Chris Smith gives us an inside look at the details for June’s Out of Chicago Photography Conference, held June 24-26 in Chicago.

Find out about the instructors for this year’s conference, new events like the Friday night Photocrawl and panel discussions, and all the details about accommodations. Register now and sign up for your favorite classes and photo walks!

The post Getting ready for the Out of Chicago Summer Conference: OOC Podcast Episode 23 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

UPDATE: The code to text has been updated to “Ralph1”. Please email info@outofchicago.com with any questions!

Chris talks to Ralph Velasco of PhotoEnrichment Programs, Inc., about working off a shot list for your travel photography.

Ralph is the founder of PhotoEnrichment Programs, Inc., a company which organizes and leads customized cultural photography tours around the world.

Working off a shot list is meant to give yourself, as a photographer, a framework to work off of. It’s meant to provide structure for your photography. Ralph’s iOS app, My Shot Lists for Travel, leads you through 52 categories, to help you have a well-rounded set of images throughout the year.

Focusing on the uniqueness of location, or looking for that extra layer in your photo, helps to give a sense of place to your audience when viewing travel photographs.

Ralph is providing his eBook, “Essence of a Place,” for free for Out of Chicago listeners. Please click the button below to claim your free copy!

Get Your Free eBook!

You can also text “Ralph1” to 44222 to receive the eBook on your mobile device.

In addition to Ralph’s travel work, he is speaking at the Travel & Adventure Show when it comes to Chicago January 23-24. If you use coupon code RALPH, you will receive a discount off the regular ticket price.

He’s also speaking at the Out of Chicago Winter Conference, held February 20. If you use coupon code WINTER50, you’ll get $50 off your registration.

The post Working off a shot list with Ralph Velasco: OOC Podcast Episode 24 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris talks to Nick Sinnott of Richard Stromberg’s Chicago Photography Classes, about the benefits of taking classes in order to build a photography community.

Nick is a partner at Richard Stromberg’s Chicago Photography Classes, which offers classes for all skill sets. There are several classes to be taken, outlined at chicagophotoclasses.com.

The company offers a free, introductory 90-minute class open to the public on Sundays. From there, seven week classes are available at various levels, ranging from printing, organizing, showing, as well as basic and advanced photography skills.

Nick is providing a free Adobe Lightroom quiz to Out of Chicago listeners. Please click the button below to claim your free copy!

Get Your Free Adobe Lightroom Quiz!

You can also text “SINNOTT” to 44222 to receive the quiz on your mobile device.

Nick will also be speaking at the Out of Chicago Winter Conference, held February 20. If you use coupon code WINTER50, you’ll get $50 off your registration.

The post Building a community through photography classes: OOC Podcast Episode 25 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

We welcome Michael Novo to Out of Chicago, who sits down with fine art photographer Thom Rouse in this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast.

Thom is the author of After the Camera: Digital Transformations for Conceptual Nude & Portrait Photography, discussing the creative process behind his portrait work. In this podcast, he discusses his transition to the digital world, and his influences during that change.

In talking about being labeled as “fine art,” Thom notes that art is defined by how you purpose it. It has to be true to yourself. He mentions that you have to draw on something personal, and allow that to show throughout your process.

Thom is teaching at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, and is offering a $50 discount when you use the promo code “thomrouse50” during registration. Visit portrait.outofchicago.com to get started.

The post Defining fine art photography: OOC Podcast Episode 26 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, we talk to Chris Nicholson, author of Photographing National Parks, about what to expect when shooting the great outdoors, how to prepare and what to bring.

He also discusses some of  his favorite and most-visited national parks.

Nicholson, from Astoria, Queens (N.Y.), started visiting national parks with his family when he was just 1-year-old. He’s been visiting ever since, being published in over 30 magazines and books. He’s photographed Arcadia, the Everglades, Grand Teton, Great Smoky Mountains, Olympic, Shenandoah and Yellowstone parks a combined 26 times, and has visited roughly half of the 59 national parks.

Chris is currently working on a project called “National Parks at Night,” with four other photographers, where he hosts photography workshops at five national parks per year — only once.

His book, Photographing National Parks, was released in late summer 2015, and is available for purchase on Amazon. You can learn more about Chris at photographingnationalparks.com.

The post The great outdoors: OOC Podcast Episode 27 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode, Chris Smith gives us all the details ahead of Saturday’s Out of Chicago Winter Conference!

He discusses keynote speaker Adam Jones, as well as the other instructors for the day. Registrations are still available; visit winter.outofchicago.com to get started!

The post Previewing Saturday’s Winter Conference: OOC Podcast Episode 28 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Michael Novo talks to Mark Serrano, a professional portrait photographer and expert retouching.

Mark discusses going through the edit process with clients, from out of camera to the final product. He also discusses his workflow, which can sometimes last upwards of four hours per photo, dealing with exposure, healing, dodging, burning and tonal corrections.

Located in Chicago, he specializes in both in-studio portraiture, as well as environmental portraits.

Mark will also be highlighted at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, where he’ll teach both an instructional class titled “Practical Retouching in 90 Minutes,” as well as a post-conference workshop.

The Out of Chicago Portrait Conference takes place April 8-9, and registration is still available.

Following the podcast, Mark discussed the controversy surrounding retouching in the media. You can download this 10-minute clip by clicking the button below, or texting “RETOUCH” to 44422.

Get Your Free Bonus Content!

The post Advanced retouching: OOC Podcast Episode 29 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week, Chris sits down with Giulio Scriorio to discuss finding your true voice and vision as a photographer.

Giulio is a Lumix Luminary, and will be teaching at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, held April 8 and 9.

In this podcast, he talks about finding out who you really are as an artist through creating with intention. Giulio mentions his own past with dealing with creative blocks, and how finding his vision ultimately led to how he now produces photography.

Giulio mentions building a “vision file,” to help you match what you find inspiring.

He also discusses creating aerial panoramas with drones, as well as what he’s been reading recently — “A Whole New Mind” by Daniel Pink, and “Show Your Work!” by Austin Kleon.

Giulio will be teaching “Finding the Photographer’s Vision” at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference on April 9, followed by his “Carry Less. Create More.” photowalk. You can learn more about his class and the other classes offered during the conference by visiting portrait.outofchicago.com.

The post Finding the photographer’s vision with Giulio Sciorio: OOC Podcast Episode 30 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this week’s podcast, Chris sits down with Michael Novo, to discuss the art of light painting.

Traditionally a wedding and portrait photographer, Michael describes light painting as a series of images using a flash or flashlight, using multiple exposures and merging them together.

Michael strives to do something beyond traditional photography, adapting to each client for each shoot.

He also discusses his path to becoming a professional photographer, health tips and the Portrait Conference print competition.

Michael will teach his light painting techniques at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference on April 9. See more of Michael’s work at michaelnovophotography.com.

The post Learn to paint with light, with Michael Novo: OOC Podcast Episode 31 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week on the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris discusses the upcoming Out of New York Photography Conference.

Out of Chicago will call New York City home from October 14-15, with on-the-street workshops available on Oct. 16. Located across from the Empire State Building, the Out of New York Photography Conference will be held in the heart of Manhattan, allowing you to explore the city and the many sights it has to offer.

Out of New York has the most epic lineup to date of any of our conferences. You learn and shoot with Rick Sammon, Lindsay Adler, RC Concepcion, Valerie Jardin, John Kosmopolous, Bryan Peterson, Vivienne Gucwa, David Carol, Steve Simon, Marie Laigneau, Frederick Van Johnson, Jim Harmer, Mike Moats, Rick Gerrity, Tim Grey, Neil Van Niekerk, Gabriel Biderman, Chris Gampat, Ralph Velasco, Angie McMonigal, James Maher, Anne Belmont, Jim Welninski, Michael Muraz and Chris Nicholson. We will be adding more instructors in the next few months.

Registration opens March 22 with early bird registration until the end of the month. Sign up at outofnewyork.com to receive a discount code for an additional $50 off when registration opens. The price increases April 1st.

The post The Out of New York Photography Conference: OOC Podcast Episode 32 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week on the Out of Chicago Podcast, Michael Novo talks with Steve Neilson about different lighting setups. Steve, who will  be presenting at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference and the Summer Conference, discusses flat lighting, the bouncing of light as well as full off-camera flash.

He also recommends some great starter equipment, and how his lighting workflow typically goes. Steve takes us beyond the world of TTL, and introduces us to manual lighting setups.

Listen in, and don’t forget to register for the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, held April 8-9 at the University Center in Chicago. For a limited time, you can receive $49 off by using the code “portrait49” during checkout.

The post Off-camera lighting with Steve Neilson: OOC Podcast Episode 33 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris talks to Washington-based photographer Nick Page.

Nick, who will be presenting at the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, specializes in photographing weddings, portraits, architecture and fine art landscapes. He also co-hosts several podcasts for Improve Photography.

He discusses his speedlight setup, leading into his conference workshop discussing on-location event lighting. He discusses the Yongnuo line of budget speedlights, including the YN-568EX II, YN-560 IV and YN-622C-TX flash controller.

In addition to his client work, Nick offers photography workshops and 1-on-1 Skype teaching sessions. His 1-on-1 sessions highlight using editing platforms to learn new skills and using it in a tasteful manner. He also offers free technique instruction on his YouTube channel.

Finally, Nick also discusses his use of social media — including Facebook and Instagram — saying, “The entire purpose for doing photography is to show it to other people.”

The post Speedlights, education and social media with Nick Page: OOC Podcast Episode 34 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Long Island, Queens-based photographer Jen Rozenbaum joins Michael Novo this week on the Out of Chicago Podcast.

Jen, who will be teaching at this weekend’s Out of Chicago Portrait Conference, discusses some of the keys to getting started with  boudoir photography, approaching the business side of things and keeping the confidence up in your subjects.

In addition to her client work, Jen also focuses on educating fellow photographers, and has a following in the Jen Rozenbaum’s Boudoir Group on Facebook, as well as her website.

The post Boudoir photography techniques with Jen Rozenbaum: OOC Podcast Episode 35 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week on the Out of Chicago Podcast, we recap this weekend’s Portrait Conference with Chris Smith, Michael Novo and Malinda Kavetschanky.

The first annual Portrait Conference was a huge success! The weekend started with a great keynote from Lindsay Adler and the results from our first ever print competition. Congratulations to the winners:

• Best Illustrative: Mouse Trap, Kevin Bailey
• Best Wedding: Peek A Boo, Diego Ivan Martirena
• Best Photojournalism: The Reptile, Russ Heritage
• Best Portrait: The English Press, Diego Ivan Martirena
• Best of Show: Mouse Trap, Kevin Bailey

Saturday featured classes throughout the day as well as a photowalk by Giulio Sciorio, and then finished with all-day workshops on Sunday with Nick Page, Steve Nielsen, Mark Serrano and Detklef Körtge.

One of the other highlights of the weekend was Robin Hansen from Picsy Photography. Check out #outofchicagopicsyphoto on Instagram, and you’ll see some “wonderful” family photos from some of our attendees. If you follow @outofchicago on Instagram, you’ll see some additional photos from the weekend too.

And like our other conferences, we convened each night at Bar Louie, where we mingled over drinks and some great food.

Don’t forget to sign up for our next conference, the Out of Chicago Conference, held June 24-26! Spots are filling up fast, so be sure to visit summer.outofchicago.com now!

The post Recapping the Out of Chicago Portrait Conference: OOC Podcast Episode 36 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week, Michael Novo talks with Jerry and Melissa Ghionis, a husband and wife photography team that splits their time between Los Angeles and Australia.

The couple discuss how to work together, as well as how to get a head start as a new photographer. Melissa dives into her customer service philosophy, while Jerry talks about online criticism from other photographers.

The pair also talks about copying ideas, “keeping it fresh” and copyright infringement.

Between the two of them, Jerry and Melissa have developed the Ice Light and Omega Reflector. They also offer training through their Ice Society website. Jerry is a Grand Master of WPPI, and is the most awarded photographer of that organization.

The post The customer service experience with Jerry and Melissa Ghionis: OOC Podcast Episode 37 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week on the Out of Chicago podcast, Chris sits down with street photographer Valerie Jardin, who will be presenting at both June’s Out of Chicago Conference and October’s Out of New York Conference. She also runs the Street Focus Podcast for the This Week in Photo network.

Valerie talks about her recent trip to Rome, where she taught a street photography workshop. She also discusses her favorite spots for street photography in the world, including Paris and New York City.

In discussing street photography, Valerie mentions that it’s important to “find a style that fits you best.”

She also talks about some of her favorite gear for street photography.

Valerie is coming out with a street photography eBook in May, and recently published a course on Lynda.com, titled “Street Photography: Two Hours in a Neighborhood.”

Finally, Valerie is judging a Call for Entires for the MPLS Photo Center.

To see Valerie in-person, be sure to sign up for her classes at the Out of Chicago Conference and Out of New York Conference!

Learn more about Valerie, and see her workshops offered around the world, at valeriejardinphotography.com.

The post Street Photography with Valerie Jardin: OOC Podcast Episode 38 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week on the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris joins Jim Welninski to discuss Jim’s upcoming involvement with Out of Chicago.

In addition to teaching at the Summer and New York Conferences, Jim will be co-leading a four-session fine art architectural workshop with Chris beginning tonight. You can learn more about that event and sign up on our event page.

In addition to his architectural work, Jim is known for long exposure photography, as well as black and white photography.

Jim specifically discusses the advantages of shooting in flat light, which enables him to recreate light later to create his vision for black and white photographs. He also gives some tips about long exposures and architectural photography.

To learn more about Jim, visit alteredspacephoto.com.

The post Fine art photography with Jim Welninski: OOC Podcast Episode 39 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

“Business Manager to the Photography Stars” Corwin Hiebert sits down with Chris Smith to discuss business and creativity practices for photographers.

Corwin, author of the Business Action Planner for Photographers and Living the Dream, discusses how he helps photographers work through issues and barriers to success. He alludes to some of the pain points in the industry, pulling from his experience as an agent and representative to several photographers.

He is also involved in 5 Day Deal and Craft & Vision, both of which offer educational resources and eBooks for photographers and other creatives.

Corwin will be teaching two classes at June’s Out of Chicago Conference — “Making a Living” and “Drawing a Crowd.” You can register and learn more about the conference by visiting summer.outofchicago.com.

The post Business, photography, and creativity with Corwin Hiebert: OOC Podcast Episode 40 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This week, we’re joined by commercial and editorial portrait photographer Steven Brokaw. Steven takes us on the journey of starting off your portfolio from scratch, and then getting into the world of commercial photography.

He gives us some amazing tips on how to start a portfolio and then how to transition into working with professional agencies and models.

After the show, we have a quick bonus session with Steven, where we talk about how to name your studio. Believe it or not, the name you choose to work under is more important than you might think, and before you start building your brand.

Steve also discusses call sheets, which can be found online.

Find out more about Steve at stevenbrokawphotography.com, and you can sign up for his classes at June’s Out of Chicago Conference.

The post Getting started with commercial portrait photography, with Steven Brokaw: OOC Podcast Episode 41 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this packed episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris gives some last minute details for this weekend’s Out of Chicago Conference. He discusses the first-ever photo crawl, gear check, pre-conference workshops and more!

Even if you can’t make this weekend’s conference, you’ll want to check out the pre-conference workshops taking place Thursday and Friday. You can see the complete schedule for the weekend at summer.outofchicago.com. And, if you’re interested in hearing Rick Sammon talk for FREE, visit our registration site!

Chris then talks to Ray Heinbokel from Midwest Camera Repair to discuss what they’re offering during the conference — including $30 sensor cleanings! If you’re having problems with your camera or lenses, look no further!

Finally, Malinda joins Chris to talk to Mandy Woods, of Bar Louie’s Dearborn Station Printers Row location. Mandy and her crew will be holding parties for attendees on Friday and Saturday night at Bar Louie, our favorite bar right down the street from the University Center. Be sure to join us!

We’re counting down the days, and we can’t wait to see you and show you Chicago!

The post Last minute conference details, Midwest Camera Repair and Bar Louie: OOC Episode 42 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Michael Novo sits down with Bryan Peterson to discuss photographic exposure. Peterson, who presented at the Out of Chicago Conference, is a photographer and author of several books, including “Understanding Exposure.”

He explains how he went about writing “Understanding Exposure,” and why exposure is more complicated beyond ISO and aperture settings in dark and light settings. The book, originally released in 1990, was released in its fourth edition in March. It teaches photographers how to capture the images they desire by explaining exposure concepts in-depth — including light, aperture and shutter speed.

“Understanding Exposure” has sold over a million copies, and is available in nine languages.

He also gives some tips on how to better enhance your portraits by using items like diffusers, as well as how to best compose portraits as a beginner photographer.

Historically a commercial photographer, Peterson also runs an online photo school and workshops across the globe. Starting in September, Peterson will launch YouKeepShooting.com, which will feature videos, critiques, webinars, contests and more.

The post Photographic exposure with Bryan Peterson: OOC Podcast Episode 43 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Out of Chicago instructor and award-winning commercial and car photographer Tim Wallace joins Michael Novo for this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast.

Wallace discusses his history in the military and as a photographer. Based out of the United Kingdom, Wallace has worked for clients such as Aston Martin, Jaguar, Audi and Peugeot. He tells us about his motivation and passion, and challenges listeners to figure out what motivates them as photographers.

Wallace also discusses his shooting style, and takes a step back comparing film vs. digital photography.

You can learn more about Wallace, as well as find out about upcoming workshops and classes, at ambientlife.co.uk.

The post Motivation and shooting style with Tim Wallace: OOC Podcast Episode 44 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Out of Chicago Podcast Episode 3

Please leave a review of the podcast on iTunes. Thanks!

Upcoming Events

Art Wolfe in Chicago: July 12th Loyola University

Coupon Code for 15% off: “Chicago 2014”

1. Equipment for night photography in the city

Over the next few episodes I’ll be giving advice for night photography in the city. Today we start with equipment for night photography.

• Tripods: Put your money into a good tripod
• Camera: Any camera will work
• Lenses: You don’t need fast glass. 70-200 2.8 vs. 70-300L
• Filters: Take your filters off! ND? Grad ND?
• Lens Hoods: Keep streetlights from creating flare
• Cable release: 2-second delay, cable releases, smart phone apps
• Lens cloth/blower
• Flashlight: I use the Petzl Zipka Plus 2
• Apps on your phone: Rick Sammon’s Photo Sundial
• Migraine Medicine

2. An Interview with Jim Phillips and Pat Armell of ChicagoLoopBridges.com

Jim Philips and Pat Armell have been running the site ChicagoLoopBridges.com since 2008 providing great information about the history of the bridges as well as updates on bridges lifts and construction. This is where I go to get information on the bridges if I want to photograph them. Jim and Pat also offer guided tours of the bridges at their touring page. Jim and Pat give some great tips for photographing the spring and fall bridge lifts or just shooting the bridges any other time of year.

Two Miles-Eighteen Bridges: Book by Jim Phillips

3. Chicago Location: The Chicago Theater at Night

Put those night photography tips to use at a classic Chicago photo destination; The Chicago Theater. There are some obvious places to shoot the theater from, but I share a couple that you may not have tried before too.

Pick of the week: The Adobe Creative Cloud Photographer’s package

For $9.99 a month you get Photoshop, Lightroom, and Lightroom Mobile. A year ago it would cost hundreds of dollars to buy just Photoshop. This is a fantastic deal that you should jump on if you haven’t already.

The post Night Photography Equipment, ChicagoLoopBridges.com, and the Chicago Theater: OOC Episode 3 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Episode 1 of the Out of Chicago Podcast

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1. An introduction to the Out of Chicago podcast

I started the Out of Chicago podcast for the same reason that I started the Out of Chicago site, wrote The Photographer’s Guide to Chicago eBook, that I’m making the Photographer’s Guide to Chicago App with Craig Ellis, or that I’m running the Out of Chicago Conference this summer. I was disappointed that these things did not already exist. Podcasts are one of my favorite ways to keep up with the photography community because I can listen to them in the car when I can’t do much else.

Sorry to the Disney Podcast guys! It’s ISO5571, not whatever number I said. If you’re a photographer and you’re headed to a Disney park, I highly recommend the podcast. I just don’t really get the name.

2. An interview with Valerie Jardin

I am extremely fortunate to have made so many amazing friends in photography, and Valerie Jardin is one of my most recent new friends. Valerie writes for Digital Photography School, is a frequent guest and sometimes even hosts the This Week in Photo Podcast, and runs street photography workshops all over the world. Learn more about her and her upcoming workshops at www.ValerieJardinPhotography.com

3. Shooting from Navy Pier

There are five places that I recommend and describe in the podcast

1. The Ferris Wheel
2. The Navy Pier Parking Garage
3. Pier Park
4. Olive Park
5. Navy Pier walkways

The Pick of the Week: www.CameraSize.com

If you’re thinking about buying a mirrorless camera, go to CameraSize.com to see images of your choice of camera and lens combination next to images of any other camera and lens combinations. It’s a great way to see how much bigger your current DSLR is. Here is a comparison of my Canon 6D with 70-300L lens and my new Olympus E-M10 with 40-150mm lens.

The post The Out of Chicago Podcast, Valerie Jardin, and Chicago’s Biggest Tourist Trap: OOC Episode 1 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

The Out of Chicago Podcast: Episode 2

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1. The Current State of Mirrorless Cameras

Olympus: E-M10, E-M1 Fastest, smallest, best handling

Panasonic: GH4, GX7 Best for video

Fuji: X-T1 Best combination of everything

Sony: A7R, A7: Best IQ, Full frame

2. An interview with Mike Boening

Detroit photographer, Mike Boening, talks with me about his favorite places to shoot in Detroit along with tips for shooting in the city. He also gives some beginner tips for urban exploration, or urbex, photography.

Memories by Mike

Piquette Model T Factory Museum

Discover Your World Photography– Detroit Photography workshops and tours with Alanna St. Laurent

Mike’s first article for Out of Chicago- The Detroit Public Library

3. Photographing the Chicago Botanic Garden

If I could only shoot one Chicago location for the rest of my life, this would be it. The Chicago Botanic Garden has something for every photographer including Macro, flowers, landscapes, birds, bugs, and architecture.

The Chicago Botanic Garden

Anne Belmont Photography

The Chicago Botanic Garden Monthly Photowalk

The Garden Photographic Society at the Chicago Botanic Garden

The Pick of the Week: SpotHero.com

An awesome site and app to find and reserve cheap parking in Chicago

The post Mirrorless cameras, Mike Boening, and the Chicago Botanic Garden: OOC Episode 2 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Please subscribe and leave a review of the podcast on iTunes. Thanks!

I am going to get a podcast out for the beginning of each week. Every Monday morning there will be a new podcast waiting for you in your podcast player.

Tony Reynes and Anne Belmont have been leading a lot of photowalks on the weekends for the Garden Photographic Society. That’s a fancy term for the Chicago Botanic Garden Camera Club. They have invited followers of the Out of Chicago site to join them on these walks. Stay tuned to Out of Chicago for future walks.

This week on the Out of Chicago site

I was on Digital Photography School! Read my 5 Advanced Tips for Light Trail Photography

Mike McCawley wrote about Street Photography Do’s and Don’ts in Chicago

Wendy Bright highlighted another speaker for the Out of Chicago conference, Marie Laigneau

Keith French on Photographing the Shawnee National Forest

Camera settings for night photography

Exposure settings:

• I shoot RAW
• I typically shoot at ISO 400 at night
• Manual exposure
• Choose aperture and change shutter speed to set exposure
• I use Live View to set my exposure-metering modes
• White balance-I choose cloudy or auto!
• Manual focus-always!
• Image stabilization/Vibration Reduction off
• 2-second delay

Interview with Levi Sim

http://www.levisim.com/

http://www.sdesignsphotography.com/

Levi on Photofocus: http://photofocus.com/author/levicsim/

Levi on Twitter: @PhotoLevi

Chicago Photographer’s Adventure Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ChicagoPAC/

Photographing Buckingham Fountain

Buckingham Fountain is one of my favorite places to shoot in the summer

There are light shows on the hour every hour from 9am until 10pm with one last show at 10:35.

Details at the Chicago Park District site for Buckingham Fountain

Pick of the week

The new Flickr app for the iPhone and Android

The post Night Photography Camera Settings, Interview with Levi Sim, Buckingham Fountain: OOC Episode 4 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Please subscribe and leave a review of the podcast on iTunes

Night Photography Subjects

If you missed our last two episodes, go back to hear about night photography equipment and night photography camera settings.

Night photography in the city leads to subjects that wouldn’t be interesting during the day. Here are some of my favorites.

• Long exposures without ND filters: fountains, the lake, people, car trails (bus and train trails too!) See my article 5 Advanced Tips for Light Trail Photography on Digital Photography School.
• Reflections in water/rainy nights
• Cityscapes, light pollution
• The lights of the city (starbursts)
• Silhouettes

An Interview with Max Wilson

Max Wilson is a timelapse photographer that shoots mostly Chicago timelapses. I joined him this week for one of his rooftop shoots and was able to interview him from the roof!

http://www.photoalbumarchives.com/

Chicago Timelapse Project

Announcements

Art Wolfe in Chicago

The Out of Chicago Conference

Photographing Chicago from North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach is one of the best spots to photograph the Chicago Skyline. It’s different than shooting from Adler Planetarium where you can see the entire skyline, but it gives an opportunity to see more interesting views of the city. It’s a great location at night, sunrise, or sunset.

• Along the water’s edge
• Out on the breakwater
• Walk to Fullerton Beach, Lincoln Park, Downtown

Pick of the week

Lenskirt: A great tool for shooting through glass. I was going to recommend it to Max Wilson until I saw that he has about 4 of them.

The post Night Photography Subjects, Max Wilson, North Avenue Beach: OOC Episode 5 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Please subscribe and leave a review of the podcast on iTunes. Thanks!

Post Processing for Night Photography

• White balance is critical (make sure you were shooting in RAW!)
• As with any image, it is absolutely essential that the black areas of your image are true black. Lower the black slider in Lightroom if you need to
• If you want detail in the highlights, you may need to lower the highlights slider
• Boost saturation selectively using the HSL toolbar in Lightroom
• Eliminate distractions
• HDR can bring out detail in shadows, but it can really mess with a night scene
• Dodge and Burn

Interview with Art Wolfe

Art Wolfe will be presenting at Loyola University on July 12th. Don’t miss it! He must have thought that I was such a nice guy that he’s giving us a 20% discount off admission! Use coupon code “Chicago2014” for 20% off.

In this interview, Art gives us tips for photographing architecture and urban scenes, talks about what he does to improve as a photographer, and he talks about the seminar he’ll be giving on July 12th.

Photographing the old Seminary Building at the University of Chicago

If you like shooting the University of Chicago, then I’m sure you know that the old seminary building has been under construction for the past couple of years. It is almost complete and I found my way inside to give you sneak peek into what you can expect. I think that you’re going to like it, but it’s not going to be without some controversy.

Thank you to Matt Frankel for first showing me around to all of the amazing places at the University of Chicago. Check out his images on Flickr.

Pick of the week

I received a request to go through my current camera gear. Here it is!

Canon 6D

Sigma 15mm fisheye, Canon 17mm Tilt Shift, Canon 24-105mm, Canon 70-300L

Gitzo 3541LS tripod with Arca Swiss Z1 Ballhead and RRS clamp

Olympus OM-D E-M10, 17mm 1.8, 40-150mm

The post Art Wolfe, Post Processing Night Photos, The Old Seminary at UChicago: OOC Episode 6 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

On a very special episode of the Out of Chicago Show… We have interviews with three of the photographers presenting at this summer’s Out of Chicago Conference!

Angie McMonigal

http://www.angiemcmonigal.com/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/angiemcmonigalphotography/

John Crouch

http://www.crouchphotos.com

https://www.flickr.com/photos/crouch/

Nick Ulivieri

http://nickulivieriphotography.com/

https://www.facebook.com/nuphotography

The post Angie McMonigal, John Crouch, and Nick Ulivieri: OOC Episode 7 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Conference Wrap up

The first Out of Chicago conference exceeded all of my expectations. The presenters were amazing! The team helping me was amazing! I can’t wait to do it again next year!

Summer in Chicago: My top ten places to shoot in Chicago in the summer

1. Millennium Park and Crown Fountain
2. Buckingham Fountain
3. Chicago Riverwalk
4. Architectural tour or water taxi
5. Navy Pier
6. Museum Campus
7. The Loop
8. 18th St Bridge and Chinatown
9. Lincoln Park and North Avenue Beach
10. Museums and Cultural Center

Interview with Michael Muraz

Michael Muraz is an architectural and cityscape photographer out of Toronto. Follow him on his site, AnotherAngle.eu, Flickr, and Facebook.

Art Wolfe in Chicago!

The post Summer in Chicago, Michael Muraz, and Conference Wrap Up: OOC Episode 8 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

This Saturday is the seminar with Art Wolfe. Use the coupon code “Chicago2014” for 20% off. We may do an Out of Chicago walk or tour after the seminar to put some of these composition tips to use.

Olympus E-M10 Review

It’s a lovely camera! It’s a great compliment to a DSLR. I love it for family photos. I love it for shooting discreetly. I’m not the biggest fan of it for night photography. Their repair service is not good. It took almost 30 days to get it back. Overall, I’d get it again, but it I had more money, I might consider the Fuji X-T1 instead.

Interview with Mike Stephen

Mike Stephen runs the Outside the Loop show on WLUW 88.7 in Chicago. You can listen to all of the episodes at www.outsidetheloop.com.

Mike and I talk about some of the best places and events to shoot in the summer in Chicago and he shares tips for some awesome food photography.

Photographing Reflections

After all of the rain we’ve had the past few weeks, I’ve been shooting a lot of reflections in puddles. You can also get great reflections in windows and even granite park benches. I give you some tips for shooting these. Get some inspiration from Seth Oliver’s Flickr site.

Some of my reflection examples

Please leave a review on iTunes

The post Olympus E-M10 Review, Mike Stephen, and Photographing Reflections: OOC Episode 9 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Welcome Wendy Bright as our new editor of the Out of Chicago site. If you’re interested in contributing to the site, email Wendy at Wendy@OutofChicago.com.

I think that the Art Wolfe seminar helped me to realize why I sometimes am not in love with my new E-M10. I am just not as comfortable with it as with my Canon equipment.

Tony Reynes and I talk about Art Wolfe’s presentation, The Art of Composition. We really go deep on this and talk about way more than just composition. I hope that you enjoy it. I know I enjoyed the conversation. Check out Tony’s images at his new site.

Out pick of the week is Wendy Bright’s website, www.wendycitychicago.com. You’ll love the history, architecture, and photos on the site. Wendy also gives great Chicago tours. Check it out!

The post Deconstructing Art Wolfe on Composition with Tony Reynes: OOC Episode 10 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Recent Posts

Anderson Japanese Gardens by Pat Coddington

An amazing eBook from Marie Laigneau!

The Morton Arboretum from Rich Flasburg

Shooting Blue Hour Cityscapes by Mike Muraz

Chicago Parking Garages

One of the best places to find a new vantage point to shoot the city is a parking garage. Here are my top 7 parking garages in Chicago for photographers, in no particular order. If you know of any that I’m missing, let me know!

If you haven’t used SpotHero.com, here is a link that will give you $5 free credit. You haven’t used SpotHero? It’s awesome. Put in the the place that you want to park and it will show you all the nearby garages and their prices. You reserve it through SpotHero and you’re all set!

Get details and photo tips on the first five spots in The Photographer’s Guide to Chicago.

1. UIC Harrison Street Garage
2. Navy Pier
3. Mart Parc Orleans
4. Mart Parc W ells
5. Lake and Wells
6. Hilton South Loop Garage
7. Batman Garage 200 W Randolph
8. Rush University Medical Center Parking Garage

Pick of the week

A circular polarizing filter! The best of the best are B+W. Whatever you do, don’t by a cheap filter for your expensive lens. Here’s what I use. Don’t forget that you can get step up rings so that you can use one filter on multiple lenses.

The post The Best Parking Garages for Chicago Photographers: OOC Episode 11 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Image by Anne Belmont

An interview with Courtney Quigley and Anne Belmont at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Butterflies and Blooms at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Monarch Decline articles and free plant/seed sites:

http://makewayformonarchs.org/i/

http://www.livemonarch.com/free-milkweed-seeds.htm

http://www.thebutterflyfarm.com/free-milkweed-seeds-0

http://www.livemonarch.org/

http://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2014/0130/Bye-bye-butterfly-How-you-can-fight-the-Monarch-die-off-video

http://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2014/0129/Is-the-annual-Monarch-butterfly-migration-coming-to-an-end

Moth Exhibition:

http://www.chicagobotanic.org/exhibitions/moths

Garden Photography Tips from Anne Belmont

Visit Anne’s site for some amazing photos from the garden!

Pick of the week: Membership to the Chicago Botanic Garden

The post Summer at the Chicago Botanic Garden: OOC Episode 12 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

I spent a morning with macro photographer Mike Moats. Mike and I walked through one of his favorite places to shoot and recorded our entire walk. He shares his insight on everything from how he shoots, to the equipment he uses, to making money in photography. You’re going to love the interview.

Follow Mike Moats at www.MikeMoatsBlog.com

The post A Walk with Mike Moats: OOC Episode 13 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Images by Marie Laigneau

Don’t miss out on Wendy Bright’s Out of Chicago photography tour of the University of Chicago on August 23rd. Get more details here.

Get Marie’s street photography eBook, here.

Follow Marie Laigneau at MarieLaigneau.com

Pick of the week: The Olympus E-M10 with the Olympus 17mm 1.8 lens

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Compact System Camera (Black)- Body only

Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f1.8 (Black) for Olympus and Panasonic Micro 4/3 Cameras

The post Storytelling in Street Photography with Marie Laigneau: OOC Episode 14 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Night Photography Mini Workshops this weekend

Saturday is filled up. Sign up for Sunday, August 31st, using the Paypal button below. If you’re coming to either night, check out episodes

Open House Chicago is coming soon!

Well, kinda soon. But make sure to put it on your calendar.

Open House Chicago: October 18th and 19th, 2015

Interview with Chicago Photographer Michael Salisbury

Michael Salisbury on Flickr

http://instagram.com/msalisbu

VSCO Filters and Lightroom Presets

Pick of the week

Think Tank Retrospective 5

If you need to hold an iPad or other tablet, you want the Retrospective 7

The post Chicago Through the Eyes of Michael Salisbury: OOC Episode 15 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Welcome back to the Out of Chicago Podcast! This week we have interviews with Chicago photographers John Batdorff and Tim Arroyo.

John Batdorff

www.johnbatdorff.com

Tim Arroyo

www.timarroyo.com

Harrington College of Design

Pick of the week

MeFoto Roadtrip Tripod

The post John Batdorff and Tim Arroyo: OOC Episode 16 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

The Out of Chicago Conference 2015 has been announced and we have a stellar lineup! My goal is to bring each of the presenters onto the Out of Chicago Podcast before the conference. We’re starting with one of the real rock stars of the conference; Giulio Sciorio. Giulio is a Panasonic Lumix Luminary and is an expert at blending still images and video into hybrid photography. He will be doing a live hybrid photoshoot at the conference and let you in on all of his secrets to mixing 4K video, stills, and audio.

Giulio Sciorio

smallcamerabigpicture.com

http://giuliosciorio.com/

The post Hybrid Photography with Giulio Sciorio: OOC Episode 17 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Huge apologies to Thomas Leuthard. We recorded this podcast in August and it’s been sitting on my hard drive since then. But it’s worth the wait! Thomas Leuthard is coming from Switzerland and will be part of the Out of Chicago Conference this summer. Sign up at outofchicago.com/conference.

Thomas’s page for the Out of Chicago Conference

Thomas Leuthard Photography

Thomas Leuthard’s Video Courses on Udemy

Get 40% off Thomas’s Udemy courses with the code “outofchicago” or use the link above to automatically apply the discount.

The post Street Photography with Thomas Leuthard: OOC Episode 18 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

I have Levi Sim on the Out of Chicago podcast today! He is one of the most energetic photography teachers out there today. And he’ll be with us this summer in Chicago!

Follow Levi!

Levisim.com

Levi on Photofocus

SDesignsPhotography

@photolevi

Sign up for the conference at outofchicago.com/conference. See Levi’s conference page with links to all of his classes.

The post Interview with Levi Sim: OOC Episode 19 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

It has been awhile since the last Podcast, but here is our featured speaker at the Architectural Photography Seminar, Julia Anna Gospodarou. She is a master architect and international award winning fine art photographer from Athens, Greece. Check out her amazing work on her website and learn about photography and her techniques by reading her book, From Basics to Fine Art – Black and White Photography.

Register to see Julia speak at the OOC Architectural Photography Seminar on October 16 here.

In addition, register to take her workshop, Chicago (en)Visionography on October 17-18 here.

The post Architectural Photography with Julia Anna Gospodarou: OOC Podcast Episode 20 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

I had the opportunity to talk with Eric Allix Rogers, Program Coordinator for Open House Chicago. He works with Garrett Karp to put together Open House Chicago happening October 17th-18th.

Follow Eric on Instagram @ericallixrogers.

Open House Chicago

Photographers will have the opportunity to go into buildings with amazing architecture, 200 sites in 18 different neighborhoods, that are not normally opened up to the public. Last year, it was estimated that 75,000 visitors attended and this year is the 5th year, with many new sites to see! It is an opportunity to shoot interesting vantage points from skyscrapers, theaters, churches and cathedrals, ballrooms and lobbies of hotels, architectural firms, and much more. Visit the full list of sites at the all-new Open House Chicago website.

Photography Tips

Eric Rogers discusses equipment and techniques needed for some of the locations, from lenses to camera settings. It is always important to check with security on the rules for photography for each location.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation

Open House Chicago is October 17th-18th and is free, however, for just $70, you can become a member of the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Being a member has the added benefit of priority access to the Open House Chicago sites to avoid lines, as well as exclusive entry to members-only sites. Click here for more information.

The Out of Chicago Architectural Photography Seminar

We are offering a limited-time special deal on the architectural photography seminar. Sign up by October 1st to receive $50 off registration! Click here to sign up today.

The post Photographing Open House Chicago with Eric Rogers: OOC Podcast Episode 21 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Milwaukee photographer, CJ Schmit, shoots night photography, cityscapes, and even some studio work. Check out his website here and you find him on Flickr, Instagram, and Fine Art America. He is now shooting for the Wisconsin Humane Society weekly. Listen to this Podcast for more about CJ and his long exposure techniques.

Bus Tour

Join us for our Milwaukee bus tour in which CJ Schmit will show us all the best places to shoot Milwaukee. We will begin at the Milwaukee Art Museum, and move onto the science museum, the Riverwalk, the Pabst brewery, parking garages, and more. Click here to sign up today!

The post Photographing Milwaukee with CJ Schmit: OOC Podcast Episode 22 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode, Chicago-based photographer Jordana Wright joins Michael Novo during the Out of Chicago Conference.

As a food and lifestyle photographer who travels internationally for her work, Wright gives tips on how to travel with photography equipment, regardless of what you’re shooting. She also bridges the gap between travel and food photography, discussing how a typical food and restaurant shoot is planned when you’re away from home.

Her love of food photography has granted her access to food festivals, independent restaurants, gardens and vineyards in the British Virgin Islands, Spain, California, the Mid-Atlantic region and Chicago.

Wright is also hosting a workshop in Granada, “Nicaragua Awaits,” in October. You can learn more at jordanawright.com.

The post Global food photography tips with Jordana Wright: OOC Podcast Episode 45 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode, Michael Novo sits down with Chicago’s Angie McMonigal and Toronto’s Michael Muraz during the Out of Chicago Conference.

Despite both being architectural photographers, Angie and Michael focus on vastly different subjects. Angie focuses on the fine, abstract details on both the exteriors and interiors of buildings. Michael, on the other hand, focuses on cityscapes as well as commercial exteriors and interiors.

Angie and Michael discuss their collaborative on-the-street workshop at the Out of New York Conference this October, focusing on skyline and detailed architectural photographs. They’ll also be teaching their own classes prior to the workshop. You can find out more at outofnewyork.com.

Both photographers recommend getting ready for a shoot as well as their favorite gear.

Angie will also be joining Chris Smith for an upcoming On the Water Architecture Workshop on August 28. Be sure to sign up today!

The post Abstract architecture and cityscapes with Angie McMonigal and Michael Muraz: OOC Podcast Episode 46 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode, Michael Novo sits down with Photofocus founder Scott Bourne to discuss the business of photography during the Out of Chicago Conference.

Scott, who was the closing speaker at June’s Out of Chicago Conference, discusses his beginnings in Pit Alley as a motorsports photographer in Indianapolis, and how he evolved into a thriving bird photographer.

He also talks about competition, pricing strategies and evolution as a photographer.

For more information about Scott, be sure to check out Photofocus.com, and listen to him on the Mind Your Own Business podcast with fellow photographer Skip Cohen!

The post The business of photography with Scott Bourne: OOC Podcast Episode 47 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, New York-based photographer James Maher joins Michael Novo during the Out of Chicago Conference.

James discusses his desire for street photography and the historical street photographers that inspire him and his work. He talks about “waiting for the moment,” allowing for great candid photography on the street.

He also gives tips on how to make people feel comfortable on the street if you’re photographing them.

James will share some of his favorite New York locations on Wednesday on our blog, and he’ll also be teaching at the Out of New York Conference in October. To learn more and register, visit outofnewyork.com today!

The post Candid street photography techniques with James Maher: OOC Podcast Episode 48 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Michael Novo hosts Chicago-based photographer Nick Ulivieri during the Out of Chicago Conference, on this week’s Out of Chicago Podcast.

Ulivieri, who shoots travel, corporate and aerial photography, is also an expert at using Instagram. He discusses finding your voice and utilizing that on the popular photography social network, and honing in on a specific point of view.

Nick also tells us what businesses are looking for in photographic partners, discussing engagement amongst your followers.

You can follow Nick on Instagram at @nick_ulivieri.

The post Defining Instagram with Nick Ulivieri: OOC Podcast Episode 49 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this special episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Michael Novo sits down with Jason Groupp of WPPI to discuss next week’s Visual Nation Expo in Oak Brook, Ill.

Jason talks about his past and how he got started with WPPI, as well as some of the benefits that Visual Nation and other smaller conferences have to offer. The event runs Aug. 15-18 at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center.

Visual Nation will feature speakers such as Lindsay Adler, João Carlos, Bob and Dawn Davis, Scott Robert Lim, Joe Switzer, Brooke Shaden, Roberta Valenzuela and more.

You can still sign up for the conference by visiting visualnationexpo.com. Be sure to sign up with the promo code “GROUPP” and receive FREE conference admission! This gives you access to all platform classes, keynotes, the expo and nightly parties.

Hope to see you there!

The post Gearing up for Visual Nation with Jason Groupp: OOC Podcast Episode 50 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this week’s podcast, Chris Smith and Malinda Kavetschanky talk about October’s Out of New York Conference, the “Shootingest” Photography Conference on Earth!

Chris and Malinda introduce you to the world-class list of speakers who are coming, including Bryan Peterson, Rick Sammon, Lindsay Adler, Valerie Jardin, RC Concepcion, John Kosmopoulos, Frank Smith, Steve Simon, Gabriel Biderman and more! They also discuss the photowalks and Sunday On-the-Street Workshops.

If you’re already signed up for Out of New York, or are still considering attending, this is the podcast for you!

Don’t forget — you can get a FREE conference registration by posting your favorite New York photos to Instagram with the hashtag #oony2016. Submissions open until Sept. 1; winners will be chosen Sept. 2.

The post Getting ready for Out of New York: OOC Podcast Episode 51 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

On this two-part episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris starts by talking to Out of New York instructor Rick Sammon about his recent wildlife experiences, as well as the new Canon 5D Mark IV.

Rick tells us about some of the biggest new features of the Mark IV, and also tells us what some of his favorite lenses are when he’s traveling for wildlife photography. Finally, he gives some quick tips when going on safari.

Rick is the author of several books, including the upcoming “Evolution of an Image: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Creative Photographic Process,” on sale in October.

From there, Rick takes over and talks to Kenya-based photographer Jonathan Scott to further explore the world of safari wildlife photography.

Jonathan, along with his wife Angela, are the only couple to have individually won the Overall Award in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition (1987 and 2002, respectively). He has also hosted several TV series for the BBC, Animal Planet and Discovery Channel, including “Big Cat Diary,” “Elephant Diaries” and “Dawn to Dusk.”

Jonathan is also preparing to release his autobiography, “The Big Cat Man,” where he discusses his start in photography and love for Africa’s wildlife.

Finally, Jonathan and Rick discuss the new Canon 1DX Mark II and Jonathan’s involvement in a promotional video highlighting his wildlife work. You can view the video below.

To learn more about Jonathan, and to learn about his upcoming workshops and trips, visit jonathanangelascott.com.

The post Big cats on safari with Rick Sammon and Jonathan Scott: OOC Podcast Episode 52 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Rick Sammon sits down with Abercrombie & Kent’s Bob Simpson to discuss photography travel to Antarctica.

Abercrombie & Kent, a luxury travel company, offers tours around the world. Bob discusses Antarctica’s amazing features — the ice, colors and wildlife — and talks about how to start planning a tour to “the bottom of the world.”

Bob also gives a few details regarding landing sites, and how to deal with weather.

Following a discussion with Bob, Rick welcomes Chris Smith as they talk about some cold weather shooting tips. Rick also mentions his upcoming excursion to Antarctica, taking place December 19 – January 4. More information can be found on Rick’s website.

The post The bottom of the world and cold weather photography with A&K’s Bob Simpson and Rick Sammon: OOC Podcast Episode 53 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Out of New York Conference presenter James Maher joins Chris Smith. James talks about his involvement in the conference, including his class, “Exploration Through the Works of Famous Street Photographers.”

James also gives some of his favorite locations for street photography in the city — Central Park, Strand Bookstore, Coney Island, the New York subway system, Bushwick, the City Hall District, Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn waterfront. He also tells us some of his favorite street photographers, including New Yorkers Garry Winogrand, Bruce Davidson and Matt Weber.

Finally, James also gives some tips on how to overcome your fears and get started with street photography.

To learn more about what James is presenting at the Out of New York Conference, visit his speaker page, and don’t forget to register at outofnewyork.com. To find out more about James, visit jamesmaherphotography.com.

The post New York street photography with James Maher: OOC Podcast Episode 54 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Rick Sammon welcomes Art Wolfe to the show to discuss photography as art. Art talks about how he uses work of other artists to enhance his photography and to expand true sense of art, composition and creativity.

Art also discusses how to expand your imagination through the photography process, through modern art and abstract expressionism.

Rick and Art also talk about creating a sense of depth and the role it plays in capturing your audience’s attention. Art also talks about his “Photography as Art” seminars, and what participants can expect.

Finally, Chris Smith joins Rick to discuss specialization and whether it’s necessary for photographers. As a photographer, do you specialize in a certain genre of photography? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Photography as art with Art Wolfe and Rick Sammon: OOC Podcast Episode 55 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

In this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris Smith sits down with Mark Alper of Big Acrylic. Mark gives some tips for hanging and printing, and discusses some unique printing options through his company.

Based in Montreal, Big Acrylic can accommodate acrylic prints up to 60″ x 96″. Mark talks about preparing your photographs for printing, as well as what options you have that would make your photographs stand apart.

Mark is also offering a lifetime 25% discount for Out of Chicago listeners with the code “outofchicago”.

Following the interview, Chris also discusses some last-minute details for this weekend’s Out of New York Photography Conference, including Thursday night’s Water Taxi Cruise! Chris also talks about food options, scheduling, the vendor expo, photowalk recommended gear and more.

Take a listen on your way into town and plan out your complete trip!

The post Acrylic printing with Mark Alper and last-minute OONY details: OOC Podcast Episode 56 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

On this episode of the Out of Chicago Podcast, Chris Smith talks about all of the upcoming Out of Chicago conferences, including next October’s Out of Acadia Conference.

The second annual Out of Chicago Winter Conference will run February 18-19, 2017. Chris mentions some of the classes that will be offered, as well as some of the shooting experiences. Look for additional details and registration coming soon!

For the fourth year, the Out of Chicago Summer Conference will run June 23-25, 2017, with David Duchemen as the keynote speaker on Friday night. Registration is already open; additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

But what we’re most excited about is the Out of Acadia Conference — a one-of-a-kind photography experience taking place at Acadia National Park!

Out of Acadia will be our first-ever landscape-oriented photography event. Chris mentions multiple locations throughout the park to look forward to, from the gardens to the mountains and shores of Bar Harbor.

The event takes place October 1-5, 2017 in Bar Harbor, Maine, right outside of Acadia National Park. Excursions, sessions, a daily group meal and more are all included — you even get to experience an authentic Maine lobster boil!

We already have some great instructors lined up, including Nick Page, Bryan Peterson and Colleen Miniuk-Sperry, author of Photographing Acadia National Park.

Super Early Bird registration is open until Saturday at midnight, offering registration for $995 (with a $500 deposit). By signing up for the Super Early Bird, you’ll get an exclusive online class, a private night excursion at the conference and more.  After Saturday night (tomorrow), the price will increase to $1249, so don’t forget to register today!

If you have any other questions, be sure to check out our Out of Acadia FAQ, which will give you a complete run-down of the plan for Acadia!

The post Landscape photography at Acadia National Park with Chris Smith: OOC Podcast Episode 57 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Welcome to Season 4 of the Out of Chicago Podcast with Bob Davis! We’ll be back each week with a new podcast. Make sure that you subscribe on iTunes and leave a review.

Interview with Bob Davis

In this episode, I interview photojournalist, wedding photographer, and Canon Explorer of Light, Bob Davis. We talk about igniting your photography passion, photojournalism, and taking steps to being a professional photographer.

Bob has a unique photography workshop coming up this week for anyone that is trying to grow their wedding photography business. Check it out at http://davisworkshops.com

Check out their website at http://bobanddawndavis.com

The Out of Chicago Summer Conference

Sign up for the Out of Chicago Summer Conference at outofchicago.com/summer. Listen to the podcast for a code for $100 off registration.

The post Photojournalism and Wedding Photography with Bob Davis: OOC Podcast Season 4 Episode 1 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Erin Babnik is one of my favorite landscape photographers. I can’t wait to have her teach at the Out of Acadia Landscape Photography Conference!

Check out Erin’s work at erinbabnik.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/babnikphoto
Twitter: twitter.com/ErinBabnik
Instagram: instagram.com/erinbabnikphotography
500px: 500px.com/erinbabnik

The post Art History and Landscape Photography with Erin Babnik: OOC Podcast Season 4 Episode 2 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Join me and the Out of Chicago team at Art Wolfe’s seminar at the Museum of Science and Industry on Sunday, June 11th

Art Wolfe Presents: Photography as Art in Chicago

SAVE $50 with code “outofchicago”

I also hope you’ll join us at the 4th annual Out of Chicago Photography Conference June 23-25th. Art Wolfe is the keynote speaker Friday night and is presenting Earth is My Witness.

Register now for the Out of Chicago Photography Conference

Save $100 with code “oocpodcast”

The post Photography as Art with Art Wolfe: OOC Podcast Season 4 Episode 3 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Chris interviews Gordon Laing from CameraLabs.com

Read Gordon’s Sony Alpha A9 review

In Camera: Perfect Pictures Straight Out of the Camera

The post Enter the CameraLabs with Gordon Laing: OOC Podcast Season 4 Episode 4 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Anne Belmont and I have talked about running a flower and garden photography conference at the Chicago Botanic Garden for years. Everything has come together and we will run the event for the first time this August.

In this interview, Anne and I discuss her favorite locations in the Garden and give some details on the upcoming Out of Chicago Flower and Garden Photography Conference.

The interview is a bit long. If you’d rather listen to it in your car, the link to the audio only podcast is at the top of this post. To see Anne’s amazing flower images you’ll need to watch the interview on Youtube below.

Follow Anne Belmont at http://annebelmontphotography.com

The post Photographing the Chicago Botanic Garden with Anne Belmont appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Follow Charles Needle at http://www.charlesneedlephoto.com

The post Creative Flower Photography Techniques with Charles Needle appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Alan Shapiro is one of the most inspiring flower photographers that I know. Alan Shapiro and I talk about creativity in flower photography, exercises to stretch your creative muscles and post-processing for flower photography. I also give a lot more details on the upcoming conference.

You can watch the interview below or listen to the podcast above.

Follow Alan Shapiro

Website
http://www.alanshapirophotography.com

Social media
http://www.facebook.com/alanwshapiro
http://www.twitter.com/alansphotos
http://www.instagram.com/alanshapiro515
http://www.youtube.com/alanshapiro515

The post Creative Flower Photography with Alan Shapiro appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Interview with Jay and Varina Patel

Jay and Varina have been leading photography workshops for more than ten years. They’ll be the keynote presenters at the Out of Moab Landscape Photography Conference in October and here they share their best tips to prepare for any photo adventure.

Visual Wilderness

Visual Wilderness Guide to Landscape Photography

The Complete Guide to Landscape Photography

Visual Wilderness Blog

Updated three times a week

https://visualwilderness.com/articles

Sample videos

Leveling Your Tripod from Visual Wilderness on Vimeo.

How to Clean Your Tripod from Visual Wilderness on Vimeo.

Banff Video

Case studies

The post Prepare for your next photo adventure with Jay and Varina Patel appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Rod Barbee is the author of The Photographer’s Guide to the Oregon Coast and he will be one of our instructors at our 3rd annual Landscape Photography Conference, Out of Oregon!

Learn more about Rod at rodbarbee.com.

Find out more about the Out of Oregon Conference at outoforegon.com.

The post Photographing the Oregon Coast with Rod Barbee appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

I interviewed each one of the instructors at Mike Moats Macro Conference to try to get a nugget of wisdom from each one of them. I put all of these interviews together in one podcast which you can listed to right here.

To follow Mike Moats and to find out more about the 2019 Macro Conference, go to http://tinylandscapes.com.

To learn more about our 2nd annual Flower and Garden Photography Conference, make sure you’re subscribed to our email list. We’ll be announcing some awesome Black Friday deals only for people on our email list. Go to outofchicago.com/newsletter to sign up.

The post Interviews from Mike Moats Macro Conference 2017 appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

I got together with the Out of Chicago team after our trip to the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. In this podcast we tell you all about the conference that we’re putting together for you in July. This is a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photography adventure!

The post Out of Costa Rica Podcast appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Chris talks with landscape photographer Erin Babnik to talk technique and answer your questions.  We discuss what it’s like being a woman out in the field, meeting fellow female photographers, her workshops around the world, color theory, her favorite landscape photographers, and if social media is negatively affecting creativity and natural areas.

Visit ErinBabnik.com to see her incredible work and learn more about her workshops.

You can also follow Erin on social:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/babnikphoto
• Twitter: twitter.com/ErinBabnik
• Instagram: instagram.com/erinbabnikphotography
• 500px: 500px.com/erinbabnik

See Out of Chicago’s upcoming conferences and join our newsletter at outofchicago.com.

The post Erin Babnik Answers Your Questions appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

Chris talks with fine art architecture photographer Angie McMonigal about her favorite buildings to shoot in Chicago, which cities are on her wishlist, and how conference photo walks help participants improve their skillset. Plus, is there a right amount of time to be spending at a location?

Angie has sold her work to places like hotels, hospitals, and offices. She discusses how she gets discovered by art consultants, who connect her to these businesses, and what that experience has been like. Finally, Angie discusses how she grows her photography business through cold-calls, research, and networking.

Angie McMonigal

Visit AngieMcMonigal.com to see her portfolio, and go to PhotographyUnfolded.com to see her upcoming workshops. Use discount code ‘OOC’ when booking your workshops to receive a discount!

Michelle and Chris scouting Out of Oregon venues with Angie’s work hanging on the wall

The post Angie McMonigal on Working with Art Consultants appeared first on Out of Chicago Photography.

• Out of Yosemite: February 5 – 9, 2020
• Out of Chicago Botanic Garden: August 23 – 27, 2020
• Out of Moab: September 13 – 17, 2020
• Out of Acadia: October 4 – 8, 2020