Travelling to the Island

It was a quite a long drive to the ferry docks. As soon as we got there, we drank coffee at the local Starbucks. Fare costs around $100+ Canadian dollars for 5 adults plus vehicle. The ferry was comfortable as can be. You can catch the stunning view, drink your coffee, or work in your laptop inside the cubicles. As we entered the docks of Vancouver Island, the haze didn’t interrupt the beauty of the islands surrounding. The breeze was also fresh and chilly.

BC Buildings water: This complex in Victoria is stunning as can be.

Seals: Be swept away by the cuteness of this nosy one!

Tofino

Tofino is a district in Vancouver Island that offers a marine summertime vibe, since it consists of beaches and aquatic adventures. You can do surfing, whale watching, and fishing. Wind is fast and swooshing here in Tofino, thus surfing lessons are offered everywhere. A lot of shops sell smoked salmon, surfing gear, or beach inspired merchandise. Canadian history and culture are flourishing. Many historical images circle around, and an art gallery by Roy Henry Vickers greets you at the main street. There are numerous beach resorts in Tofino, and we decided to hit the Long Beach. A breathtaking view at Long Beach is a way for locals and tourists to go surfing, sightseeing, and other activities. Might as well take your dog for an enjoyable long walk in this sandy beach.

The surfers and the rock formation add elements into this stunning shot of Long Beach.

Tofino: Another wide angle shot from above the docks.

BC Parliament Buildings

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings in Victoria stunned me a lot. The area is so wide and spacious; a nearby body of water even houses a number of yachts! This significant complex is the home of British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly. The surrounding buildings around the Parliament exude Edwardian Architecture. Homage to Queen Victoria and soldiers who fought for Canada in the past is embodied in their large statues.

BC Parliament Buildings: This complex in Victoria is stunning as can be.

Ogden Point Breakwater

One word could only describe this place: wow. The beach beside this 800-meter walkway is so broad and gorgeous. The breakwater walkway itself leads you to a lighthouse at the end of your almost walk on water. Get your windbreakers on though, ‘cause it’s going to be windy! The wind was so strong; it blew away my boyfriend’s brother’s glasses! Walking against air can be such a challenge, but it gives you the rush that’s exhilarating.

Breakwater beach: The 35mm absolutely helped seal in all the details. This lens is handy for your wide angle shots.

Lighthouse: The end of the 800-meter journey is this lighthouse.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Craving for fish and chips? Well, you’ve got to run to the Fisherman’s Wharf. Still in the city of Victoria, this marine destination floats among restaurants, floating houses, and yachts. An awesome fact about this spot is it’s just a few minutes from the Ogden Point Breakwater. Munch on your savory food while enjoying the company of your friends, family, and even the local seals!

Fisherman’s Wharf: Juxtaposition of houses and boats while having the water as their middle ground.

A weekend is definitely not enough to explore the other wonders of Vancouver Island. Good thing, I had my Nikon D90 with me plus my F/1.8 NIKKOR 35mm G lens and NIKKOR F/2.8 14mm wide. For trips like these, I recommend the gear I used. Never forget to capture the whole picture and better, the details.

Do you have travel stories to share? Share now in SlickPic!

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The environment presents a vast array of colors. It may be green, pink, violet, or blue. Name it. Planes and slopes make up the native architecture. Aside from being mesmerized by the scenes, you can seal the deal by freezing the moment using your camera. If you love Mother Nature, then this type of photography is for you.

I gathered some how-to tips to help you achieve that “portrait” you desire.

The focal point here is the falling dew. It swiftly transitions to blur other elements in the photo.

Find your focal point

There are a lot of interesting subjects when you shoot outdoors. Find a scene or a subject that could become your focal point. It means that this point is the most highlighted among all factors in the photograph. It makes your viewer understand the most important part. If you’re shooting flowers that have the same color except one, then you can make that lone one the focal point. In order to have substance in your photo, never forget to find your focal point.  

A different pop of color definitely makes a huge impact.

Green and other colors

We all know that green is the dominant color of nature. It is beautiful, but you can add extra kicks with other pop of colors. Blue hues such as the ocean or the sky are a good pair when they’re side by side the horizon. A jolt of yellow could brighten up any photograph; photographing a sunflower or a yellow insect. If you’re in a situation where green is the most dominant color, then photograph the scenery by capturing different hues of green. This way, there may be a gradation on your photo.  

Shooting in the day can give you an even light. In this photo, the sun brought out the mountain’s curves and shades.

Maximize Depth of Field

If we go specifically to landscape photography, then it would be sensible to maximize your depth of field. Depth of field may determine the focus of your subject. Capturing an all out scenery requires a deep depth of field. This means that almost all of the elements in the frame are focused and not blurred out. You can also maximize your depth of field when capturing a specific subject. The higher your focal length, the more focused the subject will be. This can absolutely tell the viewer the specific focal point.

I shot this distant subject at 200mm. Even at this distance, make sure that the image is crisp and sharp.

Sharpness is key

Everyone definitely loves a sharp photo. Taking nature shots must not fall short of sharpness, because this translates the image from reality to frame. If the subject is textured or accentuated in shape, show how it really is. Depth of field comes to play in this case. Maximize and determine the right depth of field for the right sharpness. If the DOP is too shallow for your subject, there will only be minimal focus. As what I’ve learned, the sharpest is at F/4.0-5.6. Depending on what you’re trying to capture, you can go higher or lower. When you’re not so sure, you can always go back to determining your focal point.

Lastly, enjoy and explore! The great outdoors is one of the best places to practice your photography skills. Nature shots belong to this avenue. Don’t forget to share it as well with your SlickPic community. Portraits of Mother Nature help spread the world about her beauty and the importance of protecting her for the next generations.

Capture the extraordinary out of the ordinary. Shallow depth of field places the subject primarily at the center of the viewer’s attraction.

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I have been living in Davao City, a city in the southern part of the island of Mindanao, for almost 22 years. During the shifting years of my adolescence, I stumbled across Photojournalism and loved it dearly. When you look around Davao City, it must be a story-telling haven. This is how I was able to develop my education of capturing tales. In between interesting people and their musings, one can pick up stories from this certainty: the country is thriving, almost crawling, for development. It seems that along with this developing country, I was developing my photography.

How does one develop their photography through their developing surroundings? Here are some of the things to keep in mind:

PAINFULLY ADJACENT. Boxes of milk. Physically reachable. Economically distant.

Open your Eyes and Observe

Since all have different perspectives, seeing and observing people and events may be different for everyone. For me, one trait a photographer must possess is sensitivity. In this way, he or she can see the real story. Context and composition come to play once the photographer sees the vision. In my case, street children always catch my attention. I observe how they talk, play, and interact. I also ask them how they are and what are their views about their present situation. I also do the same with street shop owners, vendors, and the like.

Don’t stage your story. Take candid shots.

Size Matters

People in your surroundings are oftentimes wary of being photographed. Always keep in mind that somehow, you are entering personal space. Personal space doesn’t just mean people’s physical spaces; it could also mean private property and personal business. Therefore, try your best to bring a small camera. A bridge camera would be great. A DSLR would also do, but I recommend using a prime lens. I suggest 50mm for close-ups or 35mm for wide-angles. When I photograph people or events in busy streets, wet markets, or even inside slums, I always make sure that my camera won’t seem intimidating.

Take advantage of signages to effectively convey your message. Pair it with actions as well.

Composition is key

After you’re done contextualizing your story, you must capture the thought in an understandable. The subject must be visible and direct in your photo, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it should be in the center. The rule of thirds, though heard many times, is a way to let the viewer examine your photo from all corners.  You can also use juxtaposition to emphasize differences. Basically, go with the angles that can best explain your story.

Exposure can depend from the storyteller. High-key or low-key exposure could imply a light mood or a sensitive mood.

Playing with light brings mood and contrast.

Stories don’t stop

Development for me means continuity. It is amusing how I can capture my developing country through my developing photography skills. If one happens to also live in a developing country, the stories absolutely don’t stop. Take advantage of it, and use it for the awareness among members of the community.  Finally, track your development by using SlickPic.
Go! Capture and create stories.

Subjects cooperate if you simply ask for their permission. In this case, this man willingly said yes when I asked politely.

The post Developing Country; Developing Photography appeared first on SlickPic Digital Photography School.

The whole idea is promising, but you’ve got to be prepared. You must take into consideration the following factors: location, unpredictable lighting, equipment, and model’s essentials, and etc. Want to ace that shoot? Here are some tips to help you.

Shade and Light: Stunning output is possible with only ambient light.

Conceptualize!

Always conceptualize first to know the tone and the character of the shoot. Model’s clothing, make up, and even poses can make or break the image’s overall appeal.

By this, you should be prepared with what to wear for a beach photo shoot. Soft colored apparel is great for blending well with the landscape. You can also add a pop of color by choosing a bright colored skirt or scarf. For an edgy look, try dark clothing or statement accessories. Light make up can give a fresh and subtle aura, while a Smokey eye casts a strong tone. Be creative and bold.

One can never go wrong with ambient lighting.

Find a good location

Know that photographing models on the beach can be a challenging task.

Finding a good location doesn’t just mean finding an aesthetically pleasing location. Take into consideration the convenience of getting there. The location should be easily accessed without causing too much hassle for you, your model, and your crew. Good also means safe. Always research about the location before the shoot to ensure the safety of everyone.

Navigate the Light

Lighting by the beach can be generally harsh because of the sand and the water bouncing off a lot of light. If you attempt to shoot midday to afternoon, then expect difficulties in adjusting your exposure. If you’re looking into having an edgy vibe, harsh lighting is good. You can use a reflector to cancel out the shadows under the model’s eyes to make him or her look flawless. An evenly lighted face can also help you edit out imperfections. If you want a softer light, have your model stand under a tree for some shade or shoot the model with the sun behind his or her back. You’ll be shedding flattering light on the model. Using flash or a soft box can even out the overall exposure because of the cancelled shadows on the model. It also gives a more constructed look on the image.

Eye contact never fails to give impact to your images.

Shade can help accentuate the model’s features and hide under eye dark circles.

Expression matters

Poses for beach photography makes a huge impact in your output. That subtle or piercing stare from the model directly to your lens can give you a very striking image. Sometimes, the simplicity of the model’s look may be sealed by that stunning expression. Expression of the eyes can simply tell a story; even that classic look-away gives away drama. Photographing models on the beach doesn’t mean taking mere photos of them; melt the model’s beauty and the great landscape to create remarkable images.

Switching your photos to black and white definitely screams drama and edge.

Enjoy the moment!

Last piece of advice: enjoy! Embrace the adventure that the sea has to offer. Perhaps take a dip after shooting or sip coconut water while savoring the view. Having fun is always key in every shoot. Over all, photographing models on the beach brings every excitement and creative fulfillment for every photographer.

Finally, the website to be when posting your output is at SlickPic.com. It’s easy, fast, and reliable.

Have fun shooting!

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