Tag Archives: NH photo class

The Power of RAW in Digital Photography

By splaine | Published October 29, 2012

RAW format is  the best choice for image capture.  JPEG format is the best choice for image distribution

 

Unsure why you should shoot RAW format images?

Don’t know how to process a RAW file  on your computer?

 

I have the answer for you.  On Thursday night  (11/1) I will be presenting my RAW WORKFLOW WORKSHOP that will introduce you to the advantages  for using the RAW format in your image capture.  In this class we will cover the procedures and techniques you can use in your post production to use those advantages in your digital photography.

Screenshot of Adobe Lightroom develop module. Photographer Dan Splaine will cover this tool in his RAW WORKFLOW WORKSHOP on November 1, 2012. For more information coat him at info@testoftimephoto.com

We will be primarily using Adobe Lightroom to show how to  process RAW images  and  we will review the similar features in Adobe Bridge  Camera Raw.  In Lightroom we are  working primarily in the Library and Develop modules and this workshop is a good introduction to this productive tool for digital photographers.

Topics include a review of digital asset management (DAM),and then will move in photo editing techniques  (white balance, exposure. tonal correction, etc..).  The aim is to introduce the digital photographer to a systematic approach to post-production of their RAW format captures.

 

RAW image conversion to the DNG format will be covered.  I will explain the value of using the DNG format that  has been introduced by  Adobe.  In my client photography I have found this  a very useful option and I think it will ultimately become the industry standard for a universal RAW format.  For a good explanation of the DNG format and some of the future capabilities  that Lightroom will have to work in this format check out this article on CNET   ” Revamped DNG format shows new Lightroom possibilities”

 

The RAW WORKFLOW WORKSHOP is one of a series of  digital photography classes that I present.  This program of photography education  includes class sessions at my  Nashua, NH studio  and in locations throughout New England along with photography tours.  The photography tours single to multi-day workshops at great locations for photography. Recent photo tours include Quebec, the Bronx Zoo, the Isle of Shoals, and the summit of Mt. Washington.  On President’s Day weekend (Feb. 16-18, 2013) I will be hosting a Photography Weekend in Times Square, presented with our travel partner NH Tours.  For more information on these photo workshops contact me at info@testoftimephoto.com

 

 

 

 

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Photographer Critique Sessions

By splaine | Published October 18, 2012

My goal  for all the people who attend one of my workshops or photo tours is to make them better photographers. They have  to pick up a new skill, learn a new technique or become more confident in their creative approach in my sessions .  If they don’t,  I fell like I have not delivered for them with my photography education experiences.

The question then becomes how do I know my students are learning from these workshops?

Photographer critique with Dan Splaine of Test of Time Photography in Nashua, NH ©2012 Daniel J. Splaine - All Rights treserved

Photographer and Photo educator Dan Splaine of Test of Time Photography in Nashua, NH presents a program of photo workshops and photographer tours. A big part of his photography education program is the monthly photographer critique sessions he held for his photography students. These meetings are a way to learn from other photographers and review the photographer skills taught in his workshops. For information contact Dan at info@testoftimephoto.com, ©2012 Daniel J. Splaine – All Rights reserved

The simple answer is that I have witnessed the improvements in ability during my photography critique sessions.  For the last three years I have held a monthly photo critique session with the photographers who have attend my photo classes.  The proof of the success of my teaching efforts is  in  the quality of photography they are producing .

As an educator there is genuine satisfaction in seeing  how my shared knowledge is learned and embraced.  Having verification of the effectiveness of my teaching methods is rewarding.  What matters most is how delighted I am in seeing the growth in my photo students ability and powers of creative expression!

The photo critique sessions allow me to offer my photo students feedback on the lessons they have learned in my workshops.  The value for them is that they can practice on their own and then learn by presenting those results to the group.

The dialogue and freely shared insights of the collected photographer at these monthly meetings has been a true source of inspiration and a wonderful learning experience.

For more information about these critique sessions contact me at info@testoftimephoto.com.

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The Most Important Photo Accessory

By splaine | Published September 20, 2012

A point that I make in all of my photo workshops is about the most important photo accessory that every photographer must use. What is the “most important” photo accessory? you ask.  Your feet.  If you want to improve the look of your image; move!

Changing your camera position, your point of view,  is the  best way to improve how your photography looks. Compose your image carefully and fill your frame.  Only include the essential visual elements in your frame. Determine your camera position relative to the direction of the light falling on your subject.  Select a focal length the create the arrangement of distance you want to appear in your photo and then move your feet.  Don’t believe me ?  Here is what the iconic photojournalist had to say about the subject.

Source: pinstamatic.com via Dan on Pinterest

 

I offer a program of photography workshops and photographer tours at my studio in Nashua, NH and in locations throughout the Northeast. For more information contact me at info@testoftiemphoto.com .

My next photographer workshop is October 13-14  in Lincoln, NH.  For information about the third annual WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER WEEKEND  go to the workshop website.

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Cog Railway- Mount Washington Observatory Photo Workshop – New Date Added!

By splaine | Published August 14, 2012

New Date Added for The Cog Railway – Mount Washington Observatory Photography Workshop

 

Test of Time Photography and Photographer Dan Splaine are happy to announce we have sold out the Sept. 10 session of this photography workshop and we will be adding a second date for this workshop on Sept. 11, 2012.

This one day photography workshop includes photography instruction, round trip passage on the historic Cog Railway to the Summit of Mount Washington with four hours for field photography.  The workshop also includes a guided tour of the Mount Washington Observatory which is rare privilege.  Access to this working weather station is restricted, and the tour will be one of the most unique features for this workshop.

This workshop presented in partnership with The Cog Railway and The Mount Washington Observatory with Test of Time Photography.  Our goal is to give high quality photography education experiences in unique locations and the summit of Mount Washington could not be a better place for our photography event.  This workshop will emphasize landscape photography techniques and we could not ask for a more dynamic location.  The dramatic terrain , lively weather and lighting that we can encounter during this workshop is as unpredictable as exciting!  The potential for creative image making makes this a truly one-of-a-kind photo learning and skill building experience.

Space is limited  and registration is required to attend this workshop.  For complete details and to register CLICK HERE

This photography workshop is one from the program of photography education events presented with photographer Dan Splaine.  These include digital photography workshops and photographer tours  held in locations throughout New England. In the last three years over 1200 photographers have attended on of the events presented by Test of Time Photography with professional photographer Dan Splaine.

Our next photography workshop  is the WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND held on Oct. 13 and 14, 2012 at the Mountain Club on Loon  in Lincoln NH. This is the third year we are holding this workshop at this great resort and location for photography. For details and registration CLICK HERE.

 

 Cog Railway - Mt. Washington Observatory Photo Workshop with photographer Dan Splaine on Sept. 11, 2012 ©2012 Daniel J. Splaine

 

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To Become a Better Photographer Look at Photography Critically

By splaine | Published July 5, 2012

A tip for improving your photography

Do you ever look at the photography in magazine and on websites and think “why does this image look this good”?   Are you wondering why your photographs seem to lack the impact that you see in  professionally made photographs?   Let me first say that if you are asking these questions, if you are thinking critically about your photography – Congratulations!

 

Good photography is thoughtfully conceived and executed.   Devoting time looking at other photographers work and finding inspiration and insight in those images is an important way to improve you own photography.   Now, I am not suggesting that you mimic or outright rip off the work of other photographers.  My advice is to develop your critical eye, to learn how to find the qualities in an image that make it successful.  Use that insight to inform your own creative process and approach to image making.

How do we define an image as successful?  My standard for success is very straightforward: the viewer response.  If you make a photo that engages the viewer, which captures their attention and elicits a response, you are successful.  If the viewer is distracted by a technical flaw or bored, you’re not.  A response can be cognitive – your photo makes them think, emotional it evokes a feeling or perhaps they become engrossed in narrative the story in your photo.

Good photography engages the viewer, it captures their attention. Good photography also inspires, entertains and is a catalyst for action.  For example the photography of Lewis Hine (1874-1940) who used photography as tool of social reform.  His photography directly led to child labor law reforms because of the impact they had on the public awareness of the issue.

When you look at photography made by others begin to deconstruct the visual elements and creative techniques employed in its creation.  Break down the building blocks, the creative components of the shot. Analyze lighting sources  – quality and direction, subject features, composition, optical choices, camera position, color, tone, mood, emotion and all the features of the image.  Consider the relationship of these elements and the impression they have on you – the viewer.  Use those insights when you make your photography.  Identify the elements in your scene and use your critical assessment skills to arrange them in your camera frame.

Photographer and photo educator Dan Splaine of Test of Time Photography in Nashua, New Hampshire. ©2012Daniel J. SplaineABOUT the AUTHOR:  Photographer Dan Splaine has more than thirty years experience creating original photography for corporations, institutions and individuals. He operates TEST OF TIME PHOTOGRAPHY in Nashua New Hampshire, a commercial photography and corporate assignment photography services company.  A live action and location photography specialist, he is most noted for his photography of people.  His assignments have involved travel to dozens of countries and at locations throughout the United States. ranging from tropical rainforests to the hall of Congress.

Dan Splaine is also a photography educator and  he presents a program of digital photography workshops and photographer tours.  The tours and workshops are held in New England and at international locations.

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What Photography Students Say About My Photo Workshops And Photographer Tours.

By splaine | Published July 2, 2012

Ten testimonials from some of the photographers who have attended one of my recent digital photography workshop and photographer tours. 

I present a program of photography education for adult photographers of all skill levels.  I host my digital workshops at my studio in Nashua, NH and at locations throughout New England.   The photographer tour I organize at locations in New England as well at international locations.

Listed below are some of the testimonials posted by my photography students on the website of the IMAGE MAKERS PHOTOGRAPHIC WORKSHOP meet-up group I run. These comments are much appreciated and I think they show the level of positive experience my photo workshops offer to my photography students

 

“It was a great class. Dan was very informative. I really enjoy his easy-going and comical personality/instruction. He makes confusing concepts very easy to understand. Perfect Boston sites for this workshop.”  Izzy S.

“OMG, this was such an AWESOME Class! Dan was AWESOME! I learned so much and had so much fun! And I’m looking at my pictures now and I am SO PLEASED! They came out incredible! Thank you so much for your time and sharing your knowledge Dan!!! “  Erica M.

“A great opportunity to see Boston in a different light (pun intended!). Dan provides the foundation before letting us loose to shoot, then provides whatever amount of supervision/advice each person wants. Definitely recommend”  Marian

 “A lot of really awesome work to review this month! Dan’s informative comments about each participant’s individual shots are so helpful. These meetups are a great way to share knowledge and learn how-to’s from other photographers. Again, thanks Dan for putting all the time in and being so willing to share your knowledge.”  Sharon R.

 ”I always take away at least a few new ideas from Dan’s classes and this workshop not only did that but gave me a great way to challenge myself even more with a handout that included exercises. Thanks again, Dan.” Corinne C

 “Had a great day and shot some decent images. Now to work on editing. Met some new people, practiced a new technique, shot some good images, had a great lunch and got exercise. Can’t ask for more…Thanks Dan it was really great”   Laurie L-B

 “A very welcoming, fun, casual gathering of budding photographers,lead by a pro who graciously lends his time, studio space, knowledge and humor to the group. I’m looking forward to next month’s meeting”  Linda L.

 “Great weekend full of information and techniques…and the ability to go out and try these tips. It was wonderful that if we needed one-on-one assistance Dan was there to help. Thanks very much for a successful photo weekend getaway.”   Christine C

 “Thanks, Dan, for the well-presented workshop and accompanying worksheets. You’re great explaining all the points and oh, so patient with the queries.”  Jeanne P.

 “I loved the informal setting. It was very easy to ask questions and the discussions were very informative. I walked away with a better understanding of aperture, shutter speed and ISO. And also learned some valuable tips. I loved this workshop” Angela Smith

Digital photography workshop at the TEST of TIME PHOTOGRAPHY studio in Nashua, NH. The photo class is one of the many offered by professional photographer Dan Splaine at the studio and locations throughout New England. ©2012 Daniel J. Splaine - All Rights Reserved

 

My digital photography education program for adults includes field photography, studio photography, on-location sessions involving a range of photography topics. The photo tours are held in interesting locations and events around New England. For more information contact me at info@testoftimephoto.com  or visit the TEST of TIME PHOTOGRAPHY website and add yourself to my email list.

Thanks to all the photography student who attended one of my recent workshops and photo tours.  A special thanks to all of you who posted sch positive comments and testimonials. I look forward to seeing you at your nest photo workshop.  _ Thanks, Dan

 

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Street Photography Workshop at Chinese New Year Parade

By splaine | Published January 31, 2012

On Sunday I held a street photography workshop during the Chinese New Year Parade festivities in Boston’s Chinatown.  Sixteen photographers  joined me for a day of  photo education and  image making. The Lion Dancers and festivities made provided a unique subject to photograph and plenty of excitement.

Street photography is one of the oldest traditions in photography.  As camera technology became smaller and more mobile (Moving from large format view cameras to smaller roll film cameras) photographers turned their cameras  to the realities and moments they observed around them.  The aim of this workshop was to immerse the participants into the urban environment and to  have them practice this type of on the fly documentary photography.  Despite the cold and crowds, they were able to make some remarkable images.

Check out the results on the group Flickr page.

This workshop is one of the program of digital photography workshops and photography tours that we offer at Test of Time Photography.  Our objective its to build photographer skills and creative abilities so our students can create the images they imagine.   This was a fun event and a great way to start of the year.

 

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New Photo project for the New Year – 2012 IMAGE MAKER’S 52 PHOTO WALK program

By splaine | Published January 2, 2012

Photographer Dan Splaine of Test of Time photography in Nashua NH announces the 2012 IMAGE MAKER"S 52 WEEK PHOTO WALK. Splaine is a photo educator who presents a program of digital photography workshops and photographer tours ©2012 Daniel J. Splaine.

 

The New Year is upon us and of course our inclination is to set some goals and resolutions to carry out in 2012.  One of the goals I have tasked myself with is spend some time on a regular basis practicing my photography skills.  This goal has led me to develop a program that I would like to share with other photographer’s to help them grow their photographic skills.

I invite you to join me for the 2012 IMAGE MAKER’S 52 WEEK PHOTO WALK program.  The concept is simple, make a commitment to take a walk with your camera for one half hour once a week and post a single image from that excursion online. The aim is 52 new images in 52 weeks. The idea behind this is to spend a small amount of time each week practicing your skills , and over the course of the year your work will improve.  The weekly  investment in time and effort can easily be accomplished and the online conversation will  encourage folks to stick with it for the entire year.

 

The photos will be posted and shared online through a Flickr group I have organized.  

Full details and the rules for participating are listed on the Test of Time Photography website CLICK HERE

Jump into the challenge, the more folks participating the more motivation to continue.  Sign  up here

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STEAM on SNOW photography trip (Jan. 7th) sold out!

By splaine | Published December 11, 2011

I am happy to announce we have had a tremendous response to our photography tour STEAM on SNOW.  The trip is sold out!

Looking forward to the day in the White Mountains photographing the Conway Scenic Railroad steam engine in the winter landscape.  Thanks to NH Tours for the help in organizing leading this photo tour.

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Digital Photography workshops- September and October program schedule

By splaine | Published August 25, 2011

Fall foliage, maple leaf deatil image by photographer Dan Splaine during one of his NH digital photography workshops ©2010 Daniel J. Splaine-Test of Time Photo

We are getting to the end of summer and it is time to start making plans for the fall.  Test of Time photography has posted a schedule of digital photography workshops and photography tours for September and October (2011). This line up includes a range of topics and a few field photography opportunities.

Night photography on Boston Harbor to classes on photo composition and a Glamour photography studio class with models are some of the options you have to choose from.

In October we are presenting our second annual WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER WEEKEND which will be held at the CLUB on LOON MOUNTAIN on the 15th and 16th.  This weekend photo workshop organized with the able assistance of NH TOURS and features an expanded program .  We are offering a $20 discount to folks who sign up before September 10th.  This resort is well-appointed and the location in the heart of the White Mountains is a dream place for photography.

Here is a complete list of links and photo workshop titles.

Tuesday September 6, 2011 6:30 to 9:00 pm

Monthly PRINT REVIEW AND CRITIQUE SESSION

Wednesday September 14, 2011 7:00 to 9:00 pm

PHOTO COMPOSITION AND DESIGN workshop

Tuesday September 27, 2011 7:00 to 9:00 pm

UNDERSTANDING EXPOSURE workshop

Saturday October 1, 2011 1:00 pm to 3:300 pm

CAMERA to COMPUTER workshop

Thursday October 6, 20111 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY at BOSTON HARBOR (field photography)

Tuesday October 11, 2011 6:30 to 9:00 pm

Monthly PRINT REVIEW AND CRITIQUE SESSION

Saturday and Sunday October 15-16, 2011  9:30 am  Sat. to 2:00 pm on Sun.

WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER WEEKEND

Saturday October 29, 2011 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

STUDIO GLAMOUR LIGHTING workshop

Please consider attending our class and make sure you pass on this  information to the digital photographers you know that may be interested.

 

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