xmas1a
Nov, 2015Views
110
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Awards
Staff Winter Selection 2015
Superb Composition
Outstanding Creativity
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Peer Award
Superior Skill
Top Ranks
Top 30 rankSame photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This is a very special photo to me. Its my daughter and the horse she leases Kona. It was taken on a trail we took together and I had my equipment in a secure in a saddle bag on her horse. I was riding a more frisky thoroughbred so we had to be very clever during this shoot. We love going on trail rides together and I wanted to capture this memory in natural light for a keepsake for her in the future. We actually used it as a Christmas Card for our family. It means a lot to all of us. Kona is special (she was abused as a foal) and my daughter has a beautiful bond with animals. She is studying to be an equine vet in the future.Time
The photo I captured afternoon sun but shaded area on trails. I believe it was close to 2:00 in the afternoon; however the trails provided the perfect like without harsh sunlight. It was a beautiful day and beautiful memory.Lighting
I wanted the light to draw attention to the love that exist between rider and horse. I picked the perfect spot and we jumped off the horses and guided them to the perfect area in the trail with the sun gleaming through the trees giving it a soft magical feel. The love and trust between them is revealed in a moment..Equipment
I used natural lighting with a Nikon camera and did use a fill flash on a low setting to capture some catchlights.I had a white reflector propped by a tree to gather more light on the face.Inspiration
My daughter inspired me. She is amazing. She is the animal whisperer. Her third grade teacher called her "indigo" and I knew from age 6 months she was unique. She bonded with animals and they bond with her. Its her gift. She has devoted her life to helping rescue animals and help find them homes. She currently is in the Medical Program and hopes to study Equine Vet. We are praying for a scholarship and hoping this will be her journey. I wanted to capture a moment that she can hang on her wall in college and know this is her calling. Kona is a very special horse she leases and the love is so grand. Her heart is golden and the all animals sense this it is truly inspiring to witness and I feel so blessed to be able to capture this for her and others to enjoy.Editing
I adjusted some curves highlights in Photoshop and adjusted contrast and added some brush strokes to the eyes. Very minimal post processing.In my camera bag
I use Nikon Camera currently 7100 and 24-70 mm 2.8 and 18-140 mm and 35 mm and 18-70 mm Lens. I am looking to invest in 70-200 1.8 for more environmental outdoor shots... I have Speed light 800 for Fill in Flash and Reflectors in Silver, Gold and White to enhance the mood Im trying to create. I love light and shooting naturally and capturing natural and unexpected moments.Feedback
I usually shoot from the heart. I always look for creative ways and have envisioned what I want to create; however, I allow the present moment to define the image because it always changes. I go with what is around me but come prepared to be creative. Be organized with several lens incase you change your mind and look to light for capturing your beautiful memory. Sometimes it is right in front of you without you knowing. Be aware .... and capture...
