Highlands Ranch Photo Club Meeting of November 14, 2006
November Meeting -- John Fielder and Claudia Cangilla McAdam
DeDe welcomed everyone to the meeting which featured a presentation by author and photo club member Claudia Cangilla with photographs by John Fielder, noted Colorado landscape photographer. They presented their new book, "Do You See What I See?"
The book is geared for children, but would be enjoyed by anyone. The basic idea is to show a small part of a larger photograph with a verse wondering what the picture might be. Upon turning the page, the entire photo is shown. Fielder stated he wanted to challenge children and adults to "see the details in nature."
The entire first printing has been sold to stores, and the book will likely be reprinted. Copies should still be available in local bookstores.
Throughout the book presentation, Fielder took questions from the audience about photography and design principles. When teaching photography classes, he likes to teach people "how to see" with their cameras. Here are some of the points covered.
- Intimate landscapes -- a photograph showing a landscape without a horizon.
- Complementary or opposite colors make each other "pop" and look even more brilliant.
- A diagonal line can be created using two dominant features at opposite corners of the photograph. This creates a feeling of tension and movement.
- A lead-in line such as a fence or road leading from the front to the back of the photograph can create a sense of depth.
- Asymmetrical compositions tend to be more interesting than having the main feature in the middle of the photo.
- Fielder stated his interest in using photography to influence, protect and preserve nature.
- Prime times of day for photo shoots are before sunrise until 9 a.m. in summer or all day if cloudy, and then at evening through twilight.
- Being physically comfortable in nature with weather and climate is essential.
- Framing should not overwhelm the photo but should be complementary. A good framer may make suggestions.
- Film cameras may be stronger and take more abuse than digital cameras. Digital cameras also require stronger batteries.
Notes for Next Meeting:
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, December 12, 2006, at 7:00 p.m. in the Highlands Ranch Library. The December meeting will be the annual Christmas party. Everyone is encouraged to bring a snack and several pictures or CDs with images on them to show the group. We also want shots for the website.
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