Thursday, June 26, 2008

Photoshop Lesson 1 - The Workspace


Photoshop Video Lesson 1

After receiving requests for basic Photoshop lessons, I am going to be releasing a series of videos.

I will be going over the very basics and gradually introducing more advanced techniques. My goal here is to have everyone use Adobe Photoshop in their digital workflow. Once you start using this powerful program you will find that you will have a great deal of control over your images.

When you first open this application it can look very intimidating, but I'm here to show you how to get started in little bite size steps.

After each lesson, I want you to use the techniques that I explain and become familiar with every tool that I go over. This will help you understand how it all comes together.

There are a lot of different ways to do things in Photoshop. You will need to find the ones that work best for you. Over time you will see that you start to develop a routine and things will become second nature.

In the first video lesson, I will explain the tools you will be using and exactly what layers are and how to use them.

Lets get started.


Photoshop Video Lesson 1

P.S
On the bottom of each video, you will have the option to download the full size video to your computer. You will need the Quicktime player to view the videos.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Creating That Special Gift




Happy Father's Day to all of the Dad's and a special thanks to the Mom's who put up with us all year long!

I would like to share my Father's Day gift with you.

My wife, Lisa, took this picture of our 6 month old daughter sitting on my guitar. I have played for over 20 years and it has always been a passion of mine. I usually bring out the guitar and play once a day. My daughter Kayla is my best audience, lately. She lays next to me relaxed and as still as could be listening intently and enjoying all of my songs. I treasure these moments!

This photograph is very special to me because it incorporates my passion for music and my beautiful daughter. What more could I ask for?

How can this photograph help you and your business?

Lisa will sometimes ask clients during the initial phone call about their hobbies and careers and often tries to incorporate them into the sitting.

We have used a briefcase, computer, stethoscope, musical instruments, sports equipment, firefighter or police uniform, helmets and hats just to name a few.

Try some of these ideas or think of some of your own to create a meaningful portrait for your clients. I guarantee they'll love it!!

Be creative and unique and clients will talk about YOU!!

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Portraits That Last Forever




For those of you that don't know already, my wife Lisa and I just had our third child 6 months ago. We are having our beautiful little girl Baptized this Sunday, the 8th of June.

This past weekend we took a few photographs outside in our field to help us remember this wonderful occasion. After we had taken these shots, we realized the significance of what we have been doing for our own clients over the years. We've captured a very special moment that will be shown and passed down for generations.

This is why I wanted to share this post with you. A Baptism is a lot like a first birthday, a first communion or a wedding. People will pay a lot of money for this once in a lifetime portrait session and become a loyal customer. If you offer this service and do a really good job at it...they're your customer for life.

Here are a few ideas that you could use in your own sessions.

Create a natural, pure look by shooting outdoors. In this portrait we used a white wicker chase lounge in some tall grass. Notice how the grass actually comes up in front of the chase. It really takes you into the picture and frames the subject.

Personalizing these types of portraits is another great way to get your clients to purchase more and pass your work out to others. A Baptism is a big occasion and usually results in a big party. Parents often give out favors to all their guests for attending.
(Great Advertising Tool)



Try shooting both vertical and horizontal to create 2 different looks.



I hope you see how this special occasion can have quite a few benefits for you and the client.

The client will receive a wonderful keepsake that they will cherish for years and years.

This is what you will receive.
  • Money for creating wonderful portraits
  • A potential customer for life
  • Thank You favors that will be passed out to potential clients
  • Gratification for capturing a special memory
Start with your friends and family to gain experience and exposure.

Volunteer to be the photographer at the next Baptism that you are invited to. Jump in and get started!

Click on images above to view larger pictures