Remember the last time an image floored you? What if you could learn all the secrets behind it? Well, thousands of ViewBug members have shared the stories and secrets behind some of the most amazing images on ViewBug. We’re proud to announce our new Behind The Lens gallery featuring all these images. Knowledge is power, and we hope it helps to elevate your photography! Browse the Behind The Lens Gallery.
Learn the story behind today's featured photo "Foggy Cypress" by jries77
Location & Time
Point Reyes which is just north of San Francisco. It was early in the morning just after sunrise.
Lighting
I wasn't expecting it to be a foggy morning. I figured the Sun would start peeking through the clouds shortly after it had risen. To my surprise the fog actually added to the effect.
Equipment
The scene was shot using the Sony A77, the Tokina 11-16mm lens and a tripod.
Inspiration
I had always wanted to drive from San Diego up to Point Reyes after doing some scouting online for areas to shoot. After seeing a few other photographs of that radio station I figured maybe I could go take an image and pull off something worth while. In the end I was fairly happy with the shot.
Editing
The post-processing includes some contrast adjustments, tweaking with the color saturation a little. I added some clarity, sharpness, and of course adjusted the shadows and highlights. Fairly basic edit.
In my camera bag
I now shoot with the Sony A77m2. I also always carry a tripod at all times. As far as lenses I have a Tamron 150 to 600 and Sony 18-50 in my bag at all times. I have a few other lenses but those two usually suffice. I also carry two extra batteries, two extra memory cards, a flashlight, a microfiber cloth to clean my lenses, and plenty of Qtips just in case I need to clean the sensor. There are quite a few other things that I may have in my bag depending on where I go to shoot and how long I will be gone. Most of my shoots are within my area and are either shot in the early morning or late at night.
Feedback
One of the most important tips is to have proper lighting. Generally if you want a good shot you should be prepared to be up early in the morning, or to get out prior to sunset. If possible plan your shot spend a little time preparing and then when that perfect lighting happens you're ready to go. Also use a tripod at those times of day to avoid subpar sharpness in your images.
