Silver wedding shoes

This was taken with the flash off camera to my left using a sync cord attached to the camera and flash. Lightroom was used to 'wash out' the corners and to create an interesting tone to the image. Photoshop CS2 was used to create the sparkles on the diamonds and to 'erase' the brand name on the shoes.

As I mentioned in previous posts, I highly recommend experimenting with off camera flash. An inexpensive way to start is to purchase a sync cord for your camera to flash set-up.

Another method is to use a flashlight and point it at your subject. This creates an amazing look too. If you use a flashlight, you might need to color correct in your photo processing software or use color gels over the flashlight.

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Lights Happy New Year

 

I took this image at at a friend's house at sunset to create a different 'Christmas Lights' look.  I used a circular polarizer on the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 lens to reduce the light and increase the 'pop' of the sky.  My camera was on a tripod set at f/10, 6 seconds @ ISO 200.  Lightroom dodge and burning was used to highlight the furniture.  

 Rather than shoot the typical Christmas lights shot, try shooting the image at sunset.  This image was shot in manual mode [which is my favorite mode to use] and I adjusted the settings by eye.  I knew I wanted good depth of field.  Therefore, the reason for using f/10.  I took a few shots with greater DOF but this image I liked the best.

I heard a quote the other day that makes for a great New Year quote.  Especially in light of all the frustration in the world.  For all of you living in America; remember you are an AmeriCAN and not an AmeriCANT.  For the rest of the world!  Do not let the naysayers get you down!  You can and will have a great New Year!  2009