Still Photography

Moved to Wordpress!

2009-11-14T16:21:00.001-05:00

So I have officially moved to wordpress. I will still be updating this blog, but not as much as I have been recently. Check out my wordpress at http://www.astillphotography.wordpress.com. Thanks guys :)

Study Abroad

2009-11-04T08:06:00.003-05:00

So Mrs. Harkins told us yesterday about our study abroad trip and I have to say I am sooooo excited. We are going to be going to Austria, Italy, and Germany. I am hoping that I will be able to go on the trip, but I know its going to cost me a big chunk of change. I better start saving now!! I think I am most excited about going to Milan, the fashion capital of the world. Whenever I here of Milan I always think about fashion, and since I love fashion photography I think that will be the highlight of the trip for me.

Dorothy O-Connor

2009-11-03T22:34:00.003-05:00

I was looking through ACP (Atlanta Celebrates Photography) and I ran across Dorothy O'Connor. I was looking through her stuff and the photographs that caught my attention were the "scenes" photography. Above is one of the favorite images from her. Check her out here.

Feature Picked

2009-11-03T20:53:00.005-05:00

So this is the photograph that Mrs. Finch picked for my feature. Definitely not my favorite but I guess it works. I was continuously watching this guy and I guess I got a decent picture of him. I am hoping that I will be able to pull out a good grade on this one.

Class Tomorrow

2009-11-02T23:38:00.004-05:00

So tomorrow in class we will be working on our set for the GTC Holiday Portraits. The set is coming along great but we still have a lot of work ahead of us. Day group took Mrs. Harkins shopping today for some items that we needed for the set. Tomorrow, I am guessing that we will be putting all those items into use. I am so excited to have this set finish and be able to start shooting next week. I can't believe it is so soon. It honestly feels like yesterday when we first started talking about what we wanted the set to look like. It is going to be a beautiful set when it is all said and done.

Dog Photography: Erin Vey

2009-11-02T22:29:00.001-05:00

Animal photography has always been a great interest of mine so I decided to do some research and look at animal photographers. I came across Erin Vey and fell in love with her work. She is a lifestyle dog photographer, which means she basically shoots dogs in their everyday environment, which is able to bring out their personality. Check out her blog here or her portfolio here.

Mike Rosenthal

2009-11-01T21:43:00.003-05:00

Ever since I saw Mike Rosenthal on America's Next Top Model, I have been a huge fan of his work. He is an awesome fashion photographer and also does some great commercial shots. Check out his work and his portfolio here.

Fall

2009-11-01T20:59:00.003-05:00

Fall has always been my favorite season. The amazing red, oranges, and yellows of the trees makes me so happy and free! Today, before I left to go shoot my feature I decided to go shoot some of the fall weather. This is one of the images I came out with. I like the image, but I feel as if I could do a lot better.

Pride and Non-Prejudice

2009-11-01T17:53:00.001-05:00

So I went to Gay Pride Atlanta today searching for my feature and I am hoping that I have gotten it. It was seriously some of the most fun I have had in a long while. I meet some great people and had some great conversation. I will definitely be going back next year. Drag queens, foam pits, and Delta flight attendants...all in a days work. Check out a few more of my Pride photographs here.

Landscape Photography

2009-10-31T22:12:00.001-04:00

One of the reasons why I became so interested in photography was beautiful landscapes and the amazing images that you see everywhere. I have always wondered "How did that person get such an amazing photograph?". Why does landscape photography always catch your eye and make you go "ooohhh" and "awww" and "gorgeous"? So thinking about those questions, I decided to look for some tips on what I could do to enhance my landscape photography. I came across this fact-filled video on YouTube by Karl Taylor, who has shown to be an amazing landscape photographer. Check it out.

So Long SB-900

2009-10-31T17:28:00.000-04:00

I am seriously saddened that I will not be able to afford the SB-900 Flash right now. I was so excited to get this flash, and now I feel like a little kid who woke up on Christmas morning with no presents under the tree, disappointed. I decided to save some money and go with the SB-600, save about $250. The SB-600 got 4 out of 5 stars which is an amazing review but the SB-900 got 5 out of 5 stars. I was really looking forward to that 5th star. Oh well, maybe next year.

This is what I get to look forward to now. I don't mean to not sound excited, believe me I am, but 900 just sounds so much better than 600...don't you agree?
.

HDR Photography... One of the loves of my life

2009-10-30T08:25:00.001-04:00

Last year, while I was at school, I discovered HDR photography and fell in love. I love the idea of being able to take multiple exposures and combine them all into one image to create the perfectly exposed image. Below is a video showing a few HDR images and explaining a little bit about HDR photography.

How to Photography a Rock Band

2009-10-29T22:34:00.000-04:00

I have always been very interested in the music side of photography and how music comes into play. I came across an article on Popphoto titled "How to Photography A Rock Band" and I got all the answers that I needed.

1. Find a site

2. Plan well

3. Pose each person...

and if you want to know more just check out this article.

Digital Pioneers Win Nobel Prize

2009-10-29T15:07:00.000-04:00

I was looking through PDN earlier today and I came across this article talking about Williard S. Boyle and George E. Smith winning a Nobel Prize. The first thought that came across my mind was finally. The pioneers of digital photography finally get recognized for their amazing invention, an invention that change my world completely. To read more about this, just go here.

Jason Christopher

2009-10-29T09:39:00.000-04:00

I came across this amazing fashion photographer Jason Christopher. His use of light and his talent is motivating. Check out his portfolio here. You can also check out his blog here.

Night Photography...How to!

2009-10-28T21:53:00.000-04:00

So I have always been interested in night photography and I found a short video that explains some of the obstacles that people have. Check it out here.

Fill Flash Assignment

2009-10-28T12:38:00.001-04:00

So for photojournalism class we are having to do an assignment dealing with fill flash. Basically fill flash is "filling a space" with a flash on top of your camera. I have already pretty much decided that I want to get the SB 900 Nikon flash but I have to get it before I do this assignment, which put a short time frame on the delivery of the flash. So basically right now I am FREAKING out about getting the flash in time. But I am also excited about this assignment because it will teach me how to use a flash which I have been needing to learn. Basically fill flash will do this for your image which is a great difference.

Feature

2009-10-28T10:57:00.001-04:00

So since I was unable to go to the 3-day walk this past weekend, I am still in need of a picture for my feature assignment. I have decided that I am going to go to my first Gay Pride Atlanta for a photo opportunity. I am actually pretty excited about this opportunity and I can't wait for this weekend. To top it all of it is going to Halloween weekend so there should be so pretty interesting costumes.

Its actually working!

2009-10-27T20:23:00.004-04:00

So I decided to search my name on google and see if I was number one on the list. A week ago I was number 6 and I was hoping that this web that Mr. Jones said that we are going to create was working. And the verdict is...

I am number 1!! Its actually working.

Coppi Barbieri

2009-10-27T17:01:00.001-04:00

I came across this amazing high-fashion photographer today named Coppi Barbieri. I was looking through her portfolio and I was in awe by her work. Check her out here. Above is a few of her images.

Sick

2009-10-27T13:43:00.001-04:00

So today I was unable to go to school because of being sick. I hate being sick and it hardly ever happens to me. But, I guess its got to happen occasionally. I am going to have to make it to school tomorrow, no matter if I feel better or not, because I have so much stuff to do. I know this stress probably is not helping out that much but I guess its what comes with school and work.

Flash Flash Flash

2009-10-26T22:51:00.002-04:00

So I have been researching on a new flash for my Nikon camera and I came across the new Nikon SB 900 Speedlight. I found a review on Pop Photo and I think I have decided that this is the flash that I want. Even though the flash is considered bulky, I have read many good reviews about it. Christmas present...maybe.? :)

Holiday Portraits

2009-10-24T16:14:00.005-04:00

As I have said before, Gwinnett Technical College (the school that I attend, majoring in photography) is having Holiday Portraits at the school. Gwinnett Tech has opened their doors for anyone and everyone who would like to have a family portrait and at an affordable price, which has not been completely figured out yet. But the set this year is not going to be just like any other set. Me and my other classmates decided that we wanted to do somewhat of a whimsical set, kind of like a Dr. Seuss Christmas, with lots of over-sized presents and a tree and ornaments. I just wanted to show a few examples of what the set with "kind-of" look like. I have a feeling that its going to be a great year for the Gwinnett Tech Photography Department.

3-Day Walk Update

2009-10-24T14:36:00.012-04:00

I am very upset that I was not able to go to the breast cancer 3-day walk. The rain completely ruined my day and work did also. I was looking forward to this walk so much but I guess there is always next year. Here is a Youtube video on why the Breast Cancer 3-Day was created.

Nick Veasey's...Different but Interesting Photography

2009-10-22T23:47:00.003-04:00

So today I was looking on PDN tonight going through some articles to keep up with the present news. I came across this article about Nick Veasey and his amazing x-ray vision photography. This type of photography is not a very common type of photography but I am in awe of what some of his images look like. Nick Veasey will photography anything that he comes across and can turn it into an amazing photography. Check him out here and also read this article on this guys awesome talent.

Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk

2009-10-21T19:11:00.010-04:00

This weekend I am going to go shoot the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk. The 3-day walk is when thousands of women and men come together and raise money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. The walkers that are involved in this walk over 60 miles over the course of three days. 85% of the earnings from this event go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the remaining 15% goes to the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. I am very excited for this event because there is a possibility of a great feature and is also a great event for a very big cause. Amy Andoe might be joining me also on this little exploration.

Holiday Portraits Blog...Up and Running!!

2009-10-21T10:44:00.007-04:00

The holiday portraits blog is up and running for this year. Ana Doemland will be running it. Check it out to see updates on Holiday Portraits at Gwinnett Tech here. Gwinnett Technical College every year does Holiday portraits for families at an affordable price. This year we are creating a whimsical set, kind of like a Dr. Seuss Christmas. I am very excited for it, although it is going to be tons of work.

To-Do List for Today

2009-10-21T09:40:00.004-04:00

I have created a to-do list for the day. I am hoping that I will be able to accomplish everything.

-Print my children's portrait

-Print low key contact sheets

-Get low key picture approved

-Edit children's photos

-Edit low key photos

Off to start the to do list...

Photojournalism Feature

2009-10-21T08:14:00.006-04:00

So I have decided that I am going to the festival that my mom is selling her pottery at to try and get my feature. I am hoping that I will be able to come out with something good. If not, I have many other choices but that is that one that I am hoping will work out for me.

Business Card...for my mom!

2009-10-20T17:33:00.003-04:00

So my mom will be selling some of her pottery this weekend and she was wanting to create a business card that she would be able to hand out. I decided that I would help her and this is what I came up with. I know its not the greatest thing ever but my mom loves it and that is all that matters :).

Flickr Account!

2009-10-20T17:28:00.007-04:00

So I finally have a flickr account. So far I have only uploaded ten of my favorite images. Soon I will have many images up and I am excited. I will definitely keep you posted. Check it out here.

Low Key Shoot... Check!

2009-10-20T13:33:00.005-04:00

So today went really well... although I did not feel that great today. Above is one of the shots that I got from the photo shoot with Amy Andoe. I am actually very happy with it. Thank you Amy for "smiling with your eyes".

Shoot tomorrow

2009-10-19T23:55:00.004-04:00

Well today was eventful. Went to the hospital, they told me it was just migrane headaches that was causing my blurry vision and neck tension. But I still have to go to school tomorrow and do this shoot, which I am still excited about. I just hope everything goes well and this migrane is still not there tomorrow. My head is pounding. Ouch.

Feature Assignment

2009-10-19T14:58:00.004-04:00

Over the past few days I have been thinking about what I am wanting to shoot for my feature and many ideas have gone through my mind. The idea that I think I like the most is going to my aunts old folks home and seeing what I can get out of that. If not there is going to be a festival that my mom is going to and I can see about that also. I think I am going to enjoy this features assignment.

Shopping for latest Photo Shoot

2009-10-18T19:12:00.003-04:00

So today I went to go shopping for my photo shoot on tuesday and I had the best time shopping for it. Even though I only had to get a couple of items, it was still tons of fun looking through all the Halloween stuff. I swear, Halloween is one of the best holidays of the year. I got a pair of silver and green fake eyelashes and also another pair of blue and black eyelashes for Amy Andoe to wear. All I need to find now is a black scarf to put around her head. Yay for Wal-mart!

Low Key Assignment Approved :)

2009-10-18T15:20:00.003-04:00

I am now so excited for my low key assignment. I turned in my thumbnails to Harkins. She approved the one where Amy Andoe is going to be dressed up kind of like a muslim. I will have a black scarf around her head and only leave her eyes and the top of her nose showing. And I am finally going to be able to do someones makeup for a shoot, which I love doing. I am going to be putting fake eyelashes on Amy and also doing her makeup very bright and vivid colors, like golds, oranges, and greens to bring out the green in her eyes. Wish me luck!!! I might need it.

Update on High Key/Low Key

2009-10-14T08:03:00.001-04:00

After tossing and turning all night in bed, I decided to do something productive and figure out some ideas of what I wanted to do for high key/low key. Hopefully I have come up with some good ideas and Mrs. Harkins will approve of one or two of them.

High Key/Low Key

2009-10-13T20:49:00.001-04:00

I am having a really hard time thinking about what I want to shoot for my high key/low key assignment. I am pretty sure that I want to shoot something low key...but I just cannot decide what kind of "theme" i would like to have...Ugh. This is going to be a hard one.

Childrens Photography. Big Success

2009-10-13T16:28:00.004-04:00

I am sooo happy with the outcome my childrens portraits from today. Joshua did great and was very well behaved. Thank you Joshua!

Tomorrows the big day....

2009-10-12T23:04:00.005-04:00

Children Photography...Oh how long I have been waiting on this day. I love kids and I am soo excited to bring in my cousin Joshua. He is one of the most adorable blond hair, blued eyed little boys I have ever met. Hopefully little Joshua will be on his best behavior tomorrow though. Wish me luck :)

This is a picture of little Joshua. Please please please be good for me tomorrow :)

Georgia Jersey, Black face paint... and a lot of work

2009-10-12T01:00:00.007-04:00

Today I went shopping for my children photoshoot. I went to great ole' Wal-Mart to start my shopping. One item I had on my list was a youth Georgia Jersey....

...Check.

Next on my list was a black backdrop which I ended up just buying a King Size flat bedsheet. I also had to find a football... a junior size football...

...Check.
And last item that I went shopping for was black face paint or black sticky strips that the NFL players wear under their eyes. Like this...

...Check.

All in all, it was a great day of shopping and shooting. I feel as if I got a lot accomplished today and I love days like today.

Sports Updated

2009-10-12T00:39:00.003-04:00

So, I luckily found a game today at Central Park to shoot for Photojournalism class. The game that I found was an adult soccer game and I have to say, it was a very interesting experience. I got a few good shots and I am happy with some of the results that I got. I meet a few great people at the game also and hopefully I will continue to know those people.

Sports

2009-10-11T13:55:00.002-04:00

Today I am going to be going to several parks around town in search of some softball, soccer, or football games. Hopefully I will be able to come out with some shots. Wish me luck :)

Animal Photography

2009-10-08T16:04:00.005-04:00

This past week at school we had "bring your pet into school day" and shoot animal photography for the first time. Lets just say it was an interesting experience. Pepper, my dog :), did an amazing job and I got so really good shots out of it. Although Pepper did not like the cowboy hat that I put on her too much, I still liked a couple of the shots that I got out of it. Deanna Washington decided to bring in a baby piglet. I swear I have never heard an animal squeal soooo loud. All in all though it was a great day and great experience.

I am now officially a blogger :)

2009-09-30T20:20:00.003-04:00

Yay! My first post as an official blogger!! I decided to post the photo that I am going to be hanging at the Push-Pin Show at Piedmont Park Community Center. I am so excited. My first photography that I am hanging! Off to finish the homework...