Owen Biddle
Photo School
photo by Eric Kattes
February Photo Newsletter
Studio Works
Dear Photographers,
We often get calls from individuals hoping to bring their skills to the next level with the goal of doing studio work. We always caution them that professional commercial photography demands advanced skills and the field is very competitive. But for those who accept the challenge and put in the hard work, the journey is exciting and stimulating, and the results gratifying.
This month we explore the essential skills needed to produce outstanding studio photographs, with an emphasis on using these skills to create images that capture your individual style and the unique personalities of your subjects.
photo by Owen Biddle
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Photo Field Trips
Asian Collection at the Art Museum
This new trip is designed to share the excitement we've discovered by looking at the art from Asia. Our museum has a wonderful collection of Asian art, from delicate vases and household items of China, wonderful scroll paintings of Japan, monumental temple sculptures of India, a grouping of Japanese houses and rock gardens, gorgeously serene Buddahs of Cambodia and much much more. Interesting lighting conditions will provide opportunities to experiment with exposure and white balance while incorporating an entirely new esthetic into your photography.
Saturday February 4 10:00 - 12:00
This museum, now returned to its original European appearance, is a rich destination for photographers. We will start by photographing Rodin’s powerful and moving sculptures, both indoors and outdoors. The site also offers wonderful architecture and landscaping. A perfect opportunity to explore how black and white can unify many elements: live people viewing stone sculptures, vegetation against architecture etc.
Location: Philadelphia
Saturday February 18 10:00 - 12:00
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Not a photo, but ...
This studio of Courbet (1819 - 1877) is a contrast to our technology-filled photo studios of today, but still shows concern with lighting and space, subject and background....
Online Photo Salon
Check out this facebook link and join the group. 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. What do you say???
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By the way....
if you have something you'd like to announce to our community, such as an upcoming show, a book, a photo contest, a newly discovered photographer, let us know and we'll do our best to include it in our newsletter. Input from our readers is always welcome.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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Pennsylvania Resources Council Anti-Litter Photo Contest
PA residents are encouraged to submit photos showing how litter threatens public health and safety, scenic beauty, property values, the environment and wildlife. Entries are judged on the criteria of anti-litter message, originality, photographic technique, quality of photo, originality of title and severity of the litter. First ($500), second ($250) and third place ($100) prizes are in 2 categories: adult and student (through 12th Grade). For more information, see: https://prc.org/programs/projects/lens-litter/
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New Book by Ray Schneider
To see like a photographer is to perceive well. To perceive well is to merge one's feeling world with one's thinking world. In this broad collection of over 60 black and white photos sequenced alongside insightful quotes from famous photographers and artists, Ray Schneider takes us on an exploratory photographic journey of perception. From intimate portraits to expansive landscapes to mindful scenes of everyday life, "What the Photographer Sees" communicates the unique power of black and white photography and shows us how the integration of technical skill with heartfelt sensitivity makes images more interesting, moving, and memorable.
The Shoestring Studio
Some of us are lucky enough to have access to a big, fully equipped studio, but most don't have that possibility. Fear not! You too can achieve control over lighting, background and framing and take completely professional pictures. In this workshop we will share tips for assembling lighting equipment on a budget, maximizing the potential of small spaces and inventive ways to handle backgrounds. We will then go into technical matters and compositional considerations essential to getting those professional quality images.
Friday, February 17 7:00 - 9:00
photo by Owen Biddle
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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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Photographer of the Month
Eric Kattes
Here's what Eric has to say: "I am a freelance photographer based out of the Southeastern part of Pennsylvania, 10 miles south of Philadelphia. I’ve been doing photography for three years. I got started into photography when a friend of mine needed a wedding photographer. Their photographer was too sick to shoot the wedding so I shot the the event with my cell phone and from there I became passionate about capturing all life's important events and making memories for my clients. My hobbies outside of photography are traveling and spending time with my family. I have a four year bachelors degree in business administration from American Intercontinental University and I am currently enrolled at Wilmington University for lighting and sports photography. If you are ever Interested in my photography and videography services, I can be reached at 484-487-1239."
We are so pleased to share Eric's work with you. He has been one of those truly dedicated students who is reaching his goal of breaking into the professional world. Beyond his impressive technical skills, we love the warmth and humor, the spontaneity and fun that shine through his pictures.
Click on thumbnail to see full image.
