Observations & Opinions

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Monday, May 7, 2012

WHEN THE SUN SETS...........

JUST A FEW TIPS ON SHOOTING SUNSETS

YES,  the sun sets each evening, but know that each sunset is quite different than the night before and Mother Nature gives photographers ample opportunities to capture this glorious event as day moves into night.  But to photograph a setting sun there are several shooting considerations that might help one to create that one special capture worthy of becoming a "Wall - Hanger".

LOCATION, LOCATION......  Quite a variable, for sure, and all I can suggest is to find a location that suits what you are trying to accomplish.  Adding shapes, shadows and detail can add to getting that dramatic shot.  Use the clouds, be patient.

TOOLS....... Obviously a camera....... but a tripod is a must. 

CAMERA SETTINGS:  I generally shoot at low ISO, Aperture Value (experiment with f/8 and lower....f/11, f/16)  Shutter speed will be dictated by the Aperture Value.   THE TRIPOD IS INVALUABLE AS YOUR SHUTTER SPEED WILL BE SLOW AND YOU MUST AVOID CAMERA SHAKE.

I find it's good to shoot in aperture priority when the sun's still up because the light is changing so fast. If I were shooting in manual, I'd be changing settings every 30 seconds or so. I like aperture priority especially when I'm moving around a lot, trying to find the right composition. I'll look at the image on the LCD from time to time, and if it's too dark, if I don't want a silhouette, I'll adjust the exposure compensation.





BE CREATIVE WITH YOUR COMPOSITION........ 










Sunday, May 6, 2012

UP, UP AND OVER!

MONTGOMERY H.S. GIRLS POLE VAULTING

Last week, I shot some pole vault competition and I was astounded by the performances of the Montgomery Team.   From the initial stance of the vaulter, the concentration, and the technique that does vary from athlete to athlete, this sport has captured me to shoot more events in the future.

There are several phases to complete the vault which include, the approach, the plant and take-off, the swing up (methods do vary here), the extension, the turn and finally, the fly-away.

Execution must be precise in all stages, and as a novice AND knowing little about pole vaulting, I did find myself concentrating on the action of clearing the bar.  (I'll know better next time to record the entire technique) 






Additional action shots of the Montgomery Girls Pole Vaulting Team can be found on my website.  The link to the gallery is here:  http://www.rjgleason.net/MONTGOMERYHS2011-2012/MHS-TRACK-2012/MHS-GIRLS-POLE-VAULT-5-1-12/22753373_mwjKCz#!i=1824981817&k=G57ZgTN