CameraGal Versatility - Chicago, IL

As a newbie photo-enthusiast, I’ve been searching for opportunities to hone my skills, so I was thrilled to attend a National Geographic seminar near me in Chicago. Photographers Ralph Lee Hopkins and Bob Krist hosted the seminar Versatile Travel Photographer – which covered topics for beginners to advanced (and everyone else in between).

Whether you are a savvy point-and-shooter or an advanced dSRL cameragal following a few tips can help you become a more versatile (i.e. profitable) photographer.

• Know thy camera! Don’t know what an f/stop is? …I didn’t before this seminar. With the instant gratification digital gives you: play, test, learn all the functions of your camera. You’ll miss moments fumbling through the menu screen, after some practice, you’ll instinctively learn what function to use.

• The Art of Flashing. This goes one step beyond just knowing your camera; it involves understanding light and shadows. Learning how to blend flash with available light, bounce flash by using reflectors or available surfaces is a key tool to making natural looking photos.

• Repeat and Repeat. The impressionist Claude Monet painted a series of haystacks at different times of day and night to show the changes in light, shadows, and color. Visit the same locations at different times of the day and night. Each photographer referred to twilight as “magic hour” because it softens the scene compared to the sometimes harsh daytime sunlight.

• Micro to Macro. Travel photography should give a sense of place; it should tell a story. Mix up your subjects from architecture, food, people portraits, animal, land/cityscapes. You may find you’re more comfortable with one subject, but in order to be a photo journalist you should tell a story from all angles.

• Shoot from the Hip – literally. Fresh perspective, versatility, different angles, in the moment photography provides a sense of place. Some of the more intriguing, in-the-moment pictures shown from Bob’s collection were taken from his hip while he causally strolled down town streets. Don’t second guess yourself, always have your finder on the “shoot” button.

• Don’t be a Shy Shutterbug. You’ll never be incognito with a camera and gear in tow. Both Ralph and Bob cautioned against looking “too professional” – having a fresh, amateur galavanting appearance will work to your advantage. Approach locals with kindness and interest, and always ask before photographing portraits. Gaining the locals trust will enhance the relationship they have with you and your camera. A little online research will go a long way in understanding some cultural sensitivities, sometimes it’s best to keep your camera tucked away

I attended the Versatile Travel Photographer seminar, but NG offers a couple other topics too. For dates and prices of National Geographic Seminars click here.

Also don't forget to check out Kim's recent interview of a National Geographic photojournalist giving his favorite tips too!

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Shanna Quinn is a Galavanting intern based in Chicago, IL. She likes lattes, going barefoot, when public transit is on time (not that it happens...ever) and of course traveling!

Shanna would ultimately love to make a living traveling and is happy to be a part of the Galavanting team.

Comments

[Joan Fay]

Good job, Shanna, very educational. Your photographs were wonderful before the seminar, now they must be outstanding!

[Marilyn Terrell]

Thanks Shanna for sharing your experiences! It sounds like you learned a lot. I work at National Geographic Traveler and it's always a thrill to hear reactions about our very popular photo seminars. The next Versatile Travel Photographer seminar is Saturday, February 7 in Kansas City, KS: http://ngtravelerseminars.com/digital.cfm

[Miss Footloose]

I use lots of photos on my blog about my (mis)adventures around the world and would love to learn more about taking good photos. This seminar sounds wonderful. Will find out now if there are others near me in the DC area.