The At home photoshoot - a perfect fit?

The home photoshoot is often the bane of jokes among professional photographers. The reasons for such disdain for a setting are many. Among the issues are:

- too small of a space

- light control issues

- cramped & claustrophobic

- hazardous if too many lights are plugged in among many stands

- no room to move

and many other cringe-worthy details apply as well.

Fortunately, there are photographers who adore small, tight home setups and have managed to make their work not only relevant but highly professional with a minimum amount of crowded gear and avoid the cramping nature of a small space. One of those photographers is Jeff Rojas -

"My 60 square foot studio that I have built in my apartment (is designed) to combat just that."

If we breakdown a photoshoot to its rawest components we would most likely find:

• Tripod and camera with lens

• A simple back drop or a wall

• A high source of light as the key light or from a window, or a small speed light on a stand positioned to bounce light off a light coloured ceiling.

• One or two flags (to block light) or reflectors to augment light and its placement

• possibly one more speed lights on a stand to add light where needed

If seasoned professionals make solid use of living space to assure the progression of their craft, maybe fellow photographers should take note and follow suit.

Bill Bistak, B Sc.,SEO/SEM Spc., CRT

Abstracts - anything images or skill?

Abstract photography is a unique style of photography that is focused on capturing abstract shapes, lines, and textures. Unlike traditional photography,

it doesn't aim to capture the essence of a specific subject or event but allows the photographer to explore the world from a different perspective. It is a genre of photography that pushes the boundaries of traditional photography and invites the viewer to think creatively and critically about the world around them. But what makes abstract photography skill-based?

Firstly, abstract photography requires a profound understanding of composition. The photographer needs to be able to look at their subject and determine the best way to frame it. They also need to have an eye for color, texture, and shape and know how to combine them to create a stunning image. Sometimes, abstract photographers purposely distort the forms, colors, or lines that make up the image to achieve their desired effect.

In addition to composition, abstract photography also requires careful consideration
of lighting. Lighting can make or break an abstract shot, as it can affect the colors, shapes, and lines that make up the image. A photographer needs to be aware of the way light interacts with their subject and know-how to adjust the lighting to achieve their desired result.

Another important skill in abstract photography is the use of the camera. Abstract photography often involves manipulating the camera settings to create a unique image. This includes the use of shutter speed, ISO, and aperture, which all work together to capture the perfect shot. A photographer also needs to understand how to adjust the focus and depth of field to create certain effects. This skill is not only valuable for abstract photography but also has applications in many other fields of photography.

Apart from technical skills, abstract photography demands a high level of creativity. Creative photographers can take normal everyday objects and twist them into something extraordinary. Abstract photography is a way of bringing out the hidden beauty in the world by focusing on the lines, textures, and colors around us. It can be used as a way of expressing moods, feelings, and emotions without the need for words.

Moreover, abstract photography requires patience and perseverance. It can take a long time to capture the perfect shot, and it may involve taking hundreds of photos to get one that is aesthetically pleasing. A photographer needs to take their time, experiment with different settings and angles, and be prepared to discard many of their shots in pursuit of that perfect image.

In conclusion, abstract photography is a skill-based genre of photography that requires a deep understanding of composition, lighting, camera settings, creativity, and patience. It is a challenging genre of photography that pushes

the boundaries of traditional photography and encourages photographers to think outside of the box. It can be a rewarding and enriching experience that allows a photographer to see the world in a completely different light. Abstract photography is an excellent way to test a photographer's skills and creativity, and as technology advances, the possibilities within the genre are endless.

Bill Bistak, B Sc.,SEO/SEM Spc., CRT