Playing Outside

I haven’t tested in forever.  I’ve taken the last 3 months off from testing to start this blog and learn a few new software programs like Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Power Point, Direct Mail, WordPress ect…  It’s been a long hard road with a lot of sitting.

I normally test pretty much every week and I need to get back to it.  Today a fellow group of photographers came over to test a few things.  I wanted to test using my 580ex speedlight in HSS mode.  I want to shoot wide open during a sunny day.  I never use my speedlight and I’m kind of intimidated by it.  There is a lot of buzz on using speedlights so I thought it was time I dusted mine off.   I’m looking at getting a Quantum Turbo 3 to power it.  Once I make up my mind that I’m ready to tackle something it’s a done deal…it’s time.

I didn’t bring my LCD TV viewing screen me today which was a huge change of pace.  I wear reading glasses and it’s such a hassle, glasses on, glasses off…all day long, yuk!.

Instead I used my  Hoodman H-LPP3 HoodLoupe viewing screen, which worked out great.  Takes a bit of getting used to but I managed, still had to do the glasses thing though.

This shoot was to see how little equipment I could take with me on a shoot.  I’m use to 3 or 4 heavy rolling cases with full set ups on locations.  I’m looking into bare bones, roll out of the car, snap-snap, get back in the car kinda shootin.

This shot was taken right outside my studio, these houses look right into the buildings’ loading dock.  I’m looking to shoot my comp cards much quicker with more variety within each look.  I spend so much time teaching a new model how to do commercial modeling that I don’t want to spend my time  packing and unpacking equipment.  I’m not doing formal portraits where I need unbelievable lighting outside.  Commercial modeling agencies are more concerned with the look and feel of the shot than the lighting.  I think this would be totally acceptable for an agency.

So about today; this was shot with my 580ex speedlight on camera at -2 power with a lumedyne power pack, that’s it.  Just tried to find how I liked the sun on her hair.

I’m a studio shooter, not a location shooter but my goal is to test outside like crazy this summer.  To shoot “down & dirty” or “fast & fun”…just sayin

6 comments category: Comp cards,Modeling Agencies,Photographing models

1 Cori Marte June 16, 2010 at 8:55 pm

I appreciate you taking the time to work with me on the essentials of modeling. You have opened up my eyes to natural beauty. The carefree approach of commercial is so much more enjoyable. You really captured my personality in this photo. Thank you for working with me Mary!

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2 Dan Tibbetts Photo Highlights June 16, 2010 at 8:48 pm

great job Mary, and the model is awesome to:)))))

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3 Mike Younger June 14, 2010 at 6:40 pm

Hi Mary,
I think the shot looks great, no signs of it being “lit”. Looks very natural.
Mike

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4 DerekW June 14, 2010 at 11:16 am

If you want a great cost effective alternative to the (overly) pricey Quantum, try a Pixel TD-381 Holds 8 rechargeable AA’s and can work with only 4 as well. Great deal and only about $50-60 inclding shipping. Check ebay.

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5 Rick Rosen June 14, 2010 at 8:55 am

Hi Mary,
It was a real pleasure meeting you yesterday and getting a chance to shoot with you. Getting down to the basics of minimal lighting and a minimalist location and yet getting the kind of images that you created really shows your depth of talent and experience.
All the best,
Rick

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6 David Teng June 13, 2010 at 9:41 pm

Great post. I’ve been using my 580’s all the time now for location shoots. If you want consistent power then I definitely recommend picking up the Quantum. It’s what I use for all my reception shooting. Couldn’t recommend it more.

Too bad you’re so far away. Would love to be shooting location with you here in NYC. It’s truly a wonderful playground. =) Hope you’re well.

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