Landscape Photography: Tools of the Trade

I have been asked a lot of questions over the years but the #1 question is, "What camera do you have?" I'm sure that I am not alone. The rest of the time I am asked about gear recommendations and how to shoot certain subjects. I've decided to address these questions in a series of posts beginning with my suggestions for someone interested in landscape photography.

The best camera is the one that’s with you. – Chase Jarvis

You may have heard someone recite this quote or something similar and there is good reason - seldom are truer words spoken. I almost always use my smartphone when I am out shooting - it isn't my primary camera but I like to post on social media and using the camera makes it easy to do on-the-fly. I cannot always carry my DSLR with me but I (almost) always have my phone. The quality of the latest generation of smartphones are incredible and there are some, such as Kalebra Kelby, who shoot nothing but smartphones. I'm not suggesting that the phone is as good as a DSLR but it is better than saying, "You should have seen the sunset! I wish I had a camera...."

I have also published a video on this topic on my YouTube channel - Landscape Photography: Tools of the Trade

The Essentials

The obvious answer is - a camera and a lens. That's all you really need to get started in landscape photography and when I started out many years ago I had a fixed lens rangefinder.

Camera

My current camera is a Canon EOS Rebel T3i which is a crop-sensor. My go-to landscape lens is the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM. The camera has a crop factor of 1.6 making this lens a 29-216mm zoom. While I would prefer to have something wider, this has suited me well. If I truly need something wider, I will shoot a panorama to be stitched in Lightroom.

Tripod

You absolutely must have a good tripod. I started to put this in the "near essential" category but changed my mind. You can get away without a tripod but you are going to severely limit yourself and will come away disappointed a lot. Landscape photography is about many things and depth of field is one; we want our images sharp from foreground to background and for that we need to stop down the lens. I will typically shoot between f/8 and f/16. This can require shutter speeds that are below our ability to handhold. There are other advantages to using a tripod, such as being able to find your composition, setting the shot up and then waiting for the light. It also allows you to shoot long exposures (with the help of ND filters, if-necessary) adding drama to moving clouds or smoothing out running water.

Circular Polarizer Filter

I firmly believe that the last essential piece of equipment is a circular polarizer filter. You can buy them as the screw-in filter for the front of your lens or as part of a "filter system". They range in price from about $10 to more than $300. The polarizer is an invaluable addition to your bag and serves multiple purposes. It can be used to add drama to your sky - if you have a nice, blue sky with clouds the polarizer will darken (saturate) the blue making the clouds pop. The caveat is that the greatest effect is when the sun is at 90° to you in the sky. If you are shooting panoramas, you have to be careful. The other use for a polarizer is to reduce, or eliminate, reflections. This is particularly helpful when you are shooting water. I use it a lot when I have a stream with rocks in and around it; there are often harsh reflections coming off the water and rocks, the polarizer will remove this giving you a much more pleasing image.

The Near Essentials

What is a near essential? I consider them to be things you need but can get away without. This list would include:

• Neutral density filters (solid and split)
• Telephoto zoom lens
• Remote shutter release

These are all great to have but I have gotten great results over the years without them.

Neutral Density (ND) filters

Neutral density filters come in a variety of configurations and densities. They are, essentially, sunglasses for the lens and range from 1 to 16 stops in light reduction. They come in solid, soft-edge split and hard-edge split. The "split" filters have the darkened portion covering only half of the filter while the other half is clear. They are used when the sky and land require dramatically different exposures, such as sunrise and sunset. You can buy the filters as screw-in for the front of your lens or as part of a filter system. Personally, I like having the filter system because I don't need a set of filters for each lens. The filter system also allows you to adjust the location of the "split" whereas a screw-in filter will always have it in the middle of the frame.

Common scenarios for using ND filters include sunrise/sunset, shooting moving water and when you want shallow depth of field.

Telephoto Zoom Lens

A telephoto lens may seem to be counter-intuitive for landscape photography but it does have its place. Most of us associate landscape photography with wide, sweeping views but there are also the intimate views or for isolating distant subjects. The telephoto also lends a different perspective to the landscape by compressing the foreground and background. The next time you are out, break out the telephoto and see how it transform what you see.

Remote Shutter Release

This accessory could easily be included in the "Essentials" list for there are times when you absolutely, positively, must have one. If you are using shutter speeds longer than 30 seconds, you must have a remote release that locks. The reason for using the remote release is that it minimizes the need to touch the camera, thereby removing one opportunity to introduce camera shake. You can use a 2-second timer but that removes the spontaneity and there are times when you just don't have that much warning. They are one of the most inexpensive things you can add to your bag and you will get a whole lot of use from it.

The Nice-To-Haves

This is a pretty broad category and I include it just to give you some ideas on what is available. This equipment is by no means necessary, in fact, I don't have some of the things on this list and I have done quite well.

Nodal Point Tripod Head

Many of you may not know what this is, I know I didn't until about a year or so ago. This is a special tripod head that is used to shoot panoramas. What makes is special is that it mounts the camera so that the "nodal point" is over the center column of the tripod. By doing this you reduce or remove the parallax inherent with other methods. I know this is a whole lot of mumbo jumbo but I wanted to let you know this exists. They tend to be quite expensive and something that I consider a luxury.

Smartphone Apps

While technically not equipment, I want to mention apps. I use a few when I am planning a photo excursion - mainly ones that tell me where the sun and moon will be at any given time and location. I also have an app giving me the times for "Golden Hour", "Blue Hour", "Twilight", etc.... I use these, along with a website called Suncalc, to plan my sunrise and sunset trips, in particular.

Rope / Gaffers Tape

I almost always have cordage of some type with me; I currently have 150 feet of paracord in my daypack. You never know when you will need to secure something or make a "battlefield" repair. I used some cord to tie a small tripod to a tree when shooting one of my YouTube videos. The tape can be used to help secure a tripod leg if the locking mechanism fails. As a Boy Scout I was told to "be prepared" and so I carry these things with me.

Miscellaneous

As I mentioned, being a Boy Scout means I like to be prepared and that means carrying stuff "just in case." If you watched my video review of the Tamrac Hoodoo 20 daypack you have seen a lot of what I carry but here is a list, along with some other suggested items.

• Swiss Army Knife^®
• Multi-purpose tool
• Eyeglass screwdriver
• Small First Aid kit
• Notebook and pen
• Emergency whistle
• Magnifying glass
• Map & Compass
• Flashlight / Headlamp
• Handheld GPS

This is the standard list of what I always carry when I venture out. I have been fortunate enough to not need many of these items while out but I would rather have something that I don't need than need something I don't have. If you are heading out alone I would add the "emergency whistle" to your "Must Have" list, especially if you are going to be in an area that isn't heavily trafficked. I have started wearing a Tactical Survival Braceletcomposed of paracord, compass, fire starter, emergency whistle and emergency knife but I still have the others in my pack.

In conclusion

I hope this post has answered any questions you may have about equipment for landscape photography and that I have inspired you to get out and shoot. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post them in the comments section below. If you feel I have left something out, let me know. What is your essential list?

Thanks for stopping by.

DISCLAIMER: The list below is for informational purposes only. I do not have personal experience with all of the products and do not vouch for their quality - use at your own risk.

Suggested Equipment w/ Amazon links

• Canon DSLRs
• Canon lenses
• MeFOTO RoadTrip tripod
• Tamrac Hoodoo Camera Daypack
• Swiss Army Knife
• Tactical Survival Bracelet
• Circular Polarizers
• Filter Systems
• Remote Shutter Release
• Multi-Purpose Tool
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency Whistle
• Headlamp
• Compass
• Handheld GPS

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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I'm on YouTube!

I have been wanting to launch a YouTube channel for a while and I am happy to say it went live yesterday! I published a 5 minute introductory video featuring some of my images - many of which have appeared in this blog.

I am currently working on video reviews of the MeFOTO RoadTrip tripod and Tamrac Hoodoo backpack and they should be available soon. If you have been enjoying this blog, I would ask that you check out my YouTube channel and subscribe to that, too.

Product Review: Tamrac Hoodoo 20 Camera Daypack

Tamrac Hoodoo 20 Camera Daypack

On YouTube

I published a video review of the Tamrac Hoodoo 20 on my YouTube channel. In the video I show what I carry, how it fits and discuss it's features. You can check it out here - https://youtu.be/2VW10grRHgA

First Impression

When I opened the box and took the bag out I was struck by how nice it was. I have often seen images online or in catalogs and the item bore little resemblance in real life but this bag is exactly what is represented on the Tamrac website. The first thing I did was unzip every zipper to see how well they worked and to explore the inner workings of the bag. I have had a Tamrac 3537 shoulder back for about six (6) years and it has served me well, so I know the quality of Tamrac bags. Even so, the more I explored, the more impressed I was with how well made the Hoodoo is.

The camera compartment is well-padded and is pre-configured with six (6) spots for gear; it easily held my DSLR body, two lenses, binoculars and digital video camera with space for my 67mm polarizer (in a case) along with my Formatt-Hitech 85mm filter holder and two adapter rings. There is a zipper-pocket on the flap to hold a spare battery, lens cloth, lens brush, media cards and a few odds & ends.

Opening the top compartment gives you access to another zipper-pocket and a large, padded pocket in the back of the bag for a laptop or tablet. I used this space to put in a couple notepads that I like to carry with me. You can access the camera compartment through the top by unzipping the top of the camera bag but I'm not sure how often I would do this as it means removing whatever I am carrying in the top. Speaking of which, I have my Formatt-Hitech filters in their carrying case along with my camera raincover, a small, flexible tripod and small First Aid kit. There is an outer zipper-pocket on the top of the bag which is large enough to carry my camera owner's manual, a couple pens, business cards and a small, spiral notepad.

In The Field

I take my camera with me virtually everywhere and using the backpack makes it easy. When I go to and from the car, or other short distances, I don't wear it as a backpack but more like a shoulder bag - just on one shoulder. It is very comfortable and stays on my shoulder rather well. I have had other daypacks where it was a struggle to keep it from slipping off my shoulder but, so far, I have not experienced that with the Hoodoo.

The real test came about a week after I got the bag and I took it in the field. Well, technically it was in the woods. I went to one of my favorite hiking spots and hiked one of the "challenging" trails. The trail itself is one mile in length and can be a bit tough to navigate at times, a perfect test. I wanted to see how comfortable the pack was and how well balanced it was on my back. The Hoodoo performed like a champ. I had no trouble getting through some of the tough spots, even though the trail gets a bit narrow and it was so well balanced on my back it was like a natural extension.

I stopped along the trail a few times to take the pack off and do some shooting; it was on and off my back effortlessly and it's small footprint meant it was easy to find a place to put it down. Overall, it was quite a successful outing.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Customizable
• Comfortable, padded straps and back
• Sternum strap
• Well-built, should stand up to punishment
• Water-resistant
• Loop on top makes it easy to hang from a tripod

Cons

• Lacks external holder for water bottle
• Lacks "D"-rings or other method of attaching things
• Small upper compartment when camera bag is inside

Final Thoughts

The Hoodoo 20 comes in three (3) colors - Ocean (blue), Kiwi (green) and Pumpkin (orange). All three colors are nice and I got mine in kiwi. If you are looking for a reasonably priced (MSRP $131.95), mid-sized photography backpack, the Hoodoo 20 may be just what you are looking for. It is small enough to be used as carry-on luggage for a flight and big enough to carry whatever you may need for most of your photography day trips. It is also rugged enough to stand up to whatever you may throw at it. It is water-resistant not waterproof so you may want to carry protection if you think you may get caught in a storm.

Overall I am quite happy with the Hoodoo 20 but it does have a few shortcomings, however minor. The lack of at least one water holder and "D"-rings are two things I noticed immediately. When I am out hiking I don't want to have to carry anything in my hands but these are just minor inconveniences. The upper compartment, with camera bag in place, is not isolated from the bottom and so some things may slide down along the walls of the pack while walking. This happened while I was in the field testing, it wasn't a major problem, just an inconvenience. To combat this, I took an old cereal box and cut it to fit, making a small tray with sides that fit inside the compartment.

Manufacturers Specifications

Note: The specifications listed below were taken from the manufacturers website and are accurate as-of the writing of this review. They have not been independently verified by the reviewer

• External Dimensions - 11.5 x 16.5 x 6 in (29.5 x 43 x 15.5 cm)
• Internal Dimensions - 11 x 16.5 x 5.5 in (29 x 42.5 x 15 cm)
• Weight - 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg)
• 2x PU coating
• Optimized lightweight foams
• YKK® zippers
• Waxed canvas and ripstop fabrics
• Absolutely NO PVC

For More Information or To Buy

• Tamrac Hoodoo 20 kiwi @ Tamrac - click here
• Tamrac Hoodoo 20 kiwi @ Amazon - Tamrac Hoodoo 20 Camera Backpack (Kiwi)

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Product Review: MeFOTO RoadTrip tripod

MeFOTO RoadTrip tripod

On YouTube

I published a video review of the MeFOTO RoadTrip on my YouTube channel. In the video I demonstrate using the tripod and discuss it's features. You can check it out here - https://youtu.be/LoCVEsTgsnc

First Impression

I recently received a MeFOTO RoadTrip Aluminum tripod - orange - and took it out in the field to try it out. My first impression when I opened the box and took it out from the carry case was very positive. The tripod folds up to a nice, compact size (15.4 in / 39.1 cm) making it easy to carry and the legs quickly fold back into place when you are ready to shoot. It weights in at 3.6 pounds (1.6 kilos) and can hold up to 17.6 pounds (8 kilos). The tripod comes with a dual action ballhead with Arca-Swiss style quick release plate. I have both the standard "black" release plate and an "orange" plate to match the tripod. The ballhead moved smoothly and stayed put when locked down. The addition of a bubble level in the head was a nice bonus. There is a spring-loaded hook at the bottom of the center column that can be used to hang some weight for added stability.

In The Field

I decided to head out to one of my favorite locations for my first tests - the Visitor Center at Monmouth Battlefield State Park. I wanted to shoot a variety of images, including low-angle, fully extended, and panorama. I shot mainly with my Canon EF-S 18-135mm but also brought my old Sigma 400mm f/5.6 to see how the tripod - especially the head - stood up to it.

I started out shooting a panorama with the camera in landscape. This is where the bubble level in the head comes in quite handy. I set the legs out to full extension and the center column most of the way up - the least stable configuration. I leveled the head, mounted the camera and took a 4-shot panorama. I had the lens at 18mm (29mm equivalent) giving me a horizontal field of view of about 60°. I mention this because I used this figure to determine how much to rotate the head for each shot. The ballhead has markings along the base representing the degrees on a compass. I wanted about a 25% overlap so I rotated the head 45° between shots. I then turned the camera 90° to shot the same panorama in portrait. I wanted to use the registration marks for this panorama but they get obscured by the camera and it is too hard to use.

From the panoramas, I turned to my 400mm - I wanted to see how well the tripod performed at full extension. I mounted the lens to the tripod and took a number of shots. A telephoto of this size (640mm equivalent) was going to show any camera shake there may be. I didn't notice any sign of shake in the final images - quite impressive. I spent some time with the tripod in a variety of positions from fully extended to compact. I put the tripod at odd angles with each leg at different extensions and angles. It performed beautifully throughout.

When I was done with most of the testing, I removed the center column and one leg and then screwed them together to form a monopod. I used the monopod with the Sigma 400mm mounted on the camera. I chose to use these this lens because it is the lens I most use with a monopod and I wanted to see how well they performed together. The monopod worked beautifully - from fully extended to compact. The monopod functioned flawlessly throughout my tests. I have owned, and used, a Bogen monopod fitted with a Cullman ballhead since the mid-1980's but that is now retired. There is no longer a need to carry a separate monopod.

The next day I took the tripod out again - this time I was shooting ground-level, with a shutter speed around 1/2 second. I found this spinning toy while driving through Old Tennent Cemetery and thought it would make a good subject. I set the tripod as low as I could go and adjusted the legs to balance the setup. The place I saw shooting was on the side of a hill and there was no flat ground. This was a good test; as a landscape photographer I don't often get a nice, flat surface to shoot from. Once again, the tripod worked as-expected and was quite solid.

Pros

• It's orange!
• Compact design
• Lightweight
• Very solid
• Easy to use
• Converts to monopod
• Hook on center column
• Center column reverses for low-angle photography

Cons

• The bubble level is on the head, not the body of the tripod. It isn't helpful if the platform is set vertically
• The level is also all white and rather small, making it difficult to see well
• Using the "spiked" feet requires removing rubber and installing spike - could be easier
• Registration marks aren't easy to use in "portrait"

Final Thoughts

Overall, I really can't say enough good things about this tripod. It does everything it is expected to do and it exceeded my expectations. I tend to be a bit leery of things that are somewhat "non-traditional", such as flashy colors. I find many times that the color, or whatever the "hook" is, turns out to be the best part of the product. That isn't the case with the MeFOTO RoadTrip - it delivers on all of it's promises and does so while giving you a little bit of flash. While I was running through my tests I got a few looks from passers-by and one even stopped to ask about the tripod. I haven't had a chance to do any extreme long exposures but have a few in mind and don't expect any trouble.

The bubble level is a nice idea but I don't think it is particularly useful in it's current configuration. It might be better if it were yellow or green and a bit larger. It truly was difficult for me to see. It might also be a good idea to move the registration marks to a collar separate from the head and have a mark on the head.

The bottom line is that I highly recommend this tripod to anyone looking for a "go-to" travel tripod. The MSRP for the RoadTrip Aluminum is $199 and the RoadTrip Carbon Fiber is $349. You can pay a whole lot more buying someone else's tripod or you can buy a MeFOTO and use the rest of the money for some filters or other accessories.

Manufacturers Specifications

Note: The specifications listed below were taken from the manufacturers website and are accurate as-of the writing of this review. They have not been independently verified by the reviewer

	ALUMINUM	CARBON FIBER
Maximum Load	17.6 lb	17.6 lb
Max Height w/Column Extended	61.6"	61.6"
Max Height w/Column Retracted	53.1"	53.1"
Minimum Height	15.4"	15.4"
Folded Length	15.4"	15.4"
Max Height Converted to Monopod	64"	64"
Number of Leg Sections	5	5
Leg Lock Type	Twist Lock	Twist Lock
Center Column	Yes. Attaches to leg section to convert to full size monopod	Yes. Attaches to leg section to convert to full size monopod.
Tilt Range	-45° / +90°	-45° / +90°
Drag Control	Yes	Yes
Spiked Feet	Yes	Yes
Panning Range	360°	360°
Separate Panning Lock	Yes	Yes
Quick Release (QR) Plate	Arca-Swiss Style (PU50)	Arca-Swiss Style (PU50)
Bubble Level	Yes	Yes
Head Mount Thread Size	3/8"-16	3/8"-16
Weight	3.6 lb	3.1 lb

For More Information or to Buy

• MeFOTO website - http://www.mefoto.com/
• MeFOTO RoadTrip tripods @ Amazon - MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod/Monopod Kit - Green (A1350Q1G)

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Interview with French Photographer Serge Ramelli

Serge Ramelli is a French photographer from Paris, who also spends a lot of time in the United States. I first came across Serge while searching YouTube for Photoshop and Lightroom videos and have been an avid subscriber since Day 1. It became apparent from the very start that Serge is not only quite knowledgeable about editing but he is also a very talented photographer with a flair for the dramatic. His images are stunning and he has had a definite influence on my work.

He got his start shooting interiors for hotels. He won his first job by beating out a number of established photographers – each had been tasked to shoot the same room in the hotel, the best shot wins the contract. Serge won that contest and he has never looked back.I recently saw Serge on The Grid with Scott Kelby. Scott mentioned that Serge had photographs exhibited in, I think, 86 galleries throughout the world and there were more on the way! The impression I got was that you can’t walk into a gallery in Paris without seeing some of his work. This is on top of publishing books, leading workshops, creating videos and tutorials for his website and YouTube channel. Serge is a lecturer at Photoshop World and one of the instructors at KelbyOne. He somehow finds time to shoot and produce amazing photographs and do some acting. Yes, Serge loves to act and recently completed a movie titled, The Hollywouldn’ts. That, my friends, is incredibly impressive.

I encourage you to seek out his videos and sign up for a free membership on his website – the links follow the interview below. With that, I give to you – the one and only, Serge Ramelli!

The Interview

Personal questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

The first time when I was 15 and travel the world and arrived in LA, I loved the weather and the palm tress, it was different then Paris !

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

• Croissant
• French baguette
• Apples
• A good American Burger
• Crepes

As you can see only healthy stuff ;-)
(Joe: I can't see anything on this list that isn't healthy. If you are ever in New Jersey, let me know and I will treat you to the best burger you ever ate.)

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

Don't waste your time living somebody else life. Steve Jobs
(Joe: I think this is advice everyone should heed.)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't shooting?

Acting

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Jean Paul Belmondo (French actor), he is my favorite actor and I just love everything about him, I met him briefly and got a letter from him, but would have love to play in a movie with him and spend some time!

Professional questions

Why photography? Why YouTube?

Because I realised 13 years after a demonstration that a friend gave me that with a camera and photoshop you could create easily without needing a team, like movie making. It was an effective way to express yourself as an artist. Youtube, because I love to share and be in front of the camera

Can you explain your photography in 10 words or less?

I love the drama, the idea of a scene that something extraordinary is going to happen
(Joe: This is quite obvious in Serge's work, as you can see.)

What is your greatest achievement in photography?

Having taught photography to thousands of person across the world that can now do a better art or even better changed career and do what they love in life.
(Joe: On behalf of those you have taught, "Thank you!")

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

Ansel Adams, He was one of my biggest inspiration
(Joe: If not for Ansel Adams I may not be a landscape photographer. His work is incredible. Serge dedicated a series of tutorials on "On the Trail of Ansel Adams" - I strongly recommend it. There is a link below.)

Where do you draw inspiration from when you shoot and what’s your favorite part about the process?

From the light, I always wait for a great moment of light and then I look for a subject, I use to follow cloud formation in Paris in a scooter and then find the subject

What is your favorite location to shoot?

It use to be Paris, but now that I have done so much I would say the national parks in the US my favorite so far Zion and Yosemite

What is your favorite piece of equipment?

My Sony Ar2, so light and so powerful

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone looking for a career in photography?

I got a start via interior design. My best advise find a niche that people are willing to buy photo like real estate, hotels, wedding, product shots... Create a portfolio with very FEW photos but AMAZING ones and start prospecting you will work!
(Joe: Great advice.)

Bonus question:

What are your Top 5 "Deserted Island" albums?

• Queen It's a kind of Magic
• The Beatles LOVE album
• Robbie Williams Live AZT Knebworth
• The best of Charles Aznavour
• The best of Johnny Halliday

  The Links

  • YouTube - www.Youtube.com/photoserge
  • Instagram - www.Instagram.com/photoserge
  • Website - www.photoserge.com
  • "On the Trail of Ansel Adams" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z9bMyUJ-Po&list=PLJ6FIlZVNbQM5iTx1Ag7Z4AGdDnAOpdd3
  • "The Hollylwouldn'ts" trailer on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUR9h7Zzx5E

  
  
  
  

  
  copyright www.photoserge.com

Interview with Australian Photographer Ben Fewtrell

This weeks' interview comes all the way from Australia! I first discovered Ben while going through tutorials and other photography videos on YouTube. I subscribed to his channel about two minutes into the first video I watched. I have watched, subscribed, and unsubscribed to quite a few different YouTube channels over the past several years and Ben's is one of only a handful that I watch each time a new video comes out. I like his style, both photography and video. He doesn't shoot the video and present it to you as though in a teacher/student relationship - he makes you feel as though you are out with a friend hoping to capture "the" image. You will often hear him say something about not getting an image on a particular trip but he always does. I've seen him shoot some spectacularly colorful sunrises and sunsets, while other times there is no color so he finds a composition that doesn't need it. His long exposures have inspired me to revisit that technique in my own work. If anyone tells you there is no need for filters in landscape photography, point him to Ben's channel. He makes great use of neutral density (ND) filters - both solid and graduated, including the "Big Stopper", the Lee 10-stop ND filter. If I'm not mistaken, he also uses the "Super Stopper", 15-stop, too. I couldn't wait to get my hands on a good ND filter set so I could get back into the game; I recently ordered a system; it should be delivered soon - stay tuned.

If you watch enough of his videos you will likely hear him refer to "The Boss". As any married man can tell you, The Boss is his lovely wife, Nichole. She will sometimes accompany Ben on his shoots, operating the video camera and, if you are lucky, turning the camera on herself to say "Hello!" I don't know how much he pays her but I think she needs a raise. 😂

I will leave you with these words before presenting the interview - Ben isn't "teaching" you how to be a photographer or give you tips on post-processing; he is showing you what he does, explaining it as he goes. His videos should serve as an inspiration and motivate you to get out and shoot. Good weather, bad weather, colorful or gray - the adventure and hunt for the image is what the game is all about. So now, without further ado I present to you Ben Fewtrell!

The Interview

Personal questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

I have always been a fan of the outdoors, and as a child spent most of my time outside playing with friends. There was a group of us that would often meet in the street on our bikes or skateboards and then head of to explore the local area, or just hang out at the local park.

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

As you can see, I am a fan of food!

1. My number 1, would have to be steak. I love a good steak!
2. Chinese Food. Nothing better than a nice bit of boiled rice and Chinese (I like most dishes)
3. Sushi, I would have this 2 to 3 times a week for lunch!
4. Cashew Nuts – I really enjoy munching on these for a snack, or with a beer.
5. Bread. I was often referred to as ‘The Carbohydrate Kid’.

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

“Don’t poke the Bear” – not sure who gave this advice to me, but I have used it to navigate through life. I like to keep the peace and would rather not stir up any trouble, so I never ‘Poke the Bear’.
(Joe: excellent advice! I'm afraid I haven't quite learned that lesson well enough yet.)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't shooting?

One of my failings is the number of hobbies I have. My full-time gig is running my own business, and this can keep me busy and be taxing on the brain, so I find myself immersing into hobbies that allow me to relax and switch off. It doesn’t really matter which hobby, when I am not shooting you’ll find me flying my Beechcraft Bonanza airplane, Woodworking in my workshop, Scuba Diving in Fiji, Spending time with my wife (we love eating out), playing Guitar or out riding my Motorbike.
(Joe: it's amazing you have time to shoot!)

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

I would love to spend an hour with Jim Rohn, he unfortunately passed away in 2009, but has been an inspiration to me for many years, I am a student of Jim’s and have listened to countless hours of his talks and training, but never got to meet the great man, so an hour with him would be amazing! Here is my most favourite quote from Jim “Don’t wish it was easier, wish you were better. Don’t wish for less problems, wish for more skills. Don’t wish for less challenge, wish for more wisdom.”
(Joe: what a terrific quote! I am going to hide that away with my quote collection.)

Professional questions

Why photography and why YouTube?

Simply, I love to create, and both these give me the ability to be creative. I have been into photography since I was young, whenever I could get my hands on a camera and take photos, I would.

YouTube is a great way to share with the world, it is so easy for people to consume the content (as opposed to reading a blog) and whilst there is a lot of content on YouTube, there wasn’t many Aussies with a photography Vlog, so I thought I would give it a go and see what happened… the rest is history! (I am surprised so many people want to watch my ramblings and amateur production!)

Can you explain your photography in 10 words or less?

An excuse to enjoy the outdoors!

What is your greatest achievement in photography?

My greatest achievement would be the number of photographers around the world I am helping. Through social media and the internet, I have been able to motivate, inspire, upskill and make friends with some amazing people, and I truly see this as my greatest achievement.
(Joe: this is one of the best answers to this question yet! I have always felt a responsibility to share my knowledge with others.)

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

I am a big fan of Aussie Landscape Photographer Ken Duncan, he has some amazing work. I would be happy to share a cuppa with him! Let alone a gallery.

Where do you draw inspiration from when you shoot and what’s your favorite part about the process?

I am a lover of the outdoors, and it doesn’t take much to inspire me, I see photographs everywhere! My favourite part is the hunt, looking for a location can be time consuming, but I enjoy researching for locations. Sometimes I can spend hours on the internet and in the car looking for my locations.

What is your favorite location to shoot?

I love to shoot seascapes more than anything else. I think it’s my love of water. Capturing the movement of the ocean is exciting for me.

What is your favorite piece of equipment?

It would have to be my tripod. I went through so many cheaper tripods before I made the decision to invest in my Really Right Stuff Tripod. It cost a lot, but has never let me down.
(Joe: with an Instagram name like "On3Legs", I guess this shouldn't come as a surprise!)

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone looking for a career in photography or starting out on YouTube?

Photography is the largest hobby in the world, and making money from photography is getting more difficult. You need to find a niche and really get to know your audience well, to amazing work and continually train yourself to be better. As for starting on YouTube, I think it’s a great platform for keeping my own weekly diary, and giving other people a peek into my journey as it is mapped out.

I meet a lot of people have false expectations of what return they will get from a YouTube channel. If you’re just wanting to make money from YouTube I wouldn’t recommend it. If you’re wanting somewhere to have some fun, document your journey and share it with the world, YouTube is a great place for that.

Bonus question:

What are your Top 5 "Deserted Island" albums?

If I was on a deserted Island, I would rather take my guitar than 5 albums! But if you insist… I have a broad love of music and would need a Stevie Ray Vaughn album, a John Cougar album, something from Pink Floyd, some Tommy Emmanuel and a current greatest hits!

Links

Facebook - www.facebook.com/on3legs
YouTube - www.youtube.com/benfewtrell
Instagram - @on3legs
Website - www.on3legs.com
“10 tips to better photos” Free Ebook - http://onthreelegs.com/learn/free-ebooks/

There is a rapture in the lonely shore

This is somewhat of a follow-up to an earlier post titled "There Is Pleasure In The Pathless Woods" and just one of many inspired by a poem or quote that I have come across over the years. The full quote is:

There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not Man the less, but Nature more. - Lord Byron

The lead image is the beach at Ocean Grove, looking North towards Asbury Park. This is the beach I most often visit when I want to shoot the beach and ocean. It is close to my home but it is also one of my favorite places, period! I started going to Ocean Grove long before I moved to where I am now. This was actually taken with my cellphone camera shortly after I arrived at the beach. I have a habit of taking a few shots with my phone when I am out shooting and then posting them on social media - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. It is a great way to get some images out and it is also a great way to communicate to others who may be in the area - just in case they want to join me. If you look closely at the sky, you will see that I wasn't really alone - a beloved television character from my childhood was there. Can you see it?

I think my favorite time to be at the shore is dawn and sunrise. Watching the sun come up over the Atlantic Ocean is such a wonderful experience and I never get tired of it. This second image was shot at Ocean Grove on a magnificent morning. I knew the sun was going to be rising almost exactly due East of the Fishing Pier; I had been waiting for this day for quite a while. The sunrise that October day was 7:08 AM so I was on the boardwalk ready to go at 5:45 AM. Why so early? I always get to my shooting destination at least an hour early so that I can plan my shots, set up and make sure I don't miss anything.

The third image was taken on the first day of Spring 2012 at Horseshoe Cove on Sandy Hook. You may have seen this image before - I have used it to illustrate a couple previous blog posts but don't think I ever wrote about the image itself. I make it a habit to get out and shoot on the First Day of Spring (I try the other "First Day"s but don't seem to make all of them) and 2012 was no exception. I have also noticed over the past few years that the weather is not necessarily "Spring-like" when I am out and this day was no exception. There was a very dense fog covering the entire area but the closer you got to the ocean the worse it got. You can see in this image that visibility was extremely limited. Horseshoe Cove is one of the places I always go to whenever I get out to Sandy Hook; to me, it is a special place. Don't ask me why, don't know but it is. I like this shot because it is both calming and eerie at the same time. The scene is tranquil but you just don't know what is looming just out of sight.

I have one final image I would like to share. This was one that I took on my way to the office one morning. I leave much earlier than necessary, just in case I have to take a "detour" and that is what happened this morning. When I walked out of the house I noticed some clouds tinged with faint red and immediately headed to the beach. This was taken with my smartphone and edited using Lightroom for Mobile (see "Improve Your (mobile) Photography: Using Lightroom for Mobile")

I have many more images of the beach and ocean - all times of day and in all types of weather - but I think this is a good time to conclude this post. I hope you enjoyed the images presented here, along with the stories. I also hope the quote inspires you to get out into nature and explore it many splendors yourself. I know I will be out soon - Spring is here and I also need images to illustrate "There is a pleasure in the pathless woods"....

Oh, by the way! The character in the sky is Wile E. Coyote. Did you see him?

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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There Is Pleasure In The Pathless Woods

There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not Man the less, but Nature more. - Lord Byron

I am not one who is attracted to poetry and don't know much about it outside of Ogden Nash but I came across this quote a while back. I tucked it away thinking it would be a good subject for a blog post and now, here it is!

If you have been following me for a while you know how fond I am of wandering around in the woods. If I had to spend the rest of my life in just one environment, this is what I would choose and so when I saw this poem it immediately went into my "inspiration" list.

I would miss the ocean - the sound of the crashing waves and smell of the salt - but I derive far more pleasure hearing the sound of a babbling brook and the smell of the forest floor. There is nothing like the smell of the woods in autumn - except for maybe the smell of a baby.... :-)

Where else are you going to get this close to something as beautiful and graceful as this deer? I can, and have, sat for long periods just watching them walk through the woods, occasionally stopping to eat. If you listen closely you may hear the sound of a woodpecker looking for insects in a nearby tree. I found this hairy woodpecker only a few yards off a trail I was hiking behind my home. The was no noise but for his tapping on the tree, it took a few seconds to find him.

If you are lucky you may get to see a chipmunk or two scurrying around collecting acorns, like this little guy. I had been periodically seeing a few chipmunks on my afternoon hikes but was never able to get a decent shot - not only are they tiny but they never seem to stop moving. I was quite fortunate to get the opportunity to get the shot below.

I don't want you to go away thinking you can only go into the woods during temperate conditions - there is nothing quite like being out during, or just after, a snowfall. It is so pure and unbelievably quiet.

And with that I will bring this post to a close. I hope I have inspired you to go out and explore the “pathless woods” and have your own adventure. Please remember – Leave No Trace. Please obey all rules and regulations of the park you are hiking in and obey all signs along the way. Do not encroach on sensitive areas or leave the trail unless it is allowed.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Interview with Photographer Dan Falvo

This week's interview is with Jersey Shore photographer, Dan Falvo. I learned about Dan from my brother, Eric. I got an Instagram message one afternoon telling me I have to start following Dan and that I was sure to love his photography. Well, for a younger brother he is pretty smart. I immediately opened Instagram, checked out some of his work and started following him. Later that day I decided to ask for an interview so that I could introduce him to you. I normally write some personal observations or stories as an introduction but I think I am going to let Daniel tell you a bit about himself, instead. Here is Daniel Falvo, in his own words....

"I only remember growing up and living here along the New Jersey Shore. My passion for photography began with an old Polaroid; I just loved watching the image appear like magic. My Uncle Sam gave me my first real film camera: A Nikon F series with a 50mm Nikor lens,I dabbled mostly. I am a self taught and still learning photographer, Making images is the perfect medium for expressing myself and combining my passion for nature and photography; it satiates both quite nicely.

My images form from the calm that approaches like an old friend when you allow the rhythmic cadence of a waterfall into your consciousness. As you acknowledge this friend your senses shift, you hear the raspy percussion of wind through the leaves, the percolation of running water beneath rocks, the scents of the pines and leaves. Suddenly you and your friend are in an embrace, peacefulness caresses your very soul, and all is well within you. The relentless “dis ease” tugging at your mind releases, your mind calms and shifts into neutral, a long lost luxury. Closing your eyes you inhale, pause, then exhale, open your eyes again to see your surroundings anew. Settling into a different rhythm a natural rhythm you feel wonderfully centered and free of worry. Acutely conscious of the present, this moment, ready to experience all the wonders Mother Nature creates. Every sound, scent and sensation resonates deeply and consciously and you simply experience all that your surroundings have to offer

All of my images are printed on photographic papers with archival inks, mounting and matting materials are used to insure long life. Each material used meets conservation and archival standards. Prints, Canvases, Metal Prints and more are available at the Main Avenue Galleria in Ocean Grove."

The Interview

Personal Questions

What is your favorite childhood memory?

My favorite childhood memory that sticks with me well there are 2. One was watching the slide show of my uncle Sam’s cross country road trip, he was a photographer and his pictures stoked my imagination and secondly was my polaroid instant camera I loved watching the images appear like magic. Both were the beginning steps of my photographic journey one that I am happy to say I am still on and exploring.

What are the five foods you can’t live without?

Cheese, Cheese Burgers, Ice Cream, Corn, Chicken Pot Pies

What’s the best advice anyone has given you and who gave it to you?

Do the work and the rest will come - my Grandfather
(Joe: great advice – simple, yet right on target)

What is your favorite thing to do when you aren't shooting?

Paddling a Canoe w/ my wife, there is a connection when you paddle together thats important to me. To disconnect from the world each week for a time is very important in maintaining and staying in touch with what is truly important.
(Joe: I feel the same way but instead of paddling, I like long walks in the woods by myself.)

If you could spend an hour with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Any Native American Chief from before Europeans moved west to learn their way of leaving in harmony with our planet, and to see the wonders that were before they were exploited.

Professional Questions

Why photography?

It made sense to me, painting and stuff just didn’t . Making images connects my love of the outdoors with my creative side its a great match and I get to share some special moments through my images..

Can you explain your photography in 10 words or less?

Ill try. I shoot nature and seek the moments that draw me in - its as simple as that

What is your greatest achievement in photography?

To date I would say it is being able to sell my work at The Main Avenue Galleria in Ocean Grove for the past 7 years and discovering I have a small following.

If you could share a gallery show with anyone past or present, who would it be?

Peter Lik I love his perspective and depth of his images

Where do you draw inspiration from when you shoot and what’s your favorite part about the process?

I draw inspiration from the mountains, lakes, stream waterfalls where I canoe and hike The seaside where I live , its where i go to relax and center myself. My favorite part of the process is the emersion in a place the white noise in my head dissipates, my vision sharpens and my mental acuity just elevates, I am fully present in the moment it all becomes seamless.

What is your favorite location to shoot?

Locally its Asbury Park, Ocean Grove & Belmar Big picture the West, planning a trip to the West Coast soon a road trip up the Cali coast, thru Oregon into Washington State
(Joe: sounds like a great trip! I look forward to seeing the images.)

What is your favorite piece of equipment?

My Nikon D800 its just a great camera.

How did you get your start and what advice would you give to someone looking for a career in photography?

My Uncle Sam he gave me my first real camera a NIKON F series film camera, loved shooting Black and White on Film. Advice - wow -Don't worry about what others are shooting. Shoot what speaks to you, what you are truly passionate about then PRINT and SHARE it.

Bonus question

What are your Top 5 "Deserted Island" albums?

• Natural Mystic - Bob Marley & The Wailers
• Amos Lee - Supply & Demand
• DMB Live Tracks Dave Mathews Band
• Van Morrison’s Greatest Hits
• Joseph Firecrow - Night Walk Native Flutes

You can follow Dan on Instagram at @danielpstudios
He can be found on Fine Art America - https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/daniel-falvo.html
If you are interested in purchasing prints or seeing more of Dan's work check out The Main Avenue Galleria in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
You can contact Dan at his email address, dan@danielpstudios.net

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All images are protected under copyright by the artist. They may not be used without written permission.

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