There is one filter you must have if you take pictures throughout the day. A circular polarizing filter will highlight the contrast between clouds and sky. I will also reduce glare on water and let you see your subjects better. Your viewers will thank you for a much better image. You can work with image software to simulate almost any other filter, but not the polarizing filter. It’s a must have for all photographers!
More Macro Photography Fun and Practice. Close up photography works to get your mind to think out of the box. Often we think about traveling to take pictures. But with close up photography an exciting image just might be at arms length. It takes a whole different mind set. Here is a pic of some balls we have set on a coffee table but in a new light. We are using natural light, a focusing rail and Zerene Stacking Software. This image is comprised of about 30 shots at different focal lengths to preserve total focus from front to back. 
What is Macro Photography? If I say Close Up Photography, does that make more sense? I think so.
We have many great subjects for close up photography. Likely subjects are Flowers, Insects and a whole host of inanimate objects.
Just Google Close Up or Macro Photography and you will see many pics that might inspire you to try you hand at macro photography.
The following is a pic of a flower that used a macro lens, an extension tube, a focusing rail and stacking software.
This is actually a composite of at least 10 images each with specific focal point for maximum clarity of that part of the flower. Together you have clear focus on greatest part of the image.
Can you believe snow in Dallas. Amazing. But what a good photo op this has been. I didn’t get out much today but these are a few shots from around our home this morning. Winter brings some of the best shots. The stark contrast of dark trees against the sky is incredible. Snow just make things great for a Texan. I’ve also added some of the pics I took on my way through C0lorado last October.
There has been rain around Texas this winter and I hope that spells Bluebonnets in the Spring. We are always looking for great venues to take pictures of Bluebonnets. If you have a great field of Bluebonnets with super scenery to add pizzaz to them, please let us know. We will give you copies of the best images we take of your property for your enjoyment.
Stay tuned to find out what we know about finding picturesque Bluebonnets. Another great source is the TexDOT. They always have a great eye for where the best Bluebonnets are.
This morning we did what we should do every day. We went for a fast walk. It had just rained and the forecast was for more precipitation. Just as the ominous clouds surrounded us the indirect light from the sun lit up one of the clouds in a glorious display of color and contrast.
But with no camera in hand this magnificent image is only a memory. Memories are good but often fade away. A picture brings back the images in our minds.
When will I learn? Take a camera with you! Capture the moment for ever!
Wind is most often your enemy when photographing flowers. Any movement you add makes the photo session more difficult.
1. Be Patient – Wait for the wind to die down. It’s usually gusts and there may be time between to take good pictures.
2. Use a tripod. Get a good one! The poor ones have connections between the legs. This means you cannot position the low to the ground. A better tripod gives you stability that is in short order without the help of the tripod.
3. If you don’t have benefit of a tripod try to find a way to give yourself more stability. If you are shooting from the ground use your elbows on the ground. Use a post or fence or anything to stop your motion.
4. Also use VR or Image stabilitation if you do not use a tripod. Turn VR or Image Stabilization off when using a tripod.
Nothing hurts your picture taking like harsh midday sunlight. Learn to shoot flowers early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The shadows are less strong or and the light is far softer. This makes for a far more appealing picture.
If you must shoot midday use a reflector or scrim to cover your subject but be sure to keep your apparatus out of the way of the Picture!
In our circles we call this the rule of thirds. Imagine a tic-tac-to grid in view finder. Placing your subject on one of the intersecting lines my may make your picture much better. If your subject is moving, place him away from the end he is headed. Keep your horizon at a 60/40 split either way.
There are some simple things to do that make your photo taking more enjoyable and make you photos more interesting.
A field of bluebonnets needs something special in view to make the shot interesting. Look for old barns, windmills, old and large trees, longhorns, deer or other animals, roads, fences, interesting lines, etc. These will inspire the imagination of your viewer.
We will be adding tips as we go along.
Please add suggestions of your own.