How to do Perched Bird and Flower Photography

Vernon Chalmers Perched Bird and Flower  Photography Training

Canon EOS / Canon EOS R (Full Frame or APS-C)

Perched Bird Photography Training : Kirstenbosch Garden, Cape Town

How to do Perched Bird and Flower Photography

Perched bird and flower photography can be a rewarding and enjoyable genre of photography. Capturing these subjects in their natural environment requires patience, observation, and some technical skills. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Equipment:

• Camera: Use a DSLR or a mirrorless camera with manual control settings. This will allow you to have full control over the exposure, focus, and other important settings.
• Lens: Invest in a telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 200mm or more. This will enable you to capture birds and flowers from a distance without disturbing them.
• Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for stability, especially when using longer focal lengths. It helps reduce camera shake and allows you to compose your shots more precisely.

2. Research and Observation:

• Study the behaviour of the birds and flowers you want to photograph. Learn about their habitats, feeding patterns, and typical perching spots. This knowledge will help you predict their movements and find suitable locations for photography.
• Spend time observing the birds and flowers in their natural environment. Take note of their preferred perches, the lighting conditions at different times of the day, and any specific behaviours or interactions you may observe.

3. Location and Composition:

• Find a suitable location where you are likely to find perched birds and flowers. This could be a park, nature reserve, botanical garden, or any area with diverse flora and fauna.
• Consider the composition of your shots. Look for interesting backgrounds, such as colourful flowers, foliage, or natural elements that complement your subject. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create visually appealing compositions.

4. Lighting:

•  Pay attention to lighting conditions. Soft, diffused light is often ideal for bird and flower photography as it brings out details and colours without harsh shadows. Early morning or late afternoon light, known as the golden hour, can provide a warm and flattering glow.
•  Avoid shooting in harsh midday sunlight, as it can create high contrast and unflattering shadows. If you have no choice but to shoot in bright light, consider using a diffuser or finding shaded areas to soften the light.

5. Camera Settings:

• Set your camera to manual mode to have full control over the exposure. Adjust the aperture to control the depth of field, allowing you to isolate the subject from the background.
• Use a fast shutter speed to freeze any movement of the birds or flowers. Start with a shutter speed of at least 1/500th of a second and adjust as needed.
• Use a low ISO setting to minimize noise and ensure optimal image quality.
• Consider using a wide aperture (small f-number) to achieve a shallow depth of field, which can help blur the background and make your subject stand out.

6. Patience and Quiet:

• Patience is key in perched bird and flower photography. Stay still and quiet in your chosen location, allowing the birds and flowers to become comfortable with your presence.
• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle or disturb your subjects. Remember that their well-being should always come first.
• 7. Post-Processing:

Once you have captured your images, post-processing can enhance their visual impact. Use photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to adjust exposure, color balance, sharpness, and other elements as needed. However, aim to keep your post-processing natural and faithful to the original scene.

Remember, perched bird and flower photography requires practice and persistence. Enjoy the process of observing nature and capturing its beauty through your lens." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Bird and Flower Photography Training, Cape Town >>

Small Flower Photography Training : Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

How to do Landscape Photography

 Vernon Chalmers Landscape / Seascape Photography Cape Town

Table Mountain from the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

How To Do Landscape Photography

Landscape photography allows you to capture the beauty of natural landscapes and outdoor scenes. Here are some tips to help you get started with landscape photography:

1. Plan and research: Before heading out to photograph landscapes, research potential locations and identify the best times for shooting. Consider the lighting conditions, weather, and the specific features of the landscape that you want to capture. Planning ahead will increase your chances of capturing compelling images.

2. Use the right equipment: While you can capture landscapes with any camera, having a DSLR or a mirrorless camera will give you more control over settings and image quality. A wide-angle lens is often preferred for landscape photography as it allows you to capture a wider view and emphasize the vastness of the scene. Additionally, a sturdy tripod can be helpful for stability and to keep your camera steady for long exposures.

3. Composition and framing: Composition plays a crucial role in landscape photography. Consider the rule of thirds, where you divide the frame into a grid of nine equal parts and place points of interest along these lines or their intersections. Look for leading lines, such as rivers or paths, that draw the viewer's eye into the scene. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and focal points to create visually engaging compositions.

4. Pay attention to lighting: Lighting is a key element in photography, and it's particularly important in landscape photography. The golden hours, which occur during sunrise and sunset, often provide soft and warm lighting that enhances the beauty of landscapes. Harsh midday sunlight can create strong shadows and wash out colours, so it's generally best to avoid shooting during that time. Cloudy or overcast days can also provide diffused lighting that works well for landscapes.

5. Use the appropriate camera settings: Shoot in manual mode or aperture priority mode to have control over your camera settings. Use a narrow aperture (higher f-number) such as f/8 or f/11 to achieve a larger depth of field and keep the entire scene in focus. Adjust your ISO setting to maintain image quality while keeping noise levels low. Utilize the histogram to ensure proper exposure, avoiding overexposure or underexposure.

6. Include foreground interest: Adding elements of interest in the foreground can create depth and draw the viewer's eye into the scene. It could be rocks, flowers, a path, or any other subject that complements the landscape. Experiment with different foreground elements to add visual impact to your photos.

7. Use filters: Consider using filters to enhance your landscape photos. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance colours, particularly in skies and bodies of water. Graduated neutral density filters can help balance exposure between the sky and the landscape, especially during high-contrast situations.

8. Post-processing: After capturing your landscape images, post-processing can help enhance the final result. Use photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to adjust exposure, contrast, colours, and sharpness. Remember to maintain a natural look and avoid over-editing.

9. Practice and experiment: Like any form of photography, landscape photography improves with practice and experimentation. Explore different locations, lighting conditions, and compositions. Take the time to study the work of other landscape photographers for inspiration and to gain insights into their techniques.

Remember to respect the environment and be mindful of any rules or guidelines in the areas you visit. Enjoy the process of capturing the beauty of nature and create your own unique interpretations of the landscapes you encounter.

How To Do Landscape Photography Vernon Chalmers Photography >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

When and Why to use a Tripod in Photography

 Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Photography Students Using Tripods *

When and Why to use a Tripod in Photography

A tripod is a versatile tool that photographers use to stabilize their cameras and achieve sharper images in various situations. Here are some common scenarios and reasons to use a tripod in photography:

1. Long Exposures: When capturing scenes that require longer exposure times, such as landscape photography or night photography, a tripod becomes essential. It helps keep the camera perfectly still during the exposure, preventing blurring caused by camera shake. This is especially important when using slower shutter speeds to capture motion blur or low-light scenes.

2. Low-Light Situations: In dimly lit environments where you need to use a slower shutter speed to capture enough light, a tripod is invaluable. It allows you to maintain stability while avoiding camera shake, resulting in sharp images without relying on high ISO settings or artificial lighting.

3. Macro Photography: When shooting extreme close-ups or macro photography, depth of field becomes very shallow. The slightest movement can cause a loss of focus. A tripod ensures that your camera remains steady, allowing you to precisely position and focus on the subject while using smaller apertures for increased depth of field.

4. Landscape Photography: Tripods are widely used in landscape photography because they provide stability and allow photographers to carefully compose their shots. With a tripod, you can take your time to find the perfect composition, adjust framing, and maintain consistent framing for multiple exposures, such as when creating panoramas or HDR images.

5. Telephoto Lenses: Telephoto lenses have a narrower field of view and magnify camera movement, making them more susceptible to shake. Mounting your camera on a tripod helps stabilize the system and allows you to use longer focal lengths while maintaining sharpness.

6. Self-Portraits and Group Photos: Tripods are excellent for self-portraits and group photos because they eliminate the need for someone else to hold the camera. You can set up the tripod, use a self-timer or a remote shutter release, and ensure everyone is in the frame without any rushing or compromising image quality.

7. Precise Composition: A tripod gives you precise control over framing and composition. It enables you to make fine adjustments to the camera's position and maintain consistency between shots. This is particularly useful in situations where you need to compare or merge multiple images, such as for focus stacking or exposure bracketing.

8. Video Recording: If you're shooting video, a tripod is indispensable for stable footage. It allows you to pan smoothly, follow subjects with ease, and maintain a consistent frame. Some tripods even have dedicated fluid heads for smoother camera movements.

In summary, a tripod is beneficial in photography whenever stability, sharpness, precise composition, or prolonged exposures are required. It enhances image quality, expands creative possibilities, and helps you capture better photos in a variety of shooting situations." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Photography Private Training Cape Town

• Introduction to Photography / Canon Cameras More 
• Birds in Flight Photography Training More
• Bird Photography Training Kirstenbosch More
• Canon EOS Autofocus / AI Servo Master Class More
• Birds in Flight Photography Workshop More
• Canon Speedlite / Ring Lite Flash Photography Workshop More
• Macro / Close-Up Photography Workshop Cape Town More
• Landscape / Long Exposure Photography Workshop More
• Real Estate / Interior Decor Photography Training More
• Samsung Galaxy Smartphone Photography Training More
• Digital Workflow / Lightroom Post-Processing Workshop More

* Image Credit: Steve Williams (Vernon Chalmers Landscape Training Milnerton Beach, Cape Town)

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

How to do Macro and Close-Up Photography

Vernon Chalmers Canon Macro and Close-Up Photography Training

Canon EOS / Canon EOS R (Full Frame or APS-C)

Small Flower Macro Photography : Milnerton Cape Town

How To Do Macro and Close-Up Photography

"Macro photography is a genre of photography that focuses on capturing extreme close-up images of small subjects at a high level of detail. It allows photographers to explore and reveal the intricate beauty of subjects that are often overlooked by the naked eye. Close-up photography, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of subjects and can include both macro and non-macro subjects photographed at a closer distance.

To engage in macro and close-up photography effectively, consider the following tips:

1. Macro Lens: Invest in a dedicated macro lens or extension tubes for your camera system. These tools allow you to focus at very close distances and capture fine details. Macro lenses typically have a 1:1 magnification ratio, meaning they reproduce subjects at life-size on the camera's sensor.

2. Depth of Field: When shooting close-ups, depth of field becomes shallow due to the proximity of the subject. To increase the area of sharp focus, use a smaller aperture (higher f-stop number) and consider focus stacking techniques, where multiple images with different focus points are merged in post-processing to create a final image with extended depth of field.

3. Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial in macro photography. Diffused natural light or controlled artificial lighting can help reveal textures and details. Consider using reflectors, diffusers, or portable LED lights to manipulate the lighting conditions. Avoid harsh, direct lighting that may create unwanted shadows or hotspots.

4. Tripod: Given the close focusing distances and potential for camera shake, using a sturdy tripod is highly recommended. It provides stability, reduces vibrations, and allows for precise framing and focusing. A tripod also gives you the flexibility to use slower shutter speeds without introducing blurring caused by camera movement.

5. Manual Focus: Achieving accurate focus can be challenging in macro photography, especially when working with a shallow depth of field. Switching to manual focus and using techniques like focus peaking or magnification in your camera's viewfinder or live view can help ensure critical areas are sharp.

6. Composition: Pay attention to composition when working in close-up photography. Explore different angles, perspectives, and framing to showcase the subject's unique characteristics. Consider the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space to create visually appealing and well-balanced images.

7. Background and Bokeh: A clean and visually appealing background is essential in macro and close-up photography. Use a wide aperture (lower f-stop number) to create a shallow depth of field, which helps separate the subject from the background and creates pleasing bokeh (the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas).

8. Patience and Practice: Macro and close-up photography require patience and practice. Working with small subjects often involves dealing with challenging conditions, such as wind, limited working space, or elusive subjects. Experiment with different techniques, settings, and subjects to develop your skills and create compelling images.

Remember that macro and close-up photography offer a unique perspective on the world, allowing you to capture the intricate details and beauty that often go unnoticed. Have fun exploring this fascinating genre and unleash your creativity in capturing the small wonders around you." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Wild flowers with Canon EOS 6D / EF 70-300mm lens >>

Macro and Close-Up Photography Training Cape Town >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

How to do Long Exposure and Night Photography

Vernon Chalmers Canon Long Exposure and Night Photography

Canon EOS / Canon EOS R (Full Frame or APS-C)

Long Exposure / Night Photography : Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

How To Do Long Exposure and Night Photography

"Long exposure and night photography can create stunning and captivating images by capturing the magic of low light conditions. Here are some tips to help you get started with long exposure and night photography:

1. Use a sturdy tripod: Long exposure and night photography often require slower shutter speeds, which can lead to camera shake and blurry images if not stabilized properly. Invest in a sturdy tripod to keep your camera steady during long exposures.

2. Use a remote shutter release or self-timer: Even with a tripod, pressing the camera's shutter button manually can introduce slight vibrations. To minimize this, use a remote shutter release or set a self-timer to trigger the shutter without touching the camera.

3. Find interesting subjects and compositions: Look for subjects that stand out in low light conditions, such as cityscapes, stars, waterfalls, light trails, or any other elements that can create visual interest. Experiment with different compositions, angles, and perspectives to create unique and engaging images.

4. Set your camera to manual mode: Taking control of your camera settings is crucial for long exposure and night photography. Switch to manual mode to have full control over the exposure settings.

5. Adjust your aperture and ISO: Start by selecting a small aperture (higher f-number) to increase the depth of field and ensure sharpness throughout the image. However, be mindful of diffraction, which can reduce overall image sharpness at very small apertures. Set your ISO to the lowest value possible to minimize digital noise in your images.

6. Experiment with shutter speed: Long exposure photography often involves using slower shutter speeds to capture the desired effect. Start with shutter speeds around a few seconds and adjust as needed. For star trails or capturing the motion of clouds, longer shutter speeds of several minutes or even hours may be required. Use bulb mode or a remote shutter release to have control over the length of the exposure.

7. Focus manually: Autofocus can struggle in low light conditions, so it's often best to switch to manual focus. Use the camera's live view feature to magnify a specific area and manually adjust the focus until it's sharp. Additionally, consider using the hyperfocal distance technique to ensure maximum depth of field.

8. Consider using filters: Depending on the scene and desired effect, filters can be helpful in long exposure and night photography. A neutral density (ND) filter can reduce the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for longer exposures even in brighter conditions. A graduated ND filter can help balance exposure in scenes with a stark contrast between the sky and the foreground.

9. Experiment with light painting: Light painting involves adding light to your scene during a long exposure. You can use a flashlight, LED, or any other light source to selectively illuminate specific elements in the frame. This technique can add a creative and dramatic touch to your images.

10. Shoot in RAW format: Shooting in RAW allows for greater flexibility during post-processing. RAW files contain more data and provide more control over exposure, white balance, and other adjustments.

11. Post-processing: Post-processing is an essential part of long exposure and night photography. Use software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to fine-tune your images, adjust exposure, contrast, white balance, and reduce noise if necessary. Remember to maintain a natural look and avoid over-editing.

As with any genre of photography, practice and experimentation are key. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the unique opportunities that long exposure and night photography offer." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Canon Long Exposure | Night Photography Setup & Tips >>

Learn Landscape and Long Exposure Photography >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

How to do Birds in Flight Photography

Vernon Chalmers Canon Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Canon EOS / Canon EOS R (Full Frame or APS-C)

Red-Knobbed Coot in Flight - Woodbridge Island, Cape Town 

 How To Do Birds in Flight Photography

"Birds in flight photography is a challenging and rewarding genre of wildlife photography that focuses on capturing images of birds while they are airborne. It requires skill, patience, and proper equipment to capture stunning shots of birds in motion. Here are some tips and techniques to help you improve your birds in flight photography:

1. Equipment:

• Camera: Use a camera with a fast autofocus system and a high continuous shooting speed to capture the fast movements of birds.
• Lens: Choose a telephoto lens with a long focal length (300mm or more) to bring the birds closer and isolate them from the background.
• Tripod: While shooting birds in flight, it's best to handhold your camera for flexibility and mobility. However, if you're using a heavy telephoto lens, a sturdy tripod with a gimbal head can provide stability and reduce fatigue.
  
  

2. Camera settings:

• Shutter speed: Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 sec or faster) to freeze the motion of the birds and prevent motion blur.
•  Aperture: Select a wide aperture (low f-number) to achieve a shallow depth of field, which helps isolate the bird from the background and create a pleasing bokeh effect.
• ISO: Set the ISO value to achieve a proper exposure while maintaining image quality. Start with a low ISO and increase it if needed in low-light conditions.
•  Autofocus mode: Use continuous autofocus (AI Servo or AF-C) to track the moving birds. Select a single-point or small-area autofocus mode to maintain focus on the bird's eye.
• Burst mode: Enable the continuous shooting mode to capture a series of shots in quick succession, increasing your chances of getting a sharp image.
  
  

3. Composition and technique:

• Anticipate the action: Study the behavior of birds to anticipate their flight patterns and movements. Position yourself in a location where birds are likely to fly, such as near their nests, feeding areas, or migration routes.
• Tracking the bird: Keep the bird within the autofocus point or zone and track its movement smoothly. Follow through with your motion even after taking the shot to avoid abrupt camera movements.
• Background and lighting: Pay attention to the background and lighting conditions. Look for clean, uncluttered backgrounds that won't distract from the bird. Shoot in soft, warm light during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for pleasing results.
• Experiment with angles: Vary your shooting angles to capture different perspectives. Shoot from low angles or try panning the camera to convey a sense of motion.
  
  

4. Post-processing:

• Review and select: After a bird photography session, review your images and select the best shots based on composition, sharpness, and overall appeal.
• Crop and frame: Use cropping to enhance the composition and remove any distractions. Consider the rule of thirds or other compositional guidelines to create a visually pleasing image.
•  Adjust exposure and colors: Use post-processing software to fine-tune the exposure, contrast, saturation, and colors of your images. Be careful not to overdo the adjustments, aiming for a natural look.
  
  

Remember, birds in flight photography requires practice and persistence. It's essential to respect and observe the birds' behavior without causing any harm or disturbance. Enjoy the process and keep honing your skills to capture stunning images of birds in flight." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Setup and Tips For Canon Birds in Flight Photography >>

Birds in Flight Photography Training Cape Town >>

Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Current Water Levels

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Water Levels

Snapshot - Samsung Galaxy Smartphone

Quick view on the current water levels captured from my desk in my Arnhem home / office (opposite Woodbridge Island, Milnerton).

Over the weekend the water levels in front of the houses on the river bank was right up to the brim - at one stage I thought it could overflow (never really felt / looked like that before in about 10+ years).
It subsided a bit the last 24 hours, but with more torrential rain it could go over the brim and potentially hit the houses. So hopefully there is less rain on the way.

At one stage (over the weekend) it looked if a canoe with a rower inside would not be able to pass underneath the main bridge - unless her or she was lying flat in the canoe.

The Diep River water levels are also looking a bit lower towards Milnerton High and the Paddocks shopping centre. I saw a body of water across the road from the centre over the weekend that I've never seen there ever before.  

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

Peregrine Falcon with Catch Outside My Window

Fastest Bird in the World : The Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine Falcon : Arnhem Milnerton

My closest neighbour, the Peregrine falcon at blistering pace just after catching his lunch (outside my bedroom window).

Miserable light conditions, but exited to see him in flight – in any light or distance. He still sleeps the majority of nights just outside my bathroom window. The light there never get switched on at night…

From Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town (opposite Woodbridge Island)

Canon Camera / Lens Settings

• Canon EOS 7D Mark II
• EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens
• Manual Mode
• Auto-ISO: 3200
• Aperture: f/5.6
• Shutter Speed: 1/3200
• AI Servo: Case 1: Wide Zone
• 10 fps High Speed Continuous Mode
• Handheld

Lightroom Post-Processing
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC 

The Peregrine Falcon: Fastest Bird in the World >>

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

Learning Photography in the Comfort of your own Home / Garden

Private Nature Photography Training Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Birdlife and Carden Photography Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

Cape Bulbul : Small Garden Bird Photography in Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Canon EOS / EOS R / Powershot Camera and Photography Training Sessions across the Cape Peninsula.

I recently started an initiative where I travel to clients for facilitating my private Canon Camera / Photography Training Sessions in the comfort of their own homes and / or garden environments.

This type of training is most suitable for garden birds, butterfly and flower photography. Many other close-up subjects will also be discussed and / or photographed. Practical training sessions could be in-house / in the garden or at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden (also for incorporating some landscape photography if required). Birds in Flight photography training practical will depend on proximity to areas where there are birds in flight to photograph. Birds in Flight sessions at Woodbridge Island could also be worked into a private programme (if required).

Morning training sessions are always recommended, but other options are also available.

Flower and Nature Photography in Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Private Photography Training Costs
The costs for any traveling training is the same as offered in my studio at Milnerton with an added cost-effective / pro-rata traveling cost for covering fuel expenses. Individual traveling costs will be calculated relevant to client address distance from my studio in Milnerton. Morning training sessions are always recommended, but other options are also available.

From R800 per 4 hour session for Canon EOS / EOS R photographers. Rates for Canon Powershot photographers will always be slightly less - specific cost will depending on the PowerShot camera used. This is the same rate structure as used in-studio in Milnerton / Woodbridge Island. Practical shooting sessions will be integrated into the training.

A typical training programme of three training sessions (x 4 to 5 hours) For EOS / EOS R cameras is R2 350 (excluding traveling costs). One or two longer sessions may also be considered. 

Home / Garden Photography Training also offered as Photography Training Gift Vouchers 

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Gift Vouchers Cape Town >>

Small Flower Garden Photography in Constantia, Cape Town 

Small Group Photography Workshops Cape Town / Cape Peninsula:

Small group photography workshops of i.e. 2 to 5+ delegates with Canon EOS / EOS R / PowerShot cameras and lenses) are also options (if it can be arranged by the group). Logistics, location and other costs will be calculated to make it more cost-effective per delegate. Please note during these workshops Canon PowerShot photographers will pay the same rate as all other delegates (with EOS / EOS R cameras).

Contact Vernon Chalmers via this website (email or Facebook Message) for more information.

Vernon Chalmers Photography WhatsApp Number: 060 887 8087 / Direct link: wa.me/27608878087

Garden Butterfly Photography in Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Photography Training / Learning Objectives

Tailor-made (individual / small group) learning programmes are prepared for specific Canon EOS R / EOS DSLR / PowerShot camera and photography requirements with the following broad objectives:

• Individual Needs / Gear Analysis
• Canon EOS Camera Menus / Settings
• Exposure Settings and Options
• Specific Genre Application(s) and Skills Development
• Practical Shooting Sessions
• Adobe Lightroom post-processing training (if required)
• Recommendations of future equipment
• Ongoing training / skills development support

Photography Private Training Sessions Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

• Introduction to Photography / Canon Cameras More
• Bird / Flower Photography Kirstenbosch More
• Birds in Flight / Bird Photography Training More
• Canon Speedlite Flash Photography Training More
• Macro / Close-Up Photography More
• Landscape / Long Exposure Photography More
• Real Estate / Interior Décor Photography Training More
• Samsung Galaxy Smartphone Photography Training More
• Digital Workflow / Lightroom Post-Processing More

Small Garden Flower Photography in Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

More Garden Birds and Flowers Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Southern Double-Collared Sunbird Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Cape Town

Small Flower with Water Drop : Macro Lens Photography

Arum Lilies : Larger Garden / Nature Reserve Photography

Garden Close-Up Macro Photography Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Dusky Flycatcher : Small Bird Garden Photography Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

Small Flower Photography Training Cape Town / Cape Peninsula
 
Canon EOS / Canon EOS R / Canon PowerShot Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town | Across the Cape Peninsula

Vernon Chalmers Birds / Flower Photography Training, Cape Town

All Images Copyright / Intellectual Property of Vernon Chalmers More Information >>

'Mood and Light...' from the Royal Cape Yacht Club

Captured with a Samsung Galaxy Smartphone

Royal Cape Yacht Club, Cape Town

Jigsaw at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, Cape Town

A good friend of mine recently send me these images from the Royal Cape Yacht Club of his yacht - Jigsaw - currently in drydock (undergoing maintenance).

This image was captured with his Samsung smartphone to show the progress a few days ago - I saw so much more in the frame.

The balance of mood and light was so well captured by Stan.

A good exposure is sometimes right in front of us and no fancy camera equipment is required to fill the
frame with a special story.

Image Copyright: Stan Salter

Samsung Galaxy A12
Royal Cape Yacht Club (RCYC)
Cape Town

Published with permission.

Jigsaw at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, Cape Town

Onboard Jigsaw - 'Through the Portlight' : Royal Cape Yacht Club Cape Town

"An unique depth perspective most people / photographers will most likely not have regular access to. I like the 'lay low' look and feel the image is portraying (amongst the busyness of the relaxed environment - quite a contrast) - and of course, the colours..." - Vernon Chalmers

Table Mountain with Samsung Galaxy Smartphone

Samsung Galaxy Smartphone Camera App Photgraphy

First Samsung Galaxy Smartphone image as an Vernon Chalmers Photgraphy Training Facebook Page cover image. I’m not moving away from any Canon EOS / EOS R Photography – just adding Samsung Galaxy Camera App photography to my photography training services (for applicable genres).

Created with a Quad Camera, A22 Samsung Galaxy, over the Diep River, Woodbridge Island.

Exposure Settings:

• ISO: 50
• Aperture: f1/8
• Shutter Speed: 1/120s
• Focal Length: 4.65mm
• White Balance: Auto

Edited in Adobe Lightroom CC

Original Vernon Chalmers Samsung Photography Source / Reference

What is Photography? - According to ChatGPT

 Using ChatGPT to Provide an AI-inspired  "What is Photography? Question

What is Photography?  Camera / Image Generated by AI : Source Pixabay *

Using ChatGPT as an Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbot to provide an answer to the basic question of 'What is Photgraphy?' - logged in as Vernon Chalmers (for the Vernon Chalmers Photography Website).

Question asked in ChatGPT: What is Photography?

ChatGPT Answer / Response:

"Photography is the art, science, and practice of capturing and creating images using a camera or other photographic devices. It involves using various techniques to record and reproduce light and its patterns, resulting in visual representations of objects, people, places, or events.

The word "photography" is derived from the Greek words "photos" (meaning light) and "graphé" (meaning drawing or writing). Essentially, photography is the process of drawing or writing with light. Through the manipulation of light, photographers can create compelling and expressive images.

Photography can be pursued as a hobby, a form of artistic expression, or a professional career. It encompasses a wide range of genres and styles, including landscape photography, portrait photography, wildlife photography, street photography, fashion photography, and many more.

Over time, photography has evolved significantly, primarily due to advancements in technology. With the advent of digital cameras and smartphones, photography has become more accessible to a larger number of people. Digital photography allows for instant image capture, editing, and sharing, revolutionizing the way we create and consume photographs.

Photography involves not only capturing images but also understanding composition, lighting, exposure, and post-processing techniques. Skilled photographers have a keen eye for detail, a sense of aesthetics, and a mastery of the technical aspects of their equipment.

Whether capturing fleeting moments, documenting events, conveying emotions, or exploring creative visions, photography serves as a powerful medium for storytelling and visual communication. It has the ability to evoke emotions, inspire, inform, and preserve memories for generations to come."

ChatGPT Source: https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha

Open IA ChatGPT Version: GPT-4

* Image Source: Image created by Artificial Intelligence (AI) from Pixabay (Copyright-Free)