Archive for the ‘Business’ Category

Buying a Flash?

Tuesday, August 26th, 2008

I just got this email and I thought I’d answer it on the blog and let everyone share their input.

HI Noemi,

I am a very amateur photographer whose only talent is having a nice camera. I try to use natural light whenever possible, and there are times - like at dusk when my husband is playing with my son before bed - that I’d love to take some pictures, but tend not to because the way the flash on my camera looks. I’m looking to get what I would call an ‘add on’ flash for my Canon Digital Rebel XTI and don’t know where to start. I’m looking for something that looks like natural light, is somewhat lightweight, and doesn’t cost a ton. I started to look on B&H but got lost in the technical jargon and am wondering if you could shed some light on this for me. I really appreciate your input as I really respect your work!
Thank you,
Tania

Ok. This is a hard question for me because I avoid using flash anytime I can. But at ceremony’s and reception’s I have to…so I do. I use the Canon 580EX with the Garg Fong diffuser and I like the results I get but I paid about $600 for the combo. AND THAT’S PROBABLY NOT THE ANSWER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR, right? So, here’s some cheaper ways you can diffuse your flash. Buy an attachable diffuser that fits your model. Tell the sales clerk you want to natural light in low light situations and see what he suggests. I’ve seen a few types (ranging $20 to $50) and I’m sure they all work the same. It will help to avoid harsh flash especially on skin tone.

One thing I used to do when I shot with a pop-up flash was put foggy-colored scotch tape over the light…it worked as a low budget/last minute fix.

I hope this helps.

www.noemiphotography.com

I changed my mind…

Friday, August 22nd, 2008

I found the camera I’m going to get!!! It looks amazing! check this out…

  • 10.1 Megapixel
  • 5x Wide-angle Optical Zoom
  • 3″ Touch-screen LCD Dispaly
  • MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer)
  • High Sensitivity (ISO 1600)
  • Intelligent ISO Control
  • Advanced GUI with Hybrid Control System
  • iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode
  • High-Definition Video Recording

I LOVE THE High Def Video feature and the reviews look great! I’m sure there’s a ton of comparable choices but I’m looking for great video and camera together. Anyone have this camera? I’d love to hear your feedback.

www.noemiphotography.com

What camera to buy????

Wednesday, August 20th, 2008

We’ve talked on this blog about professional cameras before but I thought this readers question would be worth sharing with everyone.

Hi Noemi:

Our pathetic little Sony digital camera has bit the dust after 6 years. Can you spend a blog entry asking people for suggestions and / or discuss yourself what someone like me might want to consider in purchasing a new camera in this day and age? I would like something that I could develop artistically with, and yet I don’t have a massive budget. We want to be able to take good snapshots of the kids etc. and I want to photograph my garden and take photos of things I could use in graphic design projects.

Thanks,
Rachel

Here’s what I’m thinking…

If you want the camera for personal use (ie: vacations, family photos, kids sports, flowers etc.) then get the latest version of the Canon Powershot. It’s been rated very high and I’ve known people who have it and love how easy it is and how great it takes pictures. I love that it’s compact and you would actually take it with you without worrying about the bulk or heaviness. AND I love that you have the ability to make short videos. Especially with young kids…it’s great to be able to send them to family. (I’m totally talking myself into getting one of these cameras!!!)

If you want a starter DSLR then I’d go with the Canon Rebel XTi or the Nikon D40 (I think…I’m not sure cause I only use Canon) Both are new and have incredible features borrowed from higher end cameras. It’s not going to have any delay when you take a shot and give you the practice you need to advance to a more professional camera.

I hope this helps.

www.noemiphotography.com

Photography Question

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008

One of my readers comment on the blog a couple of days ago and I wanted to answer her question for everyone.

Hi Noemi-

I love these pictures. My favorite is the one where she is walking down the stairs which lead me to thinking that you probably have great ideas on the best places to get married or to take wedding pictures. What have been your favorites?

The very simple honest answer is I love to capture brides (and entire weddings) in new locations. Not necessarily new in years but new to me. There’s nothing better then walking into a situation and being forced to be creative in a new way. I love the high and challenge of it! I have to assess light, possible angles, foreground and background, natural reflections and most of all…what’s flattering to the subject. Oooooh, I love it!

Sometimes I’ll go to places I’ve been to shoot but when I do I challenge myself to not use the background or light in the same way.  ‘m a strong believer in pushing yourself so that you’re always creating…I don’t ever want to be predictable.

www.noemiphotography.com

Photography question

Monday, June 9th, 2008

I received this email this week and wanted to answer it for everyone:

Hi Noemi.

 I have been reading your blog everyday for the past year.  You are an amazing photographer.  I have been inspired by your talents.  I recently volunteered to take photos of my sons’ baseball teams.  I’m not sure if I have gotten in over my head or not.  Do you have any tips on how I can get some great photos of the team.  Thank you for taking your time to read this.

 Amy

Well, getting in over your head is an essential part to being stretched in your creativity! I applaud you for taking on the task and I think you’ll have tons of fun doing it! Here’s my suggestions:

-use or borrow a telephoto lens (it’ll help you get close up shots with out running all over the field)

-capture the team before, during and after the game (it’ll give more of the photojournalistic feel to your shots)

-don’t be afraid to let them pose (eg. showing off their muscles or giving each other rabbit ears or laughing hysterically)

-get different angles (try and get the shot from the view from the bench, bleachers, home plate and the field OR go as low as you can, then take shots from the highest point you can)

-capture other stuff too (it’s great to get family and friends in shots - especially if you want to post the pictures and even sell them as a fund raiser for next years team)

I hope this helps,

Noemi

www.noemiphotography.com