FREE Class May 31, 2011

Join me Tuesday, May 31 from 7-9pm for a FREE photography class.  We will discuss the differences between point and shoot cameras and dslrs, how and when to purchase new equipment, details regarding the menu of classes I will be offering and answer any questions you may have about taking classes with Maquoketa Art Experience.

This class will be held at 124 S. Main Street, Maquoketa, Iowa.

You can register for this FREE class by sending an email with the name and address of each attendee to service@muellerphotoiowa.com  Please include "Free Class May 31" in your subject.

Waiting for Your Moment

Lighting is the most important aspect of photography.  A scene can change drastically in a matter of minutes when the sun is involved.  You must exhibit patience and finesse the image until the shadows and highlights make it obvious to you how they want to etch the subject.  I have waited weeks to push the shutter on a scene because I was waiting for the sky to converge in a way that would look as if the clouds had an agreement with me to wow the viewer.  For me, it is all about the contrast, colors, reflections and shadows when I shoot outdoors.  "God rays" are always a reason for me to grab my camera and get to shooting.  You can bring out the contrast in the ray in post production, but make sure you don't overexpose them or the loss of detail will be permanent.  The next time you want to shoot, try taking half as many pictures and do a little more watching and waiting.  You will be surprised at the results.

Do You Want Your Sky Images to POP?

When photographing the sky, keep a few tips in mind:  

1.  Choose a day when the clouds are contrasty.  If you can see texture in the sky, shoot it!

2.  Place an object in the foreground to contrast against the sky, add depth and show size proportion.  An interesting tree, barn, person, etc.

3.  Use a polarizer and don't be a cheap skate.  Polarizer filters bring out the blue and help define the contrast in the clouds.  Remember that the image is passing through this filter to be recorded.  Invest in good quality glass, whether it's lenses or filters.

4.  Make sure you clean your lens and filter before you depress that shutter.  Why own a spendy lens if you're gonna shoot through a dirty window?

5.  If a storm is rolling in and the clouds are ominous, its time to gather that equipment and be ready for the show. That being said, be smart and don't put yourself in an unsheltered storm situation.  If you blow away, no one's going to see your photos you died for.

6.  Try a graduated neutral density filter when the sky and ground are several stops apart in exposure.  You can do this on camera, or in post.

7.  This tip goes for all photography....get that exposure dead on!  I know people think you can just fix it in post when you're off, but that is a misconception.  Increasing exposure in post degrades the image as it adds noise and decreasing exposure probably means you clipped some highlights and will have loss of detail.  For the most creative leeway in post, get that exposure dead on!

The Power of Black and White

I have been exploring monochrome photography and have come to immensely appreciate the simplicity of it.  When the color is stripped, the image must stand on its own merit.  You are not distracted by the colors, rather you are drawn into the emotion, lines and shapes of the image. Try some black and white photography this weekend and you will see what I mean.  My rule has always been "If color isn't adding to the beauty of the photograph, then it must go".

Capture Emotion

The most valuable piece of knowledge that I absorbed from the Sandy Puc/Jerry Ghionis class was to capture emotion, not images.  A whole new fire has been lit in me and I intend on using this inspiration to produce amazing images of people for their loved ones to cherish.  Photographs that show a person's personality and expression of emotion record a moment from the person's life and keep it for all time, even after they are gone.  The above series of my husband shows a side of him that few see....his silly side!  They are my favorite images I have of him.  If you ask someone who lost all their possessions in a house fire what they miss the most, chances are they would respond, "my photographs".  When you are choosing a photographer, keep in mind what these images will be worth to you someday. Quality may cost more now, but wouldn't that be expected for something that grows in value and eventually becomes priceless?

How about a FREE photography class?

In May, I will be offering a FREE photography class at Maquoketa Art Experience.  I will describe all the classes being offered, give buying advice for new equipment and allow participants to experience my style of teaching before investing any money. The date and details will be announced on this blog this week, so stay tuned!

New Wedding Techniques!

Attended the Sandy Puc and Jerry Ghionis Power of Passion Tour in Chicago today and loved it! Steve and I learned so much and are very excited to try out the new techniques.  Look for new images on Facebook this week!

Classes Starting Soon!

Photography classes will begin in May at the Sindi Mueller Fine Art Photography Gallery in Maquoketa, Iowa.  There will be a wide range of subjects offered from beginning fundamentals to advanced artistic.  In addition to the structured curriculum, there will be a variety of workshops offered throughout the seasons including spring landscapes, summer sunsets, fall foliage and winterscapes.  Details and full schedule will be posted soon.  "Like" the Facebook page to be the first to know!