L Lens

Not sure which to get ...

EF 70 - 300 IS F4.15 - 5.6
EF 70 - 200 F4 L version
EF 70 - 200 F4 IS Image Stabilizer L Lens
17-40 L

The concept of reflection

I finally joined a photo blog ring that features monthly competitions. This month's theme is reflection, and I had one idea. I want to take a picture of me looking into a mirror, with my mother on the other side... where we are dress similarly, and in the same pose. Too bad the contests ends in 3 days. I won't have time for it.

Sunny 16 Rule

When Binks first talked about Sunny 16, I was just like yah yah yah... Don't use light meter? That's "useful".

But after a while, it made sense, and in someways, a good challenge.

Today would have been perfect for it. I'll leave it at f16 on the next sunny day.

From Wikipedia...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunny_16_rule
In photography, the sunny 16 rule (or, less often, the "sunny f/16 rule") is a method to estimate correct daylight exposures without using a light meter.
The basic sunny 16 rule, applicable on a sunny day, is this:
Set aperture to f/16 and shutter speed (reciprocal seconds) to ISO film speed.
For example, for ISO 100 film, choose shutter speed of 1/100 second (or 1/125 second)
The elaborated form of the sunny 16 rule for more general situations is:
Set the shutter speed to the setting nearest to the ISO film speed
Set the f-number according to the table below:
Aperture Lighting Conditions Shadow Detail
f/16 Sunny Distinct
f/11 Slight Overcast Soft around edges
f/8 Overcast Barely visible
f/5.6 Heavy Overcast No shadows
f/4 Sunset
[1]
For example, to shoot ISO 100 film in sunny conditions, set the shutter speed to 1/100 or 1/125 and the f-stop to f/16. With ISO 200 film, set the speed to 1/200 or 1/250. For ISO 400 film, 1/400 or 1/500. As with other light readings, the shutter speed can be changed, as long as the f-number is compensated. For example, 1/250th of a second at f/11 would be equivalent to 1/125th at f/16.

Different Styles - Finding the right time and the right place

It's becoming more apparent to me that there are two directions that I can take with photography -- and I should consciously be aware of which to use and when, as this has not been something I've paid attention to in the past.

What I mean is, for the most part, I shoot in sequences as if I'm telling a story where multiple pictures are produced (I'm sure there's a name for this form of photography) - but it's becoming more apparent that it doesn't always work for what I want to achieve... unless I'm working for the newspaper.

I'm thinking that there's a way of capturing the entire story with just one (or fewer number of) shots. So, rather than looking for a sequence of events, maybe what I should start doing is step back, think about what the moment means to me, and then capture it. In doing so, I'm bringing the meaning from within, and not allowing the story to be formed. Photography to me isn't just about finding a pretty picture (but then again, it depends on the subject, rite?). 

My job is to bring a certain view outward that'll hopefully articulate how beautiful this world is. This task becomes easier once control of the shooting conditions are better obtained.

Photography job opening

I couldn't help looking into this opening
The Photographer gig @ WHDH-TV (Channel 7).

Why ofcourse... I have to learn how to drive a microwave truck! How silly of me?

Description:
A minimum of five years experience in news photography and editing is mandatory. A through knowledge of all ENG practices is required. The ability to operate Microwave trucks is preferred. A demonstrated ability to work under pressure and meet all deadlines is required. Non linear editing experience is a plus. A Broadcast Communications degree, and or technical training is required. A clean driver's license is also required.

Boston Spring Time

Today, I shot photos of the Charles River. For the second weekend, I drove over to Cambridge while waiting for laundry. I think I've already spent 6 (non consecutive) days shooting along that side of the river (twice walking home, twice with coworkers, twice on the weekend) and it's still not right! I am still not satisfy with my work!

Every time I'm there, something changes. This week, flowers started to bloom. The scene is very breathtaking - I even asked myself, would learning to capture/perfect my photos of the Charles River be something I want to commit to? This was a commitment that I had no problem saying YES to -- unlike those magazine subscriptions.

In a way, it's kind of sad too. While flipping through my photos, I realize, I have pics of New England/Boston during the fall and spring... but I didn't take any during the winter time... but mostly b/c I wasn't inspired. It would have been nice to collect photos throughout the entire year ... but then again, I always said that spring and fall are my favorite seasons.



Then, before heading to my studies, I couldn't help stopping by Athan's for a cup of ice coffee. En route, I saw these BEAUTIFUL Magnolia trees next to the Brighton Library. I had to pull over for a couple of shots. 

At the same time, my friend called. I ended up taking photos while I was on the phone...haha. What?! It's not like drinking and driving.

Controlled Conditions

I think good photography comes from a balance of taking advantage of the right moment under controlled terms. What I mean is, it takes effort to know precisely how to capture the moment as it is perceived in the mind... therefore, one needs to know the techniques and proper use of equipment. It takes experience and hardwork to get it right. The standard of "get it right" is based on a vision in one's mind - which is why I consider this to be a controlled condition.

Photography to me is the balance of both the left and right brain. It's the left sidethat masters the technical know-how, but the right that articulates beauty.

In a far stretch, it's like riding a horse. In the olden days, equestrian was viewed as a sport of real authority - Because a horse is a wild animal, it takes mastery in controlling a horse. The horse is the tool that gets the rider there. My camera does the same thing for my vision.

The time I've spent in photography only scratched the surface of this art form. There's sooo much more road a head for me to learn, and I will need to devout more time and energy on improving my skills.

What's next on my list?

1. Get a new L lens - hopefully that tax refund will come soon...
2. Learn to use the bloody flash
   
3. Photo project - take pics of people chasing subway..haha
4. Take photos of bugs!!!!!!

Gah, I am such a geek...