FCC INTERCLUB – LAST CALL FOR ENTRIES

Firstly a big thank you for the excellent images that have been uploaded onto the FCC Interclub entry page on the PHPC website to-date.

Secondly, apologies, as I was hoping to talk to you all tomorrow night to rap these entries up, but I work once a year for about two weeks with some days being extra-long, one of those happens to be this Monday, I won’t be there.

Thirdly, as we now have enough images to fulfill each category (except for Astro), I am please asking for any images that you would like to have considered to the FCC Interclub 2024 to be uploaded by the end of this week, Sunday 22nd September. After that we will not be excepting any more entries.

Kind regards

Janne

by Janne Ramsay, 15 September 2024

Photo Rally September 28th

by Chris Kenyon, 14 September 2024

Competitions in 08 Open and Set – Still Life will close Saturday, 14th September 2024, 11:59 PM.

Entries can be made in the following areas:

Set Subject Small Print

Set Subject Colour Large Print

Set Subject Mono Large Print

Set Subject Digital

Open Small Print

Open Colour Print

Open Mono Large Print

Open Digital

All members are encouraged to enter.

by Elaine Holliday, 14 September 2024

Competitions in 08 Open and Set – Still Life are closing soon!

Competitions in 08 Open and Set – Still Life will close Saturday, 14th September 2024, 11:59 PM.

Entries can be made in the following areas:

• Set Subject Small Print
• Set Subject Colour Large Print
• Set Subject Mono Large Print
• Set Subject Digital
• Open Small Print
• Open Colour Print
• Open Mono Large Print
• Open Digital

All members are encouraged to enter.

by , 12 September 2024

Cambridge in Colour – a photographer’s resource centre

During my studies I have been introduced to an extremely comprehensive and invaluable resource centre for everything photography. It covers everything from Concepts & Terminology, Using Camera Equipment, Editing & Post-processing, Colour Management & Printing, Photo Techniques & Styles with various tools & calculators, tutorials and forums.

Here is the link. I trust you will find it useful.

https://www.cambridgeincolour.com/

Regards

Janne

by Janne Ramsay, 9 September 2024

Capturing Lightning from PictureCorrect

Capturing Nature’s Flash: How Lightning Triggers Work for Photography

Posted: 08/27/2024

Capturing the raw power and beauty of a lightning strike is a dream for many photographers. However, the unpredictability and speed of lightning make it a challenging subject. Enter lightning triggers: devices designed to help photographers capture these fleeting moments. In this blog post, we’ll delve deep into how lightning triggers work and provide tips for using them effectively.

Relevant note: for a lightning photography cheat sheet and more difficult rare weather situations, you may want to check out this summer sale wrapping up soon on the popular Photography Adventure Cheat Sheets at 80% Off

Photo captured by Dan Aragón

1. What is a Lightning Trigger?

A lightning trigger is a device that detects a lightning strike’s initial flash and instantly triggers a camera’s shutter. This allows photographers to capture lightning with precision, without relying on luck or continuous shooting.

2. How Does a Lightning Trigger Work?

a. Detection Mechanism:

Most lightning triggers use an infrared (IR) or visible light sensor. When a sudden increase in light intensity is detected (indicative of a lightning strike), the device sends a signal to the camera to take a picture.

b. Response Time:

The key to a good lightning trigger is its response time. Lightning strikes are over in a matter of milliseconds, so the trigger needs to be fast. High-quality triggers can respond in less than a millisecond.

c. Sensitivity Adjustment:

Some triggers allow users to adjust sensitivity. This is useful in varying lighting conditions. For instance, during the day, a trigger might need to be more sensitive than at night.

3. Using a Lightning Trigger Effectively

a. Mount on a Tripod:

Given the long exposure times often required for lightning photography, it’s essential to have a stable setup. A tripod ensures that your camera remains steady, preventing blurry images.

b. Manual Focus:

Autofocus can struggle in low light conditions or with distant subjects like lightning. Set your lens to manual focus and focus on a distant object to ensure clarity.

c. Camera Settings:

• Aperture: A mid-range aperture (f/8 to f/11) is often ideal. It provides a good depth of field and sharpness.
• Shutter Speed: If you’re not using a trigger, long exposures at night (e.g., 10-30 seconds) can work, where you are essentially trying to get lucky. With a trigger, you can use shorter exposures, like 1/4 second up to 2 seconds, since the trigger will capture the lightning instantly.
• ISO: Keep it low (e.g., 100 or 200) to reduce noise.

d. Positioning:

Safety first! Stay inside a vehicle or a safe structure. Position your camera to have a wide view of the sky, anticipating where lightning might strike.

e. Test the Trigger:

Before the storm arrives, test your trigger to ensure it’s working and that your camera settings are correct.

Photo captured by Natalya Letunova

4. Limitations and Considerations

a. Day vs. Night:

Lightning triggers can be more effective at night when a lightning strike provides a significant contrast against the dark sky. During the day, the sensitivity might need adjustment.

b. False Triggers:

Sudden changes in light, like car headlights or other flashes, can cause the trigger to activate. It’s essential to be aware of your surroundings.

c. Battery Life:

Using a lightning trigger can drain both the trigger’s and the camera’s batteries faster. Always have spare batteries on hand.

Conclusion

Lightning triggers are invaluable tools for photographers looking to capture the majesty of a storm. While they can significantly increase the chances of getting that perfect shot, it’s essential to understand their workings and limitations. With the right equipment, settings, and safety precautions, you’ll be well on your way to capturing nature’s spectacular light show.

For Further Training:

For help remembering the camera settings for difficult situations like this, a set of Photography Adventure Cheat Sheets are designed to help. They are currently 80% off for a Summer Sale which ends soon if you want to check them out.

New! Cheat Sheets for Your Photography Adventures (see how they work)

The perfect companion for any photographer. Print one out whenever you need it. Whether you’re going on vacation or seeking out a specific photography adventure, these cheat sheets can provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to create your best work yet.

by Chris Kenyon, 8 September 2024

FCC F-STOP Sept 2024

FCC F-STOP: SEPTEMBER 2024

View this on our website at https://fccnsw.myphotoclub.com.au/fcc-f-stop-september-2024/

The September edition of F-Stop is now available for distribution to your Club members.  

It provides the latest news on the 2024 Interclub competition, updates from the regions, initiatives by individual Clubs (such as the upcoming Photo Exhibition put on by the St George Leagues Club Photographic Society), tips on how to make better prints, and more.

You can access F-Stop via the FCC website or directly at https://fccnsw.myphotoclub.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/143/2024/09/FStop-Sept-2024.pdf.

Clubs are always welcome to send photography news that may be of interest to other clubs to the nswfccsecretary@gmail.com for possible inclusion in future F-Stops.

Unsubscribe

Federation of Camera Clubs (NSW) Inc.

by Chris Kenyon, 8 September 2024

Street Photography from PictureCorrect

PictureCorrect<editor@picturecorrect.com>To:​You​Sun 2024-09-08 4:36 AM

Shooting from the Hip: Street Photography Tips for Travelers

Posted: 09/06/2024

Street photography is an art form that captures the candid moments of life, often in urban settings. For travelers, it offers a unique way to document the essence of a place, its people, and its culture. One popular technique in street photography is “shooting from the hip,” which involves taking photos without raising the camera to the eye. This method can yield spontaneous and unposed shots, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, ethics, and safety concerns.

Related note: sale going on now for the Street Photo Editing Presets at 67% Off

Let’s delve into the world of hip-level street photography for travelers.

Photo captured by Richard Schneider

1. What is “Shooting from the Hip”?

Shooting from the hip is a technique where the photographer takes a photo without looking through the viewfinder or at the screen. The camera is typically held at waist level, and the shot is taken discreetly. This approach allows for more candid shots, as subjects often don’t realize they’re being photographed.

2. Why Use this Technique?

• Candidness: People act more naturally when they don’t know they’re being photographed. This can lead to more authentic and spontaneous images.
• Discretion: In busy streets or markets, raising a camera can attract attention. Shooting from the hip can be more discreet.
• Unique Perspective: Photos taken from waist level offer a different viewpoint than those taken from eye level, adding variety to your shots.

3. Tips for Shooting from the Hip

When shooting from the hip in street photography, you’ll want to optimize your camera settings to ensure you capture sharp, well-exposed images, especially since you won’t be using the viewfinder or screen to compose or focus. Here are some recommended settings:

Aperture (f-stop):

• Wide Depth of Field: Use a smaller aperture (larger f-number) like f/8 or f/11. This provides a wide depth of field, ensuring that more of the scene is in focus. This is especially useful since you’re not looking through the viewfinder to focus.

Shutter Speed:

• Freeze Motion: To ensure sharp images, especially in bustling street scenes, use a faster shutter speed. A good starting point is 1/125s, but if there’s a lot of movement or you’re walking, consider going faster, like 1/250s or 1/500s.

ISO:

• Adaptable ISO: If you’re shooting in manual mode, adjust the ISO to achieve the correct exposure given your chosen aperture and shutter speed. In brighter conditions, a lower ISO (e.g., ISO 100 or 200) is ideal. In lower light, you might need to increase the ISO.
• Auto ISO: Many modern cameras offer an Auto ISO feature. When using this, the camera will automatically adjust the ISO based on the lighting conditions, ensuring a proper exposure. This can be handy for street photography where lighting can change frequently.

Focus:

• Zone Focusing: Pre-focus your lens to a specific distance (e.g., 8-10 feet) and use a smaller aperture to maximize depth of field. This way, everything within a certain range will be in focus.
• Autofocus: If you trust your camera’s autofocus system, set it to continuous autofocus (often labeled AF-C or AI Servo). This will continuously adjust the focus as subjects move. Pair this with a center or wide-area focus point setting.

Photo captured by Mika Baumeister

Drive Mode:

• Burst Mode: Also known as continuous shooting mode, this allows you to take several shots in quick succession by holding down the shutter button. This increases the chances of getting a well-composed and sharp image.

Lens Choice:

• Wide-Angle Lens: A lens with a focal length between 24mm and 35mm (on a full-frame camera) is ideal. It offers a broad field of view, which is forgiving when shooting without looking.

Camera Mode:

• Aperture Priority (Av or A): This mode lets you set the desired aperture, and the camera will automatically adjust the shutter speed. It’s a good balance between control and adaptability.
• Manual (M): If you’re comfortable with it and the lighting conditions are relatively consistent, manual mode gives you full control over both aperture and shutter speed.

Image Stabilization:

• If your camera or lens offers image stabilization (IS or VR), consider turning it on. It can help reduce the effects of camera shake, especially if you’re moving.
  Remember, these settings are starting points. Street photography often requires adaptability, so be ready to adjust based on the specific conditions and scenes you encounter. With practice, adjusting these settings will become second nature, allowing you to focus on capturing the moment.

4. Ethics in Street Photography

Street photography can be invasive, so it’s essential to approach it with sensitivity and respect.

• Respect Privacy: Avoid taking photos of people in vulnerable situations or compromising positions. If someone indicates they don’t want to be photographed, respect their wishes.
• Be Transparent: If confronted, be honest about what you’re doing. Offer to show or delete the photo if someone is uncomfortable.
• Research Local Customs: In some cultures, taking photos without permission is considered highly disrespectful or even illegal. Always be aware of local customs and norms. Here are some examples:

France: While you can take photos in public, France has strict privacy laws. It’s illegal to publish or distribute photos of people without their consent, even if they were taken in a public space. This means that while you can take candid shots, sharing them without the subject’s permission can lead to legal complications.

Germany: Similar to France, Germany values individual privacy. You can take photos in public, but publishing images without the subject’s consent can be problematic, especially if the person is the main subject or focus of the image.

Hungary: In 2014, Hungary introduced laws that made it necessary to get permission from everyone in a photograph before it’s taken, even if it’s shot in a public place. However, the interpretation and enforcement of this law can vary.

Austria: While public photography is generally allowed, if the person is recognizable and the image is published without their consent, it can lead to legal issues.

South Korea: Taking candid photos without consent can be considered a violation of a person’s portrait rights, especially if the image is shared or published.

Japan: While street photography is popular in Japan, there are concerns about “portrait rights.” It’s generally advised to seek permission if you intend to publish or sell the photo.

Saudi Arabia: It’s crucial to be cautious when taking photos in public, especially of people, government buildings, palaces, and even some public streets. Taking an unauthorized picture can sometimes constitute a crime.

United Arab Emirates: Taking photos of people, especially women, without permission can be considered disrespectful and can lead to legal issues.

Greece: Taking photos of people without their consent for commercial use is prohibited. While personal use might be more lenient, it’s always best to be cautious.

Quebec (Province in Canada): Quebec’s civil law protects a person’s image, meaning you could face legal issues for taking and publishing a photo of someone without their consent.

Photo captured by Jacek Dylag

5. Safety Concerns

• Stay Aware: When you’re focused on photography, it’s easy to become oblivious to your surroundings. Always be aware of traffic, obstacles, or potentially unsafe situations.
• Avoid Risky Areas: Especially when traveling, be aware of areas that might be unsafe for tourists. Always prioritize your safety over getting a shot.
• Secure Your Gear: Use a strap to secure your camera. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Shooting from the hip in street photography offers travelers a unique way to capture the essence of a place. While it can lead to incredible, candid shots, it’s essential to approach the technique with respect, ethics, and safety in mind. With practice and sensitivity, you can document your travels in a way that truly reflects the spirit of the places you visit.

For Help with Photo Editing:

To help with a street photo editing workflow, these presets are designed to help photographers instantly bring out the best attributes of their street photography with exposure adjustments, clarity, vibrance, saturation, split toning, highlights, shadows, sharpening, noise reduction, vignetting, graduated filter adjustments and much more. They are currently 67% off today if you want to check them out.

Amazing street photo edits in seconds (see how they work)

As street photographers, it’s our job to catch the emotional essence of a city and show it to others through street portraits, documenting moments, and more. In many cases it’s about being in the right place at the right time. How can you do that if you are always stuck at your computer editing photos?

by Chris Kenyon, 8 September 2024

FCC INTERCLUB – CALL FOR FINE ART PRINT AND DIGITAL ART

Thank you everyone who have already uploaded images for the FCC Interclub.

We are specifically calling for any entries for Fine Art Print and Digital Art.

We’re nearly there for Fine Art Print and the entries are extremely good. We are closing this category this Monday 9th September to give the owners of the entries time to bring them to our next meeting on 16th September which will be the last time we meet up in the hall, before the entries are due to be dropped off to FCC.

Looking through all the other entries already loaded up we will not be able to make the Astro Category so have made a call not to enter that category.

We are also called for entries in the Digital Art Category (an image that has undergone significant post processing). We have a few and belief that we can make ten. We’ll make a call at the end of next week, so if you have anything that you think may be suitable can you please load it up over the next couple of days.

As for the categories of Action, Flora, Nature, Portrait, Staged and Urban we can definitely find some good images from our competitions over the last year. We’ll be chasing these up after next week.

Kind regards

Janne

by Janne Ramsay, 6 September 2024

Photo Scavenger Hunt – this Sunday 1st September

We’re meeting at the steps of the Opera House at 9am this Sunday 1st September for a walk around the Opera House and a Scavenger Hunt at the Royal Botanic Gardens. If 9.00am is a bit early then we will meet you at the lower Gardens Gate (to the side of the Opera House) at 9.20am.

I am setting up a What’s App group for the day so that we have easy contact with each other. We’ll finish in time for an early lunch/brunch for those who want to grab a bite in the city or for those who need to get back for Father’s Day or other family events. We will be close to the Art Museam for anyone who wants to pay to go to the Archibald Exhibition.

Can everyone that’s coming please message me today on 0411 424 945 so that I can include you in the contact group.

See you Sunday

Regards

Janne

PS There is a Life in Australia photography exhibition in the forecourt in front of Customs House. Definitely worth a look at on your way to join everyone at the Opera House.

by Janne Ramsay, 29 August 2024