Planning / Light Conditions for Photographers
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| Notes on Planning and Application for the Serious Photographer - Copyright Vernon Chalmers |
Earlier this morning I posted about a question of any 'Photoshop' applied in one of my in-flight images - with the intention of asking if the image was manipulated in any way.
Read: Bird in Flight image photoshopped or not?
As a photographer I am a little concerned that people would think like that, but nevertheless see it as a compliment - especially where the photographer planned for achieving specific results.
For my own birds in flight photography around Woodbridge Island, Cape Town I look at two environmental variables very seriously: (i) available morning light and (ii) atmospheric conditions (wind / sun / clouds et al) before going out for a session.
My 'check' for best value photography is seen in the attached image: for the absolute best conditions this is what I look / plan for (when I look out the window). So its quite possible that some people may think Photoshop played any role in the outcome of certain images.
Unfortunately, days like this on the image is far and few between. I wait it out and when the going is good, I get going. It doesn't mean we don't should around here in any other conditions.
It is also important to note that the serious photographer should be able to shoot in many different light conditions. Light is probably our biggest advantage, but without appropriate light, the challenges will increase thinking and planning (without rushing out to purchase higher-quality equipment).
We all use different levels of post-processing . I believe the serious photographer will (only) attempt to improve the well-planned shot in terms of slight adjustment(s) in the exposure and / or the composition, without altering the original 'naturalness' of the image.
Image created with Canon EOS 700D / Canon EF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens (on Manfrotto Compact tripod) from Arnhem Milnerton towards the main bridge at Woodbridge Island, Cape Town.
© Vernon Chalmers Photography
Vernon Chalmers Copyright Policy
Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography View
As a photographer I am a little concerned that people would think like that, but nevertheless see it as a compliment - especially where the photographer planned for achieving specific results.
For my own birds in flight photography around Woodbridge Island, Cape Town I look at two environmental variables very seriously: (i) available morning light and (ii) atmospheric conditions (wind / sun / clouds et al) before going out for a session.
My 'check' for best value photography is seen in the attached image: for the absolute best conditions this is what I look / plan for (when I look out the window). So its quite possible that some people may think Photoshop played any role in the outcome of certain images.
Unfortunately, days like this on the image is far and few between. I wait it out and when the going is good, I get going. It doesn't mean we don't should around here in any other conditions.
It is also important to note that the serious photographer should be able to shoot in many different light conditions. Light is probably our biggest advantage, but without appropriate light, the challenges will increase thinking and planning (without rushing out to purchase higher-quality equipment).
We all use different levels of post-processing . I believe the serious photographer will (only) attempt to improve the well-planned shot in terms of slight adjustment(s) in the exposure and / or the composition, without altering the original 'naturalness' of the image.
Image created with Canon EOS 700D / Canon EF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens (on Manfrotto Compact tripod) from Arnhem Milnerton towards the main bridge at Woodbridge Island, Cape Town.
© Vernon Chalmers Photography
Vernon Chalmers Copyright Policy
Atmospheric Conditions Planning for Photographers
"Atmospheric conditions can dramatically influence photography, providing unique opportunities to capture mood, texture, and light. Here’s a guide to understanding and leveraging different conditions:
- Best For: Landscape, architecture, travel photography.
- Challenges: Harsh midday light can create strong shadows; use during golden hours (sunrise/sunset) for softer lighting.
- Tips: Use polarizing filters to deepen skies and reduce reflections.
- Best For: Portraits, street photography, macro shots.
- Why: Soft, diffused light eliminates harsh shadows, creating even illumination.
- Tips: Embrace moody tones and use the clouds as natural softboxes.
- Best For: Landscape, fine art, and atmospheric portraits.
- Why: Adds depth, mystery, and softness by reducing contrast and saturating colors.
- Tips: Use a tripod for longer exposures; shoot silhouettes against light sources like the sun breaking through.
- Best For: Dramatic and reflective compositions.
- Why: Creates reflections, enhances textures, and amplifies colors (wet surfaces often appear more vibrant).
- Tips: Use a waterproof camera cover; shoot puddles for reflections; look for rainbows.
- Best For: Minimalistic and high-contrast scenes.
- Why: Snow reflects light, brightening the scene and creating soft, ethereal tones.
- Tips: Use exposure compensation (+1 to +2 stops) to prevent underexposed snow; watch for overexposed highlights.
- Best For: Dynamic and dramatic skies.
- Why: Dark, turbulent clouds and lightning can add energy to images.
- Tips: Use a tripod and remote shutter for long exposures to capture lightning.
- Best For: Abstract, dynamic shots of nature.
- Why: Movement in grasses, trees, or water adds motion blur and energy.
- Tips: Experiment with shutter speeds to control the degree of blur.
- Best For: Soft, muted landscapes and silhouettes.
- Why: Haze creates layers and atmospheric perspective.
- Tips: Use telephoto lenses to compress the scene and highlight layers.
- Best For: Portraits, landscapes, and any genre benefiting from warm, soft light.
- Why: Low-angle sunlight creates long shadows and warm tones.
- Tips: Plan ahead as the light changes quickly.
- Best For: Nightscapes, cityscapes, and moody portraits.
- Why: Offers soft, cool light ideal for transitioning from day to night.
- Tips: Use a tripod to handle slower shutter speeds.
- Best For: Astrophotography, cityscapes, and creative light painting.
- Why: Captures unique light sources, like stars or neon.
- Tips: Use a wide aperture and high ISO; consider long exposures for light trails.
Understanding and adapting to atmospheric conditions will enhance your ability to convey emotion and story in your images." (Source: ChatGPT 2024)
Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography View