Photography Tips, Workshop Updates

A Little Less Talk, A Lot More Action

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I’m stealing a phrase from country-western singer Toby Keith, “A Little Less Talk, A Lot More Action.”  Now that song is totally about a different kind of “action” but let’s put that aside for a moment. 😉

In this case, I am talking about learning photography.  You want to learn photography? Stop just talking about it. Stop just reading about it.  Start DOING photography.  It’s like swimming. You have to do more than just read about swimming, if you want to learn how to swim.  You have to get in the water and get wet.

That’s why the book I recently published, “30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs” includes homework assignments with each section.  Start practicing! Push yourself to be out DOING photography.

I currently have several photography workshops that will really get you into doing some great photography with my help. This gives you a chance to try a variety of fun new things and learn a few new tricks.

So, while you are on Amazon buying my book (not so subtle hint), also register for one of these classes coming up very soon!

 

 

Let’s take you to the next level in your photography, with a little less talk and a lot more action! 😉

 

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Events for Photographers, Free Events

Concept to Creation Contest and Photo Expo

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 11th, 2017
Jason Ake – Professional Plotter Technologies –
512-382-5912 – 

Concept to Creation
Contest and Photo Expo

Austin, TX – Professional Plotter Technology  is excited to bring Austin photographers together for a photo expo this November 15th , 2017. The event, which will take place at the Blanton Museum of Art, will celebrate PPT’s Concept to Creation Campaign.

“We believe in the importance of owning the process from a freshly born concept to its full creation. Our mission behind this campaign is to encourage artist to print their work as well as educate them on the efficiency, savings, and pride that comes with in-house printing,” says Jason Ake, CEO of PPT.

The event will feature:

  • Cocktail social with complimentary drinks from local sponsors.
  • Speakers including Pete Wright, Canon Explorers of Light Clay Blackmore and Hahnemuhle’s Kevin Anthuis.
  • Hands on product demo featuring the latest in digital imaging; Canon EOS cameras, Image PRO Graf Pro series printers, lighting and more.
  • A photo booth with professional coaches where guests may take home a print of their own image.
  • Free bites and live music will also be featured.
  • Awards ceremony and closing remarks.

To generate excitement for this campaign, PPT is also sponsoring a contest with an exciting prize.  Monthly winners win a large-scale print of their choice and advance to the finals for a chance to win a new Canon PRO 2000 24″ 11 color Photo Printer valued at $2700, courtesy of Professional Plotter Technology. Winners are featured on the Professional Plotter Technology Facebook page .

More information and the photo submission form can be found on www.concepttocreation.org 

 

 

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Featured Photographers

Featured Photographer: Kathy Thalman

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In our Featured Photographer series, we highlight the work of our former and current students!

Your Name: Kathy Thalman

Type of Camera:  Nikon D7000 and D500

What do you love to photograph the most?   I search all forms of photographic opportunities to create “Art”  Looking through the lens gives me an opportunity to express a feeling or moment in an Art form.  The unusual, or normally unnoticed things in life, catch my eye and it is fun to transform those moments in processing. There is wonder in all things.

What is one thing you have learned that has improved your photography?   I started from scratch just a few years ago, late in life, so there have been many instructions and workshops. (many of those with Kevin) I have learned to be an individual, do what I can with the knowledge I have and continue to expand. Not to be afraid to try.

Advice you’d give to others wanting to grow in their photography skills:   Do not get discouraged nor intimidated by all the “pros” who share their advice.  Listen, ask questions and then find your comfort zone.

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Events for Photographers, Austin Events, Community Service

An Opportunity to Create Brighter Holidays for Families and Individuals in Need

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ATTENTION AUSTIN PHOTOGRAPHERS, HAIR STYLISTS, MAKEUP ARTISTS, EDITORS, VOLUNTEERS:

I am really excited to inform you about what Help-Portrait Austin is doing this year!  (Any of you who have taken my Photography 101 workshop may remember the video I show about the great work Help-Portrait is doing.)

Help-Portrait Austin creates brighter holidays for families and individuals in need.   A portrait is a treasure. It is hung on the wall or displayed on a mantle, or kept in a special album. It is a record of how we looked as children, the pride we feel in our children, and a legacy for our descendants. It is these portraits that most people would save from a burning house.

These photographic treasures can cost hundreds of dollars, putting them out of reach for many Central Texas families. Help-Portrait Austin is on a mission to provide those in need with the entire portrait experience, from hair and makeup to a fun photo session, to leaving with framed professional portraits.

Volunteers will gather to make this magic happen on Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Boys and Girls Club of East Austin, 901 Thompson Street, Austin. More than 100 photographers, hair and makeup artists, photo editors, and other volunteers will welcome up to 200+ guests, turning the 1950s-era gym into a giant photo studio.

“It is an amazing event,” Event Director Regina Maldonado said. “I have a soft place in my heart when it comes to kids.” Maldonado has been involved in the Austin event since it was started in 2009 as part of Help-Portrait Worldwide.

All around the world, gyms, tents, homes, offices, and hotels are transformed for one day of fun, hugs, smiles, memories, and even a few tears. Guests at the Austin event range from extended families who lost all family photos in a flood to individuals who need a good headshot for a resume to families who dress up for a holiday portrait to treasure and share.

The event has created some special traditions, including an arts and crafts area and a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who are happy to pose with young guests.

“I love looking at the photos and videos from past events from other cities as well as the Austin event,” Lorraine Miller, one of the volunteer coordinators with HPA, said. “They never fail to make me smile.”

As an all-volunteer event (HPA has no paid employees), the local group depends on the generosity of local businesses and individuals. The event requires photo supplies such as ink and paper, arts and crafts supplies, and food for the volunteers.

This year, HPA has expanded its focus to help the homeless and teens in foster care. On March 11, several HPA volunteers braved wet conditions to take portraits of homeless people (and some pets) as part of the SXSW Pop-Up Care Village sponsored by LavaMae and Encast. Photos were taken and printed on the spot, and guests received stamped envelopes to send the portraits to loved ones.

Another new initiative will be an add-on to the Dec. 2 event, as HPA will partner with Foster Angels to provide portraits to high school seniors in foster care. More information will be available soon!

HPA welcomes volunteers who can help with photography, photo editing, hair and makeup, or just a friendly smile. Volunteers who speak Spanish are always needed! To volunteer or for more information, visit the HPA website at www.helpportraitaustin.com

Monetary donations are accepted through Pure Charity, and are tax deductible. For information, contact Regina Maldonado at  or leave a message at (512)-748- 7751 or contact Cynthia Miller at  or leave a message at (512) 971-9092.

Let me know if you get involved!  I’d love to hear about any of you who volunteer!  

Thanks!

Kevin Gourley

 

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Photography Tips, General Commentary

Why Your Photography Is Not Getting Better

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I have encountered so many photographers who are frustrated with their photography.  They want to “move to the next level” and improve their photography, but then they start reading various blogs and ads that convince them the real key is to buy better gear, move to a full frame sensor, better lenses, the most expensive lighting systems, etc.  The next thing you know, they have spent many thousands of dollars and their photography has not improved at all!

Granted, better gear will give you more capabilities, but it may not improve your photography at all.

Beware the temptation to think the problem is your camera gear. I hate to say this, but the problem with your photography might be YOU.  Ouch.  I know I am stepping on some toes when I say that, but I can say that about myself just as easily. My biggest problem with my photography is often ME. If I don’t know how to create the image I want to create, the problem is often with me, not my camera.

A few months ago, I noticed an ad on craigslist for a camera, and the posting said “takes great photos.”  That would be like posting an ad for a paintbrush saying it “paints great paintings.”

The key to creating great art is for the artist to know how to use the tools they are using.

Here are some insights I have discovered:

  • If you are frustrated with your camera, FIRST make sure you take the time to learn how to use it, and know what features it offers. Most modern cameras have all the features you need to create great images. The key is knowing how to use the features, and work around any limitations it might have.
  • Be careful when upgrading to a “better” camera.  It may or may not really improve your photography.  Before you decide on upgrading your camera, know WHY you are upgrading! Were you just attracted to the new camera because of some slick ad that included a photograph you loved and you thought “I want to take pictures like that!”?  That is NOT a good reason to upgrade. You need to know what specific features the new camera has that your current camera does not have. Otherwise, you might be wasting your money.
  • “More megapixels” is frankly not a good reason to upgrade even though thousands of photographers think that will make their photographs so much sharper.  They are often surprised that just having more megapixels doesn’t really improve their image sharpness.  If you want your photos to be sharper, focus on these areas first:
    • Make sure you know how to use your camera’s focus system really well so you can ensure you are getting accurately focused shots
    • Properly manage depth of field through your choice of aperture value
    • Make sure shutter speeds are fast enough to elimination motion blur of the subject or due to camera vibration/movement
    • If you do the above really well, then (and ONLY then) will having more megapixels really matter at all, and still it won’t matter a whole lot to have more megapixels.
  • The real deal about better camera sensors has more to do with better sensitivity in low light (higher ISO capability) and better dynamic range. Pay attention to that more than the number of megapixels.  If you consistently shoot hand-held in low light circumstances then this matters a lot.
  • Push yourself to learn more. Do not get stuck in a rut where you remain in your “comfort zone” always just taking photographs in the same camera mode in the same way.  If you keep doing what you have always done, you will keep getting what you’ve always gotten. Want to do more? Push yourself! Challenge yourself! Try new things. Make mistakes. Then LEARN from your mistakes, and then you will improve! If you are not making mistakes, you are probably not trying hard enough.
  • To avoid getting “stale” in your photography, try different things. If you are always shooting landscapes, try doing something completely different like studio lighting or portraiture or birds or dogs jumping in the water. Try new things. Create new things. You may find a new love of photography as a result.
  • Resist the temptation to think you have to copy what other photographers are doing in order to find acceptance and affirmation. It’s not about getting more “likes” on facebook. Seek to excel at your art as YOUR art. Be the best “YOU” you can be! Be unique. Be creative. The world’s best artists were not just copycats of other people’s work.
  • Be patient and persistent.  Photography is a technical art.  Some of you “get” the technical stuff more quickly than others.  If the technical part is overwhelming, just be patient and keep trying. If you run into problems or questions, you are more than welcome to email me any time with your photography questions.  Oh and then of course, remember I DO teach classes and offer private instruction on almost all photographic topics. 😉

Happy Picture Taking!

Kevin Gourley

P.S. Check out my new book below!

30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs by Kevin Gourley

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Workshop Updates

Become the Photographer You Want to Be!

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Hey Photographers!  Here are Perfect Options for Learning and Fun

  • Start Here
    Photography 101 Fundamentals of Great Photography
    Class begins October 10th!

  • Advance in your photography skills, Learn new techniques
    Learning by Doing Series
    Introducing the ‘6×6 Photography Workshop’
    6 PHOTOGRAPHERS, 6 PROJECTS 
    A FUN NEW LEARNING OPPORTUNITY – Austin, Texas
    This is a unique and fun opportunity for 6 photographers to participate in this program where we meet to work on a different photographic project each month for 6 months.DAYTIME CLASS JUST ADDED 9:30am-12:30pm!
    2nd Monday of each month, starting November 13th
    (Our evening class sold out quickly so we have added this new daytime option!)

  • Fun Destination Workshops
    2018 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops

    Join us on these fantastic photographic adventures  in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park in the Summer and Fall of 2018!
    Some options are already sold out! Sign up soon!

  • Private Instruction
    This is a great option to advance your photographic skills on almost any topic, scheduled at times that best fit your busy schedule!

  • Kevin Gourley’s New Book!
    30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs

    Are your photographs not turning out the way you intended? Do you want to improve your photography skills so you can create better images?

    If you own a Digital SLR (DSLR) or a Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera (MILC), this book was written for you! Kevin Gourley, professional photographer, instructor, and author, leads you through the 30 most important things you need to know to effectively use your camera to achieve consistently better photographs.

    Through Kevin’s years of experience leading photography workshops, he has encountered many questions, challenges, and mistakes photographers often make. This book will help you avoid these common mistakes, become more skilled in operating your camera, and create the images you desire.

     

    Now Available at Amazon!

 

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Events for Photographers

How Photographers Can Support the Foster Care Community of Austin, TX

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MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO ATTENDED THIS MEETING!

If you’d like to know more about supporting the foster care community of Central Texas, check out:

If you would like to be a volunteer photographer for Heart Gallery, CLICK HERE

And click here for more info about Eyes of Faith

We have a free event happening at our studio in NW Austin!  It is an opportunity for you to learn about ways photographers (and others) can support the wonderful foster care community of Austin, TX!   This event is hosted by a new photography group called Eyes of Faith that meets once a month at my studio.   Anyone and everyone is invited to attend.

Meeting Date/Time:
Monday October 2, 2017 7pm 

RSVP (please) to:   info@eyesoffaith.org so we can have an idea of how many people are coming!

Topic:
Supporting the Foster Care
Community of Austin

We’ll be looking at ways everyone can support the foster care community in Austin.  People who step up to the calling of becoming a foster parent are amazing. What an incredible gift of love!   Even if you do not see yourself as ever becoming a foster parent, there are many other ways you can support the foster care community. Come and learn more from Dan Zieschang with Upbring.org.  Also Megan Ransom with Heart Gallery of Central Texas  will speak to us! Heart Gallery is a photography exhibit and community education/outreach initiative featuring children who are waiting for adoption.

Meeting Location:  Kevin Gourley Photography Studio, 11740 Jollyville Road Suite #400, Austin, TX  click here for directions

If you cant make it to the meeting, but would like to be a volunteer photographer for Heart Gallery, CLICK HERE

Click here for more info about Eyes of Faith and this meeting

RSVP (please) to:   info@eyesoffaith.org so we can have an idea of how many people are coming!

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Workshop Updates

Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop Well Under Way!

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We’re having a great time in our Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop!  Aspen are gradually turning this year, revealing fall colors.  We’ve seen elk, deer, moose, pika, coyotes, mountains, rivers, cascades, waterfalls, sunrises and many photo opportunities!

I hope you’ll join us on either our Summer or Fall Rocky Mountain Workshop in 2018.  Register soon though.  It is filling up fast with just a few spaces left in each group.  If you register by October 1st, you can save up to $100!

Click Here for More Info

Also don’t forget to check out my new book!

 

Group A – wonderful group of photographers!

Aspen on a beautiful sunny day!

We experienced some snow in the upper elevations. This is Long’s Peak.

Beautiful falls and cascades

Elk!

Moose!

Only a few wildflowers are left by now.

Elk are so fun to watch in the Fall

Splashes of color in the Aspen trees

 

Bighorn Sheep

 

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Photography Tips, General Commentary

About My New Book: “30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs”

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There are a lot of photography books on the market. I decided there is room for one more!  I wrote this book with a specific intent in mind: Focus on the major problems that often mess up people’s pictures and provide tips on how to avoid those problems.

While I explain how to take the steps necessary to ensure you’ll create better photographs, you’ll also be introduced to all of the important fundamentals of photography! I also offer homework assignments with each chapter to give you a chance to try out what you’ve learned to help reinforce the concepts being taught.

Where did I come up with “30 tips” and why these tips? I could actually write a few hundred more, BUT I came up with these after years of teaching photography classes and realizing that many photographers struggle with the same set of issues and this book addresses those issues.

The chapters in this book are applicable regardless of the type of photography you do, whether it is portraiture or landscape photography or sports or anything really. I hope you find it helpful!

Available now on Amazon!

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Workshop Updates, Austin Events

Be the Photographer You Want to Be!

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If you are ready to learn photography, grow in your photographic skills, be challenged to improve, and have a lot of fun and create some great images of your own, you have come to the right place!

  1. Start here by learning the fundamentals of photography in my Photography 101 Workshop!
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  2. Be challenged to grow further with this special program for 6 select photographers in a 6 month program I call my ‘6×6 Photography Workshop‘.  You’ll be creating some amazing images in this class!

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  3. Learn how to more effectively do photography with my Electronic Flash/Speedlight Clinic!

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  4. Experience the ultimate photographic adventure on our Summer or Fall Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops in 2018!

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  5. Remember I also offer private instruction in almost every topic of photography! I am anxious to help you become the photographer you’ve always wanted to be!

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  6. My new book ‘30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs‘ is now available on Amazon!

    If you own a Digital SLR (DSLR) or a Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera (MILC), this book was written for you!  I lead you through the 30 most important things you need to know to effectively use your camera to achieve consistently better photographs.
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Kevin Gourley Photography Workshops, Austin, TX – Austin Photography Classes