Rule of 3rds

The rule of thirds is a very basic rule and is pretty easy to remember. Especially when our technology helps us with this. After some apple update my iPad camera now has a grid on it. At first all I could think about was how do I get rid of this, its annoying, and I don't need to be showed how to take pictures. If you're asking what the grids purpose it, its to aide in the use of the rule of thirds.

 What is the rule of thirds?  Its a way to teach photographers how to line up their subject to create a more balanced image.  When you have a grid to work with, the subject of your image would be placed on one of the lines or at a cross section.  The center of focus should be where the lines cross.

When you don't have a grid you divide the viewing area into thirds; both vertical and horizontal.  Then place the subject on one of the cross sections.  Keeping the main focus on the cross section.

The idea behind this is that placing points of interest in those cross sections the photo is more balanced and easier to look at.  When looking at photos, your eye will naturally go to one of the cross section, using the rule of thirds works with this natural way of viewing a photo rather than against it.

Now that you know about the rule of thirds, go try it out.  Once you've got the hang of it you can start breaking it.

Learn about ISO

We've talked about shutter speed and f-stops, now its time to talk about the ISO on your camera. I always have a hard time with this one. Since I still have a hard time with this topic I'm going to give you the information one of my favorite websites has on how to decide which ISO to use.

DPS

Hope that was informative and helpful. Now you have a whole picture on how to use your camera while not in auto, get out there and experiment.

2015 Calendar

Its almost time for a new year and with that comes a new calendar.  I am very excited to have finished this years calendar before Thanksgiving.  Come see what I've put together for this year.  And thank you all for your support! Photography Ramblings.

Traveling through a dream

I've talked about this project I've been working on a few times and its been slowing me down on other projects. But now its done!  And I am now free to talk about the materials that were used and show my work off. The biggest rule of this project was to not share anything that came in the box; the whole point is for it to be a surprise for anyone who orders one.

Before I ordered mine I had to think long and hard because I'm a photographer and didn't know if I would be able to work with the materials provided. I am however good at coming up with an idea and working on it to make it happen. All my Halloween decorations are proof of that. 

It was like Christmas morning when the package arrived. The worst part was that I couldn't share the contents with anyone.

I started making a plan for the vision I had and knowing what I had to work with was shaping that plan. At first I had time, there was no rush so I thought about it and worked on it every once in awhile. Until October hit then it was time to get moving, the due date was the 20th. Most of my work was done the week leading up to the due date. I used wine and big bang to get through.  I submitted the project the day it was due and am now waiting for the voting to start.

Now that I've finished the project for 2014 I'm already thinking about getting the box for 2015. If you're interested come check it out.

Voting is open!!!  Please come vote for my project!  I'm #229 "Traveling through a Dream."  Vote for me!

Close up Nature

For me finding photography contests is the best way to push my work farther.  Every couple of months Focal Press does a contest.  September - October's theme is Close up photography in nature, check it out.  I love being out in nature so I'm in!

While I was out taking nature photos I was thinking of different ways to be creative.  Which ones do you think I should enter into the contest?