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Storytelling
Summary:
A picture says more than a thousand words, and that is just what Mike Larson wants to adhere to.
Telling a proper story with a series of photographs requires to determine a theme as well as the right handling with the models on location. To plan and implement a shooting in a more unusual manner will result in images that stand out from the ordinary. Larson prefers a tilt-shift lens for this purpose, which lets him experiment with depth of field to deliberately stress certain areas of a picture.
Using Multiple Gray Filters
Summary:
Photographer Martin Krolop returns with another informative hands-on learning video on how to get the most professional looking photos possible in a bright light situation using multiple gray filters and a portable fill in flash.
Krolop begins his shooting at midday, a time when most photographers would be either indoors in the studio or at a cafe waiting for the sun to lower a bit. Most photographers and style aficionados know that this time of day produces a consistent, perfect afternoon lighting effect look. But that does not stop Krolop; he has put together a comprehensive learn-by-doing video for photographers to see just how versatile they and their camera equipment really are. Armed with a few gray filters and a portable flash, Krolop offers many tips and tricks on how to get the best out of a bright light situation and make professional photos.
Focusing on portraiture, Krolop covers important topics from lens selection, exposure time, aperture setting and proper ISO values, leaving nothing out. Any photographer, amateur or professional, looking to update his database of knowledge, or looking to add a different style to his portfolio, is definitely in the right place.
Based out of Bonn, Krolop comprises half of the creative team at Krolop & Gerst photography. Combining traditional photography techniques with the latest technology and software, Krolop and Gerst specialize in editorial, fashion, location and wedding photography, providing excellent visual solution services to many satisfied clients.
Couples at Ease
Summary:
In this “How To” tutorial, photographer Mike Larson gives us tips on the specifics of shooting couples in an atmosphere to make them feel comfortable to make the best possible outcome to make the models and therefore the shoot look most appealing. Larson explains that it is his job to put the model at ease and make them feel as most comfortable as possible. His approach is to get the models to feel at ease and relaxed as soon as possible. He gives multiple tips on how to go about working with the models as if they were friends and not just subjects. He also suggests being extremely prepared, but laid back so to create an amicable atmosphere.
Larson’s style is very practical, something most photographers can appreciate He gives a very comprehensive list of technical and creative aspects that will help photographers create their own shots while building confidence for the models. Moreover, photographers wishing to learn the rules of shooting couples so that the photos are useable will find this video very informative. The most important thing when shooting couples is the relationship between them and the personal relationship with your subject, especially the body language and interaction between them. Larson works with his models in a way that he puts them at ease so that everything they are doing feels comfortable. Intimate shots of a couple touching or tickling each other, or, even being very far away at times for that matter can be extremely difficult at times, especially if the couple feels that they are doing something unexpected. Keeping models relaxed is the key to perfect, professional results. Larson also points out how to solve simple problems that can arise on a portrait shooting, such as keeping both models animated and engaged so that they feel part of the shoot, all with a casual undertone.
To get updates on Mike Larson's work and tips, visit his twitter page at mikelarsoninc.
Shooting with a Different Perspective
Summary:
In this “How To” tutorial, photographer Mike Larson gives us tips on the specifics of shooting in different perspectives to make the best possible outcome to make the model look most appealing.
This time Larson has chosen a boat as his location while uses a tilt shift lens to isolate specific parts of the model and the surrounding atmosphere. Larson gives a helpful and accurate account of all technical aspects used so photographers can recreate a professional shooting in their own environment. Key once again is Larson's perfect direction of the models to ensure the best possible outcome. What is of particular note is the usage of composition and framing and flexibility when it comes to changing perspectives. Such simple things available on location such as doorframes and nearby objects enhance the shoot immensely. Larson continues to use sun bouncers to give the most dynamic light available producing spectacular professional resultsPaying close attention to light and their results is key to Larson's approach, while shooting on one location getting four or five different looks.
To get updates on Mike Larson's work and tips, visit his twitter page at mikelarsoninc.
3D Photography IV
Summary:
On location near the Baltic Sea, Andreas Fischer is here to show us how to create 3D photos using two cameras.
This is the follow-up to the film using only one camera. After discussing various alternatives of mounting two cameras, he then demonstrates a self-made bracket with two cameras.
The importance of using 2 cameras of the same make and model is stressed. This is followed by a hands-on shooting with a model. Those who can already view 3D images will be able to preview the results. Those who can't need to see the film on viewing 3D images.
Lifestyle vs Portraits
Summary:
There are photographers who know the difference between lifestyle and portrait photography, but there are also those who really don’t know or “see” the difference, regardless how many photos they take. In this video, Mike Larson explains the difference between the two styles, shooting a couple with a fun, fresh and modern approach.
Portrait photography is when the subject is posing for the photographer in some way and Lifestyle photography is all about capturing “life” as it is happening, regular interactions, moments that memories are made of and the story they tell. Larson’s style is very practical, something most photographers can appreciate. Moreover, photographers wishing to learn the rules of shooting couples so that the photos are useable will find this video very informative. The most important thing when shooting portraits, especially those of a couple, is the body language and interaction between them. Larson works with his models in a way that he puts them at ease so that everything they are doing feels comfortable. Intimate shots of a couple cuddling or kissing, or being very close for that matter can be extremely difficult at times, especially if the couple feels that they are doing something awkward. Keeping models relaxed is the key to perfect, professional results. Larson also points out how to solve simple problems that can arise on a portrait shooting, such as keeping both models on the same focal plane and body positioning that will help for better posture or to elongate a model’s neck.
Larson’s approach to lifestyle photography is somewhat generous, but highly effective in that he prefers to shoot a great number of photos as the action is taking place, and since he always gives the couple a certain idea or exciting scenario to work on before shooting, he is guaranteed a winning shot out of the many variations from the images. Whether you are shooting a couple or one model, this video will definitely help you create your best portrait or lifestyle shot.
Hard - Direct = Soft
Summary:
In this film, photographer Martin Krolop covers the exciting topic of shooting in the style of the glossy women's magazines for FotoTV viewers.
Step-by-step Krolop points out the key elements to recreate a shooting as those seen on the covers of renowned magazines. He carefully points out the significance of having soft even light and clear sharp eyes. These techniques are being used by professional magazines and Krolop shows viewers how to use shade as a highly effect photographic instrument. By blocking out the direct sunlight over the model, he uses the natural illumination from all the objects in his surrounding scene. Everything casts a reflection due to the direct overhead sunlight and it is these reflections that Krolop cleverly uses as his main light.
Krolop's technique to achieving the soft light like that on a magazine cover is subtracting light, not adding it. Even though Krolop uses a sun swatter during this film, he will make use of anything he has nearby to use as shade, even a tree if necessary.
In conclusion, Krolop's information and demonstrations will help photographers get magazine cover quality pictures while shooting outside in direct sunlight-- simply by blocking it out.
Based out of Bonn, Krolop comprises half of the creative team at Krolop & Gerst photography. Combining traditional photography techniques with the latest technology and software, Krolop and Gerst specialize in editorial, fashion, location and wedding photography, providing excellent visual solution services to many satisfied clients.
Richard Kalvar on the Streets
Summary:
FotoTV has developed FotoTV-Tech, a forum within the FotoTV platform dedicated to covering all photography related topics such as, prominent photographers, camera hardware, software services and products. For this further installment of FotoTV Tech founder Marc Ludwig speaks with legendary Magnum photographer, Richard Kalvar to discuss his work and technique.
Kalvar, a member of Magnum since the 1970’s, is a classic, black & white street photographer uses Kodak tri-x film, “for the unbelievable grain and rich grey tones”, he boasts. Although he considers the term “street-photography” to be anywhere from a bar or restaurant, to a visit to someone’s house, his photographs always reveal an intimate and most likely, a humorous setting.
Kalvar has an exceptional eye and a talent for catching unexpected moments between human interactions, be it two people arguing or talking on the street or two grown men dressed as daisies. He shares numerous techniques and gives guidelines on how photographers can best make themselves “invisible” when photographing on the street. One interesting story Kalvar shares is that of being accosted on the street during shooting for FotoTV and he also gives valuable tips on how photographers can make the best of almost any situation. Kalvar also talks about his latest project “Earthlings”, a photo book that showcases the best of his work throughout his extensive career.
Shooting at the Beach
Summary:
In this “How To” tutorial, photographer Mike Larson gives us tips on the basics of shooting on the beach while on location at beautiful Zingst beach in Germany.
One of the methods Larson uses while shooting couples with a long lens at the beach is a Bluetooth device used to communicate via speaker cell phone with models at a distance. There is no need to shout at your models or carry walkie-talkies. This is definitely a useful tool when shooting at the beach.
Another important tip demonstrated by Larson is how to interact, motivate and direct models. Often models will become bored when a photographer tells them to just “smile.” Larson remedies that from happening in that he creates a little scene for his model to think about before beginning the shot. For instance, he tells his model Sarah to think about being on the catwalk with all eyes on her as she struts her stuff, walking toward the camera. And without a doubt the quirkiest highlight is when he tells her to “Do a 360.” Priceless! And the natural movement captured in the shot is a perfect example of shooting risky to get a great shot. This is definitely a great video for every type of photography style.