Special Ops In The Back Yard
photo manipulation
photo manipulation
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May, 2016Views
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Awards
Winner in Children with toys Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Superb Composition
Outstanding Creativity
All Star
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Top 20 rank week 1Categories
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo of my grandson playing 'soldier' with my husband in the back yard. Needless to say......my husband was no match for our grandson's military expertise.Time
Wow, this was actually taken around mid-day during 'play-time'. I sat on the deck just watching and shooting often as the battle raged. I probably ended up with around 100 images (not at all unusual when I photograph my grandchildren at play).Lighting
The light was pretty harsh due to the time, but I like a challenge.Equipment
Nikon D7100 with Nikkor 80-300mm lensInspiration
I really love taking candid photos, especially when kids are caught up in the serious business of imagination.I am a typical grandmother (Mimi) so my grandchildren are used to me sitting close by with a camera. If I don't say "look at me", they will usually give me a very natural (and beautiful) glance just to see if I'm still watching.Editing
I did. As I mentioned earlier, the midday light was harsh. I experimented with a number of editing programs trying to process an image that complimented the military theme. This photo is a result of editing in Jixipix, and added just the 'look' I wanted.In my camera bag
I travel pretty well-equipped. I have three Nikon cameras with frequently used lenses attached so I am prepared for an impromptu shoot when an unexpected opportunity arises (hopefully). My gear goes everywhere with me, but on hikes I will carry along two cameras and a tripod. I have one and my husband has the other. Cameras: Nikon D7100; Nikon D7000; Nikon D3200 - lenses: (Nikon) 300-500mm; 80-300mm; 10-24mm wide angle; 18-55m-m; Micro Nikkor 40mm 1:2.8G - tripod - small beanbag for stabilization if I shoot from the vehicle (which I do often when watching wildlife at lakes or open areas in preserves or management areas, or during inclement weather - towel, lens cleaner and cloth - also, I always have my user manuals for each camera because I am an amateur and need my 'cheat-sheets' handy.Feedback
Well, here, I wanted a portrait of my grandson doing what he loves most at this time in his life.......pretending to be a soldier. All you have to do when capturing images of children at play is watch, and wait. Shoot often, because poses, expressions, and surroundings change quickly......very quickly. Use a long enough lens so that you are able to 'stay out of the way' of the child's creativity. Maybe luck will be on your side and the little 'star' will glance directly at you to make sure he/she is being admired for the performance.
