A lot of you asked for more videos that show all the crazy stuff you can do with Lumist. This is the first of that video and there’s a couple more to come.
In this video we take a deep look at the Basics of Lumist that are easy but go way beyond basics. This is tone control technique here that people spend a lifetime learning as we dig into the Simple Toolbox module in Lumist and learn how much it can actually do. It the next video we’ll dig deeper into the effects modules of Lumist. If you don’t have Lumist yet you can download it HERE.
This new release is one from our Summer trip. It’s one of about 6 new images I’ll be releasing this year and one of it’s my favorite spots in Yellowstone where the geyser always flows and the color is amazing. This one is going to look great in the gallery and does justice to this beautiful place. The master original will be around 60 inches.
How it was made:
I waited for the light and was able to capture the sun filtered from behind the geysers flow in a slow 10 second exposure for a stunning single frame image that posses stunning dynamic range. I used the MK2 for this image at ISO 160. Post production had to be careful to maintain the full range of color and light and keep banding out of the subtle gradients. I took my time at every step.
Improved 09/28/15: Getting it right in camera is easier than fixing it later. I hate it when I get in a hurry and overlook these simple principles and it comes up a lot in my workshops. I’ve learned there’s always something we can improve if we set aside ego, be honest and focus on craft.
The rules of art are universal to any style or any experience level. Rules can be broken, but they act as guides to help us stay on track; we should break them only for with reason. Here’s some powerful tips I’ve learned over many years. I’m also adding related links to a LOT of FREE content and videos that go more in depth. These powerful reminders will only take a few minutes, but will leave you with proven ideas that last a lifetime.
Have ONE primary subject. Everything else should be supporting cast.
Omit needless objects. If they don’t add to a photo, kick them out.
Light & Tone are king. Understand exposure, tones and zones (video)
Use SPACE. I see so many images that would be great not so crowded by the frame.
Think of light as liquid. Watch where it goes; know how it flows (more).
What surrounds a tone changes how to see it. Regardless of it’s actual value.
SHARPNESS is only as far away as a tripod, good focus and good planning (more).
There’s only 3 ways to get great light. Take it, make it, or wait for it! (video)
In portraits set the pose. Then watch those EYES to capture the soul.
Exposure is simple as 2+2, doubles & halves. Understand the STOP (more).
When harsh sun is a problem. Wait for the light, or find that golden shade.
Think about the shadows; without shadow, we don’t see light. (video).
You can’t fake it! Use that sunrise/sunset magic hour whenever you can.
LINES lead the eye. Pay attention to where they go and how they intersect.
All I need is that one image that conveys everything I want to say. To I take the time to get it right.
Flat light is usually boring. Look for ratios and 3 dimensional light.
Take time to LOOK AGAIN at your subject BEFORE releasing the shutter.
Study history. Photography has 150+ years of it to make you a better artist.
Getting it right in camera is always easier than fixing it in post.
Change how you see making exposures LONG. Don’t forget an ND filter & tripod.
If you can’t something something wrong in your best photo. Look again & learn.
Just stop… Slow down, refine, simplify and visualize (video).
Taking my time to examine the pose, the eye contact and the details of a portrait may give me less frames, but always gives me better results.
If you want to take it further subscribe to our newsletter below and check out the workshops tab above. Take the time to learn it right and you will improve faster than you ever imagined. — Gav
Being a great photographer does not always mean getting the perfect shot. Knowing what you need and sticking to your plan is just as important. Even if it means having to come back later. The best photographers have something to prove in their images and they don’t settle for second best.
Timing is everything and knowing when and where to be is key, no matter what type of image your making. This time of Photographic school I share some tough lessons in getting and NOT getting the shot that serve as a reminder to be prepared when the light moves.
Improved 09/28/15: Getting it right in camera is easier than fixing it later. I hate it when I get in a hurry and overlook these simple principles and it comes up a lot in my workshops. I’ve learned there’s always something we can improve if we set aside ego, be honest and focus on craft.
