Photo
Jan, 2019Views
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2020 Choice Award
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Top 10 rankSame photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
I took this shot at the Eastern Point Lighthouse in Gloucester, MA.Time
This photo was taken around 3 in the afternoon. There were a few people walking around the area and I wanted to get a close up shot to zoom in and avoid them.Lighting
It was a very gray overcast day and I had to compensate for that condition. The lighting was not ideal but it did give this shot the proper mood to show the weathered condition of the lighthouse and its cracks and peeling paint. I used an ISO of 1600 for this shot as it was handheld and subdued light.Equipment
I used my Nikon D5300 camera, handheld for this shot. The lens I used is a Sigma 150-600mm. It was shot at 150mm peeking through a strand of trees to get the angle I desired. My camera settings were F6.3 at 1/2500S.Inspiration
I always enjoy going to Eastern Point to walk on the 1/2 mile long dogbar (breakwater) and to photograph the lighthouse guarding the outer harbor of Gloucester. I was specifically interested in capturing the weathered look of the lighthouse. It has a lot of character and generally is only photographed from further away to capture the outer buildings as well as the light itself. I wanted a different perspective and one that showed the condition of the building-warts and all. I do have a passion for the beauty and mystique of lighthouses.Editing
This photograph was shot in the RAW format. I processed it using Adobe Photoshop Elements and adding some final touches of Topaz Adjust. I increased the clarity and color saturation for the final image. This really brought out the features of the lighthouse.In my camera bag
I generally carry 2 cameras with me. The Nikon D5300 and the D7500. I bring my Sigma 150-600mm zoom, as I generally use this for long shots of nature and birding. I also carry my favorite and most versatile lens - the Sigma 18-300mm. Depending on what subjects I am shooting, I sometimes carry a 10-20mm Sigma super wide angle and a 100mm Sigma macro lens. I also use a heavy Manfroto tripod which works well with my 150-600, and also a light weight Manfroto travel tripod.Feedback
I have been a professional photographer for 25 years and I have found that the best camera that you can have is the one that you have with you. When I go on my photo shoots I try to be prepared by carrying the right equipment with me. Although I have experience as a wedding, and portrait photographer, I have spent most of my past 5 years shooting landscape and nature photography as I find this more relaxing and enjoyable. The main advice that I can give other photographers is to look at your subjects from different perspectives and points of view. I have taken some of my favorite images that way. You will surprise yourself with what you see from other vantage points.
