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Santacon at Elk River Brewery



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My favorite bartender Joanna slings drinks the weekend before Christmas.

My favorite bartender Joanna slings drinks the weekend before Christmas.
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Behind The Lens

Location

This photo was taken during Santacon at Elk River Brewery the weekend before Christmas in Elkton, Maryland.

Time

It was taken during the band’s first set, just as the place was livening up. I got there early, dressed up in my Santa’s Elf costume and couldn’t resist taking this photo of my favorite bartender Joanna as she served all the thirsty customers. The seasonal ale was a big hit!

Lighting

I did lighten the photo up in post processing but the holiday lights made beautiful bokeh.

Equipment

It was bright enough that I could just use my Pentax and my 17-50mm Sigma lens without flash

Inspiration

I had heard Joanna talking about being nervous to wear her costume for Santacon. She asked me if I would come in that night and make sure to dress up so she wasn’t alone. I got there earlier in an elf costume so she would have company, but almost everyone who came to the bar was dressed up.

Editing

I usually crop out anything that doesn’t add to the scene. In this case, I zeroed in on everyone’s main focus that night. Joannas’s costume stole the show!

In my camera bag

I switched from a beginner’s Nikon to a Pentax a few years ago because I wanted to use some vintage lenses, but this was taken in my standard 17-50mm Signa as I sat at the bar nursing my beer. One lady turned to her companion and asked, “What’s this girl doing with such a long lens?” Capturing the festivities of course!

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