaxy Note 8 Camera Test! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQE7lfDbR_Q&list=PLllvXU2Kt6Mfyhfz1MHJAs5Ct8hJJWe1r Find everything in the video here: Acer Predator Helios 300: http://amzn.to/2xQQYy4 Omni 20: http://amzn.to/2xnJfGX HyperDrive for MacBook Pro: https://bhpho.to/2xnK8PJ ScooterBoard Kickstarter: http://kck.st/2xwD6Zr Social Networks: Twitter: http://bit.ly/1ItDLeU Instagram: http://bit.ly/1Q7GoH4 Facebook: http://bit.ly/22zYfsO Snapchat: uacreviews UrAvgGF - Twitter: http://bit.ly/2g9x89W Instagram: http://bit.ly/2fq9Ngf Snapchat: uravggf For business inquires email: UrAvgConsumer@gmail.com
View on YouTube
The month of September is now over but here are some of my most used and favorite tech during the month! My Massive iPhone 8 + iPhone 8 Plus Unboxing! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmkyEPfL864&list=PLllvXU2Kt6Mfyhfz1MHJAs5Ct8hJJWe1r iPhone 8 Plus VS Galaxy Note 8 Camera Test! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQE7lfDbR_Q&list=PLllvXU2Kt6Mfyhfz1MHJAs5Ct8hJJWe1r Find everything in the video here: Acer Predator Helios 300: http://amzn.to/2xQQYy4 Omni 20: http://amzn.to/2xnJfGX HyperDrive for MacBook Pro: https://bhpho.to/2xnK8PJ ScooterBoard Kickstarter: http://kck.st/2xwD6Zr Social Networks: Twitter: http://bit.ly/1ItDLeU Instagram: http://bit.ly/1Q7GoH4 Facebook: http://bit.ly/22zYfsO Snapchat: uacreviews UrAvgGF - Twitter: http://bit.ly/2g9x89W Instagram: http://bit.ly/2fq9Ngf Snapchat: uravggf For business inquires email: UrAvgConsumer@gmail.com
View on YouTube
5 Reasons for Lightroom Photographers to Use the Edit In Photoshop Feature
Since its Version 1.0 release in 2006, Adobe Lightroom has gone from strength to strength, firmly establishing itself as the go-to software for photographers around the globe. With each new update, you’ll be relieved to find you have fewer reasons for awakening the software’s fuller-figured big brother, Photoshop CC.
That said, there are some limitations with Lightroom that have stood the test of time. Thankfully, with more signups for the Creative Cloud Photography plan, there are now few photographers without access to both solutions. But for the times you need it, here are five reasons you’ll likely find yourself firing up Photoshop CC for better results.
1 – Cloning and Healing
Lightroom is a whiz at removing simple sensor spots from that top left corner of your images (Nikon users, you know what I’m talking about!). Punching Q then A allows me to quickly visualize any distracting spots with the handy white on black overlay, and their removal is typically a swift one-click solution using the Spot Healing tool.
However, the same cannot be said when attempting to remove distractions from more complex textures such as dust spots in the grass, for example, or people, as in the image below. For those situations, I rely on the smarter algorithms and expanded capabilities of Photoshop.
Want to feel like the only person at Angkor Wat? Then, you’ll need Photoshop!
To remove and replace objects that Lightroom cannot handle, start by right-clicking the image and choosing Edit in Photoshop. Then create a duplicate layer (CTRL/CMD + J) of your image in Photoshop (I generally do this every time I start processing so I can always get back to the original if I make a mistake or don’t like the result).
Next, erase the distraction with the Eraser Tool (E) so that you can see a “missing piece” where the culprit used to lie (be sure to turn off the visibility of the original background layer if nothing appears to have been erased). Select the area using the wand tool (W) and then in the menu bar at the top of your screen choose Select > Modify > Expand (choose around 5 pixels as your setting).
Next, choose Edit > Fill and select “Content-Aware” in the Contents dropdown list. Hit OK and Photoshop will attempt to replace what you’ve erased with something sensible.
A before, during, and after shot showing the simple removal of people from an image using Erase and Content-Aware Fill.
I’ve been able to seamlessly remove crowds of people from the image you see here using this technique, and the process took only around two minutes. Whereas Lightroom relies on finding a similar texture it can use to cover up distractions/blemishes, Photoshop uses its clever algorithms to create its own texture.
Going, going, gone! Photoshop makes light work of the unwanted people in the image.
2 – Digital Blending
Sometimes you just can’t quite capture enough dynamic range in your image to get away with a single exposure (at least not without introducing an unacceptable amount of noise or strange artifacts). While Lightroom has attempted to cater to those who wish to combine exposures with the introduction of HDR Photo Merge, using the feature can sometimes lead to incredibly flat images that are tricky to process (and in the case of the image you see below, caused the sun to completely disappear by virtue of it not appearing in both of the photographs).
Pulling up the shadows on the darker of these two exposures would introduce too much noise, and so HDR seemed the way to go.
…if only it wasn’t for Lightroom’s attempt to fix global warming.
The plight of a freezing earth aside, even after post-production in Lightroom, the blended exposure looks flat and uninteresting.
The advanced masking abilities of Photoshop, combined with a technique called Luminosity Masking makes combining exposures much simpler. Using this technique, you choose exactly what appears from each exposure, so blending images that have uncommon elements (as in the case of the sun in the example image) is simple.
Not only is the sun retained, but the image looks punchier overall, too.
3 – Advanced Tone and Color Control
The local adjustment tools in Lightroom including the Adjustment Brush (K), Graduated Filter (M) and Radial Filter (Shift+M) give you far less need for Photoshop than was the case before they were introduced. They are excellent targeting tools, yet they all suffer a major weakness – there is no access to HSL (Hue, Saturation, and Luminosity) adjustments.
In daytime landscape images, you’ll often want to deepen the blue of the sky. While this can be done using the HSL panel, the problem is that blue is not a color found exclusively above the horizon, as is the case with the walls and clothing in the example image below. The only way I could deepen the blue here would also cause detrimental effects to the blue everywhere else. Targeting the sky with the Adjustment Brush didn’t give me access to the necessary HSL sliders.
I wanted to bring a bit of life to the sky in this image. But in Lightroom, there is no way to adequately control the blues without affecting the same tones in other areas of the image.
Color can be better controlled in Photoshop by hitting Select > Color Range, then using the eyedropper tool to select a color you want to affect in isolation. You can then create an adjustment layer of your choice to affect the selected area; most often you’ll find a Hue/Saturation adjustment is the best method.
The benefit of this last method is a dramatic one: Whereas in Lightroom you can only make wholesale adjustments, i.e. changes that affect the entirety of the image, to Hue, Saturation, and Luminosity, you aren’t subject to the same limitation in Photoshop. By selecting an appropriate color, then masking out the effect in undesirable areas, you’ll retain more control, as is the case with the image below.
Targeting only specific areas while retaining full access to every adjustment Photoshop offers is hugely appealing. Note the sky is darkened here but not the wall or people’s clothing.
To achieve my aim, I simply created a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer and then masked away the effect from everywhere but the sky. I’d tried all manner of adjustments in Lightroom but could only get the sky to look how I wanted at the expense of adding too much blue elsewhere.
Another great option when this happens is to simply create two virtual copies in Lightroom, one with the sky (or another problem area) as you want it, and another before you did the damage with the other edit. You can then blend the two together in Photoshop.
4 – Stitching Panoramas
When Adobe announced they’d be adding the Panorama Photo Merge feature to Lightroom, I figured that’d be yet one more thing scratched from my “Must use Edit in Photoshop” list. Alas, it wasn’t to be, predominantly because of the likelihood of “blank canvas” – the phenomenon where you’ll find blank, white space in your Lightroom panoramas. Try it for yourself. CTRL/CMD + Click to select all of the images you wish to stitch, then right-click and select Merge > Panorama. I bet there’s an area missing from the photograph.
Here you see Lightroom’s attempt at creating a 6-frame panorama.
The effect is caused by the distortion inherent to some degree in every lens, and Photoshop will produce near identical results. Where Photoshop excels, however, is in its ability to offer a more flexible solution. In Lightroom, you are left to merely crop away the now-useless areas. But in Photoshop you can use the same Content-Aware Fill method described in #1 above to cleverly re-create a convincing replacement area of sky (although you may want to try expanding your selection by 20 or so pixels, as opposed to the 5px recommended for removing smaller items).
Left to the solutions in Lightroom, I’d have been forced to crop away more of the sky than I’d have liked in this image. With Photoshop I was even able to replicate some tricky texture in the water at the bottom of the frame. I still needed to crop away a little of the image, but nowhere near as much.
Photoshop’s Content-Aware Fill allowed me to retain much more of the final image and forced less cropping.
5 – Chromatic Aberrations
Lightroom generally does a pretty good job of dealing with chromatic aberration, the color fringing that can appear where dark and light tones meet. You’ll often see this in daytime cityscapes where the top edges of buildings meet a bright sky, for example, usually manifesting itself as a green or purple edge straying into the brighter tone.
While this nun is a holy person, the blue glow on the shoulder is a bit much.
Lightroom has a couple of ways of dealing with this. First, there’s the Remove Chromatic Aberration checkbox in the Lens Corrections panel. I’d say 90% of the time, this is enough to correct the problem. Where the fringing persists, heading into the manual tab of the same panel allows you to grab the Fringe color Selector (the eye-dropper-like icon) and click on the offending area.
This will generally fix a more complex problem, but every once in a while you’ll encounter fringing so stubborn that Lightroom can’t handle it. This happens most frequently with blue fringing, which Lightroom is pretty much powerless against. Fortunately, blue fringing is quite rare, but it does happen.
Lightroom is powerless against the dreaded Blue Glow!
You could try to desaturate the offending edge with Lightroom’s adjustment brush but you run the risk of accidentally straying into the surrounding area. Alternatively, you could try to completely desaturate the blue and cyan in the HSL panel. In this case, I didn’t want to do either of those as it would put my blue-green background at risk, making it look far too much like color-select for my liking.
Photoshop affords so much more control in fixing this problem. It’s as simple as heading to the menu bar to hit Select > Color Range and then clicking on the color fringing with the eyedropper tool that appears automatically. This will create a selection based on that very blue causing the problem.
By altering the “Fuzziness” you’re basically setting color sensitivity. The lower the number, the more precisely Photoshop will select that color; the higher the number, the more leeway you give the software to find similar colors. Don’t worry if there’s an identical or similar color elsewhere in the image that Photoshop picks up on; it’s easy to mask that out later.
Once you see that your mask has isolated the problem area well enough, open a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer, which should have automatically applied your selection as a mask. Reduce saturation in the Blues and Cyans until the problem is gone. If you’ve accidentally desaturated some other important area of your photograph, click on your mask, grab the black brush, and mask it out. Easy.
Targeting doesn’t get any easier.
The nun’s blue glow is successfully removed. I’m not quite sure how she’d feel about this.
Conclusion
The next time one of the few remaining weakness of Lightroom is exposed, you can try one of the above techniques so the software doesn’t have to get in the way of your vision.
Have you found any other Lightroom limitations? Please share in the comments below.
The post 5 Reasons for Lightroom Photographers to Use the Edit In Photoshop Feature by Chris Cusick appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2xSyeyc
via IFTTT
Check out VIBOX Hyperion HyperFreeze Package 18 - Ultimate Gaming PC, Win... by Vibox https://t.co/Y6sq2aJHSq via @
Check out VIBOX Hyperion HyperFreeze Package 18 - Ultimate Gaming PC, Win... by Vibox https://t.co/Y6sq2aJHSq via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:42PM
via IFTTT
Check out Dell Alienware Area 51 i7 W8.1 by Dell https://t.co/zBGvoWZ0ZW via @
Check out Dell Alienware Area 51 i7 W8.1 by Dell https://t.co/zBGvoWZ0ZW via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:42PM
via IFTTT
Check out Alienware Area 51 Gaming Desktop - (Black) (Intel Core i7-6800,... by Dell https://t.co/pYrOQHdOdw via @
Check out Alienware Area 51 Gaming Desktop - (Black) (Intel Core i7-6800,... by Dell https://t.co/pYrOQHdOdw via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:42PM
via IFTTT
Check out Acer Aspire VX 15 VX5-591G 15.6-Inch Notebook - (Black) (Intel ... by Acer https://t.co/HwM0ZFbOhy via @
Check out Acer Aspire VX 15 VX5-591G 15.6-Inch Notebook - (Black) (Intel ... by Acer https://t.co/HwM0ZFbOhy via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:41PM
via IFTTT
Check out Dell Inspiron 7000 15.6' Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i7-7700HQ, 1... by Dell https://t.co/xGSOA1vYuD via @
Check out Dell Inspiron 7000 15.6' Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i7-7700HQ, 1... by Dell https://t.co/xGSOA1vYuD via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:41PM
via IFTTT
Welcome to Amazon UK’s Laptop Store. Buy the latest laptop releases suitable ... https://t.co/lm73HylMdJ via @
Welcome to Amazon UK’s Laptop Store. Buy the latest laptop releases suitable ... https://t.co/lm73HylMdJ via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:40PM
via IFTTT
Check out Bluetooth Receiver and Transmitter, Esinkin Bluetooth 2 in 1 Tr... by esinkin https://t.co/aGuW146jWG via @
Check out Bluetooth Receiver and Transmitter, Esinkin Bluetooth 2 in 1 Tr... by esinkin https://t.co/aGuW146jWG via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:39PM
via IFTTT
Check out Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Music Streaming Sound System, Esink... by esinkin https://t.co/AeWObT3DAI via @
Check out Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Music Streaming Sound System, Esink... by esinkin https://t.co/AeWObT3DAI via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:38PM
via IFTTT
Check out Universal QI Wireless Charging Receiver by Tech Corp Slim adapt... by Tech-Corp https://t.co/TOZa0s1oa0 via @
Check out Universal QI Wireless Charging Receiver by Tech Corp Slim adapt... by Tech-Corp https://t.co/TOZa0s1oa0 via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:38PM
via IFTTT
Check out TechCorp Premium Qi Wireless Charger for All Qi-Enabled Devices... by Tech-Corp https://t.co/YfNCxmzj5E via @
Check out TechCorp Premium Qi Wireless Charger for All Qi-Enabled Devices... by Tech-Corp https://t.co/YfNCxmzj5E via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:37PM
via IFTTT
Check out Custom Car Decals / Stickers (Opaque) (Free Design By Bannerbuz... by Bannerbuzz https://t.co/0lkA7UDAgg via @
Check out Custom Car Decals / Stickers (Opaque) (Free Design By Bannerbuz... by Bannerbuzz https://t.co/0lkA7UDAgg via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:36PM
via IFTTT
Check out 5 x WARNING DASH CAM Recording-30x87mm WINDOW Stickers-Vehicle ... by Platinum Place https://t.co/g5JSW2LVgP via @
Check out 5 x WARNING DASH CAM Recording-30x87mm WINDOW Stickers-Vehicle ... by Platinum Place https://t.co/g5JSW2LVgP via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:35PM
via IFTTT
Check out TOGUARD Mini Dash Cam (16GB Card Included) Full HD 1080P Car Bl... by Toguard https://t.co/V8hAfDPnfG via @
Check out TOGUARD Mini Dash Cam (16GB Card Included) Full HD 1080P Car Bl... by Toguard https://t.co/V8hAfDPnfG via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:35PM
via IFTTT
Check out All-New Fire HD 10 Tablet with Alexa Hands-Free, 10.1” 1080p Fu... by Amazon https://t.co/38z7PHNHfC via @
Check out All-New Fire HD 10 Tablet with Alexa Hands-Free, 10.1” 1080p Fu... by Amazon https://t.co/38z7PHNHfC via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:34PM
via IFTTT
Check out All-New Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet, 8' Display, 32 GB, Blue ... by Amazon https://t.co/Gf9wkW44Sb via @
Check out All-New Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet, 8' Display, 32 GB, Blue ... by Amazon https://t.co/Gf9wkW44Sb via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:33PM
via IFTTT
Check out All-New Fire 7 Tablet with Alexa, 7' Display, 8 GB, Black — wit... by Amazon https://t.co/45AssrfAcH via @
Check out All-New Fire 7 Tablet with Alexa, 7' Display, 8 GB, Black — wit... by Amazon https://t.co/45AssrfAcH via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:33PM
via IFTTT
Check out Fortan Professional Colorful Backlight 4000DPI Optical Wired Ga... by Fortan https://t.co/Kj958Ea99H via @
Check out Fortan Professional Colorful Backlight 4000DPI Optical Wired Ga... by Fortan https://t.co/Kj958Ea99H via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:32PM
via IFTTT
Check out MOTOSPEED 104 Gaming Esport Keyboard USB Wired Keyboard LED Col... by MOTOSPEED https://t.co/MP1mYw9GxT via @
Check out MOTOSPEED 104 Gaming Esport Keyboard USB Wired Keyboard LED Col... by MOTOSPEED https://t.co/MP1mYw9GxT via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:31PM
via IFTTT
Check out ADMI GAMING PC PACKAGE: Powerful Desktop Computer, 21.5 Inch 10... by ADMI https://t.co/2DqvBVvDUD via @
Check out ADMI GAMING PC PACKAGE: Powerful Desktop Computer, 21.5 Inch 10... by ADMI https://t.co/2DqvBVvDUD via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:30PM
via IFTTT
RT @evankirstel: This clever T-shirt left students baffled 🤔 https://t.co/KQ6qm0Fdya
This clever T-shirt left students baffled 🤔 http://pic.twitter.com/KQ6qm0Fdya
— Evan Kirstel (@evankirstel) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 12:29PM
via IFTTT
New video by TechSource on YouTube
Building The Ultimate Smart Home - Episode 1
Welcome to my new series where I Build the Ultimate Smart Home! ►InstaView: http://ift.tt/2uiB9Lk ►LG SideKick: http://ift.tt/1Q5jm14 ►LG Gram: http://ift.tt/22LNWTi ►LG 55SJ8500: http://ift.tt/2x2MyVv ►LG E7: http://ift.tt/2nWXQ9f ►NEST: http://amzn.to/2jqo81B ►Blink Camera: http://amzn.to/2xzaD6h *This video is sponsored by LG* ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ♦Full Gear List: http://goo.gl/cIdKze All my Giveaways http://ift.tt/2unGr9j... Watch my video early on the Nice: http://ift.tt/2oRLzPn Follow me for all the updates! Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ed_TechSource Instagram: http://ift.tt/1tPOWHn Facebook: http://ift.tt/1oeFXs3
View on YouTube
Welcome to my new series where I Build the Ultimate Smart Home! ►InstaView: http://ift.tt/2uiB9Lk ►LG SideKick: http://ift.tt/1Q5jm14 ►LG Gram: http://ift.tt/22LNWTi ►LG 55SJ8500: http://ift.tt/2x2MyVv ►LG E7: http://ift.tt/2nWXQ9f ►NEST: http://amzn.to/2jqo81B ►Blink Camera: http://amzn.to/2xzaD6h *This video is sponsored by LG* ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ♦Full Gear List: http://goo.gl/cIdKze All my Giveaways http://ift.tt/2unGr9j... Watch my video early on the Nice: http://ift.tt/2oRLzPn Follow me for all the updates! Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ed_TechSource Instagram: http://ift.tt/1tPOWHn Facebook: http://ift.tt/1oeFXs3
View on YouTube
Space Photos of the Week: This Isn't the Saturn You're Looking For
A galaxy collision, stormy molecular clouds and too many photos of a comet this week in space.
from Photo Latest http://ift.tt/2xHZoW8
via IFTTT
from Photo Latest http://ift.tt/2xHZoW8
via IFTTT
Images of Girona https://t.co/TDgnZwuetg via @EverywhereTrip
Images of Girona https://t.co/TDgnZwuetg via @EverywhereTrip
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 09:07AM
via IFTTT
Great Tech 101: Weekly Photography Challenge – View From Above https://t.co/ao4vd3ThVq
Great Tech 101: Weekly Photography Challenge – View From Above https://t.co/ao4vd3ThVq
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 09:01AM
via IFTTT
https://t.co/iXDn3azZUX Best Sellers: The most popular items in Electronics & Photo https://t.co/3XcV12HbB7
https://t.co/iXDn3azZUX Best Sellers: The most popular items in Electronics & Photo https://t.co/3XcV12HbB7
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:59AM
via IFTTT
Online shopping for Wearable Technology from a great selection at Electronics... https://t.co/aPWqyDAyqU
Online shopping for Wearable Technology from a great selection at Electronics... https://t.co/aPWqyDAyqU
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:58AM
via IFTTT
Welcome to Amazon UK’s Wireless Speaker Centre. Discover which type of wirel... https://t.co/QpT2hQMrne via @
Welcome to Amazon UK’s Wireless Speaker Centre. Discover which type of wirel... https://t.co/QpT2hQMrne via @
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:57AM
via IFTTT
Jabra Move Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones - Black/ blue / red or gold by Jabra https://t.co/JO6olhqKHA
Jabra Move Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones - Black/ blue / red or gold by Jabra https://t.co/JO6olhqKHA
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:56AM
via IFTTT
Canon EOS 200D Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 55 mm f/4-5.6 ... by Canon https://t.co/n5YixWjf6R £130 off
Canon EOS 200D Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 55 mm f/4-5.6 ... by Canon https://t.co/n5YixWjf6R £130 off
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:55AM
via IFTTT
Garmin Camper 760LMT-D 7-inch Satellite Navigation with UK, Ful... by Garmin https://t.co/L53CjEKodn
Garmin Camper 760LMT-D 7-inch Satellite Navigation with UK, Ful... by Garmin https://t.co/L53CjEKodn
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:54AM
via IFTTT
GoPro KARMA Drone with HERO5 Action Camera - Black/White by GoPro https://t.co/cLL3CUSpzj via sorry- just under £1200 !!
GoPro KARMA Drone with HERO5 Action Camera - Black/White by GoPro https://t.co/cLL3CUSpzj via sorry- just under £1200 !!
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:52AM
via IFTTT
GoPro KARMA Drone with HERO5 Action Camera - Black/White by GoPro https://t.co/cLL3CUAOaJ just under £2000
GoPro KARMA Drone with HERO5 Action Camera - Black/White by GoPro https://t.co/cLL3CUAOaJ just under £2000
— Great Tech (@GreatTechUK) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:51AM
via IFTTT
RT @deancacioppo: RT zeyumw: The 10 Best Facebook Advertising Features Right Now #facebook #ads #website https://t.co/aFaTLk83Jw
RT zeyumw: The 10 Best Facebook Advertising Features Right Now #facebook #ads #website https://t.co/aFaTLk83Jw
— Dean Cacioppo (@deancacioppo) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:44AM
via IFTTT
RT @BobyolThomas: https://t.co/n3Wx8WiNnp https://t.co/YAfweHKq8C
https://t.co/n3Wx8WiNnp https://t.co/YAfweHKq8C
— Be Your Own Boss OL (@BobyolThomas) September 30, 2017
from Twitter https://twitter.com/GreatTechUK
September 30, 2017 at 08:42AM
via IFTTT
Friday, 29 September 2017
Microsoft's Satya Nadella: Judge us on value we add, not tax we pay
Satya Nadella speaks about the criticism facing large corporations like Microsoft over tax.
from BBC News - Technology http://ift.tt/2yO3XP8
via IFTTT
from BBC News - Technology http://ift.tt/2yO3XP8
via IFTTT
Weekly Photography Challenge – View From Above
If you’ve already looked at this article from earlier on tips for drone photography, you’ll already be in the mood for this challenge. But you don’t need a drone to participate – just a high vantage point, looking down. Are you “up” for it?
Photo by Jonathan Pendleton on Unsplash
Weekly Photography Challenge – View from Above
This week it’s your job to get up high and look down on the world – literally. Show us the view from above with your photos for this weekly challenge.
Share your images below:
Simply upload your shot into the comment field (look for the little camera icon in the Disqus comments section) and they’ll get embedded for us all to see or if you’d prefer, upload them to your favorite photo-sharing site and leave the link to them. Show me your best images in this week’s challenge. Sometimes it takes a while for an image to appear so be patient and try not to post the same image twice.
Share in the dPS Facebook Group
You can also share your images on the dPS Facebook group as the challenge is posted there each week as well.
The post Weekly Photography Challenge – View From Above by Darlene Hildebrandt appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2k9pcHz
via IFTTT
11 Quick Tips to Improve Your Drone Photography
In this short video from the people over at COOPH, they bring you 11 tips to help improve your drone photography,
If you enjoy drone photography check out these dPS articles as well:
- Tips for Getting Started Doing Photography with Drones
- How to Use Drones to do Stunning Aerial Photography
- Side by Side Drone Comparison – DJI Mavic Pro Versus the Phantom Pro 4
- Review of the Epson Moverio BT-300FPV Smart Glasses for Drones
- Overview of the ThinkTank Airport Helipak V2.0: More Than Just a Drone Case
Drone photography?
So we’re curious here at dPS, how many of you are using drones now or getting one soon? Tell us in this quick poll.
Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.The post 11 Quick Tips to Improve Your Drone Photography by Darlene Hildebrandt appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2fWF1wR
via IFTTT
Thursday, 28 September 2017
10 Lessons from a Guy Who Quit His Job to be a Full-Time Photographer
Every decision you’ve ever made, each image you’ve ever shot, and each chance you’ve taken, has brought you to where you are now as a photographer. Think about that for a second. Regardless of what your goals might be or where you want to go with your photography, it all comes down to a series of moves. So really, all of your success and all of your failures are a beautiful mix of causes and effects. One action yielding one outcome big or small. For most of us, our love for all things photography points to one end and that ever-burning question of “How can I be a full-time photographer?”
If you’ve ever wanted to know what it takes to quit your job and become a professional photographer or how it feels to turn your love of photography into sustainable income, then this is your lucky day. I’m about to share with you some lessons I’ve learned during my three-year journey to become “one of those people”; someone who managed to turn their passion for photography into a full-time job and kiss the rat race goodbye. A few of these lessons are ones you might expect and a few might not be so obvious. So, sit back and get ready to hear some real-world advice from someone who actually made their dream happen, and how you can follow if you choose.
#1 – You have to want it more than anything
It’s easy to say you want something. But have you ever truly desired to make something happen? I’m talking about the kind of want that consumes your very being. Well, maybe not that dramatic but it’s not far off. If you are going to “make it” at anything then you will have to want it more than anything else.
The happy upside to finding something that you so completely want is that the challenges you face don’t seem to matter as much as they might otherwise. And yes, there will be oh so many challenges. Which leads us to lesson #2.
#2 – You will have to sacrifice
Don’t get me wrong. The following words aren’t meant to be a deterrent but at the same time, they are quite true. To ultimately reach your goals there will have to be sacrifices made along the way. The nature and exactness of these sacrifices will vary greatly but there will always be things that you will have to give up in order to make your dream a reality.
These sacrifices could be anything from giving up sleep and experiencing physical discomfort or missing time out with friends. Photography is a medium that literally requires you to be present for every shot. This means that to truly be there in the moment you won’t always be able to someplace else. It strains relationships and can take a toll on your body, your finances, and even your mind. But much like lesson #1, the sacrifices won’t seem so terrible if they are viewed as a necessary means to make something you truly want happen.
#3 – Understand the “calculated risks”
Taking calculated risks is sometimes misunderstood by some people who are looking to take a leap with their photo work. Let’s break down the very phrase “calculated risk”.
First, we have the word “calculated” which means something that is done with full awareness of the possible consequences. Then we have “risk” which refers to exposing something we value to danger, harm, or loss. So, when we say that we are going to take a calculated risk, it means that we are about to put something on the line knowing full well that the outcome might not be favorable. This is where I feel the point becomes lost with some photographers.
To reach your goals you’ll certainly have to take some risks. While that’s true, I’ve learned that it’s the manner in which you take those risks that makes all the difference. When it comes to taking calculated risks, never risk anything that will ultimately prevent you from reaching your next goal.
I’ll admit though, this advice can be somewhat paradoxical. Meaning that in the end, you will have to take the ultimate calculated risk. That is going all in and attempting to make your living exclusively from your dealings in photography. Until that time comes, make sure your risks are of the non-terminal variety.
#4 – You will have to teach yourself patience
This is a hard one. You will have to be patient. Stay ambitiously patient, but be patient nonetheless. If you’re not a patient person then you’ll probably have to teach yourself to be one. And if you come to the conclusion that you can’t teach yourself to be patient then you’ll just have to fake it. I can tell you that there is no set timetable when it comes to reaching a sustainable goal.
Being patient doesn’t mean that you should sit back and wait for things to happen. Instead, make every minute of every day count towards achieving the thing you want the most. But understand that there’s no guarantee when that goal will be reached. Just know that you will reach it if you are patient (and persistent) and don’t stop.
#5 – Confidence comes after the fact
This is something that I struggle to remind myself on a daily basis. Confidence is just as important as skill in some cases. Having the gall to try something new, to attempt difficult things, that’s what it takes to make big things happen with your photography.
Some people are born confident (or at least so it seems). But for others, confidence is a learned talent. What’s the downside to becoming confident in your work? Confidence only comes after you do the thing you’re afraid to do.
Yeah, that’s a hard idea to swallow but it’s true. To become confident you will have to constantly step outside your comfort zone to varying degrees. This could mean being proactive with clients, taking on jobs that are just slightly outside your assumed skill set, and at times even talking your way into (and out of) a few situations.
#6 – Disregard secret formulas for success
The internet is chock-full of every kind of self-improvement website and video imaginable that all aim at making you better at photography. That’s 100% okay and none of us would know much of anything about making photographs if it weren’t for people who publish good educational information. After all, you’re reading this article on one of the best photo education sites online. But that doesn’t mean that everything that glitters is gold.
A big red warning flag should go up whenever you hear or read something that tells you to, “Do this and you’ll be a great photographer” or worse yet, the dreaded, “I’m a master photographer so listen to me” line. Understand that your journey to finding success is completely unique to you. My goals and choices are likely totally different than those you will choose. At the same time, some lessons are universal. Just remember that there is no secret formula, only tested advice.
#7 – Grab opportunity by the throat
I love a good metaphor and grabbing opportunity by the throat is one of the best ones I can think of to describe what I learned about approaching opportunity. Learning to recognize opportunities for advancing yourself and your work is only a small part of the puzzle. You have to also aggressively seize those opportunities when they come along.
For me, there were three or four big opportunities that eventually put me where I am today. Narrowing it down even further, one of those opportunities hinged on a single email that I sent to someone. If I hadn’t sent that one message, things might have turned out much differently.
Don’t just say, “I think this is a great opportunity but…” There are no buts when it comes to this sort of action. Unfortunately, you have to decide that for yourself whether not an opportunity is worthwhile. But if you do decide to go for it, do so with everything you’ve got. You never know where it might lead. Which brings us to #8.
#8 – Your destination will change
This is somewhat of a strange lesson which I’ve only come to grasp in the last year or so. The end all be all dream I had when I started making photographs was to take pictures of beautiful things, sell them, and repeat. I thought I would do this enough to make a living.
Well, the hard truth about photography is that it’s nearly impossible to make a living exclusively from selling prints. It’s not impossible, but even the established greats in the photography history books didn’t merely sell prints to support themselves. The ones who did often were only able to do so AFTER they became giants in the art.
Don’t be afraid to allow yourself to evolve in a natural direction. Currently, I write for four to five publications, have authored two books on photography, host my own YouTube channel, and dabble in all manner or photo-related adventures. I still love making photos and do so whenever I can, but do I sell a lot of those prints? Not really.
Would I ever have imagined myself as a writer? Absolutely not! But when the opportunity came along I took it, and it’s all been one amazing ride to where I am now. The takeaway here is to be flexible with your attitude and accept that you always understand that a glorious outcome is out there, but it may not be the one you originally set out to achieve.
#9 – Think big but have realistic expectations
Set huge goals for yourself. Dream big. Think big. Never let anyone tell you that something is impossible for this or that reason. While you should never set strict limitations for yourself and your dreams it’s also important to live in reality. This is a reality, isn’t it? The point is to never expect great things to happen quickly or without a lot of work (remember #2 and #4 above) supplied on your part.
The most saddening thing that can happen to those who have unreal expectations is that they quit. They stop chasing after what they love and resign themselves to an existence they don’t really want. If you want to go full-time in the photography world always remember that success finds us at different times and with different outcomes. Think as big as you need to but keep your feet firmly on the ground.
#10 – It’s all worth it in the end
As we close out our list, #10 is the lesson that I want you to understand with the most clarity. Of all the lessons I’ve learned on my journey to independence with photography, there is one that had to wait for until the end and it’s this – it’s all worth it. All of it. All your hard work, all your sacrifice, everything that you poured into making your dream of being a working full-time photographer will ultimately lead to one of the greatest feelings imaginable.
Honestly, any description I can give of how amazing it feels to make photography (or photo related) your full-time job will ultimately fall miserably short of its mark. So, if you’re struggling with whatever you happen to be doing with photography let this final lesson fortify you enough to keep going. Believe me, it will all be worth it.
Some Final Thoughts
These lessons are just a small portion of a nearly indecipherable culmination of trial and error, ups and downs, peaks and valleys. Your particular path will be different than mine, as it should be. I managed to leave a successful, albeit unfitting, career in healthcare to go on to make a living doing what I really love. The best part? I’m no different than you.
I’m ecstatic to tell you some of the lessons I’ve learned so that you might understand that you can do the same thing I did. It may not happen quickly and it might not be exactly what you originally planned, but when it finally happens…and it will happen, it will be better than anything you can imagine.
The post 10 Lessons from a Guy Who Quit His Job to be a Full-Time Photographer by Adam Welch appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2xFl6Ky
via IFTTT
How to Speed Up Your Photo Editing with the Right Lightroom Workflow
Processing photos is fun for me. But as much as I like doing it, I like being out in the field making new photos even more. That’s why I’ve developed a Lightroom workflow that helps me get the job done as quickly as possible.
Following these steps, you’ll learn how to make adjustments to a whole batch of images and then apply image specific adjustments to bring out the best in each frame.
Before you begin, choose a batch of photos taken at the same time under similar lighting conditions. I usually go through and pick my favorite photos from a shoot first, and then work on those.
Step 1: Make Global Adjustments to the First Photo
In the Develop Module, pick the first photo in your batch and make the following adjustments to make it look its best.
Remember there are no rules with the sliders other than a little goes a long way. Just go with your gut. And if you’re not sure what a slider does, just take it to one extreme and then the other and you’ll be able to see exactly what is going to happen.
Camera Calibration
You’ll find this at the bottom of the develop module on the right-hand panel. I like to set this first because it makes such a dramatic difference to the color and contrast in an image. Simply go through the drop down box and pick the one that looks the best.
White Balance
Next go up to the top of the develop module and start working your way down. The first slider is white balance and there you can choose from the items in the drop down box. Again, simply choose the one that looks best.
Highlights and Shadows
Try darkening the highlights by moving the slider to the left and lightening the shadows by moving the slider to the right. You don’t want to go so far that you’ve removed all contrast from the scene, just enough that you have more detail in the highlight and shadow areas.
Clarity
The clarity slider will add contrast to the edges of things making them appear more crisp. Try nudging it a bit to the right. On the other hand, if you want your image to be softer and dreamier, you can move the clarity slider to the left.
Vibrance
The vibrance slider is more subtle than saturation since it adds color to the parts of your image that are already less saturated.
Sharpening
Most photos need a little sharpening. In the Detail Panel, try moving the sharpening slider a bit to the right.
Vignette
In the Effects Panel, add a slight post-crop vignette to draw the eye into the frame by dragging the slider slightly to the left.
Before any adjustments in Lightroom.
After the basic adjustments have been applied in Lightroom.
Step 2: Sync Settings
In the Develop Module, select all the photos in your batch (including the one you just edited) from the filmstrip at the bottom of the screen. Then click the Sync button at the bottom of the develop panel.
Voila! All the adjustments you made to your first image have now been applied to the whole group.
Step 3: Make Final Adjustments to Single Photos
The following adjustments need to be made to each photo individually since they are rarely the same in a batch.
Crop and Straighten
If necessary, use the crop tool to adjust the crop. Maintain the aspect ratio of your image by holding down the shift key on your keyboard while you crop. You can also use the angle tool located inside the crop tool to make sure any horizon or shore lines are straight by drawing a line from one side to the other.
Don’t Miss a Dust Spot
Using the spot removal tool, check the box next to “Visualize Spots” below the image to help you see the dust spots more easily.
Radial Filter
Use the radial filter tool to increase the exposure very slightly on your main subject which will help to draw the viewer’s eye to it. Remember to click the “invert mask” checkbox to affect the area inside the circle. Otherwise, the default is to affect the area outside the circle you draw.
Radial Filter in Lightroom.
Summary
I find that processing photos is more fun when it doesn’t take forever! Now with time saved doing basic processing, you may choose to take your photo into another photo editor to add special effects. Or you can just call it done and get back out in the field doing what you love: making photographs.
Want more? Try Anne’s Lightroom video course: Launch Into Lightroom to learn everything you need to know to get started in just a couple of hours.
The post How to Speed Up Your Photo Editing with the Right Lightroom Workflow by Anne McKinnell appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2xHNux8
via IFTTT
Wednesday, 27 September 2017
Hurricane Maria’s Devastation in Puerto Rico, As Seen By a Drone
The story behind the staggering aerial of a ravaged highway in Puerto Rico.
from Photo Latest http://ift.tt/2wXKkSj
via IFTTT
from Photo Latest http://ift.tt/2wXKkSj
via IFTTT
6 Tips for Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence in Your Photography
Let’s all agree that photography is one of the most frustrating yet creatively satisfying art forms out there. We all remember the passion we felt when we first started out on our photography journey. The thrill of clicking the shutter and excitedly looking at the back of the camera (if you started with digital photography) and that feeling like opening gifts on Christmas morning when you got your prints back from the developing lab (if you started with film). You know you couldn’t get enough of capturing life through a lens. Nothing quite beats the rush of knowing that you have created something cool! Right?
My lovely clients – they have been with me for through many of their most important moments, and I love them for trusting me and my creativity.
Why is it, then, that most of us eventually fall into the comparison trap and start to lose confidence in our skills? Our creativity, authenticity, and confidence get shaded in our own eyes by self-manifested doubts and shortcomings. It leaves us dejected, uninspired, and sometimes even angry. We all seem to judge ourselves against someone else’s successes – be it money, opportunities or even social media fame (yes, that seems to be quite the rage these days).
So how does one overcome those self-doubts? Here are some tips I’ve found helpful when the ugly head of self-doubt cripples my creativity.
#1 Take a break from it all
Stop obsessing about photography and go do something else you really enjoy. It could be something big like taking a trip without your camera to something small and simple like going to the movies, cooking your favorite meal, meeting up with friends, or even dancing with your kids.
No matter what you choose, find something that you really enjoy and do it just for the sake of enjoyment. It will help clear your head and allow happiness based endorphins to flow through your body leading to more positive thoughts and feelings. Personally, I pack away my gear and read a book – old romance novels from the 1970s always manages to help me bounce back and feel happy. Other times, we load up the car and head out to the mountains. So my books and hiking shoes are two of my most prized possessions.
There is just something about photographing tiny humans among big landscapes that seems to put the whole world and all my personal problems into perspective.
#2 Play on your strengths
When I used to work in Corporate America, we were encouraged to create yearly goals based on our strengths and weaknesses. Try and apply similar principles when you think about what you want to accomplish from a photographic perspective. Think about what multiple people or clients have complimented you on. Focusing on strengths will help you set realistic goals with achievable results and give you that boost of confidence you need.
I have been told that I am good at natural posing. Helping my clients get comfortable in front of the camera is one of my skills. I am good at making the photographic experience easy, comfortable, and convenient for my clients. These are some of my personal strengths. I know that I don’t do high fashion and in-studio sessions well. I am much happier and progress faster when I focus on what I am good at rather than trying to be someone or something I’m not.
Happy clients always makes for great pictures. These are the ones that will get shared and hung on walls for years to come – the best compliment for any photographer.
#3 Tackle your weaknesses one at a time
This goes in line with working on your strengths. Now that you have documented both – strengths as well as weaknesses – pick one weakness and really focus on that one area to prevent getting overwhelmed and discouraged.
Do you lack any technical photography skills? There are numerous workshops, articles, and YouTube videos that you can watch to try and get up to speed. Digital Photography School is also a great learning resource.
Do you struggle when interacting with clients? Stand in front of a mirror and practice your introduction pitch. Round up your friends and ask them to help you practice your interaction skills. Do you struggle with building your portfolio? Volunteer your services to organizations that need help.
Apply and practice the things you learn even if it is just with your family, kids, or the family pet. Remember, also, to be patient with yourself. As you improve, take time to appreciate your growth and celebrate your accomplishments. The best morale booster is your own internal vote of confidence. Remember accomplished photographers have all been where you are at some point in their lives. Success takes a lot of hard work and time.
I have my own share of weakness that are a mile long but to keep my perspective and love for the art of photography I chose positively over negativity and so far that has worked in my favor.
#4 Have a competitive spirit for the right reasons
A little bit of competition is healthy. As humans, it is what keeps us going at times. But be careful not to confuse competition with jealousy. And never try to compete with other industry peers on price. That is a battle that can quickly go south. You have to just understand that there will always be someone who is willing to work longer hours, for cheaper rates. That’s just the reality of life in any field.
Understand what you bring to the table is unique and there are clients who want to work with you because of the experience and end product that you (and you alone) provide. Focus all your energy on finding those clients and not the ones that pick price over quality.
A couple of weeks ago, I set up a styled shoot seminar at my local camera shop with a few of my favorite vendors. All the photographers in attendance shot the same setup, but we each put our own spin to the images based on our shooting as well as editing style. – Community over competition is a very powerful thing.
My favorite images from the styled shoot reflect my brand and style. Plus this gave me more confidence in working with studio lighting – one of the areas I am not super confident.
#5 Health is the best kind of wealth
Nothing is worth sacrificing your health – both mental and physical. I have learned that lesson the hard way. Now I don’t overwork myself to the point of exhaustion nor do I sacrifice my sanity over difficult clients.
I always take a day off after photographing a wedding because it is physically exhausting and mentally draining. I avoid scheduling photography gigs one after the other because I know I get mentally exhausted and cannot produce my best creative work. We have to all acknowledge that sometimes self-doubt arises due to our poor health (either mental or physical) and the only way to overcome it is to get our mind, body, and soul in a much better space.
Weddings are emotionally and physically draining but are so creatively satisfying for me. I love photographing them but would never do a tripleheader weekend, that would just about kill me.
#6 Remember your why
Why do you love photography? What is it about this art form that has you up at night trying to make it work? What’s your story? Is it the money? Is it the glory? Take the time to figure out your why and write it down.
Then when you start doubting yourself, go read your story. It will help you get things in perspective and ground you. I learned photography so I could:
- Document my own family and their crazy and unique personalities.
- Spend time at home with a more flexible schedule.
- Explore my creativity.
- Run my own business and work for myself
Hence my mission as a photographer is to provide my clients with creative images that are a true and authentic reflection of their own individual personalities while running a profitable business.
I find that I produce my best work when I am creatively fresh and mentally refreshed.
Remember that your why will be specific and unique to you and it is what will push you to overcome your setbacks and mental roadblocks as you continue on your photography journey.
Conclusion
I hope some of these tactics help you navigate the choppy photography waters. Remember there is nothing like a free lunch! Success in any shape or form takes time and hard work – lots of it. Roll up your sleeves, work your hardest, and you will get there. I look forward to hearing your successes and cheering you on.
The post 6 Tips for Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence in Your Photography by Karthika Gupta appeared first on Digital Photography School.
from Digital Photography School http://ift.tt/2wWLWvQ
via IFTTT
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)