F/Stop - March, 2009

Once again our instructors, Abigail and Rowan, did a fabulous job teaching and walking along side us as we applied what we were taught. We started out the day with a trip to Balboa Park. They assigned us to teams, and we set out to capture portrait shots of our fellow classmates. This hands-on application required us to think through each step of our portrait. Does the pose reflect the individuals personality? Is the lighting correct and complimenting? Are they comfortable in their pose and does it look natural? There are so many aspects to keep in mind in order to capture a beautiful portrait.

After we finished that project we had a chance to observe Abigail as she did a "real" photo shoot with "real live" models. She showed us the importance of the way you interact with the client. She was confident, she knew what she was looking for, and she made it fun and comfortable.

Later on in the day we had the opportunity to shoot the sunset on the beach and also the skylines of San Diego. It was an amazing experience and absolutely gorgeous!! There's only one day left in this week of IPS. I'm excited to go out and practice what I am learning!!

—Prizewinning Photography Student Hannah Gramm

Nearing the end of our second day into this fabulous workshop, I am already amazed to have gained so much valuable information. The more I learn, the more I realize how little I knew. But the biggest fact I've learned so far (drum roll please) is that Canon users are worse than Mac users when it comes to comparing their 'Superior' products to the Nikons, But we; the Nikon users, offer our hand in mutual respect to your own personal preferences. Just remember that we do live on the fun side! :)

But laying that aside, I am grateful to the Lord for this wonderful way for me to glorify Him. Understanding the principles, and learning how to "tell stories" in my photos has given me a new perspective in how I approach photography. My goal is to send a message in every picture I capture, the same message we find in Phil. 4:8: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." I am so blessed to see that desire in here in San Diego PWP 34, may we use the talents that God has given us, and skills we learn, in a way that brings praise and honor to Him.

Oh!, and the Five unchangeable thus far are:

1. Be a control freak
2. Don't ever delete a photo (what!)
3. OBEY The Rule of Thirds (this is ingrained into my brain like the lines on a grilled steak)
4. Generally take your camera with you during the assignments
5. If it involves Starbucks, bribery usually has its benefits for the "best photo contest"

—Prizewinning Photography Student Jon Courville