Tag Archives: photographer tour

New York City Photo Workshop registration is open – President’s Day weekend

By splaine | Published November 10, 2012

New York City Photographer Tour - President's Day weekend with Photographer Dan Splaine and NH Tours

 

Registration is now open for the New York City Photographer Tour on President’s Day Weekend.  Join Photographer Dan Splaine and NH TOURS  for this 2 night , 3 day excursion from New Hampshire to New York City.  Explore the city, with your camera and learn new night photography and street photo techniques.  The best part is we do all the driving!

This package includes round trip bus from NH and two nights hotel in Times Square.  We will spent the weekend in the heart of Manhattan , taking in the sites and making some images of the urban landscape.  For complete details and registration CLICK HERE.

This photographer tour is one of a program of photography education events presented by Test of Time Photography.  We offer workshops in our Nashua, NH studio and at locations throughout New England.   We partner with NH TOURS for all of our travel events and destination photo workshops.   For more information contact us at info@testoftimephoto.com  or sign up for our email list (see sidebar).

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours, Travel Photography | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on New York City Photo Workshop registration is open – President’s Day weekend

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

 

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on Cog Railway- Mount Washington Observatory Photo Workshop – New Date Added!

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.

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on To Become a Better Photographer Look at Photography Critically

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

 

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography, Photo Walk Workshops | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on What Photography Students Say About My Photo Workshops And Photographer Tours.

2012 Photo Walk Workshops in Boston

By splaine | Published April 4, 2012

PHOTO WALK WORKSHOPS presented by Dan Splaine and TEST of TIME PHOTOGRAPHY

I am happy to announce the launch of  a new program of photography workshops for the spring, summer and fall of 2012.  The PHOTO WALK WORKSHOPS will begin on April 28th and will run through October.  These digital photography workshops are open to adult photographers of all skill levels.  We will present these workshops at multiple outdoor locations which provide our photography students hands on field photography experience.

Digital photography students at a Photo Walk Workshop presented by photographer Dan Splaine in Boston's Chinatown neighborhood. ©2012 Danile J. Splaine

The PHOTO WALK WORKSHOPS are led by a professional travel photographer who provides instruction and coaching during the 2 ½ hour workshop.  Our goal is to help photographers of all skill levels achieve greater creative control over their photography.  Combining conversation and  photo exercises helps our photography students learn how to use their digital cameras to make the photos they imagine.

By holding these workshops in unique and visually interesting settings around Boston and other New England locations present a learn-by-doing experience for our photography students.  Each workshop attendee receives a workshop study guide (via email) to help them prepare for their workshop session.  The study guide has information about equipment, photo skills and practice exercises.   We begin each workshop with a discussion of photography topics followed by a field photography session to practice photo skills.

Some of the locations of the PHOTO WALK WORKSHOPS are:

  • BOSTON COMMON AND PUBLIC GARDEN
  • BOSTON NORTH END
  • BOSTON CHINATOWN
  • NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY IN BOSTON
  • ROCKPORT HARBOR
  • PORTSMOUTH, NH HARBOR

For complete information and registration go to the TEST of TIME PHOTOGRAPHY website.

Photographer Dan Splaine offers photography workshops and photography tours in locations throughout New England. If you have any questions please contact us at photowalk@testoftimephoto.com

 

 

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography, Photo Walk Workshops, Photo workshops, Photographer tours | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on 2012 Photo Walk Workshops in Boston

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.

 

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours, Travel Photography, Uncategorized | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on Street Photography Workshop at Chinese New Year Parade

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.

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on STEAM on SNOW photography trip (Jan. 7th) sold out!

Developing your photographic style

By splaine | Published August 25, 2011

Often a photographer’s identity can be determined by simply viewing an image.  Their personal style is so well-formed that each photograph they create is readily recognized as distinctly their own.  Consider the example of Ansel Adams.  His images are iconic and if you are not familiar with each  photo he made you arguably would know one when you saw it.

So how does a beginner photographer develop their own photographic style?

The ability to create original photography on a consistent basis requires practice and skill. For those starting to learn photography I suggest two paths to follow on the way to establishing their own unique photographic style.

My first suggestion and something I urge photographers of all skill levels is to study the work of other photographers. An examination and understanding of the images created by others will help inform you own perspective.  I am not suggesting that you mimic the style of others, rather use their work as inspiration and a source of insight about photographic content, technique and design.

In my over 30 year professional photography career I have constantly referred to the work of other photographers to expand my understanding and refine my personal point of view.  Other photography provides reference points and a standard for comparison.  Apply that reference material to your imagination and intellect to create the photography that illustrates your own unique viewpoint.  As you develop your photographic skills learn how to deconstruct the images of others to find the techniques applied in their creation.

Digitla photography student at New Hampshire photography workshop hosted by photographer Dan SplaineMy second suggestion is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the camera and the photographic options that it provides.  Understanding the physical controls and how incremental adjustment will affect your photograph is fundamental to achieving predictable results.  Creative control of your photography begins with technical expertise.  To make the photography that matches your vision you need to know how to control your camera.

Making correct exposure, understanding optical choices and focus control are fundamental photography skills. Once you establish mastery of technique you can then maintain creative control, you can actually begin to shoot and make consistent results.

Your own personal photographic style is a product of your imagination and how you process your experiences and impressions. Digital photography requires study and practice to be creatively consistent.   That consistency of results builds the the foundation of style.  Ansel Adams did not get accidental results; his beautiful photography was the product of exceptional technique and a highly personalized vision.

To learn more about digital photography and to learn more about this topic you should consider attending a photography workshop.  I offer a full program of digital photography workshops and photography tours for adult photographers.  On September 14, 2011 (7 to 9 pm) I am holding the PHOTO COMPOSITION and DESIGN workshop at the TEST of TIME PHOTO studio in Nashua, NH.  Please consider attending this or any one of my many digital photo classes.

Pro photographer and photo educator Dan Splaine of Test of Time Photography in Nashua, Nh

Dan Splaine _ Photographer

 

About the Author:  Dan Splaine is a professional photographer and photo educator who operates a commercial photography business in Nashua, NH.  He produces custom, unique images for businesses, institutions and individuals (regionally and nationally) with particular expertise in public relations and location photography. In his thirty plus years photo career he has photographed in dozens of countries and location ranging from rain forests to the halls of congress. He teaches photography workshops at his New Hampshire studio and conducts photography tours in New England and internationally.

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography, Photo workshops | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on Developing your photographic style

A photo educator’s philosophy- From simply picture taking to image making

By splaine | Published August 21, 2011

What do I mean when I distinguish between simply “taking pictures” and the photographic method of “mage making”?   Image making is a deliberate process for creating original photography that produces predictable and repeatable results. Picture taking is random and sporadically produces good images. Shooting snapshots can be fun and for the average digital photographer and can provide plenty of satisfaction.  For shooters who have higher photographic aspirations a more skillful and deliberate approach is required.

 

Squid fishing boat passing under the setting sun in Ko-Panang , Thailand. Image by photographer Dan Splaine.©2011 Daniel J. Splaine-TEST of TIME PHOTO

Squid fishing boat passing under the setting sun in Ko-Panang , Thailand. This photograph is an example of the “image making” approach to photography that professional photographer and photo educator Dan Splaine teaches in his photo workshops and tours. Careful observation, composition and timing are the factors that add to a photographic result.

I am constantly referring to “image making” in my digital photography workshops and photography tours.  My goal as a photo educator is to help my students build their understanding and skills so they can fulfill their creative intent or more simply to make the photographs they imagine.  The approach I advocate to photography is all about understanding the mechanics of cameras and photographic techniques in order to achieve the greatest amount of creative control.  Photography is a remarkable melding of art and science and digital cameras are extraordinary tools for personal expression.

 

My objective as a photo educator is to enable my photography students to realize their creative intention.  My approach is to build the skills and technical understanding that allows my students to make photographs in any condition with a deliberate creative objective. Learning digital camera controls, developing an understanding of light and the relationship between the two is the core of the image making technique.

Another element of image making is to develop your photographer’s eye, to begin to see the world photographically.  When we are observing a scene an analysis of lighting conditions, optical choices and design considerations should be made before we raise our camera.  Good photographers are careful observers and good photography should be deliberate in conception and execution.

Photography is a wonderful medium for creatively expressing an individual point of view.  How we understand and adapt all of the photographic tools available and apply them to our observations is at the heart of that expression.   Building photographic knowledge and skills provide creative control and ultimately greater satisfaction in the photography produced.   Reconsider your photographic approach and make to move from “picture taker to image maker.”

Photographer Dan Splaine of  Test of Time Photography in Nashua, NH presents a full program of digital photography workshops and photographer tours for adult photographers of all skill levels. Currently we have several photo workshops scheduled for September and October as well as a 10 day photography tour in Ireland in April 2012.  Our fall program includes a photography weekend in the White Mountains of New Hampshire on October 15-16, 2011. Click on the links above for further information about our upcoming program.  For more information or to answer any questions send me an email at info@testoftimephoto.com.

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Digital photography tips, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on A photo educator’s philosophy- From simply picture taking to image making

2011 WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP announced

By splaine | Published August 10, 2011

I would like to invite you attend my WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP on the weekend of October 15 and 16, 2011.  We are presenting this weekend program with the able assistance of our partner NH TOURS.  Join us at the Mountain Club on Loon, a great resort located in the heart of the White Mountains in Lincoln, NH.

Student at the White Mountain Photography Workshop presented by photographer Dan Splaine ©2010 Daniel J. SplaineJoin us for a weekend of immersing yourself into exploring the White Mountains with your camera.  Our package features many items, including photo instruction, a critique session and accommodations at a very comfortable resort.  This is our second year for this workshop and we expect it to be very popular.  If you have a partner or spouse that is not into photography, you may want to consider bringing them along to enjoy the resort amenities.   They can enjoy the spas and nearby shopping while you are happily tramping around the forest.

To view a video about the workshop with images from last years event go to the following link.

White Mountain Photo Workshop information video

This weekend program is open to adult photographers of all skill levels. It will be a great experience for beginner and advanced photographers alike.  The package includes accommodations (one night), photography instruction and handouts, lunch on Saturday, evening photography critique session, a voucher for the Loon Mountain Gondola and of course plenty of photo opportunities.

For registration,  information and a schedule of the workshop click here

If you have any questions or need further information please contact me at info@testoftimephoto.com.

Follow Me on Pinterest
Posted in Digital Photo classes, Learn Photography, Photo workshops, Photographer tours | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on 2011 WHITE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP announced