Our Winter with Lensbaby
It gives me great pleasure to share some of my favorite images celebrating the winter season. As with the previous posts featuring the seasons, these pictures are also taken with either a Lensbaby lens or optic allowing me to create in camera with my eye to the viewfinder a world of fun via artistic blur of just a magical digital scene.
Some folks may wonder why there are flowers, new growth, and hints of fall colors in a post focusing on winter weather. Northern California, as most of the west coast states are in year 4 of a drought. We were fortunate to see some rain and snow in the mountains late in 2015, but 2016 has been very dry. Hopefully, spring will be another season with rain, so we can make a dent in the drought.
My family is in southern California and I have been spending time with my Mother who just turned 92 on February 27 and is recovering from a broken hip. Many of the uncharacteristic winter scenes with spring like qualities are taken here, near Los Angeles.
It isn’t easy to decide upon my favorites, as they tend to change! However, here are a view I selected to share. Favorites, of the moment.
My current “go-to” Lensbaby products are: Velvet 56, Sweet 50 optic, and an old favorite, the Muse. It was not until I pulled these pictures into my post that I saw my name DrMarm and either 2015 or 2016 on every one. Rookie mistake, I just need to get back to writing more posts and remembering what I should do with my images. Forgive the name, but at least you will know whether it was taken in 2015 or 2016. <grin>
American River, Velvet 56
Green Trail, Velvet 56
Rocky Road, Velvet 56
Jessie Girl, Velvet 56
Bee Headstand, Velvet 56
Elm Sunset, Velvet 56
Bright Buds & Blooms, Velvet 56
Blowin in the Wind, Velvet 56
Sun Fun, Sweet 50
Muse Fun, Muse with Creative Aperture
Window Dressing, Muse with Creative Aperture
Going Up, Muse with Creative Aperture
The Wish Tree, Muse with Creative Aperture
Lensbaby Shed Visit, Sweet 50
Camp Mountain Meadows, Sweet 50
Driving By, Sweet 50
Golden Hour, Sweet 50
Foggy Frost, Velvet 56
Frozen Reflections, Velvet 56
Left Alone, Sweet 50
Looking At Life, Sweet 50
All That Glitters, Sweet 50
Intrigued Jessie, Sweet 50
Hazy Blues, Sweet 50
And if I could only pick one picture, it would be this last image! Of course, that just means I haven’t taken a new favorite…today. <grin–and grabs her Nikon & Lensbaby>
Tulip Dance, Velvet 56
To continue enjoying “Our Winter with Lensbaby” images, be sure to connect with Pauline Putt. A continued inspiration to me, I am happy to send you her way: http://oaktreeshutterbug.squarespace.com/oaktreeshutterbug/2016/2/28/our-winter-with-lensbaby I will continue to enjoy Pauline’s magical talents with her daily mobile Lensbaby lens images.
Celebrating Fall with my Lensbaby
It is time to celebrate the wonderful fall images with our “Circle Blog” Please visit the talented and creative Janet Douglas with her post http://jandouglas.weebly.com/hearts-lensbaby-love-hearts/our-fall-with-lensbaby
As a photographer, I am thankful to catch the small nuances of a season over time. For me, with the fun and joy of using a Lensbaby lens or optic to help capture that magic, changes in color are even better!
My images were captured with my Nikon D800E and I will confess, this is the best “workhorse” of a camera I have ever had. I started bringing it with me wherever I went. Usually, most of my trips were to either physical therapy or a doctor’s appointment. However, bringing my camera and having it “at the ready,” I found many great subjects in parking lots between the car and my appointment. Great practice to look around wherever you are at the moment!
Special thanks and gratitude for joining an incredible group of women photographers on this venture. Ana Maria Rosenberg, Pauline Putt, Nicola Stewart Janet Douglas, and Anja Williams. One of the best aspects of photography and social media has been the community across the globe. May we always be able to connect through our visions and the arts.
While searching for autumn color early in the season, I drove from one parking lot to another and as luck would have it, found an amazing dragon-fly. Previously, I never had more than a quick shot with one. I enjoyed the chameleon aspects and felt part of the magic was due to the Velvet 56 Lens. What a delightful surprise!
Hovering
Iridescent Wings
In the Pink
My “go-to” optic for these fall images ended up being the Sweet 50 Optic. It is light weight and a perfect match as a walk around lens. This clearly became my “Nifty Fifty!”
Setting Show
Sister on the Side
Bokeh Bee
Morning Light Later
Fallen Color
Mosaic Fall Leaf Pattern 3
Mosaic Fall Leaf Pattern 2
Mosaic Fall Leaf Pattern
Down the Lane
Down the Lane 2
Abstract Fall Color
Grapevine
Lavender Vase
Country Road
Double Exposure (in camera) a fun change.
Ghost Statue
Sunny Bloom Above
Fall Celebration ICM (Intentional Camera Movement)
Autumn Arrival
Clouds and Fall Magic
Puzzle Pieces
Poppin’ Yellow
In northern California, we are due for many more moments celebrating the fall season. We have an amazing snow covering for the Thanksgiving week
100 Days of Summer Lensbaby Circle
Thought it would be easy to select a few of my favorite images that were part of the 100 Days of Summer celebrating my love and passion for all things Lensbaby. Not as easy as I imagined, but here are a few that made my first favorite bunch. If I had to guess, I would see updates to this post for sure!
Spirit Tree
This is a tree in the parking lot of the church I attended while growing up near Pasadena, CA. (San Gabriel, Church of Our Savior) My parents, the Twining’s met one another at this church…ironically, my Aunt Carol (Dad’s sister) and my Godmother (Mother’s BFF) had been telling each of my parents they needed to meet a “friend” of theirs. Nah, they met one another without that awkward blind date kinda thing. Small world since Mother was born and raised in Lahaina, Maui and Dad predominantly on the East Coast. Gonna have to go with “some things are just meant to be.”
My Mother was recently sharing their story and I never knew that my Dad fell asleep in the movie on their second date. Mother said, “Well, I will never see him again…” Nope, she was wrong on that account as he told her how he felt on date 3.” He proposed at 6 weeks and they were married over 50 years.
Lady Bathing
I was fortunate to be able to attend my nephew Matt’s wedding to Hali. Many advantages to having the newest DSLR lens, Velvet 56 on my Nikon, especially the 1.6 aperture. I watched the candle melt during the reception and when I could clearly see a woman bathing–snap and a sentimental memory of a magical day and evening.
If anyone were to describe me as one who shoots flowers, I would have disagreed before the 100 images for Summer…yes, most were flowers and close to home. Many were actually in parking lots of the various doctor locations I visit for treating my back and neck injury. Once I switched to focusing on the “Lensbaby Love” and had lighter lens/optics on my camera it was easy to find subjects to share.
Floral Wallpaper
Sunshine
Violet Beauty
On Stage
Sunshine Spotlight
Tulip via Velvet 56
Partial Petals via Velvet 56
Secret Garden via Velvet 56
Some non blooming sights…
Crossing the Line
Traveling Minstrel
Indoor Display
Finder’s Keepers
Classic Words
Sharing the Beauty
Out the Window
And the most visited location…my neighbor 3 doors away with a magical yard…
I Wanna Hold Your Hand
Closer Inspection
Next in Line
World Below
Dehazed Daisy Pops
Jessie Girl Attentive
Hi Riley!
Spreading the Lensbaby Love during the summer…one day at a time!
The talented and creative ladies with the LB100DaysofSummer:
Thank you Ana, Pauline, Nicola, Sonia, Kelly, and Justyna for allowing me to join you with an “amazing” 100 Days of Summer.
#LB100daysofsummer #100summerdays_Lensbaby
To continue with our closing circle of 100 Days of Summer with Lensbaby, visit the very talented Kelly Jacobi, just click on the link below!
Kelly – Kelly Jacobi Photography
https://kellyjacobi.wordpress.com/…/100-days-of…/
Special thanks to Lensbaby for creating such fun (and addictive) lenses and optics! The folks I have had the pleasure to meet in real life as well as those with email or social media, you guys totally rock and are appreciated much!
100 Summer Days with my Lensbaby Week 7-10
Mid-way through our Summer and more Lensbaby Joy to share!
Kitchen Decades Old Day 43
Garden View Day 44
Ornate Gate Day 45
Indoor Display Day 46
Mid-Day Sun Fun Day 47
Beauty Spot Day 48
Botanical gardens our Sac Meetup group visited.
Spider Feast Day 49
This guy was so quick, I wish I would have turned on the video!
Speck of Moon Day 50
Night time summer views
Manzanita Sculpture Day 51
Nature…Language of Love Day 52
Making Memories Day 53
I Wanna Hold Your Hand Day 54
Love on the Line Day 55
World Below Day 56
Next in Line Day 57
Closer Inspection Day 58
Tulip Via Velvet 56 Day 59
Secret Garden Day 60
Partial Petals via Velvet 56 Day 61
Hello Hibiscus! Day 62
Tourists Day 63
Small As A Dime Day 64
On Stage Day 65
Sunshine Spotlight Day 66
Velvet Poppies Day 67
Violet Beauties Day 68
Homestead HDR Day 69
Wheelbarrow HDR Day 70
Mill On The Hill HDR Day 71
Shining Light HDR Day 72
100 Days of Summer with my Lensbaby Week 6
Week 6–Northern California has enjoyed a “cool down” from over 100 degrees to 80’s and 90’s. A welcome change!
Summer Fun Day 36
Day 37 Two versions
Daisy Pops
Using Lightroom CC 2015
New Slider in “Effects” bottom slider “Dehaze” Modified Daisy Pops with +65
Flower Family Reunion Day 38
Luscious Green Bokeh Day 39
Repeating Bokeh Day 40
Under Day 41
Classic Words Day 42
Week 4 is over…28 days of Lensbaby Summer Views
Time is marching on and I so appreciate the joy of sharing my Lensbaby passion with you! Thanks much!
Each of these pictures were shot with the Composer Pro and Sweet 50 Optic @ f/2.5
Day 28
Splash of Color
Day 27
Right Lights
Day 26
Curly Camouflage
Day 25
Sweltering in Sacramento (104 degrees today)
Day 24
Sunny Side Up
Day 23
Blowing in the Wind
Day 22
Hanging Lantern
Day 21
Father’s Day
Where Does Time Go? Weeks 2 and 3
Wow, we are officially in the “Summer Season” in the USA, and in particular—California, “The Sunshine State.” For our hot current temps in Sacramento, the capital of California, we are well above 100 degrees. 104 yesterday and I believe, due to repeat today. I was out walking the dogs at 6:30 this morning. WAY TOO hot within a very little amount of time!
The 100 Days of Summer with Lensbaby was started and created by an amazing talented group of women. Check out their pages to see their passion and talent with their Lensbaby(babies)
Ana – Ana Rosenburg Photography
https://www.facebook.com/AnaRosenbergPhotography?fref=ts
Nicola – Nicola Stewart Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Stewart-Photography/691213830919176?ref=bookmarks
Pauline- Oak Tree Shutterbug
https://www.facebook.com/oaktreeshutterbug?fref=ts
Sonia- Sonia Marfatia-Goode Photography https://www.facebook.com/soniamarfatiagoodephotography…
Kelly – Kelly Jacobi Photography
https://www.facebook.com/kellyjacobiphotography?fref=ts
Justyna – Justyna E Butler Photography
https://www.facebook.com/JustynaEButlerPhotography
Here is a recap of my images for the second and third weeks, we are actually due to end week 4 in two days. Time is flying–that is for sure.
Day 8
Seasonal Color
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Day 9
Bright Future
Velvet 56
Bursting with Joy
Day 10
Finders Keepers
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Day 11
Sharing the Beauty
Sweet 50 Optic
Day 12
Plentiful Velvet Poppies
Velvet 56
Day 13
Peek A Boo
Velvet 56
Day 14
Traveling Minstrel
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Day 15
Crossing the Line
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Day 16
Rosebud in Bokeh
Sweet 50 Optic
Day 17
Pollen Powderpuff
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Day 18
Secret Oasis
Soft Focus Optic
Day 19
Waiting to Pop
Soft Focus Optic 2.5
Day 20
Half and Half
Velvet 56
Day 21
Father’s Day
Sweet 50 Optic 2.5
Lensbaby 100 Days of Summer!
I am so thankful for the connectivity of Facebook, especially within the Lensbaby pages. (Lensbaby Addicts and Lensbaby Artistry) Through these groups, I have met an incredible group of talented folks and greatly enjoy their wonderful images they share. Recently, while perusing, “liking”, and commenting, I happened to notice the tags “100DaysofLensbaby” and contacted Pauline Putt. Pauline said that she and a couple other ladies started this venture and they…as you might have guessed are posting a Lensbaby image daily for the summer.
I am humbled and honored to join them in sharing the “Lensbaby Love” through the quest for #LB100DaysofSummer. Thank you to the Velvet 56 release for allowing me to “meet” them and begin drooling at the images they were creating! Dually noted is that their photography magic is not limited to the beloved Velvet 56 images. As a former educator, for the “math” peeps out there–I know that starting my posts on June 9 means I “technically” won’t have “100 days” So, I will do my homework and catch up a bit today!
For an amazing journey this summer, join me in following these exceptional ladies through their photography pages–be sure to add them: (Um, you may need to “copy and paste” them today, while I work on my linking skills. It will be worth it, I promise!)
https://www.facebook.com/AnaRosenbergPhotography?fref=ts
Nicola – Nicola Stewart Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Stewart-Photography/691213830919176?ref=bookmarks
Pauline- Oak Tree Shutterbug
https://www.facebook.com/oaktreeshutterbug?fref=ts
Sonia- Sonia Marfatia-Goode Photography https://www.facebook.com/soniamarfatiagoodephotography…
Kelly – Kelly Jacobi Photography
https://www.facebook.com/kellyjacobiphotography?fref=ts
Justyna – Justyna E Butler Photography
https://www.facebook.com/JustynaEButlerPhotography
For now, my #Lensbaby100DaysofSummer #LB100DaysofSummer #seeinanewway #Lensbaby #LBVelvet56 #LensbabySweet50 “LensbabyComposerPro will be shared on my Facebook page:
Laura: https://facebook.com/laura.twining?fref=ts
Day 9
Bursting with Joy
A Look via Lytro, Light Field Camera
As most of you know, I am dealing with a back and neck injury. Difficulty with carrying weight and DSLR and gear do not mix well. My current lens of choice, anything Lensbaby. Muse with Double Glass Optic, for those fellow Lensbaby fans is a blast with my Nikon D800E and has been on it for weeks!
About a year ago at the annual Kelby Worldwide Photo Walk, I saw a weird box of a camera…I wish I could remember the name of our walk leader, as the camera was his, he was kind and shared it with others.
Little and Fun
It is best known as a camera you can set the focus point after you take an image. Can also have multiple versions via focus from one image.
The only downside for me is the lack of processing in other programs than the very limited “Lytro Filters”. I can use the images anywhere and share on Facebook with ease, but can not send image to say, Lightroom 5 and then post in Facebook and be able to focus after the fact. I lose that capacity. My photographer persona is having a tough time with this. On the good side, it forces me to be really selective in my shooting and what image I get to start with. Slow down and really take in the scene. Good time to reflect and learn better habits–that is a win-win.
Another manner to share images outside of the Lytro Program is by copying the embedded code for the image. For my techie friends, you know circles and circles of knowledge, this will be my first attempt at copying and pasting a code…
A month or so, I was in the Bay Area and joined up with a fellow Nikon shooter, Ben Tang. We went to Berkeley Marina and I had time to bring out my Lytro. Just sitting and looking at the boats bobbing in the water.
These are the first Lytro images I printed and I love the results…only used the Lytro filters and was quite surprised at the end products.
https://pictures.lytro.com/DrMarm/pictures/742080
Tilted Mast
https://pictures.lytro.com/DrMarm/pictures/742078
Film Noir Effect
https://pictures.lytro.com/DrMarm/pictures/742068
Line Art
In order for the focusing after option, you need to make certain you are shooting with that setting. Easy to know–blue line around your image. Another plus is having a distinct foreground, middle, and background. If just 2 points–that can still work.
This is from a local park along the American River. Click on the plant/flower and watch the morphing image…click on the background for change in view. The second image is not one I would have shared, aside from the transformation of the changing focus…but grew to like it!
https://pictures.lytro.com/DrMarm/pictures/742083
Along the American River
https://pictures.lytro.com/DrMarm/pictures/742086
Eye of the Beholder
I did the Old way of copy, cut, and paste…then noticed an icon that I could click and choices were Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and Embed.
Awesome and easy!! (OMG, easy to do!!)
This is with the “glass” filter–reminds me of ice. In actuality, this image was a tree in a parking lot where I had an appointment. Arrive early and take pics!
As of today…can get Lytro on many websites, including Lytro.com and Target (only place for pink color) Best Buy, Apple Stores, and a few more spots. Search for prices. I got the 750 image for 100 less than advertised. (Amazon has since changed the price…) Happy shopping and shooting!
Found! Old Pictures of Shiner, my first dog
You know that moment…when you open a box you don’t remember packing and find beloved old and tattered images? Or, in the year 2013—find an old Memory stick you have and open it to find lost images. Well, my moment was the later and I found a file of images I put together for my parents 45th anniversary digital picture frame. I organized the images around the early 90’s and they go back for a couple of decades.
My first dog was Shiner P. Midnight. I got her when I was in college. One of my friends got a puppy and it was adorable, we got one from the same litter, so–enter Shiner. The breeder told us she was a purebred Cocker Spaniel and I had naive thoughts of breeding her and making money. One of my professors had a REAL Cocker Spaniel, and he did not believe she was really a cocker…
Ears Flopping
I attended Washington State University, in Pullman, Washington. Shiner was the first dog that was mine and not a family dog. She traveled well in the car, on planes, camp bus, you name it! After graduation, I moved to Indiana to direct an Outdoor Education School and Shiner came along. My Mother sent her a dog sweater, since it was so cold and she spent time outside–wherever I went, she went. If she got miles for her plane trips, she certainly would have earned a nice trip!
One time, I returned to Indianapolis after spending the holidays in California–and went to the special baggage claim and there was no Shiner! I must admit to going from 0 to hysterical in a matter of seconds…the flight we were on was continuing on to Boston, Massachusetts, which is where she ended up. Then, she was flown back to Indianapolis and put in an Airline Van and delivered to me in Bloomington, Indiana. After that adventure, I didn’t fly again with her. Also, if I knew then what I know–would not have shipped her so many times!
On for the moment
Shiner didn’t like wearing her sweater. I would let her outside and she would return a few minutes later–usually without her sweater. She figured out that going into the briar patch caught her sweater on the branches and she could get it off!
My job in Indiana was seasonal, so we would return to California for summers and I would direct a summer camp–then, she became the “Camp Dog”. She loved to play fetch with rocks or a ball, not really particular. When she was a puppy at camp, the kitchen staff would take their breaks and try to hit the camp bell with a rock. This is where Shiner got her fetish. They would throw it and she would bring it back…
This image was taken by a photographer that would come up once a week to take pictures. I decided I wanted to get one taken with Shiner. Apologies to the original photographer…have no information…or, would give proper acknowledgement.
Not going anywhere
What is not visible in this picture were the moments preceding the shot. As soon as I got Shiner on the swing, she leapt off my lap and took off for the lake…I caught her before she went swimming and hiked back up to get our picture taken. You may note how much my fingers are holding her–no more leaps!!
Spoiled?
There were a few occasions when I went somewhere and couldn’t bring her. She was properly spoiled…under a blanket with my Mother.
She even made her own doggy door by shredding the screen on their sliding glass door…so she could go in and out as she pleased…
One thing my parents and I never got along with was politics. I canceled one of their votes and have continued to do so. Decided I couldn’t resist this plastic dog toy of President Bush…and then, made sure to pack it for visiting her “grandparents”. My Dad thought it was entertaining, Shiner was happy, and got quite a few laughs.
Democrat Dog
Bay Window View
This picture was from Christmas in Northern California. The San Francisco Bay was visible from the Bay Window in my kitchen, loved this little one room house on the hills of San Leandro. Good times and memories.
One morning, I was getting ready to go out to visit camps–my real job as a Professional Girl Scout. Normally, Shiner would wait at the door to ensure she was going. I noticed she wasn’t as excited and her urine wasn’t the right color, so I dropped her off at the vet and went to visit the closest camp. I talked with the vet, only to find out what she had was life threatening. Autoimmune Hemoletic Anemia, it took 21 days for her to get better, including 4 days on life support at UC Davis and a splenectomy. My parents helped a little with her bills and we had 6 more years together. As Shiner aged, her eating waned, so I started making her Doggy Meatloaf. She loved it. I fed her on a towel, as her legs could go out from under her on the vinyl flooring. My cat, Tucker also enjoyed the meatloaf and would happily help Shiner with her meal. Included ground turkey, chicken hot dogs, frozen veggies, bread crumbs and eggs. Although it was all food I would eat, I chose to not taste the dog food!
Homemade Dog Meatloaf
It has almost been 20 years since she went over the Rainbow Bridge. I still have her collar hanging from my rear view mirror and have to smile when her tags jingle when I hit a bump or a sharp curve:)
One of my favorite memories is driving to camp with the top off my Suzuki Sidekick and her ears flapping in the breeze as she sat in the passenger seat! She would even stay in the car when the top was off and I went into the market. Many more stories and beautiful memories!
Beyond Comfort Level–Portraits
For anyone who knows me, I am thrilled to be outside shooting with my Nikon. My preference has been exploring the outdoors which, I believe goes to my Girl Scout roots at summer camp! My experience with models is limited, so I have been trying to get out of my comfort zone and shoot some portraits, with people as my subject.
Here are a few shots from extending beyond my comfort zone.
I have learned how much value comes from having specialists for Hair and Make Up…sometimes this is an option, and other times, we depend on our models. The first two shots are an example of being able to admire the talents of great artists and their results. This was a photo shoot with a “Meetup.com” group.
Meetup Event
Sweet!
Niki is a dedicated Body Builder and shares her hard work in steep competitions. Thanks to Andy Brooks for setting up this outdoor shoot and the lights. Always fun to learn from a talented friend! For more of his work visit his website at: http://www.blueturban.net/
Dedication and Results
One of the Sponsors for Niki as she works towards her dream
Another shoot, but indoors with models that have tattoos. A special “shout out and thanks” to Tommy and his artists from “Fat Cat Tattoo” located in Carmichael, CA.
Backlit with a flash mounted in a Hotshoe
Being on location and getting creative is certainly an important skill to have. Kudos to Andy for seeing this shot and the models willing to hop on up in the window of the tattooing station.
Details and Art
Two views to bring attention to the tattoo art on their arms.
Art and Eyes
What I enjoy about the world of photography is there is always something to learn and expand your ability level. I was able to attend the Look Fabulous Tour with Lou Freeman and Lindsay Adler. Such a wealth of information on working with lighting and models.
I chose this day to use my D800E and the 50mm 1.8 so I wouldn’t have much weight while shooting. Here are shots of the 3 models we worked with. I will share another post with additional pictures. Truly a fabulous experience!
Such a wonderful model with tons of initiative!
She has a reflector in front of her to bounce the light on her face.
Bounced light on such a beauty!
You can see the reflection of the two softboxes in her eyes. Barely much room between the two boxes for my camera, but made for brilliant light.
Head shot
Look forward to continuing to learn more and expand my comfort zone! One piece of course is that I now have new items on my “wish list” lights, pocket wizard, beauty dish…to name just a few thoughts to start the wishing process. Willing to accept donations at anytime:)
Pelican Synchronized Swimming
In Sync
Amazing to watch these American White Pelicans in sync. I have seen four pelicans in synchronized movement, but never this many! They were full of grace and many cars pulled over to see them gliding through the water.
As a child, I was not very athletic and not that coordinated. So, of course I found my attention on the one pelican that was out of sync. What a character! It was entertaining to watch him up when all the others were down and vice versa.
What?
Down or Up?
The one did manage to get into the groove as they continued to amaze their audience!
Together
Fun and so stunning to see these large birds be so graceful!
There was another…that got out of sync, still a beautiful scene to enjoy!
We were on the car loop of the Yolo Bypass, certainly an enjoyable outing and I can not wait to return. Such a treat to see amazing birds.
Another Challenge
Lensbaby Spark Fun
Winter Blues
According to the groundhog, “Punxsutawney Phil” we are due for an early spring…however, many states have endured horrific winter weather over the past week. In the Sacramento, California area our snow level dropped to 900 feet which is insane for us! Of course, the next day no clouds were in the sky and nothing but beautiful blue overhead. What these images can not share is the temperature–our morning lows have been 30 degrees or so with our day high nearing 60.
I decided to take my Lensbaby Spark out for a jaunt in the backyard to celebrate our chilly, but dry weather. The Spark lens is the lightest Lensbaby in my collection and easy to manage on my D600. The challenge and fun aspect of this lens (in my humble opinion) is that you do not secure your composition–hands need to maintain constant pressure on the Spark to keep the effect you desire.
My favorite aspect of using a Lensbaby is the fact you can achieve so many different results with the same tool. Creativity is unlimited. The next two images are of the same Oak Tree which towers over the backyard and yet appear so different, because of the lens flexibility.
Over Head
Love the look of swirls–especially with fall color but still creates a fun abstract result with bare branches.
Just a Twist
Some flowering varieties, one in various shades of green and the other with a splash of color.
Abstract Beauty
The light in this shot allowed the creative aperture of the “sun” to show through a bit.
Backyard Blooms
Anyone else ready for spring???
ICM–Intentional Camera Movement
Wow! It has been SO long since I have done a blog that WordPress has quite a few changes. Mostly, I have just been sharing my limited images via Facebook–but decided to keep a theme and share my recent new shooting technique. (New to me, not anything I invented!)
Have you ever had an image where you moved when your shutter was still open and it blurred your photo? Maybe–strong winds with your camera on a tri-pod without using a cord? I certainly have had my fair share of blurry photos due to unintentionally moving something I should not have while I was shooting.
Recently, I was reading an e-book, “SLOW The Magic of Long-Exposure Photography” by Andrew S. Gibson. I learned that there is a technique to intentionally create movement in camera and it is called–wait for it…Intentional Camera Movement (ICM). I had seen the results of images posted by others, especially with fall shots and didn’t know how to achieve it, but now I do! As Mr. Gibson suggests–you can look it up on Flickr and see some talented shots.
The technique is basically panning your camera as you shoot in Shutter priority with a long enough exposure–half a second or longer to create the movement, with abstract results. I found the coastal region of Northern California to be an ideal spot for this venture. 
- Pacific Ocean below a bluff
Silky Appearance
Liked the angle of the water
Black and White
Saturated Colors
The advantage of this shoot being at sunset was that I could get quite a few different color options as the sunset faded and the light show began. The above images were processed using Lightroom 4.3 and started as RAW files, so I would have more choices refining what I captured and wanted to share.
En route to the sunset location there was a grove of trees in their winter glory–no leaves and darker bark with sunlight hitting them just as I wished. so, here is actually my first attempt at ICM.
Quite Squiggly
Got a good chuckle, and decided I was pleased with my result. Clearly, there is indeed movement during this shot! Soon, I discovered it was much easier to pan horizontally than vertically! Hold camera and tuck in elbows to your body for a cleaner pan.
There was a field with such luscious green grass a herd of White-Tail Deers were munching away in the distance. The road was a good 50 yards or more from where they were located, and we were separated by a barbed wire enclosure. Here are a few shots of the pasture. The first two shots are from the same file–only difference is with the “Clarity Slider” in Lightroom. Same exact image with clarity at -100 for the second view–no other differences, but certainly changed the result!
Boosted Clarity to about 60
All clarity removed…
Lighter colors and details
One last view of the deer in the distance with a nice tree to provide a change in scenery!
Tree and Deers
Continuing with the theme of movement…here are two images that were not ICM, but I kept them due to their abstract result. If you know me, I am a great fan of Lensbaby Optics and love the abstract results you can create with them, so no wonder why I couldn’t part with these shots. To clarify–neither is a Lensbaby image!
Drawing of a Sun
What came to my mind as I first saw this image was that it reminded me of pictures that children draw with a sun in the sky with rays coming off of the center. OK–I still draw mine that way, am certainly NOT an artist in that respect!
This was taken at dusk…my intended shot was to get the hawks that were swooping down and making a meal of the bats that were coming out from under the specially designed bridge (designed for the bats, the previous one was lost in a flood). I used a WAY too long of an exposure to hand hold and the speed at which the bats were exiting and hawks swooping and snacking were much faster than the settings on my camera were!
Greenery
Look forward to working on my panning and ICM skills and writing more blogs to share with you!
Thanks much, for viewing–it is greatly appreciated:D
American River Stormy Views
I am an avid reader and enjoy reading photography books, blogs, e-books–anything I can gain knowledge from and enjoy the wonderful images others have created. Many times I have read that the best photos come from your location–knowing when the weather and conditions will get you an amazing view. Usually, this is written by someone who lives near Yosemite, in Hawaii, and other vacation destinations I’d love to live near.
This week in Northern California we went from 100 degree weather down to the high 70s–that was a delightful shift and much welcomed! There was also a threat of rain. I was watching the sky and the clouds and noticed they were getting very inviting for a photo outing. So, I went to the American River–one of my favorite locations and a 5-minute drive. Have been dealing with severe back and neck challenges due to an injury, so am very limited in what I can do and for how long. (This outing was less than 20-minutes and SO worth it.)
My Nikon 18mm is a wide angle prime and very light weight and has become my go-to lens. Do love the continuing “learning curves” of photography! When I got home, realized I had a very slight vignette in every corner of my images. (Have now taken the rubber hood off of my lens!) So, decided to embrace the vignette concept..having never tried it before–had a fun time with it:)
The first teasing drops of rain began as soon as I sat down to take a few snaps, so didn’t stay long, but did enjoy the ever-changing clouds!
A few green spots near the river
Played a bit with white vignettes to match the clouds
A small area near the shore with slower moving water, a haven for ducks
Took advantage of a full frame camera and just cropped these, so the vignette was not apparent. Know too much of a good thing can become boring, so no vignettes on these views!
View down the river
A patch of blue
Ironically, this is not a time I usually visit the river–in the middle of the day and during summer. Had to take these shots in between folks going down the river on rafts. Was reminded of this when I drove through the gate, to find limited parking. Am glad I went, though–certainly does validate the concept of finding great views in your own neighborhood:D
Poppies Popping
The state flower of California is the Golden Poppy.
In spring, they are abundant and can be found many places–on
freeway hillsides, in neighborhood yards and along the American
River, to name a few locales. Actually, my header on my blog
is from a few years ago. I had hoped to find both Poppies and
Lupine in bloom and took me quite a few trips before I found what I
was searching for. These are a few shots I got to enjoy when
hunting for them this year.
Front and
Center
Early Morning
Dew
On the
Side
Among New
Friends
landscape shot, so decided to enjoy both options! Do you have
a preference?
Multicolored River
View
Wide
Colors
vision even more impressive!
Catch Your
Breath
made certain I got to enjoy this amazing view. Taken on
Mother’s Day. Well worth fighting the traffic to get it.
Color
Carpet
stopped along this 2 lane highway to capture the beauty.
Who Wouldn’t Want
This View?
camera, the Nikon D800E. Have been waiting for a fullframe
camera for quite some time. The wait was worth it! Look
forward to sharing more photos with you taken with this amazing
camera:)
Sacramento Zoo Visit Highlights
Have you ever done a blog and saved it as a draft and then posted something else? And then, your next blog is more current and it posts…well. I have some photos to share of our local animal talent!
My zoo visit was last year before the holidays, thus the 2011 on my photos–but decided to share them anyway. Hope you enjoy the critter visit:)
Last year, my staff gave me a membership to the Sacramento Zoo–seemed time to visit once again. Was a beautiful, but colder day here–highs in the low 50s, but plenty of sunshine!
The Sacramento Zoo has a wonderful crew of dedicated docents and hosts events through out the year. Unbeknownst to me–today was an event–where special treats were made and given to the animals. Remember now the joys and challenges of shooting through plexiglass and wire mesh!
Here are some of my views from today…
Anteater–they are much bigger than I ever remembered!
Walking around...
Next door–there was a lonely Spotted Hyena that spent much of the time pacing back and forth.
Hanging out
The old adage..of let sleeping dogs lie–think that also applies to napping cats, such as this beautiful Snow Leopard relaxing away on top of a rock!
Holiday Berries behind!
Right across from the “cats” was an enclosure with some very friendly River Otters. Friendly would not have been something I would aquaint with otters–but they knew how to ham it up for sure!
Hi there!
For anyone who has dogs…you know those smudges on your car windows?
Favorite Spot--will come back here!
About ready for a nap!
Was fortunate that the giraffes came out for a bit on nuzzling together.
A Tender Moment
More Visits with the Giraffes! It is not uncommon to visit and they don’t even come out of there barn. Certainly depends on the weather and what special treat are being presented!
Not sure why I am looking at you...but here is my wondrous face and neck!
Some friends with wings and feathers…
Posing
Curled up tight
Disagreement About Something!
Challenge with these two…was the backlighting. Chose to blow out the background, so their wonderful colors could be viewed.
Awww, so cute!
A new use for your old phone books–probably one you never thought of…for these Hornbills, the phone book was filled with crunchy bugs. They had fun “flipping through the pages” and were rewarded with a tasty morsel. Bugs and more bugs…pages and pages with “snacks” hiding out! Check to see if your local zoo can use your old phone books!
I'll Have One of Those!
This was one of my favorites…his “whooping” and calls announced his presence long before he was in sight. Spent most of the time swinging through the cage and putting on quite a show.
Who's Making All the Noise?
Some holiday cheer for the Red Pandas…so cute!
Hmm...a little holiday snack!
Framing a bit…
In the Center
Just remember there are many options to support projects we believe in and hope it will transcend time . In my opinion, we need to look and identify needs now that we can impact and ensure they will be enjoyed and last for may centuries to come.
Is there a smaller zoo or animal wildlife refuge area in or near your town or county? The might be a great place to start what your animals need for comfort and growth. Treat Days, Adoption–providing approved snacks and goodies. Ask the merchants and store owners,, they should be able to offer you time and means for supporting their animal population!
Blooming
I am one of those few folks that are actually happy to give up an hour in the spring–thrilled for more daylight!
Northern California is severely lacking in rain and we had some in the forecast today…sadly, to no avail as of 5:30 p.m. What we got was a nice cloudy and overcast sky. Perfect for catching some seasonal blooms at the Carmichael Botanical Garden. So, off I went!
In addition to the Tulip blooms, the trees had lovely blossoms as well. For this, I dusted off my macro 60mm lens (literally!) and caught some different views. Must say, it has been a long time since I have tried to manual focus on any lens, except for my Lensbaby optics!
What is spring without budding blossoms? Hopeful these will survive the week of predicted rain!
This is my favorite image from today…
Hope your spring is full of blooms and you enjoy each blossom!
Rooster Hokey Pokey and Attitudes!
Fair Oaks is a small town nestled between Carmichael and Citrus Heights, near Sacramento, CA. The “Town Square” is a small park with local businesses surrounding two sides. What is most unusual are the feathered friends that roam through out the entire town. Roosters and Hens peck at the grass and root in the shrubbery and come near people–obviously, well fed!
I am sure many of you remember the song, “The Hokey Pokey”…one of those tunes that can get stuck in your head? What I noticed as I was processing my numerous rooster shots was they were “doing the Hokey Pokey!” So here goes a few views of these talented roosters and hens!
You put your Right Foot out!
What goes out…come in…
You put your right foot in!
And now, for the left…
You put your left foot out!
And you shake it all about!
You put your head in!
I must admit…did not capture anymore obvious views to the song…but I did notice some serious attitude as I got a little closer views. Some “head shots” with attitude and feeling…
Headshot
Snacking on grass
I'm talkin' to you!
Not in the mood!
Eye to eye!
Black and White Hen
This one, just seemed a bit wiser and older–reminded me of a “wise soul!”
Wise old soul
Any identifications are welcome! Of course, I “Googled” roosters and found a few identifications via Wikipedia…but none that looked familiar. I was surprised to see that “Fair Oaks Roosters” has a Facebook page…a non profit, so of course, I “liked” them–happy to help:)
Hope your day is wonderful!
Return to Mono
Surrounding Hills
If you are tired of visiting Mono Lake through my blog, I understand. Yes, this is the third post (in a row)…you may have guessed it–I am hooked on this amazing wonder. Think only additional visits might cure me–happy to try again!
Life lessons can be easy or hard to learn. My personal belief is that the harder ones to learn are those we remember. I sure as heck hope so. Because since my last post, I realized I shot every single photo from December 16-31 in jpeg–ONLY on my D300s. Son of a gun. How did I not figure it out sooner? Didn’t try to view a different white balance on a photo I already shot and was making very few changes in Lightroom 3.
I am now taking a Photoshop course through BetterPhoto.com which gave me enough confidence to finally try to process my images in Photoshop…only to realize ALL my pics were jpeg, which is why I couldn’t get them to open in Adobe Camera Raw. Originally, I figured I must have changed my setting by accident when I shot sunrise. Figured one day was only in jpeg. Nope–now recall the last day of work before vacation, I went to take a photo and didn’t want to waste space with RAW that I wouldn’t use. That one moment has cost me much in opportunities with editing my trip. BUT, I better remember to check my settings every time I put it away and pull it out of my camera bag. #lessonlearned Must say, this on-line course is really well-organized. Lewis Kemper is the instructor, it is a privilege to have a local accomplished photographer such as he!
So, I was viewing my photos with a new lens today and happened to find a few more worth sharing. Think the threatening weather added much to the clouds and saturation to the colors. Really so much more than I managed to capture. Next time, I sure as hell will have my camera setting in Raw and not jpeg!
A few views before sunset at South Tufa, Mono Lake…
Water's Edge
Further Back
Across the Way
Lighting the Way
Mountain Glory
Tufa Window
As sunset begins the color change–many folks will leave and miss the real light show that begins when the golden hour starts. 30 minutes after sunset, in my limited experience is well worth staying for.
First changes
Another view from sunrise the next morning…
Early Sunrise
Of course I now realize I should have used my (c) from 2011 instead of 2012–another lesson for future learning:)
Mono Lake Revisited…again!
Well, yes–my last post was on Mono Lake–but I visited again and witnessed the most amazing sunset and sunrise moments in my life.
I do know that I need to do more research on what conditions make for a more vivid color show at sunset and sunrise…my hunch is that storm clouds and conditions calling for weather changes do make a huge difference!
Just over a week passed from the photos I took at Mono Lake the previous week, to these views. It is a common spot to find photographers and many famous artists have captured the glory of this locale. I was joined by about 4 serious photographers on this night. The scene constantly changes with various flashes of color and the changes in the clouds. There is not a single place in the 360 degree view that is not worthy of remembering. A good example–is watching a professional photographer from the Bay Area running with his tripod from one spot to another. That is how much you want to be able to capture every moment. Here are a few of the more memorable shots from an amazing sunset session.
Changing Flashes
All glowing
Western View
Finishing off the show was the most fire ball of light on the Western horizon…
Last fire light
Following this show of light, I was on such a “high” in total amazement of what I had witnessed over the course of less than an hour. Decided if there is such a thing as “Photographers’ High” I had the pleasure of experiencing it. Was wide awake until well after midnight and had my alarm set for sunrise.
Didn’t think I could see anything as wonderful as the night before–however, I was not disappointed by any stretch of the imagination by a spectacular sunrise.
First light
Calm waters
Spectacular reflections
Space Age View
Distant colors
The last part of the extraordinary sunrise is when the first rays of the sun hit the highest peak. The color is in fact red and glows for a few minutes. For the true meaning of the art of photography that is “all about the light” this is one of the few times it is so visible. After a few minutes, the color of the sierra peak returns to the normal wonderful color–but still you can remember what it looked like!
Golden Hour Moment
So thankful this wonderful treasure is no longer on the closure list for California State Parks. To be a supporter, you can join the Mono Lake Committee–it is over 16,000 members strong. I was able to visit the information center and bookstore, located in Lee Vining and will now proudly be sporting a “Long Live…Mono Lake” on my license. www.monolake.org
My heartfelt thanks to all of the individuals that have dedicated their time and resources to keep this fabulous place for many generations to come!
Winter at Mono Lake
In order to celebrate the holidays with my family, I had to get to Southern California from Sacramento. Although the Sacramento International Airport does have a brilliant new terminal with both Southwest Airlines and Jet Blue flying out of it–it took me 1.5 hours to get through security and to the gate, when I flew Veteran’s Day weekend. This didn’t include having to park a car and take a tram. So–let’s say, 2 hours to get to the gate, 1.5 hour flight–wait for baggage and get a rental car another hour easily–that is 4.5 hours. So, I decided to drive:) Renting a big car in LA–SUV, because I can’t stand having little bitty car is another expense I saved driving!
The most direct route is I-5 and I could make it in about 5 hours. Easy…and very boring.
Last weekend, I saw a Tweet that said that Highway 120 was open. This is a highway that connects Yosemite National Park from the Valley at 4000 feet through Tioga Pass at 9953 feet to Highway 395. Being able to access the High Country in Yosemite was inviting. Plus, another benefit of driving Highway 395 is that I would have to go right past Mono Lake. Since my destination was LA–I would also have to go through Lone Pine, which is the base of Whitney Portals and Alabama Hills. That will be another post…
So, instead of taking 361 miles via I-5, I saw a sign as I reached highway 395 that said Los Angeles 399 miles–that was after I had already gone over 100 miles to get there. Reached my brother’s house with 471.7 showing on the mileage.
Mono Lake State Park was slated for closure, but fortunately came off the list a short while back!
Lee Vining is the town closest to the South Tufa viewing area. This was my first winter visit, and not my last for sure!
My first shots are from sunset on Tuesday. Not much color to speak of and very few clouds in the sky to be found–but still such beauty and captivating!
Parking Lot View
Seeing double?
Off in the distance
The temperature on Wednesday morning as I drove back to get sunrise shots was 12 degrees. No wind, but quite chilly! My first attempt at night photography…
In between night and day!
Mellow Morning
Winter Grass
Helpful headlights
Have a wonderful holiday season–may it be filled with joy, friends, and family–plus your camera!
Lensbaby Fun!
Haven’t really dedicated much time for my Lensbaby lately, so this week made a point of doing just that.
Visited the American River Parkway and caught a few views…
Road less traveled
In California, we are falling into Winter and signs are everywhere…
Piles of leaves
A Winter Tree with a majestic blue sky background
Empty Tree
Visited Old Town Sacramento this week and switched to my Composer with Double Glass and a Star Aperture. This aperture makes single points of light into a “star” which seemed fitting for the holidays. Yes, I do know too much of one thing can be overkill, but let’s just say I had a happy reunion with my Lensbaby!
One of my favorite aspects is how the mundane can be turned into magic…a view from the passenger side.
Shotgun!
This is just the lights from cars on Interstate 80…kinda fun view, IMHO!
Actually a view from inside Joe's Crab Shack
Any point of lights will shift with this aperture.
A view from an Old Town window…
Reflecting Light
One last view of a more traditional source!
A bit in Focus
Hope your holidays are merry and bright and filled with those you love!
Fall Finds in Apple Hill
Just about an hour up the hill from Sacramento lies many apple orchards and vineyards, fondly known as “Apple Hill.” Was thrilled to find some latent fall colors on a trip just before Thanksgiving.
Still needs time to change
Love to take the back roads and enjoy the views…stopped by to catch this row of colors…managed to get it without trespassing–so would have liked a closer view, but had to respect the gate. Figured, I wouldn’t want folks traipsing down my driveway.
In a line
Must confess–not a pano, just cropped from the original view…
Darn long driveway
This is the invitation to stop and take a moment to relax and enjoy!
Table for Four
Also stopped at Boeger Vineyard to enjoy their grounds. Lovely views of the last of fall.
Remnants of rain
The last few
Many folks just come to picnic and enjoy the views.
Reflections
Love the sense of humor…although I didn’t see any puppies ready to be thrust upon unsuspecting parents. Maybe they are in the back?
Sign me up!
Looking forward already to the blossoms of spring!
Drmarm's Blog 