Last Saturday evening I had the good fortune to attend a photography workshop put on by the lovely Sarah Rhodes of Arrow + Apple. After I’d already signed up, I found out that we’d need to be in Winslow the following morning, and for a (very brief) moment I thought maybe I should back out. But no. It was going to be awesome and I really really wanted to go, so I figured we’d just have to work out something to make sure I could do both.
I was SO glad I did. Sarah spent a little over two hours teaching us about light. What light temperatures and sources were ideal for photography. How to manipulate the available light to create better shots. And, the main point of the workshop, how to create daylight conditions at night, indoors, using inexpensive tools that can be purchased at any hardware store.
We took photos of this little succulent to demonstrate how simple changes in the way light is added and reflected can make a huge difference.
She showed us simple ways to turn a dark room into a setting more suitable for shooting portraits.
Chelsea of the cute blog Tea Talk was sweet enough to play model for us as we took turns shining a light in her face and taking “beauty shots.” Thanks for being such a good sport, Chelsea!
We spent some time practicing what we’d learned in smaller groups, which was fun. Notice the harsher shadows on shoes on the left? We made some adjustments and look at the difference on the right! So much softer. Go team.
Of course I was too busy taking notes to make absolutely sure my camera settings were ideal–AT A PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP. For shame, Jen.–so most of my shots were on the grainy side, and way too many were not quite in focus. Photo fail. Oh wells.
I went with Lydia and Camille, my awesome realtor Elizabeth was there, and we met several other cool people who had come to laugh and learn and play with their cameras. It was super informative and super fun. And bonus! There were refreshments.
To whoever made the chocolate chip banana thingies, thank you! Not only were they the perfect prop to practice with, they were also delicious!
I still have a ton of practicing to do, but I’m excited to use what I learned to improve my photos. Big thanks to Sarah and Josh for having us in their home and sharing their expertise. You guys are awesome!
I 100% have a recipe for chocolate-chip-banana-thingies. I will give it to you…for FREE.
Free is my favorite price! Hook a sister up!
That sounds really cool! I am impressed by your skillz.
It was! It's always fun to practice a hobby and learn some new stuff, dontcha think?