Project 52: Week 16 & 17

I am little behind in my project so I am trying to catch up. I have been trying to take better pictures with my iPhone. Sometimes I don't always have my DSLR with me or feel like carrying it.





Week 16 theme : Reflection ( I love this picture even though it is a little blurry).

You see the reflection in the sunglasses my boy is wearing. They are his sisters! :)

Week 17: Animals

My lazy doggy Zoey. 

Do you participate in Wordless Wednesday? Please share the link to your pictures in the comments. 

Hugs,

Katey

Creating a "Bokeh Sandwich"

I recently read a tutorial on Clickin Moms about creating a "bokeh sandwich."   Bokeh is the nice blur you get in the background or foreground of a picture. 

In a "bokeh sandwich" there is blur in both foreground and background of the picture in between the subject. I think it is a neat effect so I decided to give it a try. 

Here is what you need to do to create the effect. Get down low on the on the ground or on the floor and put your camera on the lowest number f stop it will allow. If you are not comfortable with Manual mode on your DSLR then put it on AV or A mode. Then pick a subject, focus your camera , and start snapping. 

If you would like to learn more about manual mode, and your cameras settings, here is a link to a fantastic photography blog, Click it up a Notch.

I took out my camera and used my 50 1.8 lens ( by the way this lens is awesome for the price). I attempted to use my two little ones as subjects. It worked for a minute until my toddler decided to get on my back while I was laying on the floor. I tried hard to take pictures without them noticing. Obviously that didn't work! 

My settings were Shutter Speed: 1/200 sec,  Aperture: F 1.8, ISO 400. 

Since the kids didn't want to cooperate, I decided to switch to toys as my subject. :)

So what do you think of the "bokeh sandwich"? 

Hugs,

Katey

Photography Talk: 2 lenses and 3 Pinteresting Tutorials

Hi there!

I am getting ready for our road trip to New England. We will be there for two weeks visiting family, friends, attending weddings and birthday parties. Phew it will be busy, but fun!

I found some great websites/tutorials for those who want to learn how to use their cameras, especially those who have a DSLR. It took me a while to start using the fabulous features that came with my fancy camera. As a matter of fact, it took me over 2 years to purchase a lens besides the one that came with the camera. My first lens purchase was a 50mm 1.8. I personally thinks it's Canon's best kept secret. It is inexpensive but takes great pictures! A great budget lens for those that love photography as a hobby.

Here are two pictures I have taken with this lens.

I just bought another new lens for my camera. The Tamron 28-75mm.2.8 is a good walk around lens, meaning you can use it for almost all situations that may arise and it will take a nice picture. It compares to the pricer canon version 24-70mm. I like the lens, but I am still getting used to it. I have taken hundreds of pictures already, but I am still trying to get a feel for it. It is much heavier than the 50mm 1.8.

Here are a few pictures I have taken with it. Keep in mind I am still trying to get a feel for it.

I still have so much to learn! I have been looking at a few websites I found on pinterest. 

Here are three of my favorites. Check them out! 

Click Here

Click here

 The below mini tutorial is an easy way to remember what to do in different situations.  It serves as an excellent help especially when you just start out in Manuel mode. I am going to print it out and put it in my camera bag as a reminder. 

Do you have any tips or tricks about photography to share?

 I challenge you to take your camera off auto and learn all the wonderful functions that come with your Digital SLR cameras. 

Hugs,

Katey

DIY Photography Indoor background

Hello there!!

I would like to share from time to time some photography tips and tricks I have learned.
First, let me start with a short disclaimer. I am by no means a professional photographer. I call myself a photography enthusiast. I have taken two photography courses which have taught me to take a better than average photo, and to be creative while utilizing the tools around me.  My goal when I started out was to learn how to use my fancy DSLR camera in a different mode other than auto, and to take better pictures of my children. I believe as a mother (or father), you are your child's best photographer!!

You already know I have a fancy camera, but I also have a canon powershot! I love my canon powershot, especially because it is so compact and takes awesome pictures! I love that I can carry it in my purse and take it out at any moment! Sometimes I find my fancy camera to be rather bulky.

My DIY background can be done with either camera. I had to do an assignment for my class, so what better way than take this opportunity to photograph my Jacob. I began to contemplate what I could do in the house, because it was too cold outside. I remembered I had bought a twin size black sheet a few months ago and this was the perfect time to utilize it. I went into Jacob's bedroom and tucked the sheet into his crib, draping it over the rail, and onto the floor. I placed Jacob on the floor on top of the sheet, then I propped myself onto the floor to his eye level and started snapping pictures.

His sister was entertaining him next to me, making him laugh which was an added bonus. I find taking pictures when the children are having fun is key to getting great photos!

You can  definitely do this with any color sheet or blanket. Duct taping it to a wall is also another option. Just let your creativity flow! :)

I found this blog to be great for tips on creating your own at home mini studio. You really do not have to spend a lot of money & it can be so much fun for little ones who love to dress up!

Do you have a photography tip or trick you would like to share with us? We would love to hear from you! 

Cheers,

Katey