greeneyephoto.com

Meet Photographer Jutta Pitman

2011-09-01T10:01:00.000-05:00

Meet Photographer Jutta Pitman

"I am fascinated by light, color, reflection. All of this can be found in nature as well as in architecture. The camera has become a permanent attachment and I rarely leave the house without it." - Photographer Jutta Pitman

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We're glad to have Jutta as part of the greeneyephoto.com team, and her fascination with light, color and reflections can't help but say, this is an up and coming artist to keep an eye on.

To see more of Jutta Pitman's work, visit her at greeneyephoto.com - Jutta Pitman

Blue by photographer Larry Ricker | greeneyephoto.com

2011-09-01T09:22:00.000-05:00

Stock photo of Blue, by Larry Ricker, Long time exposure of waves lapping at rocks on the edge of Seagull Lake in Minnesota's Boundary Waters.

Blue by photographer Larry Ricker greeneyephoto.com

Meet Photographer Flori Catina

2011-07-25T22:39:00.000-05:00

Meet Photographer Flori Catina

This quiet hobbyist photographer love's to capture and share that simple, elegant and delicate beauty of the flower. She may be a quiet person, but her images do nothing but scream of color and style.

We're glad to have Flori Catina as part of the greeneyephoto.com team, and if you want to see more of Flori's work, visit her at greeneyephoto.com - Flori Catina, or visit her on facebook and show your support with a like.

Meet Photographer Tonny Ernawan

2011-07-21T11:10:00.002-05:00

Meet Photographer Tonny Ernawan

This hobbyist photographers main occupation may be that of an architect, but his images say so much more.

Tonny has been a great addition to the greeneyephoto.com team, by bringing his world of macro to life with bursting color and elegant richness.

So put that ruler aside and pick up that camera Tonny, we can’t wait to see what you send us next!

To see more of Tonny Ernawan’s work visit him on greeneyephoto.com – Tonny Ernawan or visit him on facebook and show your support with a like.

You can also see more of Tonny's work at:

Tonny's Site
Fotoblurr

Meet Photographer Peter Ortmann

2011-07-18T14:39:00.000-05:00

Meet Photographer Peter Ortmann

"I make photos from the following ranges for you: - Nature landscapes - Architecture, industry, fairs - artistic experiments - Humans, children Portrait - Erotis Act Art Further offers: Provide from portfolios, Flayer etc.pp - production of Artist Websiten art management, planning and organization approximately around free lance artists" - Peter Ortmann (Professional Photographer)

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This talented artist and professional photographer from Germany has a style all his own, and we couldn't be happier then to have him as part of the greeneyephoto.com team.

We love your work and your style Peter!

To learn more about Peter Ortmann or view more of his work, visit him at greeneyephoto.com - Peter Ortmann or visit his web sites at
http://www.studio-novalis.de/
http://www.studio-novalis.de/fototouren/
http://www.saatchionline.com/portmann
or find him on Facebook and show your support as a friend and with a like!

Meet Photographer Anita Raunio

2011-07-14T19:34:00.000-05:00

Meet Photographer Anita Raunio

"To capture a beautiful, unusual, special moment, emotion, light ... to enjoy it for a while longer ... to be able to share it... Love for photography grows in me stronger with each picture taken and gives me such a pleasure. Everything in this life changes so fast. Often we are passing by incredible beauty. I am very surprised by so many things I first take a good look at through the lens of my camera. I will be very happy to share those moments with you. Thank you for taking interest in my photos. I hope that you will enjoy." - Anita Raunio (Photographer)

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We're happy when Anita shares what her eye see's through the lens of her camera, it's always beautiful, unusual, and a special moment in time. We know her passion for photography continues to grow with each picture she takes, and our passion for her work continues to grow with each moment she shares.

Thank you Anita for sharing the beauty you always see and for being part of our growing greeneyephoto.com team!

To learn more about Anita Raunio vist her at greeneyephoto.com - Anita Raunio

Meet Photographer Angela Hadden

2011-06-15T17:24:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Angela Hadden,

"Photography, to me, it is a way to forever preserve that moment in time that dissappears from our minds so quickly. I believe that every photo has the ability to make a difference. With my photography, I currently support various conservation efforts worldwide to help protect sea turtles through the sale of my sea turtle photos to organizations such as STPS, STRP, STC, and BZ. If you purchase any of my sea turtle photos I will donate 2% of the purchase price to a sea turtle conservation effort of your choice, in your name. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead Every day there is something new to learn! " - Angela Hadden

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We can't agree with Angela more, a few thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.

To learn more about Angela and preview her work, visit her at greeneyephoto.com - Angela Hadden or visit her web site at http://www.ahaddenphotography.com/.

Meet Photographer Dennis Wright

2011-06-09T09:38:00.000-05:00

Meet Photographer Dennis Wright

"Photography is my passion. For many years, I'd see my friends passionate about a hobby, but for me, I didn't understand it. I enjoyed doing many things, but passionate???? One year, a friend of mine fished 360 days, and he didn't live on a lake. I thought, Wow, that's passion! ...or more like an obsession, or recipe for divorce. However, I wasn't about to break the ice to get in the water, and break the ice to get back to the ramp.

Finally, I found my passion with photography. I've stood in icy water in sleeting rain before the rooster crowed to get a shot. Any passionate photographer will do whatever it takes to get a shot that they envision.

When I started, I jumped in the deep end of the water. ...sink or swim was my mentality, but I was sinking fast! I joined an international photo site, and didn't even know how to size a photo. I was really green! So I started posting photos that I actually thought were pretty good. :-) Well, needless to say, they made this old man cry like a baby! ...but learn, I did. Most of my photography friends live in parts of the world that I'd never heard of, and will probably never meet in person.

I live in the heart of the US, Indiana, home of the Indy 500, and, aka, the amateur sports capital of the world. ...I think we gave ourselves this title. :-) Being a developmental specialist in the scientific field pays the bills, but just as many PASSIONATE hours are spent taking and processing photos.

An artist, I am not; however, with the introduction of often expensive software, even the most simplest of imaginations ...like mine, can produce an amazing look all of their own.

Some people dream with their eyes closed, and some people live their dream. My advice to anyone is: Find your passion, and live it. " - Dennis Wright

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We're glad Dennis found his passion in photography and for becoming part of the greeneyephoto team, but we do need to disagree with one of his statements and simply rebuttal with "An Artist, he is!".

To learn more about Dennis Wright and see this talented artist's work vist him on greeneyephoto.com - Dennis Wright or find him on facebook and show your support.

Meet photographer Larry Ricker

2011-04-24T10:45:00.001-05:00

Meet photographer Larry Ricker

"I'm a nature photographer who lives in Rochester, Minnesota. My work includes landscapes, wildlife and macros. Although many of my images focus on my home state, particularly the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Lake Superior Northshore, I do have many photos from places such as Yellowstone, Grand Tetons and Grand Canyon National Parks, the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota, and the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. I have been actively selling my images since 1998. My work has been published in Sports Illustrated, Canoeroots, Canoe Kayak, Paddler and The Boundary Waters Journal magazines. My photos appear on the covers of the latest edition of the popular 'Beymer' guidebooks to the Boundary Waters. I have published 2 photography books: 'The Boundary Waters Through the Seasons' and 'On Trail With Nibi Mocs, Volume 1'. " - Larry Ricker (Professional Photographer)

Larry has been part of the greeneyephoto.com team from almost the beginning. His awe inspiring work captured our attention when we happened across his work in Rochester, Minnesota during one of Rochester's summer events they have every Thursday called "Thursdays on First & Third" (learn more), and we highly recommend taking the time to visit this professional nature photographers work in print form if he's there. I promise you will have a tough time walking away with out owning one of his breathtaking prints.

We're honored to have this talented, and well established professional nature photographer as part of the greeneyephoto team, and if you want to learn or see more of Larry Ricker's work. Visit him on greeneyephoto.com - Larry Ricker , or visit his web site at LHR Images.

Take a moment and find Larry on Facebook, and show your like!

Visit Larry's blog at On Trail With Nibi Mocs - Exploring the Natural World, One Shutter Click at a Time or see more of Larry's work on Fine Art America.

Thank you Larry for all of your hard work, the chance to show off your talent and for me now wondering how I'm going to come up with more wall space in my office.

Meet photographer Andy Astbury

2011-04-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Andy Astbury

"I qualified as a photographer with City Guilds 744 in General Photography in 1978 after 3 years study. Even though my status shows as Pro, I too am always learning! I have done the lot; architectural, industrial and commercial photography including the ubiquitous weddings and portraits. But now I tend to shoot mostly wildlife and natural history as stock and retail print. I also spend a great deal of time teaching digital image workflow and colour management, and produce Lightroom and Photoshop tuition DVDs."
- Andy Astbury (Professional Photographer)

We're honored to have this master photographer as part of our growing team at greeneyephoto. He's brought us more then just his stunning historic work, which captures nature at it's finest, he's also brought us a wealth of knowledge and advice to help keep pushing us to become a better business. Thanks Andy, we're listening!!

To learn or see more of Andy's work, visit his website at "wildlifeinpixels" or visit him on greeneyephoto.com - Andy Astbury

You can also find Andy on Facebook - Andy Astbury

Meet photographer Al Whitaker

2011-04-03T12:02:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Al Whitaker

"When I pick up my camera I view the world as it is, not as it should be, not as it is supposed to be, not as someone wants it to be. I look for and try to capture its beauty. Photography allows me to bring others to a spot where I have been, be it down a winding path through vibrant gardens or witnessing an incredible sunrise. If, during the process, I stir up some emotion or bring about a smile, so much the better! " - Al Whitaker

We like how you view the world Al!

To learn more about Al Whitaker and to preview his work, visit greeneyephoto.com - Al Whitaker

Meet photographer Pepen VA

2011-04-03T11:55:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Pepen VA

This artist of macro photography may show us a very small world, but he always leaves us with a very big impression.

We can't wait to see what Pepen sends us next!

To see more of Pepen VA's world of macro, visit him on greeneyephoto.com - Pepen VA.

Meet photographer Iwan Kristiana

2011-04-03T11:35:00.001-05:00

Meet photographer Iwan Kristiana

"Iwan Kristiana photography is a hobby and my life in the world of photography " - Iwan Kristiana (Hobbyist)

Iwan may only be a hobbyist photographer.. but we're glad he's sharing that hobby on greeneyephoto.com.

To see more of Iwan Kristiana work visit greeneyephoto.com - Iwan Kristiana

Meet photographer Gunn Seljestokken

2011-04-01T15:08:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Gunn Seljestokken

This artist from Norway has a favorite quote which is.. "Never too old...!", and we can't agree with you more.

Ok, so we do need to ask you Gunn... how did you get the "dancing bird" and is that "break dancing" or the "robot walk"? Looks like maybe a contender for "Dancing with the Stars".

To see a "dancing bird" and more of Gunn Seljestokken work, you can find Gunn on greeneyephoto.com - Gunn Seljestokken.

Meet photographer Randy Gene Maness

2011-04-01T14:08:00.000-05:00

Meet photographer Randy Gene Maness,

"It seems I have always had an interest in wildlife and nature photography. Just never went after the craving until a month ago. Now I can feel the BIT!!! And some say there is no antidote. I was looking around on the net to see if there was someone out there to help me sell some of my work. That's when I stumble into greeneyephoto.com. What a wonderful experience it has been so far. I would love to learn from the best of the best. I am currently enrolled in The New York Institute of Photography. It has been lots of fun so far." - Randy Gene Maness.

To learn more about Randy and follow his addiction, Oops!, I mean "interest" as he expands his talent into the world of wildlife and nature photography, you can find him on greeneyephoto.com - Randy Gene Maness

The only antidote we know of Randy, is to keep on taking those photos and building that portfolio on greeneyephoto.com!

Meet photographer Arron Gent

2011-04-01T13:34:00.001-05:00

Meet photographer Arron Gent,

This aspiring photographer is working to change his status from hobbyist to full time pro, and we feel Arron is well on his way to pursuing his dreams for becoming a professional wedding photography, portrait photography as well as selling his work commercially.

We're behind you Arron, so don't forget us here at greeneyephoto.com when you hit the big time!

To learn more about Arron Gent, or see more of his work, you can find him on greeneyephoto.com - Arron Gent

or find him on facebook - Arron Gent and show your support with a "Like"!

Meet photographer Gregg Williams

2011-03-28T18:45:00.002-05:00

Images by Photographer Gregg Williams

About photographer Gregg Williams

This nature photographer has been part of the greeneyephoto.com team since the very beginning.

His talent and patience with nature captures those quick fluttery moments that we know and love.

To see more of this nature photographers work or learn more about Gregg Williams, visit him on greeneyephoto.com.

Photographer Gregg Williams on greeneyephoto.com or see more of his work on Gregg Williams on Redbubble.com

Jasper National Park

2011-03-27T11:17:00.004-05:00

Jasper National Park
by photographer Larry Ricker

See the majestic beauty of this national treasure, or travel through the eye's of nature photographer Larry Ricker and explorer his world of beauty.

We offer 300+ stunning photos and fine art prints by nature photographer Larry Ricker.

Take a moment and learn more about Larry at greeneyephoto.com or visit his other site at http://www.lhrimages.com/

http://www.greeneyephoto.com/

Meet Photography by Pixie

2011-03-27T10:24:00.000-05:00

Photography by Pixie - "Hi, I'm Claire, known to my friends as 'Pixie'. I'm a graphic designer photographer when I'm not working on a project for a client, I'm usually found out in the open air behind my camera. I love photographing any form of nature especially sunsets, wildlife and flowers, it really makes me appreciate the smaller things in life. I started a business in February 2007 called Pix and Mix, we specialise in web site design, graphics, photography, video making and editing as well as business management and education consultancy. "

See more Photography by Pixie on greeneyephoto.com or visit her website at Pix and Mix

Meet photographer Sherry Elliott

2011-03-27T10:18:00.000-05:00

Sherry Elliott - "I've always loved taking pictures, but it wasn't until the advent of digital photography that I found my passion."

See more of Sherry's work on greeneyephoto.com

Meet photographer Randy Hall

2011-03-27T10:13:00.000-05:00

Randy Hall - "Photography has always been a hobby, but I only just started taking it seriously last year. I'm still looking for my niche, but enjoying every minute of it, as there is always more to learn. "

See more of Randy's work at greeneyephoto.com or visit Randy Hall at Panoramio.

Meet photographer Dakas

2011-03-25T09:17:00.001-05:00

Dakas - A Dublin based photographer. Areas of Photography that interest me, Landscape, Nature, Architecture, Travel, Documentary, Reportage some Events.

See more of his work on greeneyephoto.com or on his site at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dakasphotography/

Meet photographer Danuta Antas Wozniewska

2011-03-25T09:10:00.000-05:00

Danuta Antas - graphic artist and nature photographer, living in Poland. See more of this talented artist on greeneyephoto.com or visit her web site at http://www.danutaantas.com/

Meet photographer Michael Backunas

2011-03-24T13:22:00.004-05:00

Meet photographer Michael Backunas

Michael is a scenic and travel photographer based in central Massachusetts. He also pursues occasional editorial work for regional conservation organizations. Michael has over 25 years of photographic experience and provides instruction for photographic field workshops. His work is displayed in homes and offices. Michael's work has been featured in exhibitions, local galleries, included in Canon Europe literature and is displayed on various websites.

See more of photographer Michael Backunas work on greeneyephoto.com or visit his site at http://michaelbackunas.zenfolio.com/

See what we have to offer!

2011-03-24T13:12:00.001-05:00

greeneyephoto.com is looking for new photographers, both amateur and pro alike to become part of our growing business. If you have the passion, creativity and drive for the Art of Light, and think you have what it takes to be a good stock photographer, greeneyephoto.com is the place for you.

We are only seeking serious enthusiasts, amateurs or pros looking to show case themselves and their talents. If you're serious about photography why not become part of our growing business and see where it takes you.

http://www.greeneyephoto.com

Portage Landing on Jasper Lake

2010-09-07T13:42:00.010-05:00

Portage Landing on Jasper Lake by photographer Larry Ricker

Stock photo of Portage Landing on Jasper Lake, by Larry Ricker, Photographed at the landing of the Jasper to Kingfisher portage in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

I find this location to be particularly photogenic despite the fire that ravaged the area in May, 2007 This photo was taken on September 1, 2010.

See more of photographer Larry Rickers work on greeneyephoto.com or vist his site at http://www.lhrimages.com/

Subjects that Sell

2009-04-10T15:16:00.002-05:00

What Subjects Sell

I’m going to start this blog off with a question that I want everyone to take a quick moment to think about and answer. What is the most basic reason any product sells?

It’s a simple answer to a simple question. Demand. Any product that is on the market is there to be sold to people who need or want it.

There are many other parts to selling products but that is the most basic. If no one needs or wants it than you wont sell it.

Stock Photography operates under the same basic guideline. If you have pictures that a person or company needs or wants, you will sell photos, but remember there are two sides to every coin, if the pictures don’t appeal to a person or company, your not going to sell any.

Ok, so now that we all know that Demand is what sells a photo, lets talk about some of the subjects that DO NOT sell as well and some of the reasons why.

1st – Sunsets – Sunsets don’t sell even though they are “pretty” because along with the fact that just about anyone with a camera can capture them, but also they don’t really convey anything. Most stock photography sells because it’s going to be used in part to sell a product or service. Keep in mind that this is just a general rule; sunsets sell, but are the least selling photograph in the market.

2nd – Benches, Light Poles, Fences – These don’t sell again for similar reasons as the sunsets.

3rd – Agriculture, Entertainment – The reasons for these photos not selling are mostly because they are a more specific area. These photos are normally more important to the people that are directly involved.

So we know these are some of the lower selling photographs. I’m not saying that these subjects will not sell, just that they are not as likely to sell as some other types of photos.

Lets move on to Subjects and Concepts That Sell. I’m just going to make two general lists here, first is going to be the subjects that sell and then a list of concepts.

1 – Business
2 – Lifestyles
3 – Sports
4 – Recreation
5 – Fitness
6 – Technology
7 – Anything dealing with Green Energy, or living Green

Concepts That Sell

Wealth
Victory
Time
Teamwork
Action
Banking
Celebrations
Excellence
Love
Romance
Pride
Power
Equality
Enthusiasm
Service
Winning

Keep in mind that there are many more concepts and subjects that sell. Do your research. Look at magazines, ads, websites, and any where else you can find pictures. What is the subject matter, what colors, how colorful, what about composition? This will start to help you learn what marketing and advertising companies are looking for.

Stock photography is more than just having a photo that you think is “pretty” or “neat”,
It’s about finding photos that have a purpose or state something like the challenge of a rock climb, or becoming independently wealthy. Open your horizons and always look at every photo you take, can you see it in a magazine by a Revlon add? Can you see it in a brochure for a medical supply company?

Good luck to everyone and I hope this little bit of information will help you sell more photos. If you have any questions feel free to send me an e-mail to greeneyephoto@mchsi.com

Always here for help,

Forest

Photographic Art

2008-11-08T14:46:00.002-06:00

Understanding what GreenEye Photo accepts for digital photographic art.

We have been getting an increase in photographs altered in programs like adobe Photoshop. Some images we have accepted while others have been denied. In this article we will discuss what types of art photography we will accept and what kinds we will not. Here at GreenEye Photo we push for new and unique photos so we don’t want you to get discouraged when some of your photos are denied, further more we want you to better understand what we want.

Here is a simple rule of thumb to go by if the program you are using automatically does the change for you we most likely will not accept it. Here is why, imagine there were 100 photographers standing in a row, all of them had taken a picture of their 3-year-old son. When they got home they uploaded their photo and in Adobe Photoshop used the auto pencil sketch filter. They all changed their image to pastel colors. Now looking at these photos you are not going to notice much difference between them. Realize there are actually millions of “Photographers” out there that are doing just this. What sets them apart? Nothing.

Here is what we will accept. We will accept most “Creative” photographic art. What I mean by creative is that you have thought up the ideas in the image on your own, most of the changes you have made should be of techniques you have learned or taught yourself. If you were to use one of Adobe’s filters it would be only part of the aspect of your image and not the total change.

GreenEye Photo is a growing company that all of our photographers are part of. We want to be seen as the best stock photo site, the most creative. We want our images to be different, and have more variety than other stock photo sites.

Changing your photo to be a canvas painting, colored pencil, cut out, plastic wrap, charcoal, bas relief, tiles, and so on, will not be accepted because everyone can do that type of change. Now if you use one or more of the filters as only part of the change that is fine, that’s what they are there for. Be creative, put something into your photo that will make it yours!

Good Luck and feel free to ask any questions that you might have. Post it on the blog or send us an email.

Forest Blakesley

Using Your Two Brains

2008-05-06T20:18:00.002-05:00

While out shooting one day, I happened upon the perfect landscape shot. I knew it was perfect, because I had spent almost a full minute sizing it up. Oh sure, I could have studied the terrain, trying to find the best angles and foreground for dramatic effect, but why bother? In my mind's eye, what I saw was perfect.
I set up quickly, and for the perfect emphasis I held a graduated ND filter over the lens, the way the pros do. I didn't care about things like DOF or exposure readings; I'd let the camera take care of that. I wanted this picture, and I wanted it now! After I snapped the shutter, I asked myself how long it would be until National Geographic came knocking on my door.
That dream died a miserable death on my computer screen. I was horrified to see that I hadn't just caught the scene, I'd also done a great job of photographing my fingers holding the filter. And of course, that wasn't the only thing I botched. I captured the scene alright, but along with it I captured everything else that had nothing to do with the theme of the composition. Not to mention the fact that it was crooked and the focus point was on the wrong subject. Focus can matter, when you're too inexperienced to realize that you're shooting a big landscape shot at f2.8. The exposure wasn't the best anyway, since I accidentally shot in broad daylight at ISO 3200. As I look back on that, if the camera would have allowed me to leave the lens cap on and shoot without a memory card, I would have done that too. I blamed the camera, of course. Why wasn't it smart enough to know what I wanted?
Amusingly, I actually considered myself good enough at that point to step up from the P&S crowd into the elite SLR group. It would take many hundreds of failures for me to realize that talent alone just wasn't going to cut it for me; I needed a formal education in photography to begin to create compositions that displayed my viewpoint in a manner that was appealing to an audience.

Of the lessons I received over the years, with the best professional instructors I could find, one lesson stood above the rest, although it took me seemingly forever to begin to apply it with any effectiveness. Namely, it was understanding that there are always two brains at work whenever we snap the shutter. These two don't always see eye to eye, and each has an advantage--and disadvantage--compared to the other.
The two brains I'm speaking of are the one inside your head and the one inside the camera. Each sees the world differently, and if left untamed, are often like wild stallions racing in opposite directions. Understanding these beasts, and how to harness their energy, is one of the biggest keys to successful composition.

The human brain is selective in capturing visual information. It has to be, because if it consciously processed everything the eyes sent it, it would be incapable of functioning. (There are all kinds of scientific studies on this, but there's no need to go into that here.) This presents a major problem for all beginners. When framing a picture, they see only what appeals to them, and think that's what they're capturing. Too often, however, they overlook distracting elements. Combined with improper camera setup for their intended subject, the result of their work is badly disappointing. After enough such failures, a camera often finds itself stuck in a bleak closet, rarely to see the light of day.

Overcoming the drawback of selective vision requires a two-fold approach.
First, one must fully understand composition. The reasoning behind this is simple--If you don't know what to put into your picture, how do you know what to leave out? Verbally ask yourself exactlywhat it is about an inspiring scene that appeals to you, and make a conscious effort to only include those elements that support your viewpoint. But that's only the beginning. A diligent effort to study the work of great photographers and artists is absolutely essential. I cannot stress that strongly enough. If you're able to enroll in art appreciation classes, as well, this will be very beneficial to your photographer's eye.
Secondly, you have to train yourself to see a scene as the camera sees it, not only in terms of visual information, but also in the way that information is processed. This is hard work, and you will have to learn to live with failure along the way. But remember this: There's a world of difference between taking a picture and making a picture.

It is also essential to realize that while the human brain is limited in its perceptive abilities, the camera's brain is itself limited. In no way can any camera capture the beauty of a scene that the human eye can. Our ability to capture the details and splendor of a high-contrast scene is vastly superior to anything that a sensor or film can hope to achieve. But that disability can be overcome too.
What's needed is a proper understanding of post-processing. I am constantly amazed at the amount of detail that is hidden, in both the highlights and shadows, in the RAW files of today's modern DSLRs; these details need only to be drawn out. Learning how to auto-bracket and merge files to reveal details can be easily learned, as can artificial auto-bracketing of a single image. And as for the rich colors that your camera just couldn't capture, Photoshop can solve at least part of that problem for you, through a proper application of saturation. (And I mean proper.)
Still, Photoshop has limitations, which leads us to the Holy Grail. The relatively-new field of High Dynamic Range photography, using software that leaves Photoshop behind, will take your pictures to a breathtaking level of detail and color you never thought possible. It is as close as we will ever come to merging two brains into one. If you plan on becoming a serious photographer, you owe it to yourself to check this out.

But if you're a beginner, start your education from the beginning. As a starting point, when you're out on a shoot, determine just what you want in a scene, and cut everything else out of it.

Sort of like taking a class in Life 101.

What are your standards?

2008-05-03T13:51:00.004-05:00

As a photographer, you have certain standards you should always try to maintain. Standards that will set you above the average point and shoot photographer.

These standard are not reliant on the amount of money you've spent on your photo equipment, or the amount of schooling you've taken for photography and it's not reliant on the type of camera you own.

It all relies on you the photographer, and the amount of time you take, and put fourth taking your pictures.

Sure, a picture takes a second to take, but the actual work comes before the picture is taken and after the picture has been taken.

If you're new to photography, how much time are you going to donate to learning things like, the rule of thirds, or lighting, or composition... or the proper way to view your image on your computer.

If you find yourself thinking that's a lot more work than I want to put into this, than your probably going to stay a point and shoot photographer, and chances of you getting an image on a stock photo site, let alone selling an image (unless it's to a family member) is going to be very slim.

Yes, cameras and lenses make up a big part of how good a photo will turn out, and Yes, the really good equipment cost big bucks. But... that doesn't mean that is the only way to get great photos.

Take the time to learn about cameras and especially take the time to learn about your camera. Read reviews about the camera you have... and not just the reviews from other point and shooters. but actual professional reviews.

Take the time to learn the rule of thirds, lighting and composition. Buy a book... buy a DVD... but most importantly, take the time to look at your photos. Look at them full screen with software that doesn't make it look better than it actually does. If you don't know how to do this, read...read...read...

There are great articles on the Internet to learn just about anything you want to learn about photography, and if you can't find what your looking for, ask!

The standard I talk about when it comes to photographers, is the standard to shoot for perfection... to never look at your photos as these are good enough, but to look at them and question how to take the next one better.

Take the time to set your standards high, and a goal to always achieve the perfect image, and never get to placid with how good your photos are...

Good photos come from photographers, great photos come from those who are willing to set higher standards and work at it a little harder.

Eric Blakesley
Greeneye Photo

Using Different Filters

2008-02-07T15:32:00.000-06:00

Filters include:

Polarizing
Soft Focus
Cooling/Warming
Graduated

A polarizing filter can be the most useful filter to own. A Polarizing filter can deepen the color and contrast in the sky, eliminate glare from water or reflective surfaces, or cut through fog like haze. Soft Focus filters generate more diffused looks for romantic, moody, atmospheric, foggy or glowing effects in your shots.

Cooling filters add more blue to an image giving a psychological effect of calming or serenity in the final image. Warming filters cut out excess blue in an overcast sky to add more reddish tones to the image and make your photos look less harsh.

Finally, graduated lenses help for scenes that have a huge difference in light level-eg late in the day when the sky is still bright, but the foreground is in shadow.

http://www.digital-photo-secrets.com/

I came across this information about filters and found it to be helpful. Now I'm excited about purchasing these filters and trying them out. Especially the graduated lense. I love taking photos of sunsets, but capturing them as been difficult for me. Hopefully this lense will make a difference. And if anyone has any tips on capturing sunsets, I would love to hear from you!

Lost In The Settings

2008-01-30T16:18:00.000-06:00

Making sense of all of your camera settings is sometimes tricky. It seems every brand and style of camera has a few different settings that are only found with that specific camera. So here it is, the place where you can find out what that setting does. Post a comment asking what a setting is for or how to use it, and we will do our best to explain what it does, and how and when to use it.

Forest Blakesley
Greeneye Photo

Let us know how we're doing!

2008-01-25T13:41:00.000-06:00

We are always looking for feed back from members, take a moment and let us know what you think of the site and don't be afraid to make suggestions on how we can make things better.

Click on the comments link to leave your comments or suggestions.

Thanks,
Eric Blakesley
Greeneye Photo

Photography Workshop

2008-01-20T16:37:00.000-06:00

Here are a few tricks that I sometimes use to get my photos a little more colorful and make them a little clearer. Now this is just the basics, you will have to play around with them to see exactly how they work. Take some pictures and have them be "learning pictures" nothing more than to teach you how these techniques work. Once you get the basics start implementing them into your photography.

First you need to know if you have a built in Exposure Compensation Meter. if you do it will look something like this:

-2..1..\/..1..2+

If you don't have the Exposure Compensation Meter this trick can also be done using your Shutter Speed and Aperture value settings.

Now the best time to learn about Exposure Compensation, you need to get out and take some pictures in the middle of the day on a bright sunny day. You might notice that your photos lose some color or seem a little washed out this is due to your Exposure being to high. Try stepping your exposure down 1/3 stop.

-2..1..\/..1..2+
-____^____

In the diagram above I have placed an arrow stepping the exposure down 1/3 stop. This decreases the exposure and makes to photo darker. Each 1/3 stop will decrease the exposure and causes the photo to become darker. A lot of the time I will step my camera down 1/3 stop to increase the color saturation. Now try setting your exposure settings and try some photos. This is not something that you need to use with every photo you take, because it might already be to dark when you are taking photos. Try increasing your exposure by going up 1/3 stop. How does the color look?

Now for the cameras that do not have the exposure compensation meter you can do the same thing with your shutter speed and aperture value.

If your standard exposure is 1/125 sec and f/5.6 you can

Increase your exposure 1/3 stop by setting your shutter speed to 1/60 sec. and your aperture value at f/4.0

Decrease your exposure 1/3 stop by setting your shutter speed to 1/250 sec. and your aperture value to f/8.0

Now all you have to do is go out and experiment with this and see how your photos turn out. Go with the thought that these photos are for learning.

Here is another trick to help keep your sky blue. For anyone who uses a polarizing filter this is also very helpful.

Now for this one all you need is your hand. While outside take your thumb and stick it straight up like you are giving someone a thumbs up. Now take your pointer finger and point it straight at the sun. Turn your thumb to the left and right keeping your finger pointed at the sun. The direction you point with your thumb is the best direction to take your photo for a blue sky. With the polarizing filter this is also the direction to lighten and darken the sky the most.

It is important to remember that photography is an art, use tricks you learn from others and learn tricks on your own. Any camera can capture a moment but it takes a photographer to see that moment.

Let me know if you have any questions about these tricks and feel free to share your own.

Forest Blakesley
Greeneye Photo

The rule of thirds

2008-01-19T11:02:00.000-06:00

Before I start, remember one main thing, don’t always follow the rules!

In the world of photography, there are certain rules you should always follow, like making sure your photos are sharp and clear, not over or under exposed, and your photos should create an emotion, tell a story, have a purpose or be just darn good looking photos.

The rule of thirds is about composition of the photo. It’s about trying to create that emotion or story in that photo. Subjects that are usually centered in a photo will appear flat and lifeless, where as subjects focused within a third of the photo will begin to create a life and draw more interest to the overall photo.

I borrowed this photo from Forest Blakesley (Thanks Forest!) to show how thirds are broke down in a photo. The red circles indicate the intersecting points. These points will often be the hot spots if your focal point falls within these areas. Don’t misunderstand me, not every subject should fall in these areas, this is only a general rule of thirds and approximation of areas that may create more interest in your photo.

The rule of thirds works well for stock photography in the fact it also leaves an area for the user to add text without over writing the main subject.

For the professional or semi-professional photographer this is a very basic explanation of the rule of thirds, for the amateur or new photographer, this may be a little food for thought and something to learn more about.

If you feel this article was helpful, or if you would like more information about the rule of thirds, leave me a comment.

Note: by clicking on the image you can see a larger version.

Learn more about the rule of thirds by the links below:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rule_of_thirds

http://silverlight.co.uk/tutorials/compose_expose/thirds.html

http://digital-photography-school.com/blog/rule-of-thirds/

http://www.worldstart.com/tips/tips.php/1514

http://www.apogeephoto.com/jan2002/altengarten.shtml

http://www.digital-photography-tips.net/digital-photography-tutor-thirds.html

Eric Blakesley
Greeneye Photo

But it's only a pencil ...

2008-01-18T13:01:00.000-06:00

Sure, It's only a pencil on a book, but in the stock photo world this could be used for a million different things.

Like any good photo, stock photos need to tell a story, create an emotion or be just a really good photo. The photo needs to be as sharp and clear as possible, and yet it really needs to be something more. It needs to be useful too!

If you're ever thumbing through a magazine, take a minute and really look at the images you come across. You should notice that each image is there for a reason, to convey an emotion, tell a story or sell a product. The bottom line is, it has a purpose.

Before you up-load that next picture, ask yourself, does this photo have a purpose, does it create an emotion, telling a story or is it just a great looking photo that you're proud of.

Think on the creative artistic side when it comes to your photos, even if it is only a pencil.

Welcome to the Greeneye Photo blog!

2008-01-18T09:40:00.000-06:00

Our goal for Greeneye Photo is to become a High Quality Stock Photo site, which offers unique, interesting and useful photos from amateur and professional photographers alike.

We at Greeneye Photo hope you find this blog to be useful for sharing ideas, making encouraging comments on photos, and learning how to make and take better stock photos.

Together we are all building this business known as Greeneye Photo, Use of this blog is limited to questions, comments, ideas and information relevant to our business of stock photos.

Thank you again for becoming part of Greeneye Photo.

Visit greeneyephoto.com

Eric Blakesley
Co/Owner of Greeneye Photo