Tag : featured photographer

2015 Photography Workshop | The Beauty and Light Seminar & Antiquity Photography

I spoke with Tara Betz of Antiquity Photography about her upcoming photography presentations at this year’s Beauty and Light Seminar in Kennett Square, PA.  Tara will be sharing her best tips on rocking any location for a photography portrait session.  Let’s get to know Tara a bit better. 🙂

 

1) How did you get started in photography?

I got started in photography all thanks to my husband.  I never had any intention of becoming a photographer.  It wasn’t something I grew up with or even thought about as a child or young adult.  However, once my son was born, I could not stop taking pictures. My husband saw my passion and bought me my first DSLR as a Christmas present.  I started my business in 2007 a mere few months after getting my camera and have been shooting away ever since.

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2) What’s in your bag?I shoot primarily with a Nikon D600.  I love how light and compact it is while at the same time offering incredible image quality.  My lens lineup is a Nikon 24mm 2.8, 50mm 1.4, Sigma 105 2.8 macron, Tamron 70-200 2.8.  I have four speedlights that I bring along as well when shooting weddings.3) If money were no object, what would you shoot?If money was not an object, I would shoot fashion photography all over Europe. My image on the cover of Vogue would be mindblowing!
Tara-14) What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?I can’t pinpoint one proudest moment.  My pride in my photography has come from so many small, meaningful moments, comments, and praise from my clients, friends, and family.5) What are you still working on improving?I’m currently focusing on strengthening my composition of images.  I love and gravitate towards centered compositions and I’m focusing on pushing my creative compositions this year.  I’m always working on high end retouching skills for beauty shots.

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6) Why are you so passionate about your topic?

I’m passionate about creating beautiful portraits in any given location because it makes life as a photographer so much easier. When you can walk into any situation with the confidence and know how to create something beautiful, it’s liberating!

7) What will I learn from you at the seminar?  What if I don’t typically shoot the same subjects as you?  Will I still benefit?

At the seminar, I will be teaching how to walk into any setting, survey your surroundings, and quickly come up with a game plan on how you’re going to produce beautiful work.  I will demonstrate with pullbacks and the resulting images.  While I will mainly focus on wedding photography situations, the information is easily translated to all types of difficult settings one might encounter during a session.
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8) Which of the speakers are YOU most excited to learn from?
I would have to say I’m excited to learn from all of the women speaking.  I think each will have information and knowledge that will help me enhance and grow my own work.  I can’t wait!
Ready to learn Tara’s best photography secrets?  Sign up for our day-long photography workshop at  The Beauty and Light Seminar in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania on May 17, 2015.

The Beauty and Light Seminar 2015 | Jennifer Green Photography

I spoke with Jeni of  Jennifer Green Photography about her upcoming photography presentations at this year’s Beauty and Light Seminar in Kennett Square, PA.  Jeni will be sharing her techniques and insider tips on posing couples to create beautifully intimate and authentic wedding and engagement photos.

1) How did you get started in photography?

I got started in photography in 2006 when I was attending concerts. I was taking lots of photos with my point and shoot and people started to tell me that I had a good eye. I ended up buying my first DSLR and had my first real assignment in 2007. The rest snowballed from there.
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2) What’s in your bag?

Nikon Gear that is ever changing. My style is always evolving in terms of what sorts of lenses I work with. Currently I’m shooting Nikon D700’s with a 24-70, 50 prime, 85 prime and 80-200. I have several flashes and OCF gear for lighting

3) If money were no object, what would you shoot?

Honestly– I’ve always wanted to be a celebrity photographer– shooting studio type portraits. I’m so interested in showing the souls of people we idolize through the lens.
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4) What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?

I think my proudest moments are just the ones where I see my vision brought to life.

5) What are you still working on improving?

I’m working still on improving off camera flash techniques.
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6) Why are you so passionate about your topic?

I can’t really explain why but I love love. I aim every time I photograph a couple to show the genuine emotion and bond between the couple. Posing a couple for me is so much more than just “stand here, wrap your arm” its about how you can get their personalities to show through and how you can show their comfort and vulnerabilities through your lens.
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7) What will I learn from you at the seminar? What if I don’t typically shoot the same subjects as you? Will I still benefit?

I think you’ll learn about interacting with people, even strangers. You’ll be able to see the way that I work with a couple to bring their true selves through. You’ll be able to see how I go from start to finish to get a session that truly represents the couple. I think that anyone will benefit, even if they don’t shoot couples, because making the people we photography comfortable is important with every session.
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8) Which of the speakers are YOU most excited to learn from?

I’m incredibly excited about Vikki Sloviter’s Ballet Photography. I love movement and I’m very interested in understanding how it is Vikki sets up her shots.
Excited to learn more?  Be sure to join us for a day of photography education and inspiration at The Beauty and Light Seminar in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania on May 17, 2015.

The Beauty and Light Seminar 2015

The Beauty and Light Seminar 2015 will take place in Kennett Square, PA on May 17, 2015!  Here are some quick facts to help you plan for your day.

FAQ

What skill level is this for?
All skill levels are welcome, but photographers will benefit most from the content if they are familiar with the exposure triangle and shooting in manual mode.

Will there be hands-on shooting?
Yes, we will be working on location after the presentations at the end of the day (5-6 PM). Bring your DSLR, Film camera, or smart phones to practice what you’ve learned. The featured speakers will each present a live shooting demonstration in small groups, and participants will have time to practice shooting as well.

Image credits: Tara Betz

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What time can we check in? What’s the schedule for the day?
10 AM – Check-in
Welcome – 10:15 AM
10:30 – Rock Any Location (Tara Betz)
11:15 – Intro to Film (Tricia Burrough)
12:15 – Couples Posing (Jeni Green)
1-2- Lunch (provided)
2 – Ballet Photography (Vikki Sloviter)
3 – Learn to Break the Rules (Nicki Bosch)
4-5 Cocktail Hour/hors d’oeuvres
5-6 – Small group shooting (on-location)

How much does it cost?
Registration is $100 per person.

Image credits: Tricia Burrough

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Can I get a discount if I only attend part of the Seminar?
You are welcome to come late and/or leave early if you wish, but there will be no refunds or discounts for your registration fee.

Can I get a refund it I change my mind or can’t make it?
No, all sales are final. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to sell/transfer your seat to someone else. The Beauty and Light Seminar organizers and speakers will not be held responsible for selling your ticket on your behalf.

Image credits: Jeni Green

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What should I bring?
Please bring a DSLR or film camera and any other natural light gear (lenses, etc.), paper and pen (or writing material of choice), smart/camera phone, and any light snacks you might want (optional).

Can I bring my children?
In order to provide an optimal learning environment for everyone involved, we ask that children please not attend.

Image credits: Vikki Sloviter

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Are meals provided? Should I bring my own food?
A catered lunch and afternoon wine tasting/catered hors d’oeuvres are included in the ticket cost. Please let us know if you have any food allergies or special dietary needs. You are welcome to bring your own personal snacks as well.

What about parking?
Galer Estate Vineyard and Winery is located in scenic Kennett Square, PA.  There is a free parking lot available for all workshop participants.

Image credits: Nicki Bosch

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How can I sign up?
Registration is now open!  To register, please visit: http://beauty-and-light-seminar.ticketleap.com/the-beauty-and-light-seminar-2015/

The Inner Lens Guest Judge Artist Feature | Sonia Epple Fotografie

Please welcome our Featured Artist for last month’s Inner Lens theme, Sonia Epple Fotografie!

Hi Sonia, please tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a photographer with all my heart and passion, at the same time wife and mom of 3 beautiful, lovely and amazing children!
I’m a cosmopolitan, born in france, half english, half german and I lived in different countries. Quite complicated, but I love diversity and colorful life stories.
I went through a lot in my life as two of my fathers died while I was growing up, but I learned that there is always good in life and that when you look close enough you can find beauty everywhere.

How do you incorporate emotion into your photography work?

To show different emotions and moods is my main focus, because I believe that emotions and mood will speak to people watching the pictures in the future. Pictures that don’t do storytelling are not timeless and won’t be appreciated so much I believe. It’s the raw emotions that make you stop and look at a picture again and again and that even speak to your soul.

What has photography taught you about your own emotions?

They have taught me that art feeds the soul. When I take pictures it actually helps me deal with my own emotions. I am able to create something out of my soul and sometimes I realize what I am actually longing for by looking at something I have just created.

Has photography ever provided a healing outlet for you during a difficult time?

Absolutely. Photography and Art is my way of dealing with what I am going through in life. The last year hasn’t been easy. We have had quite a difficult time as a family. My mum got diagnosed with cancer early last year and had to undergo treatment. My father died 10 years ago and we still have a little brother that we needed to take care off while my mum was in hospital. At the same time we had difficulties with our middle son who was diagnosed with a brainstem auditory processing disorder and our oldest son dealing with a early childhood traumata. All of this was a heavy load to carry for me and my husband and still is. But I have realized that taking pictures really has helped me to let go of the darkness that I was sometimes feeling. Being able to put all those feelings into my art was helping me let go off them and see life more positively. When I actually look at those pictures that really speak from my soul I can actually make my soul understand that it’s ok to feel that way and then also find a way to those happy moments again. Does that all make sense? It does to me – I hope it encourages the one or the other to also use photography as a way of a healing outlet.

Please share five favorite images with emotional meaning for you.

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“my soul needs love”

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“the veiled bride – lost, confused and blind”

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“Silence is an enemy Against your urgency So rally up the demons of your soul – green day”

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“awake my soul – mumford&sons”

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“too many decisions to take – smoke is coming from my brain”

Thank you for sharing your time and talent with us this past month, Sonia!  To see more of Sonia’s work, please visit her website: www.soniaepplefotografie.com and be sure to follow her on Facebook, Flickr, and Instagram!

THE INNER LENS ADMINS | SILLY

Here are our admin team’s favorite “Silly” shots for February. 🙂  Please be sure to visit each of these ladies’ pages and share the love! <3

 

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photo credit: Lucy Baber Photography | http://www.lucybaberphotography.com

maryslone

photo credit: Mary Slone Photography | http://www.maryslone.com

silly - Sonia Epple Fotografie

photo credit: Sonia Epple Fotografie | www.soniaepplefotografie.com

Silly- Elaina B. Photography

photo credit: Elaina B. Photography | http://www.elainabphotography.com

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photo credit: Kapuschinsky Photography | http://www.kapuschinskyphotography.com/

THE INNER LENS TOP TEN | JANUARY ADVENTUROUS

“It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing themselves – in finding themselves.” – Andre Gide april

April Kraus Photography

bonnie

Bonnie Hussey, Photographer

erin

Erin Letts Photos

julie

Julie Moses

little farm

Little Farm Photography, LLC

miranda

Pixel Perfect Memory

mqn

mQn Photography

sarah joos

Sarah Joos Photography

terri

Terri Collins Photography

And this month’s winner is…

joni

Joni Burtt Photography

THE INNER LENS ADMINS | ADVENTUROUS

This year, we are doing things a little differently here at The Inner Lens.  In addition to our monthly prompts for photographer submissions (in case you missed it, January was “Adventurous”), we will also be showcasing the work of our brand new, very talented Admin team!  Please be sure to visit each of these ladies’ pages and share the love! <3

 

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photo credit: Lucy Baber Photography | http://www.lucybaberphotography.com

Adventurous.C.Kapuschinsky Johnson

photo credit: Kapuschinsky Photography | http://www.kapuschinskyphotography.com/

Adventurous

photo credit: The Gilded Fox Photography

CollaborationWithLight ERainsford Jan

photo credit: Emily Rainsford

Elaina B. Photography Adventurous

photo credit: Elaina B. Photography | http://www.elainabphotography.com

 

maryslonephotography

 

photo credit: Mary Slone Photography | http://www.maryslone.com

 

SoniaEppleFotografie January2015

 

photo credit: Sonia Epple Fotografie | www.soniaepplefotografie.com

Holiday Card designs | Purple Trail

I was so flattered to be contacted recently by a new stationery company for a product review blog post. Purpletrail.com offers a great selection of super cute designs, and customizing our family’s holiday cards was SO fast and simple! Their design process is extremely intuitive and every last detail was fully customizable. Shipping was also really fast, so that we now have our holiday cards in hand and ready to ship weeks ahead of our usual schedule! 😉 I will definitely work with Purpletrail.com again! Also, keep an eye out for some of my OWN work to be featured on their sample cards in the near future! 🙂 (Card image credit: Melissa Stottmann Photography)

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To design your own holiday card, please visit http://www.purpletrail.com/holiday-cards.

AND, they’ve given my readers two coupon codes!

20% off coupon code for PurpleTrail.com: PTPHOTOGRAPHER20 (It is good for 6 months)

20% off coupon code for WeddingPaperie.com: 20WEDDINGPAPERIEPHOTO (It is also good for 6 months)

THE INNER LENS TOP TEN | WEEK 14 SCARED

“Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne

 

Here are the Top Ten images for last week’s #Scared theme.  Special thanks to our awesome Guest Judge, Dawn Schaeffer of peek photography + design . <3

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https://www.facebook.com/pages/Charlotte-Heart-Inspired/708322169204138

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https://www.facebook.com/JoniBurttPhotography?fref=photo

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https://www.facebook.com/HollyDonovanPhoto

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Dina Farmer Photography

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https://www.facebook.com/meagandwyerphotography

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https://www.facebook.com/melinanastaziaphotography

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https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiffany-Erb-Photography/582321188552262

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https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiffany-Erb-Photography/582321188552262

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https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kate-Cuenoud-Photography/200343213385654

 

And this week’s winner is Lisa Bruins Photography!  Dawn writes, “I am in love with this black and white image by Lisa Bruins Photography!  The black and white conversion reminds me of an old Hitchcock movie and the motion gives it the feeling of one of those nightmares where you are running to get away from something, but moving so slowly it feels impossible to escape.  You wake up with a jolt in a cold sweat just as you are about to get caught. Great job on this shot – it gives me goosebumps!”

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The Inner Lens Guest Judge Artist Feature | peek photography + design

Please welcome our Featured Artist for last week’s Inner Lens theme, Dawn Schaefer of peek photography + design!

Hey Dawn, please tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Dawn, the photographer-designer-all-around-creative-rain-loving-girl behind peek photography + design. I am a family and child lifestyle photographer living in the Great Pacific Northwest. When I’m not taking pictures or obsessing over typography, I am busy chasing my three year old little man (otherwise known as my muse, my inspiration, my heart). I love that photography provides you with a memory on paper – something you can look back on years from now and remember exactly what point you were at in your life.

How do you incorporate emotion into your photography work?

For me, light and the seasons play a huge part in giving an image a certain feel. I find during the summer months, my work has a feeling of joy, happiness and an overall carefree tone. Then comes the rainy Pacific Northwest winter and my images take on a darker, more intense and moody feeling that comes with the short, gray days we experience here in Seattle. I find during the winter I am doing a lot more with black and white conversions vs. my bright, colorful images of summer.

What has photography taught you about your own emotions?

I’m a super emotional person. I need to have some sort of creative outlet to express myself – be it photography, design, drawing or dance. Its easier for me to pick up a camera or sketchbook than openly convey how I feel – which is good and bad in its own way.

Has photography ever provided a healing outlet for you during a difficult time?

I’ve never needed photography as a healing outlet, but it is the one thing that is mine and only mine. Its a personal connection within myself that I, alone, own.

Please share five favorite images with emotional meaning for you.

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I am obsessed with pictures of my son’s feet. I believe they tell a story – where he’s been, but also where he’s going… and it’s so rare they are this clean!

 

 

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His cautious little fingers exploring the world around him reminds me just how delicate life can be.

 

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Such a perfect contrast to my winter images – the pure happiness and joy conveyed in this springtime shot makes my heart soar every time I see it!

 

peekphotography_rain

 

The light, the rain and the moodiness all came together so amazingly for this shot. It’s one of my all time favorites and so perfectly represents the winter here in the Pacific Northwest.

 

peekphotography_morninglight

The warmth and the calm of this dreamy morning-time image reminds me there are peaceful (yet short-lived) moments in motherhood.

 

Thank you for sharing your time and talent with us this past week, Dawn!  To see more of Dawn’s work, please visit her website: http://www.madeyoupeek.com and be sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and her brand new collaborative project, Boys Will Be Boys!