Nature Photography Workshop: Becoming a Better Photographer

Nature Photography Workshop: Becoming a Better Photographer
With David Stimac
Saturday, December 1st, 2012 10:00AM - 3:30PM @ PROCAM
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Internationally published photographer David Stimac will teach you how to create spectacular photographs of landscapes, plants, and animals. Whether you are are a novice or advanced hobbyist, this class offers something for everyone.
This class is aimed at the digital SLR photographer, but film shooters will also benefit. If you don't own an SLR (single lens reflex)… Show more camera but are considering buying one, this class will help you spend your money wisely.
You will learn how to select the right camera bodies, lenses, filters, tripods, etc., to best accomplish your photographic goals. You will also gain a firm knowledge of all of the technical aspects of photography, including techniques for creating razor sharp images, understanding your camera's light meter, histogram, file formats, and how to control exposure. Dave will use his own photography to illustrate an in-depth discussion on the various aspects of lighting and composition that separate good photographs from great ones.
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Workshop Outline
Introduction
Camera bodies: Making the right choices for your photography
Lenses:Â
Understanding focal length and aperture
Lenses recommended for landscapes, closeups and wildlife
Tripods & Heads:Â
The features nature photographers need
Other Supports:
Options for working from a vehicle
Carrying your stuff:Â
Cases & backpacks
Air travel strategies
Break
Technical stuff:Â
Understanding exposure theory
How aperture, shutter speed and ISO work Using your camera's histogram to obtain proper exposure
Understanding noise and how to avoid it
Your camera's exposure modes and which are most useful
Exposure decisions for Raw and jpeg file format
How to create high dynamic range (HDR) photographs
Software choices for the digital darkroom
Lunch break
In the field:Â
Some common problems and solutions
Depth of field compromises and techniques
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Getting close: Â
Methods for photographing tiny subjects
How to get the camera where it needs to be
Approaching wary animals
Using blinds and feeders
Light:Â
Understanding how the direction and color of light effects your exposure
What is "good" light?
How to control light by filtering, diffusing and reflecting it
Using a flash for fill or as the main light source
Break
Composition:Â
The guidelines for making visually appealing images
Looking for art in nature
Paying attention to background and distractions
Breaking the rules
Creative techniques:Â
Abstracts and motion
Multiple exposures
How to create panoramic images
Conclusion and Q & A session Â
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About David Stimac
 I've had an interest in natural history since early on, and have drawn, painted, carved and photographed animals and plants for over forty years. I'm an avid birder, hunter and naturalist and spend as much time as I can outdoors. Waterfowl, in particular, have inspired me for most of my life. I'm fascinated by their beauty, behavior and migrations. I hope that my work conveys the awe and respect I feel for them and all living things.
My formal edu cation took place at the College for Creative Studies, where I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration. I've worked as an illustrator, graphic designer and freelance photographer for over twenty years. My work has appeared in Ducks Unlimited, Wildfowl Magazine, Gray's Sporting Journal, Sports Afield, National Geographic Books, Ranger Rick, Your Big Backyard, Birdwatcher's Digest, and Living Bird.
I also use my photography to teach others about our native flora and fauna in various presentations. I enjoy helping new photographers learn more about their equipment, technique and subject matter. Â My workshops help participants master their cameras so that they can better express their creativity and connection to wild places, animals and plants.
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Please contact PROCAM for more information.
www.procam.com   |   www.davidstimac.com

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