Steve Edge - Dress For A Party

Every now and then, I come across a video out there on the Interwebs which makes me stop and think.

Sometimes such films make me pay attention because they are funny, other times because they are sad. Or they might be simply thought-provoking, clever, quirky, funny...

I was shown this excellent little Ross Casswell production whilst having a good ol' chat with Matt about the wonders of video now being shot on DSLRs (which this was).

We both liked it - let me know what you think.

Dress for a Party from Carwell Casswell on Vimeo.

I like picture books

One of my University lecturers once said that he hated 'picture books.' You know the sort of thing - coffee-table photography books which have little to no editorial in them, instead relying on the photographs themselves to get the message across.

His reasoning was something along the lines of how he disapproved of the way pretentious photographers were exploiting their work (and its captive audience), simply to make a quick buck and if they were that set on being 'photographic artists,' they should probably just think about getting their work up on the walls of a gallery. Ooph.

I can see his point. I don't necessarily agree, but I can see his point.

Personally, I love seeing my work come together in any way, shape or form - whether that's on a client's website, in a national magazine, in a self-published book, whatever. It's often been said that pictures are no good just sitting on a hard drive - they should be enjoyed by others, employed to increase awareness of a situation, or to generate revenue if used in a commercial context.

By now, you will be aware of my Fountain Jam book project. I'll be editing, laying out and generally putting this together next month, but already I'm thinking about getting this year's book project under way. No details to share with you yet - you'll just have to watch this space!

Anyway, the point is, it's really important for us photographers to create bodies of work other than those which are commissioned by our clients. If we don't, all we have to show for ourselves is a bunch of pictures depicting interpretations of other people's ideas.

I like 'picture books.' Regardless of whether they are produced by contemporary photographers or creators from other disciplines. If I admire their work, chances are I'll take a look at any new collection they unleash on the viewing public.

One such example is Chase Jarvis, who I have mentioned in previous posts and on The Active Photographer podcast. Not so long ago, Chase brought out a new book called Seattle 100: Portrait of a City, which is a fine example of what a self-driven book should look like.

Whether you like his work, or you simply want a great photography book to inspire some fresh thinking (especially if portraits are your thing), I'd highly recommend you take a look.

My copy is sat on the bookshelf, waiting to be brought into action just as soon as I have a spare moment - but from what I've seen of it already, the ol' brain will be buzzing with ideas once I properly indulge myself in the pages' rich, contrasty, black and white images.

The Active Photographer - Episode #6

... Portraits And Picture Books.

This week's show is a fair bit shorter than usual, as time is against me.

I'm on location in London, talking about the technical and aesthetic considerations involved with corporate portraiture.

Also... Do you like picture books? Why are they important for photographers, and whose would I recommend?

Episode #6 - Portraits And Picture Books:


To check out more, head on over to TheActivePhotographer.com, where you can listen to this week's show and see its corresponding show notes, get in touch with me directly and subscribe via iTunes or RSS. All previous episodes are also there, too.

The Active Photographer - Episode #5

... Food for thought at ExCel.

This week, I’m in London again - but not to undertake any assignments. Instead, whilst visiting the Outdoors Show at ExCel, I stop by a couple of stands for a chat about their products and how they might fit nicely into my activities.

I also collect some new business cards en route, just in the nick of time. The process reminds me why they are so important for promoting oneself… and why I am so grateful my supplier came up trumps once again.

What do you do when you haven’t got time to stop and eat whilst on location? Simple – you munch on a nutritious energy bar. Hear what Matt Willis of Mule Bar has to say about how to feed a busy photographer!

Last week’s show went behind the scenes as I filmed a video review of an Aquapac rucksack; in this episode, I also catch up with their product development director, to see what other goodies are on offer for photographers.

Episode #5 - Food For Thought At ExCel:


To check out more, head on over to TheActivePhotographer.com, where you can listen to this week's show and see its corresponding show notes, get in touch with me directly and subscribe via iTunes or RSS. All previous episodes are also there, too.

Looking ahead to 2011

So, it's that time again - where I put down a few thoughts about what lies ahead in the next twelve months and, more importantly, what I would like to achieve. But before I do, I want to recap on what I said around this time last year...

A quick glance at my 2010 to-do list is rather pleasing; with the exception of one or two points, I made real progress on all of my intentions - and those which you might describe as 'could try harder' are, relatively speaking, quite low on the list of priorities.

Last year, I talked about how the economy was presenting a real challenge for a lot of people, and how many turned to social media for reaching out to potential business contacts. Google Wave was the big thing, but the internet is a fickle mistress... and we all know what happened there!

It's true to say, though, that my online activities have come on leaps and bounds this year. The most rewarding and promising of developments have undoubtedly been the creation of my Facebook page - for which I won an award - and the launch of my podcast, which has its home at TheActivePhotographer.com. I must be doing something right, as both channels are creating contacts and opportunities which I'm sure I would never have encountered otherwise, and the feedback has been fantastic.

As for taking time out for myself, photographically-speaking... Well, I am glad to say last year's project - Fountain Jam - has been really well received, and I can't wait to finally put together the layout together over the next couple of months and see the book printed!

So then, what's on the list for the next twelve months?

Well...

• Write a blog post at least once per week.
• Interact more with others' blogs, via comments and forums.
• Create more behind-the-scenes videos.
• Extend my podcasting activities/further develop TheActivePhotographer.com.
  
• Continue my self-driven yearly projects, including another book for 2011.
• Conduct more product tests/reviews.
• Extend my use of wireless speedlights - regular lighting tests for own benefit.
  
• Work more with the outdoor market - if this is you, let me know!
• Build on the GBP:Workshop tutorials which were set in motion last year..
  
• And yes, keep on top of that Wired magazine subscription!
  

Once again, this little lot should keep me going for a while...

What about you? What are your aims and ambitions for 2011? Whatever you've got in mind, have a great one!

The Active Photographer - Episode #4

... Bags And Bagpipes.

This week, one last bit of catching-up... A couple of recordings in which I make the most of the weather and finish off the last of my 2010 shoots.

Before the snow disappeared, back in November, I headed out into my local woodland to film a product review video, in the usual behind-the-scenes fashion. It all worked out well eventually - despite nature's attempts to thwart my plans!

My final recording of last year saw me returning home after photographing a large family dinner party and a man with bagpipes on New Year's Eve. In spite of still having a cough, I just about managed to get my words out.

Episode #4 - Bags And Bagpipes:

To check out more, head on over to TheActivePhotographer.com, where you can listen to this week's show and see its corresponding show notes, get in touch with me directly and subscribe via iTunes or RSS. All previous episodes are also there, too.

Product Review: Aquapac Wet & Dry Backpack

You may remember my last review video, which looked at the Aquapac PDA case. On that occasion, I headed out the woodland in the pouring rain, to see just how well this protective case stood up to the elements when shielding my audio recorder.

Well, throughout last year - from around summer onwards - I also put another Aquapac item of kit through its paces. This time, it was the turn of the excellent Wet & Dry backpack - a technical, yet simple and versatile 25 litre bag.

Once again, I've put together something of a real-world review video for you - this time, filmed when we were lucky enough to have snow just before Christmas.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in the comment section below this post.





Key features worth noting:

• 25-litre capacity
  

• 100% waterproof and buoyant

• Quick-access key pocket

• 3-roll top closure with quick-release clips and toggles for extra security

• Removable back support

• Separate wet and dry sections

• Mesh bottle pockets

• Adjustable sternum strap

• Removable waist strap

• Breathable shoulder straps

• Lightweight - 640g/22.5oz

The Active Photographer - Episode #3

... Family And Festivities.

Following a no-go for last week's show, I'm playing catch-up, bringing you a couple of audio ponderances, recorded whilst out and about in the run-up to Christmas.

It's Christmas Eve, and I've just completed a traditional family gathering shoot - there's real snow, fake snow, carol singing and more. What a great way to round off the pre-Christmas work schedule!

Whilst on the road, I also take the opportunity to record a few thoughts about the importance of printing out your picture for future generations. What happens if you don't? Will part of your family's history be lost forever?

Episode #3 - Family And Festivities:

To check out more, head on over to TheActivePhotographer.com, where you can listen to this week's show and see its corresponding show notes, get in touch with me directly and subscribe via iTunes or RSS. All previous episodes are also there, too.

Always carry a camera?

Whilst heading back from a meeting one chilly morning recently, I felt compelled to pull the car to one side of the road and get out to grab a few pictures of the view across the city.

In my bag, along with the day-to-day items I typically carry, I had nothing to make images with other than a point-and-shoot (my trusty, go-anywhere, Canon G9) and my mobile phone's built-in camera. Choosing the former, I quickly rattled off a number of pictures before beating a hasty retreat to the warmth and relative comfort of the car.

I also recorded some thoughts for Episode #2 of The Active Photographer podcast. It's worth checking out the show notes there, but for those of you who want to skip straight to the audio, you can hear it via the player below.

Episode #2 - Snapshots And Snooker:


This photo opportunity was unplanned. It was exactly that - an opportunity. I hadn't expected to see the hazy view from the top of the hill; if I had, my regular kit would have surely been packed in the car.

Sometimes, it's nice not to be weighed down by the high-end clutter of one's kit. It allows us to concentrate purely on the visual, on what's in front of us - undistracted by which aperture to set or how many different ways a particular lens can be exploited to effect. When we don't have the distraction of such technology, we are left to work simply within our means, making the best of the situation.

Of course, there's the old adage which speaks of always carrying a camera wherever you go. Do I adhere to this? Well no, not always... unless you count the fact that my phone has a built-in camera, which could always be put to use (although I don't consciously think to use it in the same way that I might if I have packed a camera in my bag or coat pocket).

At times like these (and a good few others, actually), I'm often heard to say 'You know what, I'll definitely carry the G9 with me all the time from now on.' In much the same way as drinkers profess 'I'll never drink again!' after a particularly heavy night. Easily said, but not so easily done...

In my own mind, snatching these 'golden picture' moments as they present themselves is a bit like racking up a tally of wins. I've now got a bunch of images to work with, which I'd never so much as thought about when I woke up that morning. As I describe in the audio, I have no agenda for them, but I'm sure they'll be useful somewhere down the line. Self-promotion, stock image sales, illustration during workshops... the posibilities are endless, and it'll be interesting to see where they end up.

The Active Photographer podcast

It is with much joy - and some relief, I can tell you - that I can now proudly announce the official launch of my all-new podcast!

The Active Photographer brings you a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse into my day-to-day life as a working photographer.

Each week, I'll be be talking to you both on location and back at the office, sharing tips, resources and generally-useful information relating to the world of photography.

To give you a flavour of what the show's all about, why not take a listen to the following audio...


A sneaky listen:


Episode #1:


I'll keep it short and sweet here... To check out more, simply head over to TheActivePhotographer.com, where you can listen to all the shows and see their corresponding show notes, get in touch with me directly and subscribe via iTunes or RSS.

Fountain Jam - update

Over the next few posts, I’m going to take a look back what I’ve been up to throughout the past couple of months. It’s been hectic for sure, and it’s about time I shared my experiences with you.

First off, a quick update about this year’s book project, which I originally told you about here.

As the year draws to a close and the long sunny evenings seem an ever-distant memory, Fountain Jam - as I am now calling it - is starting to seem more and more like a reality than simply a project to be worked on over the course of a year. I’ve lost track of just how many images I’ve shot (we’re talking in the thousands here), and it’ll be great to relive the memories during the editing process.

With only a couple of months' photography remaining, now would probably be a good time for me to sit down and review all the material I’ve shot so far; there are bound to be gaps, people or details which I thought I’d captured or which I want to give more time to. And there are technical considerations, too.

One thing which I have been concentrating on during the past few trips to The Fountain is my lighting. Or, rather, how I use the light which is available to me on those evenings. Being a cosy, informal, traditional-style village pub, you can probably guess what it’s like - warm, rustic colours, dark corners created by a certain atmospheric glow… An interior designer might call it ‘mood lighting’.

For me, it presents a challenge, and one which has recently changed in my favour. For so long, I have been making frequent use of a single additional flash (SB-800, sometimes with a ¼ CTO gel attached) simply in order to capture the action. Nice, clean images packed with detail - but hardly what you might call ’atmospheric,’ other than the human element.

Imagine my joy, then, on turning up one evening to see that Keith had begun bringing along an angle poise-style lamp to illuminate his music folder. Sounds tacky and unphotogenic, I know, but in the resulting images, my subjects now have a hugely atmospheric presence, with punchy highlights and deep shadows. Shooting, by necessity, somewhere in the region of ISO 5000 merely compliments this lighting, bringing out the ‘live music’ vibe that we all love so much.

By mixing up the flash and non-flash pictures, it’s clear that the book will now look much more dynamic, much more visually engaging - and ultimately much more pleasing to the eye.

So there you go - things are moving along nicely and an ever-increasing interest in the project is making these final stages of shooting a real pleasure. As a creator of anything, it's always nice to know that you have an eager audience just waiting to get their hands on the final product of your endeavours.

One last thing... Don't forget, the Jam nights are a free-for-all, so you are more than welcome to come along and play some tunes. If this sounds like your sort of thing, why not drop me a line on Twitter or add me on Facebook? As well, you can always check the Thursday Nights Jam page on Facebook, too.

DIY - Suction mount

Going through a bunch of files on my computer earlier today, I came across a collection of DIY project images which I'd planned to share with you a while back via a 'how to' post. Well, better late than never...

So, one of the fundamental elements of crisp, punchy photographs - much aside from good exposure and composition - is that of camera support. Back in the good old days, long before Canon's Image Stabilization and Nikon's Vibration Reduction technologies were around, we had to rely upon steady nerves, heavy tripods and a knowledge of the slowest shutter speed one could confidently hand-hold their camera.

Some things never change and, me being the traditionalist at heart, I still work in the same way - for example, often turning down the offer of heavily caffeinated drinks early in the morning, especially on an empty stomach, so as to keep the shakes at bay.

Now, of course, there are all manner of newfangled brackets, grips, tripods and braces available to help us out of those situations where, quite literally, we could do with a helping hand. But often, they come with a hefty price tag.

Here's how to make a quick and simple, light-weight support for a fraction of the cost, using a number of easy to find components...


You will need:


1x Double suction lifter (I got mine from B&Q)
1x Small ball & socket tripod head (Such as the Hama 50mm)
1x Rubber door stopper
1x 1/4" thread bolt (but do make sure the thread size matches that of your tripod head)

1x Saw (I used a junior hack saw)
1x Knife (Stanley knife)
1x All-purpose glue (if required)


Step 1: Measure the suction lifter handle length and cut in the middle. This effectively gives you the basis of two mounts (if you like, just double-up on the other components and repeat Steps 2-3).



Step 2: Using the knife, carefully trim the door stopper to size, so that it will be a tight fit when pushed into the open end of the mount (as you can see, this isn't exactly a perfect, pretty-looking part once finished, but don't worry too much about this - it wont be visible by the time you're done).

Screw in the bolt and position the stopper as in the picture below. For extra hold, this is where you might want to use the glue.




Step 3: Attach the tripod head to the bolt until it holds firm.

The end result should look like the object in the picture at the top of this post and, with the lever in the 'down' position, will lock securely to a great many surfaces. To release, simply return the lever to the upright position.

Here it is attached to a window:


This is just one variation of a DIY suction mount; search around online and you are bound to find more. However, it has served me well in many situations, specifically where I want to place my Canon G9 in remote places (such as to shoot video footage).

It can be used to hold smaller items such as compact cameras and flash guns; I would not recommend it for heavier kit such as DSLRs.

Whatever your intended use, I would make one suggestion - if setting it up in a place with any considerable drop below, or where there is a risk that it could damage anything (such as a car door panel), you'd be wise to incorporate a safely line which can be attached to a nearby object. It's much better to have your kit swinging in the breeze than come crashing down to earth with the promise of a costly repair bill!

Findings for a Friday - #0006

It's Friday, which can only mean one thing - Here are this week's golden nuggets of knowledge!


Article: OpenBeak - The latest evolution of TwitterBerry (Twitter client for BlackBerry).

Article: Tiny Cardboard Box People Appear All Over Singapore - Brilliant stuff; nice pictures, too!

Article: 5 things to Know About Facebook Places - New location service from Facebook, but...

Article: DIY iPhone Teleprompter - Very clever device.

Article: 10 iPad Observations - After a couple of months' use...

Article: 5 Examples On Building A Brand - More inspiration to help you along.

Article: Should I Charge The artist? - Author asks whether artists should pay him for playing their music on his podcast.

Article: 7 Facebook Marketing Tips From world's Top Pros - Make the most of your Facebook presence.

Article: 101 Freelance Job Sites - A great list to help you.

Article: Fuji Instax Wide Format Instant Camera - Instant photography is back!

Article: Introducing The Photographers Rights Gray Card Set - Easy-to-carry and practical advice.

Article: Photographers' Light The Magic Ingredient - Photography is all about light.

Article: Balance Helps Creatives Showcase Portfolios On LinkedIn - Another good bolt-on tool.

Article: Shoot Tips: Shooting An Amphitheater - Behind-the-scenes advice.

Article: How To Use Your Flash Outdoors For Some Interesting Effects - Includes some nice, simple examples.

Video: Kodak 1922 Kodachome Film Test - Some of the earliest colour motion pictures you will ever see.

Video: Go Behind-The-Scenes With Annie Leibovitz As She Photographs Sean Connery - Exactly as it says.

Video: Sneak Peak At Samsung's Tablet Gadget - A rival for the iPad?

Website: Productive Flourishing - A great resource for helping you to be more productive.

Product test: Aquapac PDA Case

With the launch of my brand new podcast just over a week away, my thoughts have turned to all things audio of late - not least of all the considerations I have to bear in mind when I'm out and about recording content.

A while back, I reviewed the Aquapac PDA case, which took the form of a video and write-up on the GBP:Blog. You may remember it. Well, that video and post has been so well received, and subsequently pushed around the social media world so much, that I thought I'd make mention of it one more time.

Look out for more of the same from me soon, as I am now working directly with Aquapac and a number of other companies offering a range of great products which make our lives that much nicer.

---

One of the latest additions to my kit bag is an audio recorder, which I've begun using to produce interviews, location reports, video commentary etc for the GBP Blog. And so far, I can't fault it ('initial impression' review coming up soon). That is, except for one thing.

This technology is all well and good, but there comes a time when it needs a little helping hand in more extreme environments. Put simply, the audio recorder doesn't like the rain. Suffice it to say this is an assumption and I don't wish to test the theory - but for piece of mind, I set out to find some decent protection for the thing.

Enter Aquapac, who produce all manner of dependable covers and cases. I have been aware of these guys for many years, and took the opportunity to catch up with them earlier in the year at the Ordnance Survey Outdoors Show. Jump forward a few months and they suggested the 100% waterproof PDA Case for my particular requirements.

Rather than waffle on here too much, I've put together the following short video so you can see and hear the test for yourself:




Several details are not mentioned in the video, as I wanted to keep it fairly brief, but for your reference:

• This case will float in water, and is submersible to 15ft (5 metres)
• It has an optically-clear rear panel, good enough to shoot photos/video through
• You can use your PDA stylus as normal right through the case
• A stylus holder is built-in
• The product model reference/number is Small PDA Classic (344)
• You can also check out more more from Aquapac on their Facebook page
  

If you have any thoughts or comments, feel free to jot them in the comments section.

Findings for a Friday - #0005

Another week, another great haul of useful links. Enjoy!


Article: $35 Tablet PC Has More Features Than The iPad - The future of market growth in this area is beginning...

Article: How To Create A Branded Twitter Profile Page For Your Photography Business - Excellent, step-by-step 'how-to'.

Article: Five Ways To Increase Your Photo Blog's Audience - A quick numbered list.

Article: Topicfife Photography News - Real-time ranked news.

Article: How Google Social Search Can Help You Get New Business For Your Photo Studio - Exactly what it says.

Article: Fed-Up Flight Attendant Makes Sliding Exit - When enough is enough...

Article: Learn How To Use Podcasting Software To Boost Your Online Business - Exactly what it says.

Product: Rogue FlashBenders - A system of shapeable light modifiers for flashguns.

Product: Pelican Products - Amazing cases and more, this is a collection of videos showing production and demonstration.

Resource: Evernote - 'Capture anything. Access anywhere. Find things fast.'

Resource: Blurb - Turn your blog into a book.

Resource: Productive Flourishing - Some excellent tools to help you manage your day-to-day workflow.

Website: UK Marketing Network - Contacts, discussions, jobs.

Website: Let's Colour Project - A worldwide initiative to transform grey spaces with colourful paint.

Workshops: GBP:Workshop - Excellent, personalised way to learn all the tips you need to make great pictures.

Findings for a Friday - #0004

So, Friday the 13th is upon us... Let's see if we can get you some good luck in the form of inspiration from around the web:


Application: Tungle.me - Scheduling made easy

Article: Are You A Healthy Blogger? - Tips for getting a good balance.

Article: 10 Nifty, Excellent Excuses For Failing At Photography - Exactly what it says.

Article: One Curve For Photo - A radical new concept for DSLR design.

Article: Backpack Photo School: Light Painting In Camp - Creative effects using a headlamp and slow shutter speeds.

Article: Keep writing Those articles! - Short piece which shares tips for article writing.

Article: Photography Light Stand Sandbags - DIY how-to.

Article/video: Police Use iPhone App That Can Identify A Suspect By Taking A Photo Of Their Face - Clever stuff!

Article: Basics Of Copywriting - How to become a successful copywriter.

Article/video: Volvo Accidentally Smashes New Car In Safety Demo - PR gone wrong... we all make mistakes!

Product: Manfrotto 797 Modod Pocket Table Tripod - Brilliant little fold-away item.

Resource: Oh My God what Happened And What Should I do? - Free e-book, just pay with a tweet.

Website: WEX's First Video! - The first purpose-made demonstration video by Warehouse Express (demo: Camera Armor's Seattle Solo dry bag).

Workshops: 1-to-1 and Group Tuition With GBP:Workshop - Learn and improve your photography.

Findings for a Friday - #0003

Your selection of gems unearthed from the interwebs this week... Enjoy!

Article: The Signature Image: A Fine-Art Photographer Looking For New Gallery Representation - Case Study Examples

Article: Google Analytics For Facebook Fan Pages - How To Set It Up

Article: Retro 1960s Robo-Dog Designs Unearthed - Experimental Electronics Of the Past

Article: Magnum Photos - Abbas: Tibetans In Exile - Photo Essay/Slideshow

Article: 7 Portable And Practical Media Storage Devices - Ideas For Backing Up Your Images whilst Out And About

Blog Post: 23 Fun Amusement park Pictures - Images To Inspire You

Product: The Camera Lens Mug - Geek-out When You Have Your Cuppa!

Resource: Photojournalism Links, Wednesday 4th August 2010 - Links To Interviews, Features, Essays And Photographers

Website: DiscoveredArtists.com - 'An Exclusive Online Art Gallery'

Findings for a Friday - #0002

Thanks, everyone for your feedback following last week's post (Findings for a Friday - #0001). As of next week, I will be adding additional descriptions to the links I share.

As for now, though, here is a selection of the resources which found their way to my screen in the the last seven days. Enjoy!


Article: No Assignments Without Experience, No Experience Without Assignments... Yeah, That Makes Sense, Right?

Article: Pelican i1015 iPhone Case

Article: Bringing It All Back Home

Article: Creepy German Robot Learns From Humans

Article: How Real Transformers Work

Article: 7 Superb Podcasts For Summer Listening

Article: 50 More Classic Examples Of Art Photography

Article: Twitter Set To Include Photos And Videos In Stream

Article: Sinar Creates Adapter To Mount DSLRs As Digital Backs

Article: FWIGTEW And Other First Weding Acronyms

Article: Morning Brief: YouTube Banned In Russia, Amazon's New Kindle, Motorola Earnings

Video: 2010 Kia Soul Hamster Commercial | Black Sheep Kia Hamsters Video

Video: Walk Across America (Levi's latest viral ad) + Walk Across America - Behind The Scenes

Video: Behind The Scenes Of A Domino's Pizza Photo Shoot

As ever, I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts - either in the comments section here or on my Facebook page).

Remember, don't forget to let others know of any great links you come across - it's all about the sharing!

Findings for a Friday - #0001

As my online activities grow and diversify - specifically through the use of Twitter and Facebook - it's very clear that a great deal of the information I come across is/would be of benefit to a lot of my followers and those who keep track of what I have to say.

This past week has got me thinking. What use are all these wonderful links to books, podcasts, web pages, assorted resources... if I don't share them?

Here's my plan.

Every Friday, I will be writing a post on the GBP Blog, containing a list of all the useful, intriguing, thought-provoking and fascinating content which I have shared - and which has been shared with me - over the past week.

It won't all be about photography, but a mix of topics including the arts, media, technology, marketing... really, anything that will inspire and inform!


So, to kick things off, here are your Findings for a Friday #0001:


Article: 6 Things Photographers Like To Argue About

Article: 12 Excuses For Sooting Photographs For Free - And Why They're Bogus

Article: Officers Claim They Don't Need Law To Stop Photographer Taking Pictures

Article: Mine Is A Wi-Fi World (GBP:Blog)

Article: 505 Marketing Ideas

Article: Mindful Earning - 3 Rules To Set Prices With A Conscience

Article: Free Weekly Tips To Help You Grow And Enhance Your Photography Business

Article: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

Article: Has Demand For Microstock Photography Peaked?

Article: Proof That Social Media Can Work For Your Photography Business

Article: A Few Things That You Shouldn't Say On Twitter

Article: What Do We Really Mean By Art?

Article: Scanning Around With Gene: Those Darn Cats

Blog: The Photographic World Of Drew Gardner

Book: Purple Cow - Transform Your Business By Being Remarkable

Book: The Linked Photographers' Guide To Online Marketing And Social Media

Comic Strip: What The Duck

Discussion: Is It The Camera Or The Photographer? (GBP:Discuss)

Discussion: What Makes A Photograph Great?

Podcast: BlogcastFM - A podcast by bloggers, for bloggers

Prodct/review: Tweetymail

Product/supplier: GoPro Wearable Digital Cameras

Video: In Praise Of Pea Soup - Shooting In Fog

Workshops: 1-to-1 & Group Tuition with GBP:Workshop


For more of the same, you might like to also check out my bookmarks over on Delicious.

Found object: Video - light painting

If you've ever tried painting with light - combining long exposures with the use of a hand-held light source to etch shapes/words/colours into the air - you'll know what great fun it is.

Typically, you might trace around people or objects, using a torch or a flash gun - and the technique relies on the principle that during a long exposure (anything from a couple of seconds through to several hours), a moving object (the light) will record as a blur whilst static objects remain, well, static.

Commonly, we see this in 'light trail' pictures of cars travelling along a road at night.

I came across this short video recently, which is perhaps one of the best examples I've seen of how you can take things one step further.

Enjoy!





And if you want to know how they did it, take a look at this behind-the-scenes video as well:





This has given me some great inspiration for a forthcoming shoot - I hope you get something out of it, too!