RF 200-800

Tony & Chelsea have reviewed the new Canon RF 200-800 Zoom lens. 

I think that is a good option but I prefer the RF100-500.

As a photographer you need to be prepared

As a wedding photographer, you need to be prepared for anything. Outdoor events, in particular, pose unique challenges since you have little control over the weather. If the couple decides to proceed with the ceremony despite unfavorable conditions, it’s your responsibility to adapt and carry on with your work. And this is what happened at this event. 

Courtesy of People.

I absolutely love this photo I captured a while back

 Meditating Young Woman.

Click On the Picture to enjoy the details

This image evokes a peaceful and reflective mood, thanks to the soft, golden lighting and the subject’s contemplative posture. Here are some thoughts about the image:

1. Lighting and Atmosphere: The golden-hour lighting enhances the warm, serene atmosphere of the scene, with a gentle backlight creating a pleasing glow around the subject and the surrounding environment.

2. Composition: The subject is positioned on the wooden structure with ample negative space to the right. This creates a sense of solitude and draws attention to the lush natural surroundings. The soft blur in the foreground adds depth.

3. Subject and Emotion: The person leaning on the railing appears introspective, adding a narrative element. Their casual attire complements the natural, relaxed feel of the setting.

4. Technical Considerations: The background blur (bokeh) is beautifull, isolating the subject and emphasizing the tranquil setting.The photo was taken using a Canon R7 and a Zoom Lens EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, the use of a Zoom Lens add compression which give the picture an extra touch adding more details to the background.
   

5. Foreground Elements: The blurred plants in the foreground add a layer of depth re-enforcing the 3D effect.
   

Overall, to me, this is a strong image that captures a quiet moment in nature, with excellent use of lighting and composition to convey a peaceful mood.

 

 

 

Model training

 Here is a very interesting and informative video about posing. 

R1 review by FStopper

 FStopper has published their review of the Canon R1 which you can read here. 

Their major complain, the 24 MP of this camera. And I ask, who needs more than 24 MP? And I ask them, are you planning to print billboard size banners or so? Otherwise, 24 MP is more than enough for 90 of the shooters out there. 

Compared to higher MP cameras, 24 MP images have manageable file sizes, making them easier to store, edit, and share without requiring excessive storage or powerful processing equipment. Images are easier to edit, especially on standard computers, as they don’t require the processing power and RAM needed for handling massive files from cameras with higher MP counts.

In short, a 24 MP camera strikes an excellent balance for amateur and professional photographers alike, delivering high-quality results without the trade-offs associated with either extremely high or very low resolutions.

If I have any complains about this camera is the price: $6300 before taxes. If anyone out there wants to donate one to me, for sure, I'm not going to complain about it's 24 MP.

Yes, it was taken using an iPhone

 If you work in your composition you can get pictures like this one taken with your iPhone. 

Pictures at a local zoo

 This weekend I visited a local zoo and here are some of the pictures I took there.

Florida Mountain Lion. This picture was taking through a glass, in post edition haze was eliminated and contrast increased.

Florida Fox Squirrel, Juvenile. This is an example of shooting through a chain-link fence. When you position the camera close enough to the fence, it becomes almost invisible in the image, allowing you to focus on the subject beyond.

Florida Coyote. Another example of shooting through a chain fence. The coyote eyes were edited to make them the central point of the picture.

Taking photos at a zoo can be a rewarding experience, offering the opportunity to practice wildlife photography in a controlled environment. Here are some tips to enhance your results:

1. Plan Your Visit

    Timing: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are more active and lighting is softer.
    Weather: Overcast days are ideal for even lighting without harsh shadows.
    Research: Check feeding times or special animal demonstrations for action shots.

2. Bring the Right Gear

    Lens Choice: Use a zoom lens (I used for this pictures my R6 with EF100-400L Mk2). For the wide angle shots I used an iPhone 16 Pro. 

Camera Settings:

•         Shoot in RAW: Offers flexibility in editing.
•         Shutter Speed: Use fast speeds to freeze animal movement (1/500s or faster for active animals).
•         Aperture: Use wide apertures (e.g., f/5.6) to blur backgrounds and isolate subjects.
•         ISO: Adjust to maintain proper exposure; higher ISO for dimly lit areas.

    Filters: A polarizing filter can help reduce reflections on glass.

3. Work with Composition

•     Focus on Eyes: The eyes are the most expressive and engaging part of an animal photo. I also spend some time editing the eyes in Lightroom Classic to make them stand out by brightening them.
  
•     Framing: Use natural elements like branches or rocks in the enclosure to frame your subject.
•     Perspective: Get at eye level with the animals for a more intimate perspective.

4. Overcome Challenges

    Fencing:
        Use a wide aperture and position the lens close to the fence to make it disappear in the background.
        Align the lens with gaps in the fencing.
    Glass Enclosures:
        Avoid reflections by shooting at an angle and placing the lens close to the glass.
        Clean the glass with a microfiber cloth if allowed.
    Crowds: Be patient and shoot when the crowd clears.

5. Capture Behavior and Details

    Photograph animals interacting, eating, or playing for dynamic shots.
    Focus on unique features like textures of fur, scales, or feathers.

6. Be Respectful

    Avoid using flash, as it can disturb animals.
    Respect barriers and zoo rules to ensure your safety and the well-being of the animals.

7. Post-Processing

    Edit your photos to enhance contrast, correct color, and crop out distracting elements.
    Use noise reduction tools if you had to shoot at high ISO.