Owen Biddle
Photo School
photo by Joe Stode
August Photo Newsletter
Up Close and Personal: Zoom in
““If your pictures aren't good enough, you aren't close enough.” ~ Robert Capa
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July Photo Contest
Shutter Speed: Capturing Motion
Click on thumbnail to see full image
First Place
Bob Turner
Second Place
Cassandra Walwendah
Third Place
Nan Feyler
photo by Joe Strode
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Dear Reader,
Perspective and framing have been on our minds. You can think of three axes of perspective, depending on the movable point from which you view the subject; the point of perspective (i.e. you and your camera) can shift from left to right, or from up above to down below, or from far away to close up. Each adjustment of perspective results in a different framing - one of the most important parts of composing an image.
The next three newsletters we will devote to the near-to-far dimension, each month taking on one step on this journey along the distance axis: close-up, middle ground and distant.
This month we start with close up photography (not macro). We will see how getting really close to your subject can be a very powerful compositional tool and create truly compelling images.
Distance makes a difference
The long view gives context, putting a subject in a setting and providing a lot of detailed information. Deep space creates an expansive and open feeling.
Middle ground moves in on the subject, making it the obvious center of interest that dominates the picture.
Close up zeros right in on the subject, eliminating most or all of the background. Positive/negative space adds new compositional interest. And getting so close to the subject creates a feeling of intimacy.
photo by Owen Biddle
photo by Owen Biddle
In this workshop you will learn how using manual focus and focus points allows for capturing clear images even as the distance diminishes between camera and subject. And you will experiment with the compositional potentials - eliminating confusing backgrounds, isolating wonderful details, playing with positive and negative space and venturing into new levels of abstraction.
First session: discussion of technique and compositon
Monday, 8/17 7:00 - 8:30
Second session: Show your work from the intervening week
Monday, 8/24 7:00 - 8:30
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Photo Field Trip
If you move in very close you are suddenly in the realm of abstract photography, where line, shape, color, and texture take over and your subject moves to second place, or may even be unidentifiable. We have picked out many spots in our town that are perfect for trying out close-up abstractions. Come give it a try! It's fun!
Saturday, 8/15 9:00 - 11:00
photo by Owen Biddle
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photo by Elliott Erwitt
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August Photo Contest
Getting Close (Not Macro)
Show us what happens when you really move in on subject.
Limit of three images per entry.
Deadline August 25
Email your images to: owenbiddlephotography@gmail.com
The winning photos will be featured in our next Photo Newsletter.
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Sunday, August 16 2:00 -3:30*
(*note: this is a change from our last notification)
These are very friendly, relaxed get-togethers in our apartment in Havertown. (Please note: this is a new location - be sure to RSVP to get address and directions) Photographers of all levels are welcome to share pictures, get photography tips, and discuss camera equipment. You can also get ideas for entering photography contests, submitting to photography magazines and having photo shows. Feedback from the group provides encouragement and inspiration to go out and take more pictures. These informal photography critiques offer an excellent opportunity to start identifying themes in your work and to get ideas for new directions. Group size is limited, so if you can come an RSVP is required by email or call (610) 626-7854. Cost is $10.
Check out our online Photo Salon
https://www.facebook.com/groups/owenbiddlephotosalon
Our purpose is to provide an online place for our community to stay in touch, stay inspired and get out there and keep snapping. You can post pictures and get feedback, ask photo questions, make suggestions etc.
DSLR and Mirrorless Fundamentals Tutorials
Below are descriptions of the basic units of our curriculum available to students ranging from beginner to advanced. Most units are five lessons and include a set of assignments designed to give practice in targeted skills with opportunities to get feedback from the instructor so that you learn from your experiences.
Just give a call and we can set up individual sessions to keep you moving forward with your photography.
Call (610)-626-7854 for details.
(click on links for more information)
Fundamentals 1: Camera Operations is for students who are just starting out, or want a good review of the basic camera functions.
Fundamentals 2: Applications is for students who have some comfort with the camera and want to start applying their skills to expand their photographic range.
Fundamentals 3: Composition takes photography beyond the subject, and encourages you to see the artistic and compositional opportunities in everyday life. Here is a chance for your right brain to come out and play!
Fundamentals 4: Lighting Across the Genres is for students who are ready for the next critical step: lighting. Explore sophisticated means of controlling both natural and artificial light for portraits, landscape and still life to get just the mood and effects you want.
Advanced Photography - Using self-generated assignments and in-depth critiques we will help you move forward in your work.
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Not a photo but....
in this pop-art painting, Roy Lichtenstein (1923 - 1997) shows us the impact of moving in close.
photo by Dhyan Cassie
ODE of A HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER
by Dhyan Cassie
I am stalwart, proud, humble, faithful,
hopeless and sad. What a waste! I hang in the heat,
The pouring rain . The wind buffets me until I feel I will break in two.
And for what? An ant crawls up my side. A bee hovers around. A
hummingbird might disdain to take a quick – very quick – peck at my
fresh nectar of sugar water.
But when the one who hung me here squeals with pleasure as a hummingbird alights...
Maybe it is worth it all.
We Are So Proud....
We are so proud of Dennis. A relatively new photographer, he has a great eye and a knack for letting his subject fill the frame.
photo by Dennis Kilson Jr
Book Recommendation
If you want tips on getting wonderful pictures of you baby, you can't beat this book by Nick Kelsh. And you'll see his key piece of advice: "getting closer with your camera and your heart"
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Photo Tip of the Month
Get Close
photo by Lynn Eustace
What happens when you get close to your subject - really close? We have selected a series of images to show how zooming in can transform your pictures. From portraits, to buildings, nature and abstractions, the up close perspective is irresistable, compelling us to stop, look and consider.
