Pure Light
Nov, 2014Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my local Starbuck's Coffee Shop. The flowers were sitting on the counter under the light when I walked in, and it was a perfect opportunity while I stood in line waiting to order. I never feel self-conscious or uncomfortable taking photographs anywhere I go - I just pull out the camera and start shooting.Time
The time was early morning - I was on my way to work, and stopped in for a cup of Chai Tea Latte. I ended up with much more than a great cup of tea -- I got this beautiful shot too!Lighting
The lighting was one of those bright lights right above the vase of daisies, and it was perfect. I was in the right place at the right time. I've since tried to recreate the lighting from above with other flowers, which turned out great too.Equipment
I didn't use any equipment except my iPhone 5S, believe it or not. Now I have a 6S and it's even better. And I always have it in my pocket. Easy access, simply point and shoot. The 6S has the AE/AF Lock -and you can turn on the grid to line up the shot. Then you just hold your finger on the screen while pointing it at whatever you are photographing - it sharpens the pic and locks in on the object. It's excellent.Inspiration
I was inspired to take this shot by my love of flowers. The textures, the colors, the soft petals drew me in. I couldn't resist the opportunity to capture it. These flowers were so beautiful and I'm so glad I didn't ignore them and miss this shot. And they are captured forever - they fade and die so quickly, and it's great to keep them alive forever in my photographs.Editing
I did some post-processing, cropping the shot and removing the background with Photoshop, then converting it to black and white, and softening the edges a bit for just the right effect. I love the translucent petals and the simplicity of the shot without the distraction of color.In my camera bag
I always have my iPhone with me. I also shoot with my old Sony A100 with the tripod occasionally, but most of my shots are taken on the fly with the camera or phone in my hand. I hate to miss a shot, so it's important for me to always be ready for the next great one!Feedback
My advice to capture something similar is to be aware of the kinds of things you like to photograph as you move about your daily routine. I am always aware of the sunlight in the morning, and the way it illuminates the sky, the trees and the rivers. And when you see it, be ready to take the next shot - particularly if you are like me and love landscapes, sunrises and sunsets, and nature photography. Take the time to stop what you're doing for a few minutes to snap a few pictures. You may be rewarded with your best shot yet! They say to always take time to stop and smell the roses - I say always take time to stop and photograph the roses! Just a bit of a different perspective, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
