This will be the first time shooting in the country of Ghana, I'm looking forward to the experience. My Visa has been finalized and I've had all my immunizations. Yellow fever shots, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Meningococcal and I've started my 4 doses for the prevention of Typhoid fever.
I have a large list of photos to take, it will take at least a full week to complete the assignment. I have to pack my gear carefully, I'll need some lighting and a few modifiers, stands and various grip equipment. I'll be traveling with my camera roller (Think Tank International), a personal bag and another roller carrying stands, modifiers and grip gear.
I'll give you the full details on the gear and the trip a bit later. I did a recent shot in the studio and I thought I's share that with you here. Normally, I shoot studio still life using my old studio strobes. The provide a modeling light and it is much easier to see your lighting position at any given time. I wanted a bit of a challenge and decided to use my SB-800's with just LumiQuest modifiers. Here is what I did.
Let me tell you about the photo above. As many of you might remember, my father passed away about 3 years ago. I was left with his childhood stamp collection, stamps from around the world dating back to the 1850's. In going through his collection I found the follow item.
One of the albums was actually my Grandfather's, he was the president of Bolivia 1934-36. The album contained a letter that traveled on the Graf Zeppelin from South America to Los Angeles. I thought it would make for a wonderful photo.
Here is the set-up. I used a total of 3 Speedlights, 2 with LumiQuest Snoots and 1 fitted with the Softbox LTP. The Softbox over the set was used for a fill light and the Snooted Speedlights as the main and detail light. Here's a photo of the set.
You can certainly do a lot with a small amount of lights! By the way, I'll be teaching at Gulf Photo Plus in Dubai again this year. The GPP will be held March 5 - 10, 2012. I'll be teaching (2) SSBR lighting workshops and a new 3 day workshop called Corporate Photography and How to Build a Successful Business. I'd be re-missed if I did not mention that I still have space in my Feb. 25, 2012 SSBR workshop here in Denver. If you would like more information about that workshop you can learn more HERE
5 comments:
I know you're Ghana do well. Sorry, I just couldn't resist such an easy pun.
Nice shot with the stamp album!
Surely it sounds like a coming great experience and adventure re. the trip.
David, I used to work for someone from Ghana. Be aware it is one of the MOST corrupt countries in the world. My friend told me the folks there wake up every morning wondering who they will scam that day. The airports can be real trouble, watch your equipment very closely. Have a good trip, travel safe.
Thanks Unknown I will. The company I'm shooting for provides a company security officer to me. I should be OK.
I went to Ghana a couple of years ago, and had no problems at all. The airport at Accra is horrible, no air conditioning at the gate, and only four gates. Expect numerous security checkpoints and lots of groping at those! Outside of that, it was a beautiful country, especially once you got into the interior. The people were very friendly and accommodating. I'll be anxious to see what you get from your trip.
Post a Comment