Iceland - possible second trip
First here is an image of the Aurora captured by by my co-leader Olgeir. All I can say is wow and cant wait to be there in Jan. Given the demand, if I have at least six photographers willing to go I will arrange a second trip in late March after my SW Florida Bird Workshop. So email or call me soon if you are interested.
Spring Wild Flowers - Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove - Workshop
Announcing the Smoky Mountains/Cades Cove Workshop - April 20 to 26, 2013.Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a world-renowned preserve of wildflower diversity—over 1,660 kinds of flowering plants are found in the park, more than in any other North American national park. In fact, the park is sometimes referred to as the “Wildflower National Park.” From the earliest hepaticas and spring-beauties in the late winter to the last asters in the late fall, blooming flowers can be found year-round in the park. Wildlife is fairly abundant in Cades Cove and we will have opportunities if lucky, to photograph bears. There is approximately one bear per square mile in the Great Smoky Mountain National park although they are rarely seen except in Cades Cove. Other wildlife include bobcats, both red and gray foxes, coyotes, beavers raccoons, red wolves and the river otter. Elk have been reintroduced in Cades Cove and white-tailed deer are abundant.If you are interested in driving from MA, RI or the vicinity we can split the cost of the car rental and gas and save on air and car rentals in the smokies. The total cost is approx $1000 that can be split 4 ways.
Other workshops and photo tours for 2012 and 2013 are on the Workshop tab of the site.
The Light of Cape Cod - Fall Workshop
October 19 to October 22 (three or four days, your choice)Mid Fall in Cape Cod is a multi faceted photo opportunity with truly spectacular scenics and some wildlife. The tourists have all gone, the Oyster festival is over and traffic is not a nightmare. This very special workshop is for all levels of photographers from beginner to advanced. The Cape provides some of the most incredible landscapes and seascapes and the light during fall is exceptional. We will explore and photograph the Capes classic sea shore, sand dunes, light houses and some wildlife (including migratory birds).Click Here for a PDF with more information.Registration forms are available on the workshop section of this site or click here
- Outgoing Tide and Marsh Grass
Glorious Acadia - Fall Photo Tour and Workshop - Oct 5 - 8, 2012
Glorious Acadia - Workshop - Bar Harbor, MaineOctober 5 to October 8, 2012
Acadia National Park fall and coastal scenery photography workshop is an exciting opportunity for photographers of all levels enhance their skills capturing what Acadia presents. October is a unique month with unique opportunities for photographing the glorious fall colors of hardwoods, berries and reflections. The rugged coastal scenic are exceptional for both sunrise and sunset. Acadia and its surroundings has an amazingly diverse range of photographic opportunities for learning field techniques.Excellent hotel accommodations and rates have been arranged and we expect another full house.
I learned a lot about digital photography from this hands-on, highly flexible workshop, and met a great network of people with a shared interest in becoming better photographers.
It was a wonderful experience to be around the two of you. We learned so much. Both technically as well as rushing up our concepts. We also really value the personal touch. Thank you.Click here for details - Acadia WorkshopPlease go to the workshop link for the necessary forms.
India Photo Workshops and Tours - February and March 2013
After a very successful trip this past February we now have a trip that gives you a unique opportunity to photograph three endangered species, The Asiatic Lions, Wild Asses and Black Buck. In addition to these mammals we will have opportunities to photograph over 300 species of birds, other mammals, reptiles and insects. We will photograph ancient monuments including the Taj Mahal, and have a lot of opportunity to photograph village people and their ways.
Iceland - Aurora Borealis and Winter Landscape Photo Tour & Workshop
After extensive research and planning the photo tour and workshop to capture the Aurora Borealis and the beautiful Icelandic landscapes is ready. The tour starts in Reykjavik on January 19 and concludes January 25, 2013. You do not want to miss this opportunity.I have teamed up with a world famous photographer Olgeir Andresson who has made photographing the Aurora his hallmark. He won the highest honor of photographer of the year in the Danish Zoom Magazine and his work has been shown in Times Square in New York sponsored by Kodak. You will not find a more experienced Northern Lights’ photographer.Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice – is an experience for non-photographers and photographers alike. In addition to the Aurora, we will have opportunities to capture mighty glaciers, waterfalls and spouting geysers. Majestic mountains, magnificent coastlines and smoking volcanoes.We are now in the period known as 'Solar Max'. This means that sunspot activity which produces the aurora borealis is heightened, offering more chances to see the northern lights. Solar Max happens every 11 years in accordance with the solar cycle.More information is in the brochure and links to the registration forms are available from the workshop pageClick here for a PDF Brochure
Canon Releases EOS 7D Firmware version 2.0
Canon finally released its significant upgrade/update to the EOS 7D.The firmware can be downloaded from this linkVersion 2 of the firmware will provide users of this body the following:Speed, the 7D will now shoot 130 Large/Fine JPEGs or 25 RAW. This compared to 126 and 15. The big jump is for RAW files. The shooting rate remains at 8 fps.The 7D will now be compatible with the Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2 using the 7D’s USB connector. GEO Tagging is not possible with Video.For Video buffs the camera will provid custom audio recording. The firmware will enable manual control of sound recording levels in 64 steps. Visual indicators will warn you of custom recording.Something that Nikon has had now will be available in the 7D. Customization for Auto ISO in M, P, TV, AV and B modes. You will be able to set upper limits up to ISO 6400. The 7D will always auto adjust ISO for best exposure.The firmware will now allow in camera processing to modify White Balance, Picture Style, Auto Lighting Optimizer, High ISO Noise Reduction, JPEG Quality, Color Space, Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction, Distortion Correction and Lens Aberration Correction to RAW images capture.JPEG images can be resized in camera from “L” to “M “ and from “M” to “S” JPEG.An in camera rating system will be available. A five step star rating will be available during image playback/review.Using the “Q” or quick control button you will now be able to apply protection to images, rotate and resize then, see the highlight alerts and AF point displays.A real neat feature with this upgrade is custom file naming. You will be able to set the first four characters of the file name, no more _IMG. Image quality can be applied to the file name too.How about this: “time zone settings”, you can not only define time zones, but also daylight savings time.Significant improvements in the speed of scrolling images that have been magnified for review.
Bosque del Apache & White Sands - Nov 23 to 29, 2012
The Bosque del Apache and White Sands Workshop and Photo Tour planning is done and we are ready for enrollment. Workshops fill up fast so book early.
Bosque del Apache which translates to Woods of the Apache is a most spectacular congregation of birds. The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a 57,331-acre wildlife oasis of upland desert and floodplain that was established in 1939. The refuge is located in south-central New Mexico about one hour from Albuquerque. The Rio Grande flows through the area providing water to the refuge. Close to 15,000 Sandhill Cranes and over 30,000 Snow and Ross’s Geese migrate here for the winter.The refuge is an ideal location to capture large flocks of snow geese, particularly when they are flushed by the presence of a predator. At dusk numerous flights of geese and cranes return to the refuge to roost, making for great evening “birdscapes.” At dawn, the “Fly Out” is another phenomenal experience. In addition to these magnificent birds, opportunities to photograph wild turkeys, pheasants, roadrunners, owls, golden eagles and bald eagles abound. Mammals like the coyote and black tailed deer are also presentThe late November tour serves up the opportunity for autumn colors and potential for some light snow cover.We will spend the majority of our time at the refuge but will head out to photograph White Sands National Monument. The gypsum sand dunes stretch for miles and we will spend a day to capture the dunes in the early morning and evening light with the full moon as a bonus.CLICK HERE for a PDF document with full details and the itinerary.
India's Supreme Court make a ruling to ban tourism in tiger parks
A few hours ago India's top court established a ban on all tourism to tiger parks and reserves in India. My February photo tour and workshop is undergoing revisions to exclude the last leg that was for the tigers in Bandhavgarh. Hope the ban gets lifted and the parties can compromise.I will be post in the revised itinerary by the end of this week.See the Times article
Canon 7D evolves - New Firmware 2.0.X
A new significant firmware update to the Canon 7D is eminent. The new firmware will bring significant enhancements to this already great camera.Speed, the 7D will now shoot 130 Large/Fine JPEGs or 25 RAW. This compared to 126 and 15. The big jump is for RAW files. The shooting rate remains at 8 fps.The 7D will now be compatible with the Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2 using the 7D’s USB connector. GEO Tagging is not possible with Video.For Video buffs the camera will provid custom audio recording. The firmware will enable manual control of sound recording levels in 64 steps. Visual indicators will warn you of custom recording.Something that Nikon has had now will be available in the 7D. Customization for Auto ISO in M, P, TV, AV and B modes. You will be able to set upper limits up to ISO 6400. The 7D will always auto adjust ISO for best exposure.The firmware will now allow in camera processing to modify White Balance, Picture Style, Auto Lighting Optimizer, High ISO Noise Reduction, JPEG Quality, Color Space, Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction, Distortion Correction and Lens Aberration Correction to RAW images capture.JPEG images can be resized in camera from “L” to “M “ and from “M” to “S” JPEG.An in camera rating system will be available. A five step star rating will be available during image playback/review.Using the “Q” or quick control button you will now be able to apply protection to images, rotate and resize then, see the highlight alerts and AF point displays.A real neat feature with this upgrade is custom file naming. You will be able to set the first four characters of the file name, no more _IMG. Image quality can be applied to the file name too.How about this: “time zone settings”, you can not only define time zones, but also daylight savings time.Significant improvements in the speed of scrolling images that have been magnified for review.Unfortunately the release date is still up in the air but August looks like the month.See more on the Canon site
HDR Efex Pro 2 announced
NiK Software has improved HDR Efex Pro across the board: it's faster, more powerful, delivers more realistic results, and is easier to use than ever.Key New Features:
- NEW: Improved Tone Mapping Engine – Develop superior results with better color rendering and improved natural styles
- UPDATED: Interface, Interaction, and Workflow – Benefit from improvements to the merging interface, tone mapping and enhancement controls, visual presets, and more
- NEW: Depth Control – Enjoy added depth and realism in images with the new and proprietary Depth control, which helps counteract the flattened look commonly associated with HDR images
- NEW: Full GPU Processing and Multi-Core Optimization – Gain even faster performance with GPU processing that takes full advantage of the processors found on modern display adapters
- UPDATED: Ghost Reduction – Improved ghost reduction algorithm ensures that artifacts created by moving objects are removed with a single click
- NEW: Chromatic Aberration Reduction – Reduce color fringes around objects
- NEW: Graduated Neutral Density Control – Access the full 32-bit depth of the merged image, providing a natural effect especially on images with a strong horizon line
- NEW: Full White Balance Control – Take full advantage of the white balance in an image with a new Tint slider, which along with the Temperature slider, can be applied both globally as well as selectively using U Point technology
- NEW: History Browser – Easily review adjustments and different HDR looks via the History Browser which records every enhancement used in an editing session
Boston Fire Works July 4, 2012
I have always wanted to do something different with fireworks. Well, today I got the opportunity to get to the 21st floor of Ashburton Place overlooking the barges in the distance. Got there about 20 minutes before the grand show. Half way through the rain was a disaster but the show went on as did my clicking. Here are some more images from this evening.
Peterson Guide to Birds of North America on sale
For a limited time the Peterson's Guide to Birds of North America is on sale. Down to 99 cents - originally $14.99.All you bird lovers and bird photographers should not miss this opportunity.Click Here for a link to the iTunes Page
ecotop
As a photographer one of my biggest concerns is spills on my equipment. I love coffee and other drinks while on the road. I have been using travel mugs and other double lined drinking devices but they all spill. Yes, I have coffee spills and stains on my center console, passenger seat, and I no longer carry one of these gizmos while out on a shoot during the early mornings (hey - it is cool and a hot coffee is so welcome).Enter the "ecotop" - I found this product through my wife's associate. This is the best thing for any of us who are sippers on the go. This cover is solid, it will not spill, fits on existing drinking mugs, your regular mugs and any thing that can hold liquids with an opening that is 3 inches (hey that is a standard mug size). Here is an image - security for your coffee and security for your gear.Contact me at 617.759.0010 or s.verma (at) me.com if you want more information or want to order the for your self, your business or as a promotional item.This product is featured in the July 2012 issue of Popular Science so it must be good. Here is the excerpt from Popular Science:" Your favorite mug is now your travel mug! The Ecotop is a first-ever add-on top for standard mugs and cups. A locking closure reduces spills around the house and office and during travel. Ecotops are convenient for active families and professionals on the go. Ecotops can also be invaluable for people with stability concerns. Go green (or ten other colors) and support the ecology and your economy! Ecotops are designed and manufactured in the USA."
A few iPhone apps that I love
TPE - The Photographer's Ephemeris is a must have app that helps you plan your outdoor photography, with full details of how the sun and moon move across the land. Sunrise and set times, Moon rise and set time including phases.TPEOne of the best apps for determining tide times and tide heights at most locations.Tide GraphIf you like chasing storms and photographing weather then WeatherTAP zoom is an app you must have This app pushes personalized, current weather to the max with detailed storm tracking capability. Follow tornadoes and super cells with pinpoint precision using animated, interactive, real-time radar that is seamlessly integrated and scalable on user friendly mapsWeather Tap Zoom
Late June and Early July One Day Workshops
Using Colored Filters with NiK Silver Efex Pro 2
Silver Efex Pro 2 includes the standard colored filters that were used by Black and White film photographers. In addition the application provided for a continuously variable custom filter with two slidersThis brief article is to explain the use of the standard filter and the effect they have on monochromatic images.How Filters Affect Tones in your ImageColored filters were used with B&W film to will lighten similar colors on the color wheel and darken opposite colors. As an example a red filter will darken the opposite primary colors, green and blue while but will have the most effect on Cyan which is a combination of blue and green. Conversely, it will lighten red and colors that contain elements of red like orange and magenta.NiK Silver Efex Pro 2 filters in order:
Neutral is the first filter – it removes the effect of any filter applicationThe Red filter has the most dramatic effects. It creates high contrast in monochromatic scenes. It is one of the most used filters for landscape photography and where a high level of creativity is expressed.The orange filter is used to lighten reds in an image. It is an excellent filter as for black and white portraiture. The filter will reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and redness in the eyes.The yellow is a filter that has the least effect and used mainly to make blue skies a shade darker. It is probably the most used in B&W film photography and least used of all the colored filters in digital photography.The Green filter is similar to the Yellow and not heavily relied on. It is used in landscape photography as it does favor the deepening of reds and oranges and ideally suited for fall foliage landscape photography. There is a slight drawback as it will lighten the blue in the skies and reduce contrast.The Blue filter has traditionally been least used in monochrome photography. It was used to reduce overall contrast.Note: The NiK Silver Efex color filters will only work if your image is in color and contains RGB information, An image already converted to B&W or brought into NiK as a B&W will not be impacted with these filters.
Making Perfect Popcorn
It all started late last fall with an assignment to shoot images for a book cover. Well, the cover shoot evolved into images for the inside of the book, development and mods to a web site, the design of business cards, stationary and the license of an image to be used as the logo for the publishing company. Most important, this has lead to a lovely working relationship and a collaboration. The book is published and printed and ready for sale - the first batch was picked up today and orders are pouring in. WOW!!!!!!MAKING PERFECT POPCORN - that is the title but the book is over 180 pages of fantastic information - the chapters are a real pleasure to read and yes each is an eye opener too.Here is what the cover looks like - you need to buy the book to see all the images in the chapters. You can order an autographed copy at a 20% introductory discount if you hurry and CLICK HERE - don't forget - Father's Day is around the corner.
Some images that hit it off
This past week I posted two images of left over flowers from last weekend's workshop. What wonderful comments and feedback. I truly appreciate what the viewers have to say - thank you all. Both images treated with NiK. Here are the two:
Weekend Workshops
Two awesome days, two awesome workshops with some truly great photographers. Yesterday's Lighting Demystified workshop was great - even the heat and humidity was not a hindrance. The Macro and Closeup workshop had many Ah Ha moments in particular with stacking.Here are a few images form the macro and closeup workshop participants:
