Precision Camera and Video Blog

Behind the Lens with Rolando Gomez

2010-04-01T10:42:00.003-05:00

Below is Part One of our two-part interview with acclaimed glamour photographer Rolando Gomez. He will be speaking at the upcoming Austin Photo Expo on May 15&16. In addition, Rolando will be offering a very special 2 1/2 hour glamour and fashion shoot on May 14 from 7-9:30pm. To register, visit www.precision-camera.com/product/CLASS3.

Rolando Gomez’s photographic career has spanned from combat photography to glamour with numerous touch points in between. Gomez is also an accomplished instructor who regularly speaks at workshops and conventions and has authored five books on glamour photography. Rolando’s current and enduring passion—one that he has pursued for the last fifteen years—involves a concept he has coined “Photographic Therapy,” which involves helping women build and rebuild their self-esteem by seeing themselves beautifully photographic by a trained and skilled photographer.
Rolando has loved photography since he was a child, but he came to his career calling through an unlikely source—a Popsicle wrapper.

“While eating a cherry Popsicle when I was nine years old, I noticed on the wrapper that if I sent in one dollar and so many Popsicle wrappers, I’d get a free Kodak 126 instamatic camera. Three years later, while washing cars on weekends, I saved $60 to purchase a hocked Petri, 35mm rangefinder camera. When I entered high school, I knew then I wanted to pursue photography at the age of 14, so I enrolled in prerequisite classes so I could take the Journalism program as a sophomore.”

Although Rolando qualified for a college scholarship, it was not photography-based, so he turned it down in order to continue his pursuit of a career in photography. His path would continue to offer turns and new opportunities and he found himself in an unlikely but welcome position—as a trusted photographer for the U.S. Army. Rolando reveals that his decision to enlist was both personal and professional.

“I entered the active-duty U.S. Army after my first divorce as all I wanted to do was get away from the world. I was already experienced in photography and when I arrived to my first duty station at the 3rd Battalion, 8th Infantry Division in Mainz, Germany, the command took notice of my photography abilities and soon I was transferred to V Corps Headquarters, Special Troops Battalion. There I was noticed by then Lt. Gen. George Joulwan who had just earned his third-star as a general and I was asked to do his official portrait.” Rolando eventually was assigned to the Army and Air Force News Service Pictorial Branch, which is similar to the Associated Press but for those two branches of the military.

Rolando explains, “We provided news stories and photographs to over 12,000 civilian newspapers back then including the Austin American-Statesman and San Antonio Express News. This assignment back to my hometown of San Antonio allowed me to complete my Bachelors Degree in Communication, summa cum laude, from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Eventually, I’d move up to the Chief, Multimedia Division, Air Force News Service, where I oversaw radio, television and photo products for the U.S. Air Force website, www.af.mil, plus I introduced color management for the Air Force flagship magazine, AIRMAN."

Although Rolando enjoyed his military assignments and the ability to excel in a craft he loved, he continued to expand his interest in other areas of photography. His affinity for glamour photography never left him and he soon launched Garageglamour.com, offering advice, workshops and expertise related to the specialty. After 17 years of military service, Rolando retired to begin his next chapter as a successful glamour photographer.

“I’d always photographed the female form, from the high school days of young girls wanting modeling portfolios to beauty pageant entry photos and more, but the Internet really propelled me faster and I haven’t looked back since as the common thread of making someone feel good with your images has kept my passion alive, and ultimately I hope others can feel that passion too and bring their skill levels up a notch, if not already there, so they can help others feel good about themselves through photography.” This interest in helping women see themselves differently has evolved into Rolando’s proclaimed specialty of “Photographic Therapy.”

Rolando’s passion is evident when he speaks of this therapy. “Imagine, a new mom, suffering from postpartum depression, yet a trained, qualified photographer can capture her inner and outer beauty so well that it helps bring her back to feeling great about herself.”

One particular case involving a client of a bariatric surgeon friend, still sticks in his mind and reminds him of the healing power photography possesses.

“This woman had come in for the “after” photo and had lost 131 pounds. I carefully asked her if I could photograph her more than just the after photos—so she agreed and I took some fantastic images of her and I gave her the entire shoot on a CD-Rom free of charge. She cried, telling me no man had ever shown interest in her until that day due to her weight. I told her I photographed her for her charisma and her photogenic beauty, it had nothing to do with weight. It’s about giving back through your lens while funneling the passion of the craft.”

Rolando’s hope is to expand the idea of Photographic Therapy by demonstrating its therapeutic benefits and encouraging more professional photographers to become trained in the specific techniques of offering this service to women across the world. Rolando’s latest book has been offered as a free download in an effort to get the word out.

“My fifth book, Photographic Therapy—The Power of Photography to Help Build or Rebuild Self-Esteem has helped me establish my philosophy on the importance of photography in helping people feel good about themselves and is available for free at www.FreePhotographyBooks.com. Since the first launch in Nov. 2009, we’ve expanded it to 105 pages, made it printable in full-color, and it’s totally free to anyone that wants it—we just ask that you sign-up through the website so you can be kept abreast of any changes or future free photography books."

Read Part Two next month where Rolando explains what he sees as the most common mistakes aspiring photographers make and how to correct them.

Tips for Excellent Easter Photos

2010-03-29T10:51:00.003-05:00

The Easter holiday brings family and friends together in a time set for celebration, connection and…chocolate! This year, consider putting a new spin on your Easter photos and using your camera to not only capture the festivities but to help create them!

Photo Treasure Hunt: If a hunt for Easter baskets or the elusive ‘golden egg’ is part of the tradition of your holiday, consider using your camera as a fun ‘map’ to help your kids find the treasure! Use printed photographs as clues—but take the pictures so each item is distorted or shot extremely close up. Once the kids guess what’s in the picture, they’ll know where to search next. Keep your camera handy so you’ll be able to photograph them once they’ve found the secret hiding location of their Easter goodies.

Impromptu Family Portraits: If you have family members that have traveled to spend time with you this Easter, don’t forget to shoot a family portrait. It doesn’t have to be fancy but you’ll want to make sure you have a tripod so that you’re included in the photos! We have a number of high quality ones here: http://www.precision-camera.com/categories/tripods_and_monopods.php

Capturing Kids on the Hunt: Photographing kids can be notoriously challenging at times but add in the promise of free goodies and all bets are off—those little ones will turn into bolts of lightning! In instances like this, take a tip from those who shoot sports photography and make sure you’re in position to get the best pictures. Survey the outdoor area and consider which locations will allow you to best photograph their expressions and their discoveries.

Shoot on their Level: Photographing children often means trying to capture their experiences as they see them, so make sure not to tower over them (unless you’re creating a specific overhead shot). Try shooting at their level and even get down low to photograph the Easter egg hunt and other festivities. The result can create a more authentic and expressive image of your subject.

Don’t Forget the Prints: Uploads and emails of photos are great methods of sharing photographs but when it comes to holidays and special events, makes sure to order a set of prints to send to loved ones. While all of today’s digital technology is fun and easy, getting gorgeous printed photographs in the mail is more special than ever. You can upload your print order here: http://precision-camera.lifepics.com/net/Default.aspx?

Spring Break Photography Tips

2010-03-02T09:24:00.001-06:00

You can almost hear the squeals of glee coming from kids and adults alike when Spring Break arrives. After plodding through winter weather, school, work and family commitments, the promise of a few days of freedom is enough to boost anyone’s spirits. If you’re one of those lucky souls with a getaway planned during Spring Break week, here are a few tips to help you prepare to return with some fantastic photographs:

Pack the Right Gear: Make sure you’ve got the right equipment for your trip. If you want to travel light, you may find it best to choose your compact camera in lieu of your DSLR; however, if your destination includes some amazing scenery and landscapes, you may find it’s well worth taking your DSLR to ensure you are prepared to capture the grandeur of your location. And remember to pack the battery charger, a lens cleaning cloth and an extra memory card. It will only take a few minutes to properly prepare and it will be time very well spent. If you need to pick up a memory card for your trip, we carry some of the best on the market.

See the Signs: While on your travels, make sure to photograph any interesting signs that display the uniqueness for your location. Clever street names, signs displaying unusual warnings (Javalina crossings, anyone?) and mile markers can add a very local and interesting element to your vacation library of photographs.

Define the Essence: Each location has its own personality, its own attributes and distinctive markers. While on vacation, think about what words you’d use to describe your vacation spot. Having that clarity will help you with your storytelling and assist in identifying those sights that articulate your vision.

A New Twist on Famous Landmarks: If you’re traveling to a well-known landmark, park or destination, take the opportunity to photograph it in a new and interesting way. Look at corresponding architecture, foliage and surroundings to see how to take a familiar sight and uncover a new way of viewing it. Experiment with zoom, distance, angle and lighting to unearth an interesting new perspective.

Why Photography is Good for Women's Health...

2010-02-02T10:45:00.003-06:00

Today’s women find themselves with more tasks than time and juggling multiple roles that each have a long to-do list attached. For those ladies who say they don’t have the time to explore their love of photography, we’d like to share some good news. It turns out that a photography hobby can improve your health.

Dr. Elizabeth Weidmer-Mikhail, director of the women’s psychiatry program at the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, stresses the importance of actively engaging in a hobby to deal with the tangible physical and emotional stresses that women manage during days filled with caring for others.

"Women need to do things that are soul-feeding that aren’t aimed at gratifying others,” Weidmer-Mikhail said. "Women need to take care of things, to do things that promote emotional growth. Find a satisfying hobby that doesn’t involve making money or drawing attention to yourself. It will increase your sense of self-worth, which leads to better health all around.”

Many medical professionals point to the benefits of a hobby to help with stress-reduction and related ailments. Photography is a wonderful choice because of the flexibility, low-cost of entry and creativity that can be explored.

So, the next time we send you an announcement about an upcoming event or workshop and you automatically think, “I wish I could go but I just can’t get away,” please reconsider. You do so much for those around you, and by enjoying your photography hobby and making time for yourself, you will also benefit your loved ones.

Turning Your Photography Hobby into a Business

2010-01-07T10:25:00.003-06:00

Many a business guru will attest to the importance of following your passions when it comes to starting a business. If you love photography and have entertained the notion of turning your hobby into a side business, here are a few tips:

What is Your Specialty? Are you interested in shooting weddings, seniors or other portrait-related venues? Are you hoping to expand into commercial photography for real estate developers and similar interests? While you may want to do all of it, consider specializing in one niche arena until you have built up a reputation and client list. You can expand into new areas once you get your footing.

Get Notable: You’ll want to start brainstorming in a notebook to explore your ideas and possible obstacles to getting your business off the ground. Keep it with you and write down ideas as inspiration strikes. The written process can also help you uncover new avenues that may not reveal themselves otherwise.

Start Local: Think about who might be in need of your services? Many small businesses have digital cameras but not the discerning eye to create a compelling image for their brochures, websites and sales materials.

Sharpen Your Business Skills: A thriving photography business is as much about powerful marketing as it is about high quality photography. If you don’t feel you have the marketing and promotion savvy needed, enlist a partner or someone who can assist you in building the ‘business’ part of your new venture.

Be Social: Let your Facebook friends and Twitter followers know that you’re now open for business. You never know where a new lead will come from, and your friends may help you spread the word about your new gig.

Stop in Our Store: We’d love to help you with your new venture. Let us help you determine if you need any additional equipment or evaluate the camera and accessories you already own. For example, we have a wide range of high quality studio lighting and much of it is clearance-priced to move!

Kirk Tuck's Perspective on Technology, Connections & Talent

2009-12-10T12:32:00.004-06:00

Kirk Tuck is a highly-regarded professional photographer who calls Austin home and finds inspiration all around him. Tuck has captured some of our community’s most compelling portraits and landscapes and has written four acclaimed books on professional lighting techniques. He’s also one of the most approachable teachers in the field today. Putting people at ease is simply part of Tuck’s nature. He also shuns the notion that the newest technology will always produce superior results.

Tuck often tells his students that their equipment is probably newer, fancier and more expensive than his own gear. A quick show of hands usually confirms this, but Tuck is unfazed. In fact, it reinforces the point he’s trying to prove. “There’s a misconception that the latest cameras automatically mean better pictures,” Tuck offers. “Lighting and rapport trump technicality every time.”

Unlike many experts whose disposition may come across as stodgy and intimidating, Tuck is affable, enthusiastic and quick to offer support. It’s one of many reasons that Tuck’s professional workshops are always packed with people pining to hone their craft. Tuck’s resume is impressive to anyone who reads it; clients include Dell Computer, Tivoli, Time Warner, The Arts Council of Texas and countless advertising agencies, but his passion is people. Especially Austin people. He also says that shooting downtown Austin is another favorite endeavor. “I can spend an entire afternoon downtown with my camera,” he explains.

Tuck’s work displays a unique viewpoint and an intimate signature. “My first camera was a Polaroid Swinger that took close up portraits,” Tuck says. “That may have established my style early on.”

One of Kirk’s specialties is what he calls ‘Minimalist Lighting.’ He has published three books with the fourth one scheduled to be out in the spring. The latest course Tuck taught, sponsored by Precision Camera & Video, showed 43 attendees how to create a four-light portrait effect with a single main light and a few accessories. James Hicks, one of the attendees, said, “Kirk is a very personable guy and an excellent instructor. “

Isabel Garcia, another student of the course, says, “Kirk's lighting workshop was like watching a master in action, complete with his tips, tricks, and real world examples. I learned more from his one day class than I could by reading 10 photography books. Not only was it informative, it was inspiring.”

Tuck jokes that he loves photography accessories and gadgets, particularly ones related to lighting. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to invest thousands of dollars in various items.

Remember, Tuck is a minimalist.

When asked what Tuck considered to be three must-have accessories for every aspiring photographer, he named a tripod, a large diffuser (specifically a 6 ft. x 6 ft. model) and a portable flash with power ratio control. “You can do just about anything with those three tools.”

Tuck remains connected to a larger community of artists and friends; he says it’s important to keep his passions alive and to also help him stay connected to others when we find ourselves increasingly tied to our computers. Technology may increase connections in some ways, but when it comes to authentic relationships, Tuck maintains the importance of getting out from behind the computer.

In fact, one of his recent blog posts on the isolation that many freelance professionals experience these days resonated with many readers. “I’m still getting comments on that one. It really hit home with people,” he says. He also says that sometimes photographers hide behind their technology because they aren’t yet comfortable with their own vantage point and how to use the camera as a storytelling vehicle.

Tuck’s philosophy is one that encourages people to become comfortable with their own visions and the camera they’ve chosen but not to get so immersed in the technical aspects of today’s equipment that they can’t find confidence in their own unique perspective and abilities. “Some people buy equipment as a talisman of power. It’s really better to be comfortable with your own insights.”

Tuck shares his thoughts on his blog, which can be found at http://www.kirktuck.com/. You can pick up one of his books from your friends here at Precision Camera & Video. http://www.precision-camera.com/

Pose Like the Pros for Holiday Pics

2009-12-02T13:14:00.003-06:00

Have you ever looked at a family photo and thought that it just looked “off” for some reason? The picture is okay but nothing particularly special. The issue may be in how the people are posed. Professional photographers are masters of posing their subjects; they understand the importance of the right positioning and angles. This holiday season, you can get great family photos by using these posing tips:

Scout Your Location: Take a mental count of how many subjects you’ll have in your photograph. If it’s a particularly large group, you’ll want to make sure that there is a location capable of fitting everyone comfortably, so choose this area well in advance.

Chairs and Other Props: If you have elderly members in the group, make sure you have chairs for them to sit comfortably in. You may wish to put them in the center of the photograph and have young children sit on the floor in front of them. Adult family members can then stand or kneel around the grandparents, who will serve as the ‘anchor center’ in the photograph.

Balance Your Subjects: Take a quick inventory of who will be in the photograph and make sure that the tallest members are in the back and that you can position others in a slightly staggered manner so that one person’s head isn’t hidden behind another. Grab a pen and paper and write down each person’s name. You can use this as a cheat sheet to create a posing chart in advance. When your subjects are ready, you’ll have a plan and can get the photo posed and shot quickly, which is important when small children are involved!

Include Yourself! Remember that to leave a space for yourself in the photograph. Just make sure you remember how to set the timer on your camera before getting everyone else posed and ready!

Tips for Howling Halloween Shots

2009-10-05T12:28:00.004-05:00

Just combine the promise of free candy with a group of small children and you have a recipe for a challenging photo opportunity. With a bit of planning, however, you can bet on snapping some super shots of your favorite little goblins this October 31st!

Start Early: Get a jump start on your evening by planning a few extra minutes for your photography before the festivities begin. Let the little ones know in advance that cooperation now means they’ll get to the candy faster! This technique will often buy you a few extra wiggle-free moments to start shooting.

Try Twilight: The hour or so before the sun sets is the perfect time for photography. The lighting conditions will be favorable and may provide a nice, warm cast to your images.

Through the Looking Glass: If you have a glass pane on your front door, try having the kids look through while you shoot from the other side. Just remember to turn your flash off so light doesn’t bounce off the glass.
Now Let Them Run: Try taking a few pictures of your kids running down the sidewalk with their treat bags in tow. Make sure your ISO is set to a higher setting to catch the movement and pick your perfect spot to shoot before you let them run free.

Nighttime Shots: The right flash distance can make all the difference when it comes to creating that perfect image. Most cameras have a flash that is effective somewhere between five and ten feet from the subject; just don’t stand too close or else you may find your picture looks too bright or overexposed.

Sign Up for the Live Leica Webcast on 9.09.09!

2009-09-03T12:26:00.003-05:00

Leica's latest cameras will be announced via a live webcast, and we want to make sure you don't miss it! We will also have a Leica event announcement coming soon and the event will be one designed to let you get your hands on these latest models. To learn more, contact robertj@precision-camera.com Stay tuned!

To register for the Leica Webcast: http://us.leica-camera.com/news/news/1/6742.html

Professional Photographers Needed for Family Portraits of Military Families

2009-09-03T11:27:00.001-05:00

Precision Camera & Video is proud to support the PMDA(PhotoImaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association) Portraits of Love Project, which is committed to sending 10,000 free portraits to deployed soldiers around the globe this holiday season. We are looking to partner with portrait photographers in the area to support this important cause and to show our gratitude to our Nation’s troops.
“This project is the photo industry’s way of giving back to our soldiers, and thanking them for the sacrifices they have made for our country,” said Jerry Grossman, the president of the PMDA who has spearheaded the effort. “Our industry is uniquely qualified to bring an important piece of home to our soldiers, and we’re pleased to be able to organize this effort.”

“It’s incredible how motivating a simple family photograph can be to a soldier who is far from home,” said Sergeant First Class Toby Nunn, who has served two tours in Iraq and has worked with Soldiers Angels on a number of projects. “This volunteer effort is one more way that we can help our soldiers cope with their situation,” he said.

If you’re a professional photographer interested in working with Precision Camera & Video on this project, please visit http://www.pmdaportraitsoflove.com and get started. Portrait photography will take place during the month of September 2009. Please call us, email or stop by if you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to show our gratitude to our troops.

Come to the 1st Annual Texas Photo Festival!

2009-09-03T11:20:00.004-05:00

Shutterbugs of all skill levels need to mark their calendars for September 11-13 to attend the Texas Photo Festival in Smithville, Texas. It’s the perfect opportunity to hone your craft in a small town setting as you’ll be spending time in downtown Smithville. Models will be available for you to photograph and a wide range of topics such as lighting, composition and technique will be covered during this fun weekend event. You’ll even get to ride a train around town, visit a train museum, stop by antique shots and so much more.

This festival was founded by longtime favorite local professional photographers Randy Kerr and Doug Box and promises to be an event you’ll talk about long after the weekend is over.

Learn more here:http://texasphotofestival.com

Make Back to School a Bit Better...

2009-09-03T11:10:00.003-05:00

If your little one is feeling a bit nervous about returning back to school, consider sending along a little comfort. Print some of your favorite summer photos and tuck one into her lunch kit each week with a note about what you loved about that particular moment. It's a wonderful way to stay connected and remind her of the fun you shared this summer.

It only takes a few minutes to be ready for an entire fall of photo fun. Come by our store or order some pictures online so you'll be ready for your weekly photo lunch date! http://www.precision-camera.lifepics.com/net/Default.aspx

Why You Should Choose Austin First

2009-06-29T10:23:00.001-05:00

Choosing to spend your money with a local Austin business rather than with a big box store can have a substantial impact on our local economy. For example, if you spent $100 with a big box store, about $17 of that money would go into our local economy. However, if you spend that same $100 with a local Austin business, that number would increase to $40-$60! Your buying decisions have a great deal of impact and power, and more than ever, Austinites are finding that they need to stick together to strengthen our economy.

While Precision Camera has long been an advocate of Choose Austin First, the company has decided to increase its involvement. Our manager, Gregg Burger, has been elected President of the organization this year and is committed to helping Choose Austin First grow to the benefit of the community and local businesses.

Burger says, “The people of Austin are very dedicated to the city and the community. Our goal is to make sure they know which businesses are local and how they can use their buying power for the betterment of the city and everyone who lives here. Where you shop matters more than you might think.”

Learn more about Choose Austin First: http://www.chooseaustinfirst.org/

Tips for Photographing Fireworks

2009-06-29T10:19:00.002-05:00

It’s time to get ready for Fourth of July celebrations and the amazing fireworks show that accompany the barbeques and other events. Want to get some amazing images? You can capture some spectacular scenes if you take a few tips with you before you begin shooting.

Scout Your Spot: If at all possible, get the event early and take a look around. See if you can get an unobstructed view or if you can position yourself where other onlookers’ heads won’t be in the way.

Try a Tripod: With the combination of low light and fast action (the fireworks), a steady surface can greatly aid in helping you record that perfect image. We offer a number of high quality styles including compact, professional and monopod styles:http://www.precision-camera.com/search.php?terms=tripod

Add a Remote Release: A remote release can free you up to focus on your images and keep your eye on the sky. They are inexpensive and many photographers find them to be an invaluable accessory: http://www.precision-camera.com/search.php?terms=remote+trigger

Slow Your Shutter Speed: A long exposure often works best with fireworks since they are moving events and contain bright light. Experiment with keeping the shutter open long but don’t overdo it because you can overexpose the image. Alternate between using a burst mode to capture the action as well as holding the shutter open (by pressing the button half-way at the beginning of the action and continue holding it down until the fireworks burst is complete) in a single shot. Each location and event has unique circumstances so keep experimenting as you go along until you find the effect that works for you.

Forget the Flash: Your flash can be more of a hindrance in this case because it may signal to your camera that you need a shorter exposure time. The flash only helps when your object is a few feet away, so in this case, even though it’s dark, keep the flash turned off.

Happy Fourth of July!

Free Admission & Classes at Austin Photo Expo This Weekend!

2009-06-05T08:28:00.003-05:00

Precision Camera & Video is Offering Great Specials at the Expo!

The Austin Photo Expo is Austin's largest gathering of photographic manufacturers in one place for two days only.

Check out the expo demo floor for all the new cameras, lenses, and accessories. Representatives will be on hand to explain how their products work best for you.

Precision Camera & Video is proud to be a sponsor of this year's Austin Photo Expo. We'll have our very own booth at the show and will be offering all kinds of specials on products and accessories during the event.

Our team is excited about being a part of this event, and we look forward to seeing you at the Expo. This jam-packed event has numerous events designed for all skill levels--from the beginning shutterbug to the full-time professional photographer.

To learn more, visit http://www.austinphotoexpo.com/.

We'll see you this weekend!

Make Mom's Day!

2009-05-04T10:28:00.002-05:00

There are few things more challenging and rewarding than being a mother. She juggles countless demands and roles and always manages to keep things together. This month, skip the usual Mother’s Day gifts and consider giving her something that shows you really put some thought into finding the perfect gift.

Digital Photo Frame: How often do our favorite photos get downloaded to our computers only to languish for months on end without being seen again? Consider organizing some of Mom’s favorite photos and putting them together on a digital photo frame. A digital photo frame is a unique way to share and enjoy digital pictures and to help her relive some of her favorite memories. And it’s much more fun than looking at pictures on a computer screen! Learn more here: http://www.precision-camera.com/product/4014469

Color Her World: Some of today’s compact point-and-shoot camera models come in a variety of sleek and stylish colors. These cameras are packed with the latest features and are sure to delight her on her special day without breaking your budget. http://www.precision-camera.com/product/3451B001

Go Big! How many times have you heard her talk about getting a few favorite photos enlarged and framed but she just can’t seem to find the time to get the job done? Mother’s Day is the perfect time to enlarge and frame her favorite pictures. You can also take an even more artistic route by having an image printed on canvas. Ask us how we can turn a favorite photo into a work of art. http://www.precision-camera.com/services/photolab/

We can create a number of fantastic and personalized gifts, and our options are time and budget-friendly. Give us a call or stop by; we’d love to help you make Mom’s day the best ever.

May is National Photo Month!

2009-05-04T10:19:00.002-05:00

National Photo Month began as a week-long event back in 1984 and was recognized by Congress as a celebratory month in 1987. If you love photography, this is the month to indulge in your hobby and learn a new technique or two. It’s also the perfect time to help foster a love of photography with your children or other loved ones.

A Photo a Day…Try taking a photo each day of a (wonderfully) ordinary moment throughout the month of May. It could be as simple as your morning breakfast gathering (as chaotic and busy as it is) or a photo of Dad and the kids playing a pick-up basketball game after school. Just keep your point-and-shoot in your pocket or use your camera phone if your camera’s out of reach. At the end of the month, print all the pictures on a poster board and number the days. It’s quite fascinating to see your daily life depicted this way, and kids of all ages get a kick out of seeing themselves in print.

Encourage Your Youth: Many children discover a love of photography through a parent, relative or mentor. Consider taking your child or a child in your life on a photo safari. It can be in your own backyard or at a local park. The purpose is to let the child experience seeing the world through the camera lens and foster creativity. What sparks his interest? Watching a child compose images and then explain why he made those choices is an activity that inspires all involved.

Enter a Photo Contest: Yes, you! You’ll find lots of photo contests being held during National Photo Month, so consider entering one (or several!). Don’t sell yourself short, either. Go through your photo library and find your favorites or shoot some new pictures for the contest of your choice. You may surprise yourself with the results, so send in a picture and see what happens.

Grand Vision and Strong Community Ties Part of the Austin Center for Photography Plan

2009-03-30T10:08:00.004-05:00

David Keenan, Founder and President of the Austin Center for Photography, has always had a knack for bringing talented groups of people together. Growing up, his networking skills and strategic thinking flourished on the basketball court. “I always loved to get teams together, and they could be three-on-three teams or city league teams-- it didn’t matter. Our win/loss record was pretty good because it was all about finding the right group of talent and bringing them together.”

Keenan, who has built a successful career in the software industry, is now turning his attention to his passion for photography. Keenan has long carried a vision for creating a grand, top-tier photographic center in Austin that features national as well as local talent—one that provides a welcoming community for those with a love of photography. Keenan turned to the Houston Center for Photography to expand his knowledge into how successful photography-centered non-profit entities operate. “Madeline Yale (Executive Director and Curator of HCP) and many other members were extremely helpful in sharing information about how they’d made HCP successful.”

The Board members of ACP envision a uniquely-Austin center designed to celebrate the breadth of talent across the country as well as in our own backyard. Keenan states that the ACP board is filled with “a great group of people, each with unique talents, and each is committed to the success of this vision. Jerry Sullivan, for example, is a member of the board. There are no egos involved. They just want to see ACP grow and connect with the community.”

Keenan also states that Austin is home to many highly-regarded and talented photographers and bringing them together as a resource to celebrate the craft and connect with the community is a driving force in expanding ACP. “There are so many celebrated photographers in Austin and most people don’t even realize they live here. For example, Marianne Fulton, an ex-curator of the George Eastman house and the author of Mary Ellen Mark: 25 Years, calls Austin home. She is just one example of the rich resources we have here in our city.”

The ACP’s first Icons in Photography event, An Evening with Mary Ellen Mark, was a huge sold-out success. Ms. Mark was then interviewed by Texas Monthly Talks’ Evan Smith (this interview will air in early May). There are three more events planned this year, the next one being An Evening with Alec Soth on June 4, 2009. Future plans for ACP within the next three years include expansion into offering a national competition with possible grants and awards, two galleries that feature national and local artists, a variety of workshops and an integrated coffee shop with walls to be graced with quality photographic art. There is also some discussion about a possible youth outreach initiative to encourage young photographers to pursue their passion for the craft.

The Austin Center for Photography is still in its infancy but many see its potential as nothing less than stunning. The ACP welcomes volunteers to assist with its Icons in Photography Events and also offers memberships that start at as little as just $30 per year. For more information, visit http://www.visitacp.org/

On the Hunt for Eggs-ellent Easter Photos

2009-03-30T10:01:00.005-05:00

Easter Sunday comes early this year, so now’s the time to get ready to record exuberant little egg-hunters as they search nearby land for treasures nestled in the grass and hidden from view. Here are a few ideas to help ensure you’re ready to hop on that perfect shot:

·Visualize in Advance: Are there certain traditions held each year that you’d like to capture? Plan a few shots and consider which locations would give you the best results. For example, before the kids run in an Easter egg hunt, where should you stand to make sure you capture their faces in the photographs?

· Check Your Gear: Is your digital camera’s battery fully charged? Have you downloaded pictures from previous events onto your computer and re-formatted your camera card so it’s ready to go? Do you remember how to use the timer function? It only takes a few minutes to make sure your camera gear is ready, and it’s worth the time if it saves you from having your camera battery shut down in the middle of all the fun.

· Prepare Your Props and Place: If you want to shoot posed images, consider setting up one mini shooting area and include props such as an Easter basket, stuffed animal rabbits or other items you feel would properly adorn your photos in a kid-friendly way. Check how the image is framed in advance to determine if your props are properly spaced and leave enough room for your subjects.

· Capture Color: Easter is filled with colorful eggs, dresses and decorations. Consider taking a few close-up shots that center on a single colorful object or arrangement. Try to keep the image composition simple so the color is stunning.

· Get Low: Crouch down low during the egg hunt to give your photos a unique and personal perspective. Let the child’s reach be at the forefront of the image and shoot upward; the result is candid and yet very personal.

Get Ready for Canon Discovery Days on April 3 and 4!

2009-03-30T09:58:00.002-05:00

If you own a Canon camera or are interested in learning more about them, stop by Precision Camera & Video on April 3 and 4 for our special Canon Discovery Days! We’ll have expert Canon representatives on hand to demonstrate new models, answer questions about existing ones and discuss all the latest tips and tricks. We’re even offering special classes designed to give you some easy methods to take your camera out of auto mode. The class format is simple and straight-forward. You can learn more here: http://www.precision-camera.com/product/CLASS14

Grab your camera and hang out with us for a bit. You’ll be glad you did!

Come By For 9 Cent 4x6 Prints on March 9th!

2009-03-08T21:27:00.003-05:00

Get all your 4x6 photos printed for just 9 cents each on Monday, March 9th!*

If you've got a computer filled with photos that need to be printed, now's the time to bring them in! Come by Precision Camera and get high-quality 4x6 prints for only nine cents each on March 9th! If you can't make it to the store, just log on to the Precision Camera & Video Website to take advantage of our special one day offer online.

Hey, we love our computers, too, but let's face it...there's no better way to showcase and relive your favorite memories than by printing them for all to see. So, rescue those pictures from your computer or digital media card and get them printed for a steal-of-a-deal price at Precision Camera.

*4x6 size from digital media only, no color correction included.

Supporting Your Kids' School Through Photography

2009-02-26T11:26:00.007-06:00

Like many parents, you invest time supporting your children’s school through volunteer work, fundraising, chaperoning field trips and other labors of love. Parental volunteers are a powerful and important part of helping educators give our kids the best possible experience in and out of the classroom. If you love taking pictures, you might consider using your hobby to contribute to your school’s efforts.

As the unofficial photographer for my kids’ classes, I enjoy the opportunity of shooting these events and sharing them with parents who were unable to attend due to work or schedule conflicts. Let’s face it—as involved as we are, we have many other work and personal roles and simply can’t be at every single event for every single child. Having someone take photographs of the class during a field trip can be a wonderful gift for those parents who were unable to attend. The images can also be used to help the school promote itself, its fundraising efforts or for other related purposes. In addition, the images can be used to create personalized teacher gifts at the end of the year.

Here are a few tips to turn your photography into both a gift for parents and a marketing tool for your school:

Personalize the Shot: Group shots are wonderful and necessary but make sure to take individual shots of each child if at all possible. Zoom in close to fill the frame with the child’s face and wait for that candid smile or impromptu interaction. These magical moments just require a bit of planning and patience. Ignore the bustle around you for a few seconds to see if you can portray the essence of what that child is experiencing.

Capture Interaction: Some of the best photos are those of children engaged in particular projects or working together. Even something as seemingly simple as sharing a lunch outdoors on a picnic table can translate into an extraordinary photograph. Look for kids who are enjoying a moment together and start snapping away. Just don't get too close--you want to capture the moment, not interrupt it.

Share & Upload: Once your event is over, make sure to upload your photos to your local photo store’s online website. It’s one of the easiest ways to share images and you can simply email a link to the album to all the parents and teachers involved. They can then order prints and other items from the photo store directly.

Get Permission: It is very important to get permission and to have a parent sign a standard model release anytime the child’s picture might be used for posters, flyers or other promotional item. There are standard model release forms that can be found online for your school to use. Some parents may prefer not to have their child included, and that’s okay. Your school’s office should already have these provisions in place, but if not, find the form and have copies made for each child in the class.

The next time you gear up for a field trip, make sure to take your camera (and accessories) and assign yourself the role of event photographer. It’s a chance to practice your hobby and an opportunity to give a gift to the kids and families all while supporting the school.

Precision Camera & Video Wins Prestigious Magazine Award

2009-02-05T21:56:00.002-06:00

We were thrilled to learn that Photo Trade News magazine awarded their highly-coveted ‘Photo Dealer of the Year’ award to Precision Camera and Video for 2008. The honor is bestowed annually to one retailer that stands out among his or her peers and offers an innovative approach to doing business.

"Jerry has built Precision Camera & Video on the premise of serving the photographic community by providing not only equipment, but expertise that is rooted in the promise of providing the best in customer service and quality workmanship," says editor Diane Berkenfeld. "He is a stand out as PTN's Dealer of the Year for 2008."

Jerry Sullivan’s journey building Precision Camera & Video has been classified as a “Great American Success Story” and the Sullivan team continues to thrive and grow by standing true to its principles and its desire to serve its community. Jerry will be presented with his award on March 4, 2009 at the PMA Trade Show and Convention during PTN's Dealer of the Year reception to be held in his honor.

Read how Jerry turned a childhood love of photography into a business that is recognized as an icon of Austin Business.

http://www.imaginginfo.com/print/PTN/PTN-2008-Dealer-of-the-Year/2$4563

Painting with Light

2009-02-05T21:54:00.002-06:00

The term ‘photography’ comes from the Greek φώς (phos) "light" + γραφίς (graphis) "stylus", "paintbrush" or γραφή (graphê), which translates into ‘painting with light.’ Having the right light is critical to the composition and quality of your photographs

Shooting eBay Photos that Sell

2009-02-05T21:51:00.001-06:00

Did you know that the quality of your pictures can influence whether or not an eBay auction receives any bids?

It can also affect the final selling price. The pictures you use for your auction are the only real representation of your product, and if there are others selling the same item, your photos can determine which auction receives the bid and which item remains unsold.

According to eBay, in 2008, 1.3 million people made their living selling goods on eBay. Even if this isn’t your full-time job, you may want to turn some unused items into cash. It’s a great way to clear out the clutter and reap returns from items that you no longer find useful.

Here are a few tips to make your eBay photography stand out from the competition:

Use Available Light: Take your pictures during daytime hours and position them close to a window to utilize available light. Avoid using a flash whenever possible as you may create ‘hot spots’ if the flash is too close to the subject. A search of any eBay category will bring a plethora of pictures that are too dark and even blurry. How can a prospective customer make a decision to spend his money based upon those photographs? A well-lit photograph can go a long way in closing a sale.

Cut the Clutter: Position your item in an area that is clutter free, such as on a table or flat surface. Look through the viewfinder of your camera and note all the distracting items such as the corner of a chair, stray papers on a table or random toys nearby.

Fill the Frame: Zoom in close to your subject and fill almost the entire frame with your item. Prospective bidders will thank you for giving them clear images, and close up shots also allow you to note any unique attributes or minor wear that should be noted in the listing.

Provide Multiple Views: Take photos of your item from several angles in order to give bidders more reasons to purchase your item; multiple views give the buyer comfort in that she has more information with which to make a decision.

It doesn’t take much time to shoot photos that sell, and with these tips, you’ll find more space in your closet and more money in your pocket.