One thing I have always loved is a split toned wedding image. I have never been a huge fan of a traditional sepia photo, for whatever reason true sepia images just don’t fit my style. They remind me of an old western image and for me they don’t work. But changing the tone a little bit to be a warm/cool split tone, the image takes on a very different feel and I love these types of toned shots. Split toning is basically a way of toning your image in two different tones so you have the highlight area a certain tone and the shadows another tone. You can use this method for really any type of tones you would like but one of the most popular types of split toning is a warm brown tone with underlying cold bluish tones. This gives a very subtle contrast with the image and I think can create a very dramatic shot because of that extra contrast.

I used to you Photoshop for split toning and do have a nice little Photoshop action I will share later this week along with another set of free Lightroom Presets for different types of split toned images.
Lightroom makes it much easier for split toning since they have a split tone setting built right into Lightroom. Here are the steps to create a split toned image in Lightroom:

1) First start out my converting the image to Black and White using the Greyscale Mixer, exposure settings and curves to get a good Black and White image.

2) Right below the greyscale settings is the split toning section. This has 2 section the top one is for Hightlights and the bottom one is for shadows.

3) Starting with the highlights slide the saturation slider all the way to the right. This will give you a better idea to what color tint the highlights will be. Move the Highlight Hue slider until you get to the color you want for the highlights. In my opinion for a good medium tone split tone image i’ll set this to 34. Then slide the saturation level all the way down.

4) Next do the same thing for the shadows sliders. Another good starting point for my taste is setting the color to 83.

5) Finally slide the saturation sliders for the highlights until you get the effect you want. I will usually use around 40 for the Highlights and 19 for the shadows. It’s always different for each image and sometimes I want a lighter or deeper split toned look so it really depends on the image. Play around with the different sliders and have fun! The more saturation the more tint the image will get.

I do have some presets for split toning that I use and will share those later on in the week, so don’t forget to check back. You can also sign up for our email updates to the top right of the page where it says “Sign up for our free photography tips & inspiration!”

If you have a way of split toning or some great samples of split toned images, share them in the comments below or on our FaceBook page.

This post is sponsored by Collages.net

To give you some fresh inspiration to start the week off here is a collection of some great panoramic images. Panoramic photography can be a good way to get a fresh perspective and although the images in this set are all landscape images, panoramic images also can make for a very interesting portrait or image of an event. We will highlight some portrait pano shots at a later time and if you have any great panoramic portrait images let us know in the comments below.

If you are interested in Panoramic photography there are a few different ways you can achieve these types of shots. The first way might not be considered a “real” a panoramic shot by some depending on the type of lens you are using but one way to get these images is simply shoot with a wide angle lens and then crop the image into a narrow and long image. You can also stitch together multiple images with Photoshop to create one long image. Or the method that I use is a rotating lens camera. Panoramic cameras can be quite expensive and since I don’t shoot professional landscape portraits to sell but only use this camera for fun I went with a Russian 35mm panoramic camera that does a very good job for the price. Its a Horizon Kompakt Camera and has a 28mm multicoated swing-lens that sweeps across and sees a full 120 degrees of vision. Each shot yields a 58mm long negative – nearly the width of two standard frames! It’s a really fun camera and you can get them for about $300 on amazon here: Horizon Panoramic Camera.

Sit back and enjoy a few awesome panoramic images to give you some fresh inspiration this morning:

Don’t forget to let us know your comments below or if you have a great panoramic shot you would like added to this list!

Another new camera announcement this week, I think my head is spinning a little with all of the news. New Nikon camera, sony camera and lenses galore! Canon had to throw their hat into the mix on Thursday announcing the replacement to the 50D the appropriately titled 60D. Other than just a bump in megapixels Canon has started to add some new functionality to the camera to try and entice people to upgrade. Are they worthy of an upgrade? That really remains to be seen and once I can get my hands on a unit i’ll test it out and let everyone know. There are a few pretty cool looking new additions though:

Main 50D/60D differences
Higher resolution (17.9MP v 15.1MP)
SD, rather than CF memory cards
No flash sync socket
Wireless Speedlight control
Articulated 3:2 high resolution LCD screen
Plastic body shell (8% weight saving)
Standard ISO range extends to 6400, rather than 3200
Adjustable Auto ISO upper limit
HD video 1080p20/25/24 or 720p60/50
New features: in-camera raw conversion, ambience settings, creative filters etc
No joystick, no multi-flash support, simplified top plate & info panel, only one Custom mode
Slightly reduced customization options
Redesigned control layout with slightly fewer buttons
Lower burst rate

What do you think about the Canon 60D? Let us know in the comments below:

Here is Canons official video about the new 60D camera and their press release:

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 26, 2010 – High-quality digital capture and skillful post-processing go hand-in-hand for superior end results, and more control over in-camera image processing means less time editing and more time shooting. At the same time, the overwhelming popularity of Full HD video recording with other current EOS Digital SLRs has led to customer requests for more advanced features such as manual audio level control and flexible LCD screens. Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, delivers all of these features and more with the new EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them. Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features that make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. Whether it’s capturing an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony, or converting a color image to black and white for a nostalgic look, Canon is delivering in-camera features and functions that empower advanced photographers to capture, display and print the images they want.

“The EOS 60D has been designed to offer the image-capture and the Full HD video features customers are looking for as they continue to expand their photographic skills. The exciting new features of the EOS 60D make using a DSLR camera more attractive and easier than ever before. We want everyone to experience the great image quality a Canon DSLR can offer with features and functions that they will appreciate and use,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Exciting EOS “Firsts”
For the first time in the history of the Canon EOS System, the new 60D camera features a large Vari-Angle 3-inch Clear View LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot/VGA resolution plus anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings for bright clear viewing from any angle. The new LCD screen is ideal for composing low-angle or overhead shots whether capturing still images or Full HD video clips.

Another first for the EOS system is the EOS 60D camera’s new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-Controller and Set button inside the Quick Control Dial. This new control layout streamlines camera navigation for vertical as well as horizontal shooting and enables a cleaner camera design. Responding to customer requests, the EOS 60D also features a locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographer’s selected shooting mode.

While the photography mantra of “get it right in the camera” still stands true, Canon’s new EOS 60D gives advanced photographers an edge with new in-camera features that enable users to enhance their images without a computer even after they have been shot. For the first time ever in an EOS camera, the EOS 60D features in-camera processing of RAW image files, new reduced resolution image copies, and post-processing creative image filters for exceptional flexibility in digital image rendering.

In-camera RAW image processing features include Picture Style, White Balance (WB), Color Space, High-ISO Noise Reduction, Peripheral Illumination Correction, linear distortion correction and chromatic aberration correction. These powerful in-camera editing tools will allow photographers in the field to produce optimized images on the spot and generate JPEG files at various resolution and compression settings for immediate sharing, without affecting the original RAW data.
Another great new feature for photographers-on-the-go is Canon’s new image resizing function. After capturing full resolution or smaller JPEG images, the camera can generate lower-resolution copies using menu commands. New lower-resolution settings include 1920 x 1280 for optimal display on HD televisions, or 720 x 480, ideal for immediate uploading to social networking and other photo sharing web sites. The original high resolution files remain unaffected by the image resizing function.
Available for the first time in an EOS camera are Canon’s new creative image filters. Familiar to Canon PowerShot users, these fun photo effects help make a great image more dynamic, even after it has been shot. Canon provides four artistic filters that allow photographers to capture an image and then create and manipulate a digital copy of it.
The Soft Focus effect filter helps dramatize an image and smooth over shiny reflections.
The Grainy Black and White filter can give a different nostalgic perspective to any shot.
Canon’s “Toy Camera” filter deliberately adds vignetting and color shift for a creative option when shooting a colorful scene.
Users can also make a scene appear like a small-scale model, simulating the look from a tilt-shift lens, with Canon’s Miniature Effect filter, great when shooting any scene from a high vantage point.
Each of these filters can be applied to a captured still image in-camera to create a second “filtered” JPEG version, leaving the original RAW or JPEG file unaffected.

Another addition to the camera’s Live View function is Canon’s new Aspect Ratio feature whereby the Live View screen can display cropping lines for 1:1, 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios in addition to the standard 3:2 ratio. These cropping lines make it easier to compose images in Live View, and they can help to expedite printing when using Canon’s supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Custom aspect ratios are also applied to JPEG images whether captured directly in-camera or created with the EOS 60D’s in-camera RAW image processing function.

EOS HD Video: Continuing the Video Paradigm Shift
In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 60D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing. The EOS 60D builds upon the great video capabilities Canon has introduced in recent DSLR cameras and packs them into a camera photo enthusiasts will love. Full HD video capture, along with selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards, will help the EOS 60D to be the camera of choice among film students and photography students alike.

The new EOS 60D camera’s movie mode also includes manual controls for exposure as well as manual audio levels in 64 steps, much like the latest firmware update for the EOS 5D Mark II HD-SLR. Users can set audio levels on the rear menu screen before shooting begins; once recording is initialized, audio adjustments are not possible. In addition, Canon has added an electronic Wind Filter to the audio controls within the movie shooting menu.

Canon has also included an in-camera movie editing feature, allowing users to shorten a video file by clipping segments from the beginning or the end, removing unwanted portions without outside software. This feature can dramatically accelerate workflow by reducing the time needed to upload video clips to a computer for further editing and assembly. The EOS 60D also includes Canon’s Movie Crop mode, which allows users to achieve 7x magnification when shooting SD video. Unlike the digital zoom feature found in many compact digital cameras, Canon’s Movie Crop mode crops the image directly from the CMOS sensor at full SD resolution to preserve image quality and still provide additional telephoto power.

Providing access to the right lens for any given shooting scenario, the EOS 60D DSLR camera is compatible with more than 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The EOS 60D DSLR’s video functions are supported by two key proprietary Canon technologies, a DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor and a large APS-C–sized CMOS sensor capturing fine detail and color with an amazing cinematic depth of field. The Canon EOS 60D allows for three video recording modes – Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 60D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 60D features a dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording.

Valuable Additional Features
Along with the adjustable LCD screen, the new EOS 60D DSLR features a class-leading 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor, a proprietary DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, a 9-point Autofocus system and Canon’s exclusive iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance) giving it the power of a professional-level camera. Capable of capturing fast action, the 60D DSLR can shoot full resolution still images up to 5.3-frames per second (fps). The EOS 60D records its images and video clips to the photographer’s choice of SD, SDHC or new extended capacity SDXC memory cards.

The 9-point AF system on the new EOS 60D features f/5.6-sensitive cross-type focusing on all nine focusing points. Like the EOS 7D, the center AF point is a hybrid of standard cross-type and special diagonally-shaped “X” cross, with high-precision sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. Complementing the AF system, Canon’s iFCL metering system, identical to that on the EOS 7D and Rebel T2i, takes color information into account and includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that reads both illumination and color for consistent results in all lighting conditions, keeping exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes.

Photographers will enjoy shooting in low light thanks to the EOS 60D DSLR’s wide ISO range from 100-6400 (adjustable in 1/3-step increments from ISO 100-6400 and expandable to 12,800) allowing it to capture beautiful images without flash during family milestone events such as wedding ceremonies, while still being equipped with a built-in pop-up flash for shooting the cake cutting ceremony and reception. The EOS 60D’s pop-up flash features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of up to two groups of off-camera EOS Speedlites without the need for an external transmitter, providing an economical solution for multi-flash shoots.

Making accurate composition more convenient, the EOS 60D’s optical viewfinder provides 96 percent coverage along with Canon’s built-in single axis Electronic Level Display, which utilizes the exposure level scale below the picture area to let the photographer know when the camera is level. The Electronic Level Display is also visible on the camera’s LCD screen in both Live View and Movie modes. An artificial horizon display illustrates horizontal roll, allowing the photographer to know when the camera is in a fixed level position. The entire camera has been durability-tested to 100,000 exposures making the EOS 60D a reliable as well as a powerful imaging tool.

Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers toward the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,099.00i. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399.00ii. The Canon BG-E9 battery grip is scheduled to be available toward the end of September and sell at an estimated retail price of $270.00iii.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2009†, with global revenues of US $35 billion, is listed as number six in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2010 list, and is on the 2009 BusinessWeek list of “100 Best Global Brands.” Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Sometimes I think there is nothing more beautiful thank a black and white print. The right shot in black and white with the right tones and contrast can just be breathtaking. But just as a black and white conversion can be beautiful, the opposite can also apply. Sometimes we pick the wrong image to convert and without the right amount of contrast and adjustments in Lightroom it can make it look muddy and worse than the original. The work that we do in Lightroom (or whatever image editor you use) is really a huge part of the art process and so important to creating your vision for that shot. Here is a great video tutorial on how to convert an image to Black and White and also add tonal overlays, edge effects, and film grain textures. Also check out our free black and white lightroom presets.

This post is sponsored by Collages.net

Last month we posted about a contest that National Geographic was running. With their ultimate photo contest you could submit your best photo and the grand prize winner will win the trip of a lifetime – a National Geographic Expedition for two to the Greek Isles. The submission for the contest has ended and had 14,275 entries!

National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson has narrowed those 14,275 entries to just 12 finalists and now it’s time to vote! The winner gets a National Geographic Expeditions trip for two to Greece and a feature in an upcoming issue of National Geographic magazine. There are some pretty amazing images in the running, check out the slideshow below to view the finalists. Then click on the “click to vote” link to cast your vote. Also as a added bonus they are giving us a Canon Deluxe 200 Tripod
to one reader. Just leave a comment below with your pick and one person will be randomly chosen.

Here are a few of last years winners. Some beautiful work to enjoy!

National Geographic Photo Contest. vote for the best photo in the national geographic photo contest. prizes supplied by Energizer and National Geographic.

It’s been a busy week for camera announcements so far. Nikon announced their new D3100 and now Sony is continuing its push into the DSLR world with 2 new cameras. There are a few things that do look pretty cool about this camera, when they are out i’ll try and get one to review as soon as I can. Some new technology that I think will be good to see in other cameras moving forward are:

Translucent Mirror Technology – This basically gets rid of the mirror clanking up and down so for long exposures you won’t need to lock the mirror up anymore. And is supposed to help with autofocus for fast moving subjects.

Auto HDR – I think we will start to see a lot more smart cameras that have the software built in to do things we used to do in post production. Auto HDR shoots and combines three frames into a single high dynamic range (HDR) photo with rich shadow and highlight detail. You can also do Hand-held Twilight shoots that combines six frames into a single photo, suppressing blur to enable clear night-scene imaging without a tripod or flash.

Here is the official press release with more info. What are your thoughts? Any Sony DSLR fans out there? Leave us a comment at the bottom.

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ — Sony today introduced two new alpha cameras (models SLT-A55V and SLT-A33) that adopt Sony’s newly-developed Translucent Mirror Technology(TM), which achieves the highest-level of auto focus speed for both still image and movie shooting.

Translucent Mirror Technology(TM) provides performance previously unattainable with traditional DSLR technology. Using the new technology, the a55 and a33 models can continuously and quickly focus (with TTL phase-detection) while shooting stills and recording video–even in full HD, allowing desired moments to be captured in tack sharp focus, high-definition video. They can shoot continuously at up to 10 frames per second on the a55 (and up to seven on the a33), achieving shooting speeds that are the fastest in the industry for an APS-C size sensor-equipped interchangeable lens cameras under $1000.

“This is the most innovative Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera that Sony has ever created,” said Kristen Elder, director of the digital imaging business group. “Our Translucent Mirror Technology is one of the most significant SLR structural changes in more than a decade.”

Sony Alpha SLT-A55V – Back
By displaying the images received by the Exmor(TM) APS HD CMOS Sensor, picture quality of the camera’s live view image has enhanced drastically. Coupled with the quick and accurate phase detect AF and 100 percent coverage Tru-Finder(TM) electronic viewfinder, the Quick AF Live View feature has been further advanced.

Translucent Mirror Technology

Both cameras are equipped with a translucent mirror, which enables light passing through the lens to be simultaneously received by the image sensor and the auto focus sensor, allowing continuous shooting and continuous focusing at speeds never before possible. The a55 offers the world’s fastest 10 fps high-speed burst shooting with continuous AF (TTL phase-detection) in an interchangeable lens digital camera with APS-C sensor.

Because of its structure, the Translucent Mirror Technology(TM) does away with the motion of raising and lowering the mirror. The absence of the moving mirror mechanism contributes to making the whole body size significantly compact compared to traditional DSLR cameras.

Sony Alpha SLT-A33 – Side
By eliminating the need to raise and lower the mirror between shots, the technology makes it possible to achieve focusing while images are captured. Existing systems can only focus in the interval between image capture, limiting the ability to track fast moving subjects. The cameras also have continuous Advance Priority AE Mode and will automatically adjust for the best exposure to help you get the most professional looking results.

High-Speed Capture with Auto Focus

Additionally, a newly developed 15-point AF system assures ultra-fast, high precision focusing. The high-speed shooting with continuous Phase Detect AF tracks rapidly moving subjects accurately. You can capture the decisive moments that you might have otherwise missed.

Creative Video Capture

The continuous phase detect AF also works in movie shooting for the first time in the world. The Translucent Mirror Technology(TM) also allows the a55 and a33 to be the first cameras to ever maintain continuous phase detection AF while recording Full HD AVCHD video. With fast, precise phase detection AF continually tracking subject movement, even fast action and subjects that move quickly towards or away from the camera are easy to keep in focus.

With a large 16.2 megapixel (for the a55) and 14.2 megapixel (for the a33) Exmor(TM) APS HD CMOS sensor, background defocusing effects can be easily captured. The APS-C sensor size is nearly 20 times larger than a traditional compact camcorders’ 1/2.88 type image sensor, providing more creative control.

Compatible with all A-mount lenses, video and photography enthusiasts alike can choose from macro to telephoto lenses to achieve their desired artistic effect.

Full-time Live View

Full-time Live View offers unprecedented freestyle shooting versatility with fast, precise AF using either the viewfinder or LCD monitor. The a55 and a33 have a fully articulated 3-inch 921,600 Xtra Fine LCD with TruBlack(TM) technology with 100 percent coverage.

The Tru-Finder eye-level viewfinder provides an unprecedented combination of 100 percent coverage and 1.1x magnification for easy and natural framing. By combining Translucent Mirror and Tru-Finder technologies, a33 and a55 are the first interchangeable lens digital cameras to offer movie recording with the familiar eye-level shooting style – a significant advantage in fast moving and extreme lighting conditions (bright sunlight and low-light situations).

The variable angle tilt LCD is adjustable to accommodate shooting from low or high angles. The electronic view finder has a high-resolution effective 1.15 million dots conversion Xtra Fine LCD(TM) display, is bright and easy to see even in low light, has a selectable shooting parameter display and shows the effects of exposure and white balance adjustments.

Advanced Shooting Features

With an Exmor(TM) APS HD CMOS sensor, BIONZ® high-speed image processing engine and ultra-high ISO sensitivity (ISO 100-12,800), the a55 and a33 cameras offer advanced shooting features. These make it easy to get the best shot, even in difficult lighting conditions.

Auto HDR shoots and combines three frames into a single high dynamic range (HDR) photo with rich shadow and highlight detail. Multi frame NR shoots and combines six frames into a single photo, enabling smooth low-light imaging at half the noise level. Hand-held Twilight shoots and combines six frames into a single photo, suppressing blur to enable clear night-scene imaging without a tripod or flash.

3D Sweep Panorama(TM) technology creates two images from a single frame, enabling panoramic photos to be viewed in 3D on compatible 3D systems and other devices that support 3D technology. Using the a55 model, built-in GPS capability enables global positioning coordinates to be recorded along with the date and time. HDMI(TM) connectivity enables stunningly beautiful PhotoTV HD display of images on compatible Sony BRAVIA® TVs.

AUTO+ (Advanced Auto) mode offers the same benefits as Auto mode and more, resulting in cleaner, more dynamic pictures and fewer missed shots. The camera automatically recognizes the correct scene mode, then quickly shoots and combines up to six shots to produce images with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range using Auto HDR technology and lower image noise using 6 shots layering technology.

Accessories

The new cameras accept both Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM)) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). With a 30MB per second transfer rate, Sony’s Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers the best performance of all memory cards whether in continuous shooting mode or transferring data to other media.

A new dedicated microphone (models ECM-ALST1 and ECM-CG50) will also be available.

Pricing and Availability

The a55 and a33 cameras will cost about $750 and $650 (respectively) for the body only and about $850 and $750 (respectively) for the body and 18-55mm zoom lens. The a33 camera will be available in September and the a55 model will be available in October at Sony Style® retail stores www.Sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.

Source: Sony Electronics

About a month ago I upgraded my pocketwizards to the newer MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 units. My main reason for this was to use the high speed synch for off camera lighting with a Canon 580 during daytime shoots. I was somewhat skeptical about how well this would work but after doing a lot of research figured I would give it a try.

For those of you who don’t know what pocketwizards are, they simply are radio transmitters. You plug your flash unit to one of the pocketwizards and mount another one on your camera so that you can trigger a flash off camera. Since it uses a radio signal to trigger the flash you can put the flash behind objects and still have your flash work perfectly. I have used the Pocketwizard plus 2 units for years now and absolutely love them, they work every time and are totally reliable. I wanted to upgrade to the new Pocketwizard units for 2 reasons; being able to use TTL flash off camera and high speed sync. I’ll quickly walk through what both of these mean and then give some thoughts about working with these new transmitters over the last few weeks.

First of all what is TTL? SImply it stands for Through The Lens metering and is the cameras ability to measure the light level of a scene through the lens and change how much flash power is provided to properly expose for the scene. I used to have reservations about TTL and exposure seemed to be off pretty often but it seems like with the latest Canon gear (they are using a technology now called E-TTL II) I got very consistent results with every shoot. The benefit of TTL when you are shooting an event like a wedding is that the flash pretty much does all the work for you, it knows the exposure of the scene and how far the flash is from the subject so can give you just the right amount of light to expose the scene properly. One of the most challenging parts about photographing weddings is you are always rushed for time. Sometimes you have 5 minutes to shoot a few images of the bride and groom and really don’t have time to meter the scene and take time to setup gear. Out of all the images I shoot with light 90% of them are off camera and to be able to set the flash to TTL and not have to worry about flash exposure is great.

The other benefit of these new pocketwizard transmitters is the high speed synch. This will depend on the type of camera and flash you are using. Some systems will use pocketwizards HyperSync technology that allows you to Sync up to 1/500th of a second. But the really cool part is if you use a recent Canon camera with a Canon 580 EXII flash you can use your flash at any sync speed. Yes, ANY sync speed even 1/8000th of a second without any type of setup. If you are new to high speed sync here is a little article explaining what it technically is: High Speed Flash Sync . Being able to shoot portraits outdoors at any shutter speed is such a huge advantage in my mind it made up for the price of these in a second. Normally when shooting outdoors in the bright sun if I wanted to use flash to fill the scene I would be shooting at ISO 100 and when you are limited to a top sync speed of 1/250th of a second you are usually shooting around f/8 or higher for your aperture. That means a lot of depth of field which I am not a fan of for portraits. I usually want my portraits to focus on the subject not the background and want some good separation from the subject to background so love to shoot at f/2.8. That used to be impossible with a normal flash but now that I can shoot at any shutter speed, I can crank the shutter up to 1/2000th or more and get a nice low aperture like f/2.8.

With the camera on TTL you can also very quickly under or overexpose the image to get some very dramatic things with the background. Look out for a post on how to do that later on this week. Here is a quick shot taken at sunset with just one light on the couple but underexposing the image by 2 stops to get a very dark and dramatic background. You can use this same trick to get shots in daylight that look like they were taken at night, so many uses for this type of lighting.

Aside from these 2 great benefits there are a couple other improvements they have made. First of all though let me give a quick overview of the difference between the two units.

Pocketwizard MiniTT1 – This is a transmitter only unit. A transmitter is just used to sit on your camera to transmit the radio signal to a receiver unit (or a transceiver unit). The new MiniTT1 is just as the name says, Mini. Its such a perfect size, very low unlike the older units that I had which stood up 5 inches and had a little antennae on the top. These have no antennae and are so small I normally leave them on top of my camera body all day even when not using it. The other improvement to these units (the FlexTT5 has it as well) is they now have a hot shoe on top. Before you used to have to use different cords to connect the unit to your flash but now you just pop the flash on the hot shoe. This also means you can still have a flash on camera which is pretty handy for a little fill light at a reception, while still triggering your main lights which are off camera.

Pocketwizard FlexTT5 units – This is a transceiver unit, which means it can be used as a transmitter on your camera or as a receiver. They are only about $20 more than the MiniTT1 so most people would ask why get a mini and a Flex vs just 2 Flex units? For me the size of the mini just works so much better. The FlexTT5 is still very small but about 3 times the width of the Mini.

From the few weeks spend with these new Pocketwizard radio transmitters I have to say there is nothing negative I have to say about them. If you don’t currently have a transmitters to sync your flash and camera I highly suggest these and even if you have a set of older pocketwizards (or another brand) I still suggest them. Even though they aren’t cheap (about $220 each), the benefits make them totally worth the price in my mind.

This post is sponsored by Collages.net

Pocketwizard MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 review, review of the pocketwizard miniTT1 and FlexTT5 Transciever for canon wireless flash. Digital photography reviews and photography tips by digital photo buzz.

As a wedding and portrait photographer I tend to sometimes get caught up with my client jobs and the business end of things.  This can take up so much of your time you forget to work on any personal projects.

Awhile back I exhibited some of our fine art work at a fundraising event at a local venue.  I got to show some of my own personal Fine art from an Italian series I did awhile back.  I haven’t been doing a lot of my fine art work in the last few years since we have been so busy with weddings and portrait work.  This event was awesome and it really felt great to get out there and show some of my personal work.  A lot of my past personal art series I have printed up and stored away in boxes.   I really love a lot of this work and this got me thinking a lot about why its been so long since I have done any personal projects.  I have always loved to travel and really get inspired by telling stories and capturing the feel and the essence of a new place.  Traveling to a new location gets me excited, soaking up the culture, the food and the drinks while creating a story and art along the way.  Travel has always had a special romance to me, even the craziness of a airport or train station has always been so interesting to me. I also used to do a lot more conceptual art series and still have a handful of ideas I think would make really a interesting body of work I just still haven’t started them.

We met a lot of great people at the event last night who all loved my work, and it was so much fun to tell the stories behind each image.  At the end of the night it made me realize that as an artist doing personal work can be so important.  It can help you grow so much and that can feed right into your clients work.  One thing I realized after viewing all of these images that have been in boxes for awhile was that some of my favorite images were taken with my good old Holga camera that I have had for about 15 years.  I used to use it often at weddings but lately its been collecting dust.  A lot of the work from this Italian series that I love are shot with the holga and printed  either in a sepia tone or black and white with acrylic oils over them.  It gives the work such a nostalgic, romantic feel to it and also matches the feel that I love to create for weddings.  This evening made me bring the holga out of retirement and dust it off again for some new use.  Im going to break out that T-Max film from the freezer and start popping some rolls off at weddings again and can’t wait!!!  I’ll definitely be posting some images on the blog so look out for some new artistic stuff.  And for all you photographers out there remember to take a little time and shoot for your soul, it will re-energize you and get you focused on your passion!

If you have been working on a personal project I would love to see it! Post a comment below with a link to one of your current projects.

And the Oscar goes to….. Well this might not be the Oscars but some really amazing image that were submitted for this contest. I was happy to see some really creative work, good lighting and expressions. Overall a very solid showing of work submitted and one of the hardest contests to judge.

For this competition we have 2 winners. The first which is the Digital Photo Buzz American Idol, a winner selected by everyone out there and that honor goes to…

www.timfleenorphoto.com for this fun image of a bride against a red couch. Congrats you have won a $100 gift card from black river imaging!

The other winner picked by Digital Photo Buzz that also wins a $100 gift card from Black River Imaging as well as a 1 hour mentor session with me (i’ll answer any photo question you have and probably talk your ear off about photography) is…

Heather Elizabeth (http://heatherelizabethphotography.net) – Awesome shot of this bride and groom, really beautiful light, great posing and composition (I like how the reflections in the background kind of frame in the couple). Great shot!

There were a few others that were a close 2nd place that I wanted to mention as well. These were both great images, I love, love, love the expression and moment that was captured with the image of the couple on the bikes and the boat shot has a very serene and majestic feel to it. It was hard to decide and took us a while over here going back and forth over a few images to finally decide.

Thanks to everyone else who entered, keep up the good work! For the winners look out for an email from me shortly with your prize information.

This is sponsored by Black River Imaging. They offer many great products for professional photographers from Contemporary wedding albums, guest books and press printed products. For more information on everything they can create for you check out their website at: http://www.blackriverimaging.com/

For all of you Nikon shooters out there, Nikon released some new products yesterday that might have some of you running to grab your wallet. Nikon announced their new DSLR the D3100 that sits in between the D3000 and D5000, although looking at the specs it might give the D5000 a run for its money. Some of the key points about this new camera are:

Compared to the D3000, this combination allows the Nikon D3100 both a 20% increase in linear resolution, and a much wider range of ISO sensitivities — 100 to 3,200 equivalents, which can be extended to 12,800 using the Hi settings. It also provides for a live view function with full-time autofocus, even during 1080p movie capture at 24 frames per second. The D3100’s still image burst rate is three frames per second, the same as that of the D3000, and it also retains the same eleven-point Multi-Cam 1000 AF system, 420 pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix II metering sensor, Dust Reduction, and Picture Control systems.

The D3100 camera kit includes the AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilized lens, and is scheduled to be available at in mid September 2010 with an estimated retail price of $699.95 US.

You can pre-order it through B&H here, Order the Nikon D3100

Nikon also announced 4 new lenses today, so if the body wasn’t enough to tempt you here is more!

▪AF-S NIKKOR DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 VR – $399.95
▪AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR – $1049.95
▪The AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR -$1299.95
▪AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G – $1699.95

Here is the official Nikon press release:

MELVILLE, NY (August 19, 2010) – The new Nikon D3100 digital SLR camera speaks to the growing ranks of enthusiastic D-SLR users and aspiring photographers by providing an easy-to-use and affordable entrance to the world of Nikon D-SLR’s. The 14.2-megapixel D3100 has powerful features, such as the enhanced Guide Mode that makes it easy to unleash creative potential and capture memories with still images and full HD video. Like having a personal photo tutor at your fingertips, this unique feature provides a simple graphical interface on the camera’s LCD that guides users by suggesting and/or adjusting camera settings to achieve the desired end result images. The D3100 is also the world’s first D-SLR to introduce full time auto focus (AF) in Live View and D-Movie mode to effortlessly achieve the critical focus needed when shooting Full HD 1080p video.

Packed into the compact and lightweight body of the D3100 camera is a host of advanced Nikon technologies, such as the new EXPEED 2TM image processing engine. EXPEED 2TM in conjunction with Nikon’s new 14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor is the driving force behind the enhanced performance and rich image quality. Ready to go wherever life leads, the D3100 features split-second shutter response and a blazing fast 11-point AF system to help ensure tack-sharp images. For shooting in challenging lighting conditions, ISO 3200 (expandable to 12,800) enables versatility in environments such as indoors or in the evening hours.

“People are stepping up to digital SLR cameras – consumers are embracing the enhanced performance, amazing image quality and options for lenses and accessories that only a D-SLR can provide,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “The D3100 is a camera that makes it easy to take beautiful pictures and will grow with the user, unlocking their potential and assisting in creating lasting memories or amazing art.“

Get Inspired With The Guide Mode
Whether new to D-SLR photography or exploring new shooting techniques, the D3100 features an enhanced Guide Mode with an easy-to-use interface to help customers build confidence in using their D-SLR through on-demand, step-by-step assistance. A stand out feature in the D3100’s predecessor, the D3000, the Guide Mode is easily accessed through the Mode Dial on the top of the camera. This enhanced help function now features sample assist images that change with camera settings to inspire consumers to achieve a desired look and feel to their images, while guiding through easy to understand photographic techniques. For example, to instill the majestic appearance of moving water, users can select “show water flowing” from the Guide Mode, and simply follow the prompts to create the ideal camera settings to capture an amazing image.

By following the guidance on the bright 3-inch LCD screen, users can achieve professional looking photographs to be proud of. Whether looking to soften backgrounds, freeze a moment in time or convey motion, the Guide Mode assists users in exploring effective picture taking solutions at their own pace to make capturing great pictures even easier and enjoyable.

Full HD Video Made Easy with D-Movie
The Nikon D3100 D-SLR allows users to capture stunning Full HD, 1080p resolution (1920×1080) movies. Users can record cinematic quality 24p video clips, or shoot at 24 or 30 frames-per-second at 720p, ideal for sharing online. By incorporating versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, users can now create a variety of photography effects to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low light conditions. NIKKOR lenses also deliver the sharpness needed for HD video, and Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate camera shake.

While Nikon pioneered HD video in a D-SLR, Nikon is now introducing another industry first to enrich the user experience: The D3100 is the first D-SLR to implement full time AF for D-Movie video shooting and while in Live View mode. Using contrast based AF, the D3100 automatically focuses on subjects when Live View is activated to aid shooting when using the LCD. The D3100 camera also uses Face Detection technology to lock focus on up to 35 human faces, a feat not even accomplished with consumer camcorders. To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated at a single flick of a dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by a simple press of a button.

Sharing and editing video clips is also easier than ever, as the D3100 records movies in the versatile H.264 AVCHD codec (.mov file). While playing movies back in the camera, users are able to edit recorded videos by clipping footage from the beginning or end of a movie. High Definition movies and stills can be shared with family and friends on an HD television via HDMI output, and control slideshows and video using the HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) interface that is a part of most modern remote controls from HDTV manufacturers. Additionally, the D3100 is compatible with the new SDXC memory card format to store large amounts of photo and video data so users can shoot multiple scenes without interruption.

Renowned Nikon Technology
The D3100 leverages proven Nikon technologies to create the most positive picture taking experience for consumers of any skill level. With its new 14.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s new EXPEED 2TM image processing system, the D3100 delivers exceptional image quality with low noise. The new EXPEED 2TM image-processing engine enhances camera performance and helps to ensure brilliant image quality while managing color, contrast, exposure, noise and speed for optimal results. The D3100’s normal ISO range extends from ISO 100 to 3200, allowing users to capture stunning images, even in low light environments. Additionally, the D3100’s ISO range can expand to a Hi-2 setting of ISO 12,800, furthering the opportunities for low-light shots that other cameras miss.

Other exclusive Nikon technologies include the Active D-Lighting system, which automatically rescues dark or backlit images to help create flattering images with even tones. This is especially useful when photographing subjects that are backlit by the sun or lights to provide an even exposure.

What’s more, Nikon’s Scene Recognition system draws upon the 420-pixel RGB color 3D Matrix Meter for outstanding exposures under a variety of lighting conditions by integrating a database of tens of thousands of sample images. The result is a camera intelligent enough to recognize when photographing a specific scene such as a portrait or landscape and automatically choose the proper camera settings.

To make taking great pictures even easier, the D3100 elevates Nikon COOLPIX technology and incorporates an Auto Scene Selector feature in Live View. This innovative function automatically selects the best scene mode to match shooting conditions. When engaged, the camera will automatically recognize when shooting a lush landscape or fast action sports and adjust the camera settings to create an astounding image. Six preset scene modes can also be accessed with the Mode Dial on top of the camera to overcome many common shooting challenges.

Compact Design. Huge Performance.
With comfortable yet intelligent ergonomics, the D3100 packs powerful technology that’s easy to use into a compact form factor. The advanced 11-point autofocus system of the D3100 makes it easy to find and focus on a subject through an enhanced viewfinder design with new “hollow” focus points to give a clear view of the subject.

In the playing field or the backyard, the benefits of Nikon’s advanced 3D Subject Tracking become clear, as the camera continuously focuses on fast moving subjects throughout the frame, resulting in crisp, clear action shots. Additionally, the D3100 offers split-second shutter response, eliminating the frustration of shutter lag—the annoying delay that ruins so many pictures. With the ability to capture images at up to three fps, users never miss a moment.

Also added to the D3100 is a Quiet Shutter Release mode, which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting. Quickly accessed by selecting “Q” on the release mode dial, this feature is ideal for the photographer who wishes to remain unobtrusive, for example during quiet ceremonies or photographing a sleeping baby.

Nikon also empowers users to prepare their photos for sharing quickly and easily using Nikon’s extensive in-camera Retouch Menu, which easily applies a variety of fun and dramatic effects to images without a computer. Fun and easy-to-use adjustments include a miniature effect to photos, image overlay, color outline and softening filters for flattering portraits and realistic skin tones.

The D3100 also incorporates Nikon’s Integrated Dust Reduction System, which offers a comprehensive solution that combats the accumulation of image-degrading dust from the camera’s image sensor. The shutter is tested to 100,000 cycles for maximum durability, ensuring years of captured memories.

Gateway to Legendary NIKKOR Optics and Accessories
Nikon has also introduced the ideal companion to the D3100, the brand new AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm VR lens, which gives users super-telephoto zoom capability for an affordable price. This is a perfect complementary lens when combined with the AF-S 18-55mm VR kit lens, and is great for capturing images of sports and wildlife around town or on vacation. Photographers can also appreciate the D3100’s system expandability, as it is compatible with more than 40 legendary NIKKOR AF-S interchangeable lenses. While the D3100 offers a versatile built-in flash, the camera also operates with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and is capable of Advanced Wireless Lighting when using the SB-900 Speedlight or the SU-800 Wireless Commander. The D3100 D-SLR’s design also supports Eye-Fi memory card functionality, enabling the convenient wireless transfer of images from the camera to a computer when using Eye-Fi memory cards. Also included is a new version of Nikon’s powerful image editing application, View NX2. The latest edition of this software allows users to organize and edit both photos and video files easily.
Price and Availability
The D3100 D-SLR camera outfit, including the versatile AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in mid September 2010, at an estimated selling price of $699.95.* The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens will be available starting in September for $399.95*. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time