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The Most Photogenic Places to Travel According to Ian Leaf

The Most Photogenic Places to Travel According to Ian Leaf

If you are a passionate photographer like Ian Leaf, you know that the perfect photo depends on the right setting—not just the lighting and composition but also the destination. From stunning landscapes to awe-inspiring cities, plenty of places around the world offer incredible photography opportunities. Here are five of the most photogenic places to travel for photographers.

The Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic places in all of North America, and it’s also one of the best places to take photographs. Whether you want to capture sweeping views of its vastness or zoom in on its unique formations and colorations, it is an ideal spot for photographers looking for awe-inspiring visuals. From sunrise to sunset, there is something new to discover at this geological wonder—and always something new and exciting to capture with your camera.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a stunning area located along Italy’s Ligurian Coast. It consists of five small towns set against rugged cliffs, clear blue waters, and picturesque vineyards – all framed by a bright Mediterranean sky. Whether looking for dramatic sunsets or postcard-perfect images during golden hour, Cinque Terre has everything you need as a photographer – plus plenty of charming restaurants and shops!

Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA 

Antelope Canyon is considered one of nature’s greatest works of art – and one glance will tell you why! This slot canyon near Page in northern Arizona features distinctive curves and shapes carved into sandstone by water over thousands of years – creating a striking display sure to mesmerize any photographer who visits this remarkable place. You can explore Antelope Canyon on your own or book a guided tour led by knowledgeable guides trained in capturing great photos in this unique environment.                                                                                          

Petra, Jordan 

Petra is an ancient city located deep in Jordan’s desert landscape that was once inhabited by nomadic tribes thousands of years ago – and today, it remains one of the world’s most fascinating historical wonders that can be photographed from every angle imaginable! Visit this ancient site at night when its buildings are lit up under starry skies or explore during broad daylight when they glisten with sunlight – either way, you’ll be able to capture some truly spectacular photographs here! 

Machu Picchu, Peru  

Machu Picchu is known as “the lost city” since it was rediscovered only recently after centuries of being hidden away in Peru’s Andes Mountains – but now it’s available for any intrepid photographer who wants incredible shots with sweeping views across the Peruvian countryside! Take advantage of Machu Picchu’s raised terraces which allow perfect panoramas from every direction – providing ample opportunity for creative experimentation with different angles! 

How To Get The Perfect Travel Photo

Travel photography can be a tricky art to master, but with some work – you can capture travel photos that will make your friends jealous! Here are some tips and tricks for getting the perfect travel shot.

First, scout out your location. Take the time to get to know the place you’re photographing to find the best angles and capture it at its most photogenic state.

Second, choose an eye-catching subject. Whether it’s a person or an object, make sure there’s something in the frame that will draw the eye of your viewers.

Third, make sure you have the right gear. Invest in quality lenses and a good tripod to ensure your photos are as sharp and straightforward as possible.

Finally, don’t forget to experiment! Play around with different perspectives, light levels, compositions, etc., to get the most out of your shots and create something unique.

Conclusion

Ian Leaf says no matter what type of photography you specialize in or what kind of photos you want to capture on your travels—landscapes? Architecture? Adventure?—there are plenty of photogenic spots around the world that can be explored through a lens! From Arizona’s Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon to Italy’s Cinque Terre and Jordan’s Petra— there’s something beautiful waiting for photographers everywhere! So don’t forget your camera when planning your next getaway–you never know what amazing images await discovery!

Nationwide Debt Direct
Nationwide Debt Direct: How to Not Go Into Debt For Your Photography

Nationwide Debt Direct: How to Not Go Into Debt For Your Photography

Nationwide Debt Direct

No one wants to have a debt. This is because debts can be awfully troubling. Debts can reduce your level of creativity. Studies show that people with debts are twice likely to lose their cool compared to debt free people. Which means you can be erratic. When your photography business is in debt, you are in debt. You must do everything in your power to get out of it.

A photography business is a people-centered service. You need referrals, networks and more people appreciating your work. To achieve this, you require time and an effective marketing system. Trying to spend more or buying more items can be counterproductive. In this article, we look at how not to go into debt. To do that, try to follow this guide.

Never chase trends

There is no customer who will ask you what camera you use to shoot. Most customers look at your portfolio. If they like it, they will hire you to shoot them. It really doesn’t matter if you have the latest Leica or you simply have a $700 camera, what matters is if you have a decent portfolio.

Never chase new trends in the photography market if they will make a significant dent in your finances. Most people fall trap of trendy cameras. Though the camera gives you a boost for some time, hedonistic adaptation soon kicks in before you even recover your money.

Spend prudently on new items and work within your capability. At any level, notice there are customers. At your level, there are customers. When you grow to the next level, there are customers too.

Track your dollars

You can find spreadsheets online or even software programs that can help you track your finances. Use a simple spreadsheet. No need to buy a software. In that spreadsheet, make sure there are columns for customers, products, profits, costs, taxes, revenues, and savings. You may add more columns on demand.

Tracking your dollars gives you a clear picture of your finances. If you don’t track your finances, a client may pay $2000 and you feel like you have a windfall and be tempted to take a small vacation. If you break down the money, you might notice that the costs take 40% of the money. Remember you must restock if you have used your supplies. Tracking will make you a better spender.

Practice second thought and alternative thoughts especially on travel

Has a client ever asked you where you took a photograph and once you told him or her he is shocked? If yes, it means you have known to work within your available resources. Appreciate the resources you have. You don’t have to scale the Rockies to get inspiration. You can work in your immediate environment.

It is tempting to break your bank occasionally to go to exotic locations, but be careful. Overspending on travel or on some items can leave you scrabbling for loans. Nationwide Debt Reduction Services advices small businesses to operate within their budget. They argue that no amount of loan is ever enough for a startup if it cannot learn to exercise second thought.

Spend your money and resources learning new things

If you learn more things, it makes it easier for you to do things. For example, spending on a management seminar or class can give you plenty of insights on how to run a business. It can also help you network. Further, a class in bookkeeping can save you a small fortune that you would have otherwise spent on a tax expert.

Learn how to do online marketing, learn new tricks in the business, follow inspirational role models and keep tabs with their secrets. Remember that, photography is an experience. Always learn one thing or another and you will save a lot. It will help you cut on costly mistakes that you would otherwise make if you did not learn.

 

5 Everyday Photography Ideas

5 Everyday Photography Ideas

Rocco Basile, an expert photographer and a wonderful gentleman to get to know, offers you a bit of his very best advice in regards to simple, everyday ideas that you can incorporate into your photography – ones which can make a world of difference.

Five Basic Photography Ideas to Get You Started in the Right Direction – Let’s Get Those Creative Juices Flowing, Shall We?

1. Have You Considered H20?

No, seriously, water drop art is the concept here. It’s simple. It’s uniquely elegant. It offers a classy stroke and a beautiful finishing touch. Water-diluted paint does not stain fabrics or materials easily either, which is always an added benefit for a novice painter.

2. Indoor Splash Shots, Anyone?

A remote flash gun and a clear-sided container all that’s required here – as well as a creative mind, of course. Get that imagination to do the best work for you, and you can consider this project wrapped. Drop an object in water, and capture the moment with the best in shutter speed technology. Use your manual focus.

3. Art That Smokes

This one is often called smoking art, and that’s because still-life photographers love to use smoke trails for the elegant simplicity and natural beauty that they offer as those dark trails rise to the sky. Slow Capture is often a great tool for pinning these shots as is creating Photoshop-projected shapes to add to the visual appeal and make the final cut more enticing. Begin by practicing through taking numerous photos of smoke art at different angles, settings and in varied locations. Warp Transform settings are also available on many cameras to guide the final shape.

4. How About We Cross Polarize It Instead?

Polarized light is particularly useful in positively enhancing the appearance of numerous plastic objects or materials in a similar way to the Greenhouse Effect. Polarizing filters are included in most computer screens, iPhones and iPads as well, taking the work out of the process. You simply need to apply the filter and leave the device in a still position, or you may even manually time it yourself: It’s truly that simple, and there’s no hidden catch. You don’t even need to be a good capturer as the synchronization is not as big an issue here.

5. Landscapes with Food? Genius – Why Did I Never Think of That?

The best part, as well as the least considered, is this: You don’t need to use real food. The best way to engage in this form of project is to buy plastic food replicas or models and use them over and over again to your heart’s content. Fake fruits work especially well as their bright colors attract the camera’s best shots and appeal to the juicy appetite in every viewer. Dollar stores sell these at minimal cost. Shop today.

Other Reference Sources Used with Permission

(Retrieved Online on May 05, 2017)

-http://content.photojojo.com/tutorials/project-365-take-a-photo-a-day/

-http://twistedsifter.com/2014/01/creative-photos-of-everyday-objects-brock-davis/

Matthew David Parker Photography

Matthew David Parker Photography

Matthew David Parker’s brown dog.

Photographer Matthew David Parker, in the following article, shares his favorite tips for taking pictures of dogs. Fun loving creatures that have a tough time sitting still. Lock in your f-stop and settle down for this heartwarming read about photographing man’s best friend.

How to take pictures of dogs can be a fun and productive event. To ensure that you get good pictures of dogs, there are some tips that will not only make taking pictures of dogs enjoyable but will also make it a fun and memorable experience.

One tip that many have used for years is bribery. For examples, check out this photographers contact sheet. To get this process going, give your dog a few small treats. Once he or she knows you have the treats and that they are being given out freely, keep them in your hand and near your camera while you begin to photograph. Looks of expectation and happiness will be the result!

Another tip, from Parker, is to use simple and colorful blankets, toys and backgrounds. These devices make great-looking photos. By using colorful blankets, rugs and toy, you can create a fun way to brighten and lighten up the photo and will also make your puppy or dog look more engaging and cute. There is also a tip that will bring a smile to your dog and it is an easy and simple thing to do. Take your dog for a quick run around the backyard or living room. Then, bring him or her back to the area where you want to photograph. In most cases, he or she will be panting, looking up at you with a cute and toothy grin. As he gives you this look, take aim and shoot a great picture!

Matthew David Parker on How to Photograph Dogs

Keep in mind; candid photos, photos that you can take when your dog doesn’t know you’re looking, can create cute and engaging photos. There are three ways this can be done; with a sneak attack, zoom or by using a camera extender. The sneak attack is when you take your shoes off and sneak up on your dog. Keep your camera up close to your face so as not to startle him. This is hard to do because dogs have a sharp sense of hearing. For the zoom effect, stand far away from your dog and get a wonderful shot without distracting him or her. The camera-extender is an effective way to get a good shot. The camera extender can be used to peek over fences, around corners and under tables. Priceless photos can come from a camera extender.

To conclude, taking good pictures of dogs can be fun and productive. Try one or more of the above tips and take some memorable photos!

How to Photograph a Mirage

How to Photograph a Mirage

A mirage is one of the most spectacular sights for travelers. Hot air bellows near the ground and produces images for people to see. Many times it will manifest as a pool of water that doesn’t exist. Photography is used to capture images of objects in the area. These water pools may appear in desert or arid locations in the country. But there are other excellent examples of the phenomenon in nature. For example, a mirage of an iceberg may appear on the ocean surface. Use the camera to photograph these examples and get more information on how it works.

Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas...wrong type of Mirage.
Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas…wrong type of Mirage.

It is important to find the mirage itself. Photographers should research the topic before they approach the subject. It could be difficult to find an example of the phenomenon itself. These images may appear on land or out on the water. Reports suggest that ships could appear out on the ocean waves in an area. There are significant challenges when it comes to capturing the image on film. Keep in mind that it is an optical phenomenon and is only rays of sunshine. That could be difficult to locate and harder to capture while taking photographs of the surroundings.

Photograph of a mirage caused by a jet.

Get creative with the project and judge the results. There are rumors that mirage ships appear over the horizon while filming an area. The sun may also reflect off the water, even before it has risen. Photograph the mirage and get more information before selecting these pictures. Use captions and crop techniques to prepare the photo as needed. That will direct attention towards the phenomenon and explain the subject. A mirage is challenging, but well worth the effort it takes to understand. Few other phenomena on Earth will compare to its unique nature. Artists have been drawn in by the subject in the past as well.

Research the topic by looking online or in books. Arturo Alvarez Demalde suggests learning from other photographers. Arturo Alvarez Demalde says, “Whenever I want to learn a new photography skill, I research online. Who are the best photographers? What did they do? I look at lighting, composition, and other parts of the photography to see what I can replicate and learn.” Publications have taken note of the mirage and published photos of their own. They are rare and make scant appearances in these books. The mirage will add character to a vibrant landscape in front of the photographer. It also attracts attention and is a popular topic among nearby people. Expect to be the center of attention whenever the mirage has taken place. An expert should be ready to explain how the mirage forms and what makes it special. That could generate interest for anyone hoping to purchase photographs.

Use high resolution images to take these pictures. That will detail all aspects of the mirage and its surroundings. Care and attention may just explain how the mirage has formed in the past. It still remains one of the more mysterious natural phenomena that appear in nature. Distant objects must be centered within the frame of the photographs. Good technique will be important while taking pictures. But timing will also be critical as the day unfolds. Not every day will a particular mirage appear for people. Look for a chance to photograph the perfect mirage during the day.

Photography Roundup: Lighting, Lighting, Lighting!

Photography Roundup: Lighting, Lighting, Lighting!

I recently asked about 50 bloggers to give me an opinion on the following question:

Which part of photography was the most difficult for you to learn or master?

Honestly I didn’t expect the answers that I received! 24 people met the deadline and here are their answers. Sign up here to be part of the next roundup!

Learning to shoot in low light conditions has always been difficult to me. Increasing the ISO feels like cheating, but 1600-3200 is often the only way I can get great pictures! Ian Leaf, @IanLeaf

lighting. Liz Cleland, @westnewyorker

Setting up food/products in a well lit area of my home while making it look natural and not staged. Linda Kinsman, @ismilefirst

Lighting!! Kristi Gilbert, @therobotmommy

lighting, I am still learning. Miranda, @myrabev

I photograph food and I also photograph my son and my husband. But I find photographing food harder and the most difficult part about it for me is the styling. I’ve been trying my best to master it though. Erlinda Reese, @Lynndeeee

Aperture was the hardest for me to wrap my head around. I actually still struggle with it! I find myself going back to automatic sometimes. Jen Rattie, @craftymomof3

The lighting. Not having glares etc. Lisa C. aka Lisa-Queen of Random, @Lisa2900

Lighting. My house has such poor lighting. Tina, @LIChevyMetsGrrl

Lighting! My kitchen makes for a poor photography studio because all of my photos have a yellow tone. Not good for a food blogger! It took lots of practice to learn how to shoot and edit photos to look the way I wanted them to. Ashley Hill, @thehillhangout

Glare and I sometimes still have trouble. Cassandra McCann , @star95011

Trying to get the lighting right Jamie Knupp, @Cluelessmomma

food Tara Pittman, @momknowsbest15

getting enough light in a dark place w/o flash Judy Antell, @wheelsandeats

Getting the right lighting is crucial, and I would recommend natural light if at all possible. Also experiment with different angles, and take tons of photos. Then on the computer, narrow down the best ones. Teresa Britton, @MomsWhoSave

Definitely lighting! I am still learning! Kim Delatorre, @shopwithmemama

It’s hard to choose just one thing, because great photography depends on mastering and balancing a whole symphony of details. Beyond the basic challenge of learning how my camera really worked, I’d say composition was my biggest personal challenge – and the area in which I’m most proud of my growth over the years. It took me a long time to learn that less can be more and that contrasting colors can breath life into otherwise dull photographs. Mary Helen Leonard, @Marymakesgood

Getting the best angle to photograph. Patty, @pizzalogger

I struggled most with learning to shoot manually on my camera. Rose Atwater, @rosebakes

Outside or surrounding props around the food or plate. Deborah Dennert, @debbzs

understanding how to balance exposure, ISO, WB, etc. all together Jess Holmes, @WildishJess

Editing photos is my weakness. I have Photoshop and a premium version of PicMonkey, yet during the editing stage my photos still don’t turn out as good as I would like. Victoria, @wahmjourney91

I would have to say that food photography was the most difficult for me. I share food pictures all of the time, across both business and personal social networks. I didn’t realize that taking a picture from above, of the same paper plates we eat off of wouldn’t cut it. So, I started buying mismatched plates, bowls, platters, and China sets with missing pieces so I could make my pictures pop just a little. I also learned that taking a picture from the side or level with the plate would really capture the natural beauty of the food. It’s ok if a cherry tomato rolled away or a drop of gravy is running down the plate or the fork knocked the rice off of the perfect mound. It’s more natural this way and not staged. Brandy Oliver, @busymommylist

Learning nw equipment is always toughest for me. It takes practice and repetition. Mike Munter, @mike_munter

Thank you to all of the participants. To be part of the next roundup, subscribe here!

How To Photograph A Comet

How To Photograph A Comet

Comet against a setting sun.

Taking a caption of a comet can be difficult, and requires massive professionalism as it only occurs ones in a lifetime due to their unpredictability.

With the help of the modern equipment and the latest technology, one can be able to photograph a comet. The best moment to view a comet is when it is at its largest size in the sky. Several steps are involved in the due process of taking a capture of a comet as discussed below.

First, having the best instrument is a precaution. Here, you need a modern gear that uses the latest technology. You will need the best gears like digital SLR camera coupled with custom built sixteen inches Newtonian reflector to record the sun-grazing comet’s intricate tail.

Mercury Comet’s are much easier to photograph.

Secondly, you need to choose the best location with an unobstructed view. One need to be aware of the best date, time and position of the active incoming alien comet.

The third step is taking the shot. Set your stand at an angle that is appropriately depending on your height. Configure the focus of your instruments by carrying out a twenty minutes exposure of a nearby star along the area of the caption. There is the need to enlarge the image for a wider and clear vision. With readiness, take numerous pictures of the passing comet with pictures having a maximum interval of twenty seconds. Caution should be observed as prolonged exposure will lead to the viewing of blurred images due to the earth rotation. For clear and visible results, one should take a less neat pile of shots of the comet and then process the images later.

The final step involves processing the captured images. Any poor quality captured images should be deleted from the rest apparently captured captions. Only the best shots of the comet will be left with intriguing features. Stacking software is necessary for removing the dark flames and then piling the images into a single image.

man and woman preparing for a date.
3 Tips Every Low Light Photographer Needs to Know

3 Tips Every Low Light Photographer Needs to Know

Tips Every Low Light Photographer Needs to Know

Low light photography is not something that professional photographers do at night. Low light photography can be done at different times of the day. Low light photography is set apart by one main element. Low light imagery is done when there is a low level of ambient light. Low light can come from both inside the home and outside.

The Three Levels of Low Light Photography

1) The first type is visible. The low light happens to be in shadows during the day. You can be under a tree. You can be under a bridge. It does not matter. It is left up to the person to make the most of this light.

2) The second type is low light. Low light happens during sunset. Everything around you is visible. Take a step inside. You will see places which are dark.

3) The third type is dark. This is when only the objects with the most light can be seen.

Top 3 Tips

Check all your conditions. What is visible? What is not visible? Our eyes tend to have a much broader range. Professionals who deal in photography call this range “dynamic range”. You may think you have enough light for areas full of shadow. You may not. You may have to adjust the lens. Adjust the camera for blurred imagery. Invest in VR/IS technology. Adjust your ISO settings.

Are you shooting in an area which does not have much light? Decrease your aperture. Adjust your ISO settings. Stay close to your image. Stabilize yourself. Learn how to balance your camera. Try to capture the picture in RAW. It can always be adjusted later.

During sunset be careful of autofocus. Invest in a full frame camera. Invest in a monopod or tripod. The Tripod will give you the lowest noise for your ISO settings. Tripods will bring your shutter speed down.

Use a tripod for night time. Movement counts during the night. It is best to decrease movement as much as possible. Subject too dark? Try using a flashlight. The subject will have more light. You will get a better picture. Get in the habit of using manual focus.

Your setting will need adjusting. Shooting during the day is different than night. Try the infinity setting. It may work. It may not. It all depends on what you are taking a picture of. You can go back and adjust something later. Do not move your tripod once your focus is established. If you do, it’s going to through the whole thing.

Practice Makes Perfect

Keep at it. Do not give up. It is a great time to experiment. See what works and what does not. Low light is a good time to get some amazing pictures, maybe even sell a few pictures. You will find your niche. Your technique is going to improve. Practice is the key to your success.

How To Photograph Fire with Manual Settings

How To Photograph Fire with Manual Settings

Learning to properly photograph fire can be a very tricky endeavor. However, there are tricks and tips to pick up get that perfect shot.

Before you even decide to snap one photo you must make sure your camera is properly set up. To do this you must first adjust the shooting mode on your camera. After you have adjusted your camera to the proper shooting mode turn off the flash as it is not needed when photographing images of fire.

After you have adjusted the cameras shooting mode and turned the flash off you need to then
go out and practice with your cameras settings. As the saying goes practice makes perfect and that goes for photography as well, especially when it comes to photographing fire as it can be tedious. Moreover,in order to become the best photographer and come out with the best pictures you should be taking non stop shots and play around with exposure and long exposure.

After you have had gotten the settings adjusted, set it on the best mode for capturing fire and turned off the flash you should adjust the cameras shutter speed to longer than before. By lengthening the speed
you will allow the shutter to stay open longer so a fair amount of more light can be allowed in thus capture the flame in its movement as well as presenting a blurry, more interesting effect. A more memorable effect even perhaps.

In the final steps to adjusting your camera you must decide whether or not to choose a high ISO setting or a low. Most professionals will recommend using the high ISO setting as it will allow the cameraman to perfectly capture the flames. Another suggestion pertaining to a high ISO setting is to turn said setting to at least 1600 so as to make the image appear altogether more fluid. Now as for the lower of the setting it can also be used, unlike with the higher setting, without the use of a tripod.

Photography of any subject can be difficult at first and fire is in itself all the more work but with much practice you can learn to capture a moment of time within the flames of a photo.

Learning to properly photograph fire can be a very tricky endeavor. Click to Tweet