Photography By Diego: The Blog

First 2 Workshops in 2012! Join me!

2012-01-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

First of all, Happy New Year to all of you! I hope you had a great time during the holidays with family and friends. Also I'd like to thank all of you who participated in my workshops and classes last year. It was a great year full of fun and learning. A lot of you have been asking for the 2012 schedule and I just wanted to send you a quick email to let you know about the first 2 workshops of 2012. It will be a busy year, but I'm excited since I had a great time during the break developing new content and improving some of the classic workshops & classes. I look forward to learning together. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. And... here it is...

Sculpting with Light: Mastering Light Modifiers (NEW!)

Date: Sunday January 29th, 2012 (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio, Miami FL
Level: Intermediate
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 Models
Price: $70

Register

About this Workshop

This workshop will be a great opportunity to play with light and learn during the process. The same way a sculptor uses a chisel to shape the stone and create a beautiful sculpture, we photographers use light modifiers to alter the properties of the light in order to create our own photographic masterpieces. There are plenty of modifiers available in the market and every photographer likes and/or uses some more than others. In the end, they all do one thing: alter the quality of light that falls on our subject. This workshop will not only give you the opportunity to learn about the most popular modifiers (what they do to light, how to use them properly and when is the best time to use them), but also you will be able to practice using the diverse modifiers by photographing models in different lighting situations. I’m sure you’ll leave the workshop with some nice photos but you’ll also be armed with knowledge on how to control and tweak light in order to create that particular look you are after.

Contents

Understanding the properties of light (Direction, Color, Intensity, Quality)
Light Control
Absence and presence of Light
Light fall off.
Quality of Light.
Working with diverse light modifiers.
Reflective umbrella.
Shoot through umbrella.
Softboxes.
Panels/Silks
Bookends
Beauty Dishes.
Grids/Snoots/Barndoors
Playing with Gels & White Balance
Combining modifiers & more complex lighting setups.
Bonus: Small Flash modifiers.
Q&A

Amazing Portraits with Natural Light

Dates: Sunday Feb 12th, 2012 (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Location: AD "Doug" Barnes Park, Miami, FL
Level: Beginner & Intermediate
Participants: 12 Photographers, Models
Price: $70

Register

About this Workshop

If you like photographing people, you have probably heard that natural light is one of the most beautiful light sources available. Learning to master and control natural light will help you create compelling and beautiful portraits. But working with natural light can be tricky and it can present several challenges. This "hands on" workshop is focused on helping you find, understand and use natural light. From finding the best light scenarios to altering the properties of light with different modifiers to meet your needs, this workshop covers all those aspects that will help you take your portraiture skills to the next level.

Contents

• Planning your portrait.
• Scouting the location for good light.
• Selecting the proper background.
• Preparing your camera for the shoot.
• Selecting the right lens for the job.
• Establish the proper depth of field.
• Setting proper exposure.
• Reflective & incident metering.
• Setting the correct white balance.
• Working with modifiers to control difficult light situations.
• Using a reflector.
• Using a diffuser.
• Negative fill.
• Model photo shoot.

NEW Workshop on 12/3/11: E-TTL Off Camera Flash with Canon Speedlites

2011-11-15T13:42:00.000-08:00

I thought I was done teaching this year, but that seems not to be the case. Well... I love doing this anyway!!! I'm just glad to introduce a brand new workshop that a lot of you have asked for. This one not only will be a very fun one, but also extremely useful. And... Since we are in the holiday season I will also be offering a super special price on this one. Join me, don't miss this great learning opportunity.

And here it is.

Topic: ETTL Off Camera Flash with Canon Speedlites
Date: Saturday December 3rd 2011 (12/03/11)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio, Miami, FL
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00PM (3 hours)
Price: $50 (That is $20 off the regular price!)

Register

What is it about?

In this workshop you will have the opportunity to take your Canon speedlite off your camera and learn all the details of how the Canon ETTL system works so you can take advantage of all its wonderful capabilities. We will start with the basic concepts and then evolve to cover everything you need to know to improve your OCF flash photography using speedlites. Techniques, gear, lighting and killer tips will be shared, so you can master the use of your flash and take your photography to a higher level.

Who is this course for?

• Photographers who want to learn how to use their flash in ETTL mode.
• Photographers who want to learn how to use their flash off-camera.

What to expect?

We will meet in the studio where Diego will go over the workshop topics. As he explains and shows the different techniques and concepts, you will have the chance to apply what you are learning by photographing some of the models on diverse lighting situations. At the same time you can feel free to ask questions to your instructor and interact with the group. We are very confident that after 3 hours of ETTL off camera flash, you’ll get the chance to go home with some amazing shots and a ton of knowledge.

Prerequisites & equipment

• This course is for Canon shooters only (Sorry Nikonians…).
• You must be comfortable using your DSLR in AV or manual mode.
• Have at least one canon speedlite. (ie: 430 EXII, 580 EXII)

Course Outline

• Introduction to off camera flash (OCF) with speedlites.
• Understanding how ETTL works.
• Why shoot in ETTL?
• OCF with speedlites: Basic gear overview.
• Learning your speedlite buttons, dials and functions (430EXII and 580 EXII)
• ETTL off camera flash setup.
• Understanding & controlling flash exposure.
• Controlling & balancing ambient light.
• First and second curtain sync.
• High speed sync.
• Basic lighting techniques for speedlite photography
• Q&A and Wrap Up.

Photography Workshops October & November!

2011-09-05T14:16:00.001-07:00

First of all I'd like to thank all the folks that participated in all the mid year workshops. I really appreciate all your support and great feedback. It was a great time full of learning and fun.

Finally, after receiving a lot of emails asking me about the year end workshop schedule. Here it is. Since I'm working on developing new content and a special project, I will be only offering 3 workshops to close this year. 2 in October and 1 in November.

A lot of folks have been asking me to put together a workshop focused on portraiture with natural light. Just because I love to please the crowds I'll be offering a new workshop focused on creating amazing portraits only using natural light. This will be a fun workshop where you will learn all the secrets of working with natural light to create compelling portraits. During this workshop you will get the chance to photograph some awesome models in different lighting situations.

The other workshop in October will be one of the classics: On Camera Flash Outdoors. If you are looking to improve your flash photography and learn how to balance the flash with the ambient so your photos don't have that horrible flash look, this is the workshop for you.

Then in November, I reworked and revamped a classic of studio photography: High/Mid/Low Key Studio Photography. In this workshop, we will be going over everything you need to know to create different moods in a simple setup in the studio by playing only with light.

Amazing Portraits with Natural Light (NEW!)

Dates: Sunday October 2nd, 2011 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Location: AD "Doug" Barnes Park, Miami, FL
Level: Intermediate
Price: $70

About this workshop: If you like photographing people, you probably heard that natural light is one of the most beautiful light sources available. Learning to master and control natural light will help you create compelling and beautiful portraits. But working with natural light can be tricky and it can present several challenges. This "hands on" workshop is focused on helping you find, understand and use natural light. From finding the best light scenarios to altering the properties of light with different modifiers to meet your needs, this workshop covers all those aspects that will help you take your portraiture skills to the next level.

Contents

• Planning your portrait.
• Scouting the location for good light.
• Selecting the proper background.
• Preparing your camera for the shoot.
• Selecting the right lens for the job.
• Establish the proper depth of field.
• Setting proper exposure.
• Reflective & incident metering.
• Setting the correct white balance.
• Working with modifiers to control difficult light situations.
• Using a reflector.
• Using a diffuser.
• Negative fill.
• Model photo shoot.

“On Camera” Flash Outdoors (DUE TO TIME CONFLICT THIS WORKSHOP WILL BE RESCHEDULED)

Dates: Sunday October 23rd, 2011 (3:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Location: AD "Doug" Barnes Park, Miami, FL
Level: Intermediate
Price: $70

About this workshop: Using your flash outdoors is not an easy task. Mixing natural light with artificial light requires a balancing act to achieve the proper exposure and look in your photos.The "hands on" approach of this workshops will help you learn how to use and control your flash in order to get the exact photo you are after. Learn how to use your flash as a main or fill light and balance the light like a pro so your photos don't even look they have flash. This workshop will help you understand how your flash works and teach you how to use in TTL mode so you can take advantage of all its power and features. From flash exposure compensation, high speed flash and modifiers, all topics are covered so you can feel comfortable getting the most of your flash.

Contents

• Introduction to flash photography.
• Understanding how your flash works.
• Using your flash in TTL mode.
• Achieve Proper Exposure with flash. (TTL)
• Understanding flash exposure lock.
• Balancing flash & ambient light.
• Using gels for light color consistency.
• High Speed Flash.
• Flash role: Fill or key.
• Flash exposure compensation.
• Using flash modifiers.
• Model photo shoot.

High/Mid/Low Key Studio Photography

Dates: Saturday November 5th, 2011 (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio, Miami, FL
Level: Intermediate
Price: $70

About this workshop: Studio Photography = Light control. It takes a lot of practice and time to master the art of lighting your subjects in the studio. It is simply amazing what a good photographer can do when he/she knows how to control and use the lights in the studio. High key, low key, upbeat, dramatic, everything can be achieved by playing with light. If you are new to studio photography, you'll be amazed to learn during this workshop how amazing and fun playing with light can be. Through "hands on" learning you will be able to understand light and control it to achieve different looks. You'll get the chance to photograph professional models under different scenarios and get back home with some amazing photos.

Contents

• Introduction to studio photography.
• Managing the space in the studio.
• Creating 1 set for all lighting scenarios.
• Introduction to studio equipment.
• Choosing your lighting equipment: Mono lights vs. small flashes
• Triggering Systems (radio, cable, optical)
• Incident & Reflective metering in the studio.
• Setting the proper white balance in the studio
• High Key Setup: Model photo shot.
• Mid Key setup: Model photo shot.
• Low Key setup: Model photo shot.
• BONUS: Playing with colors.

Upcoming Workshops & Classes June & July

2011-04-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Wow!!!! After the first 2011 wave of very successful workshops, I have been receiving calls and emails non stop asking me when is the next wave and what's new. Well here it is... We are starting in June and we will be rock and rolling until the end of July. I will be offering some of the old favorites and some great new stuff that I'm sure you'll love.

I'd like to thank everybody that attended my workshops and classes in the past and I'm glad to invite you to join me again in some of the new classes and workshops. Please tell your friends as word of mouth is my main method of advertising.

I've been working around the clock to develop high quality interesting and challenging courses hoping to push all of us to our next level as photographers and instructors.

I also simplified the registration process. If you want to sign up for any of the workshops or classes you can simply start the process right here from this blog. Add to your cart the desired courses and follow the steps to complete registration. You can pay using PayPal or your credit card.

If you have any questions, please feel free to post them here or just contact me. I'd love to tell you more about a couple of surprises I have in store for you but I gotta get back to work on the new stuff. See you soon!

Beyond Full Auto: DSLR 101 (NEW!)

Dates: Saturday June 11th, 2011 (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Location: AD "Doug" Barnes Park, Miami FL
Level: Beginner
Price: $50.00

• Introduction to DSLR photography
• Camera Controls – overview of basic controls and dials
• Resolution and image quality
• A brief word on lenses
• The great/not so great full auto mode.
• Moving beyond full auto.
• Understanding ISO, shutter speed and aperture
• Understanding camera metering.
• Metering modes: Matrix, center weighted & spot metering
• Using exposure lock.
• AE Modes: Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed Priority, Program, Manual
• Exposure compensation
• Exposure bracketing
• Bulb exposures
• Autofocus modes: Auto vs. Manual
• Using Focus Lock.
• Changing your focusing area.
• Understanding depth of field (DOF)
• DOF preview.
• Understanding white balance (WB)
• WB presets
• Custom WB
• Conclusion: It’s a balancing act.

Photo Walk: After the class we will do a photo walk around the park so you can practice some of the concepts learned and have the opportunity to ask questions to your instructor while you are shooting.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Controlling Natural Light

Dates: Saturday June 18th, 2011 (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Location: Veteran’s Wayside Park, Pinecrest FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 models
Level: Beginner & Intermediate
Price: $50.00

• Nailing Exposure
• Reflective & incident metering.
• WB & exposure with a grey cards.
• Using a reflector.
• Using a diffuser.
• Negative fill.
• Tips: Looking for the best light conditions.

THIS WORKSHOP IS FULL! NO MORE SPACES AVAILABLE

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Photographing Families Outdoors

Dates: Saturday June 25th, 2011 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Location: AD "Doug" Barnes Park, Miami, FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 Families
Level: Intermediate
Price: $80.00

• Analyzing the subjects of the family.
• Planning the shoot.
• Scouting the location for good light and scenery.
• Identifying natural light modifiers.
• Selecting the proper background.
• Preparing your camera for the shoot.
• Selecting your lenses and other equipment needed.
• Pre Metering.
• Setting the proper custom W/B.
• Working with the family.
• Groups and Posing.
• Test shots.
• Family Photo Shoot.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Studio Photography 101

Dates: Saturday July 9th, 2011 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio, Miami FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 models
Level: Intermediate
Price: $80.00

• Introduction to studio photography.
• Managing the space & creating the set.
• Background options: Working with Muslim & Paper.
• Introduction to studio equipment.
• Choosing your lighting equipment: Mono Lights vs. Small flashes
• Triggering Systems (Radio, cable, Optical)
• Setting up the lights.
• Lighting modifiers: Umbrellas, softboxes and panels
• Incident & Reflective metering in the studio.
• Lighting Ratios.
• White Balance in the Studio
• Test shots, fine tuning and tweaking for desired results.
• Model Photo shoot.

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“On Camera” Flash Outdoors

Date: Saturday July 16th, 2011 (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Location: Veteran’s Wayside Park, Pinecrest FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 models
Level: Beginner & Intermediate
Price: $50.00

• Introduction to flash photography
• Modes: TTL/Manual.
• Achieve Proper Exposure with flash.
• Flash: Fill or key.
• Flash Exposure compensation.
• Balancing Flash & Natural light.
• Using modifiers.
• Tips: Getting blue skies.

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Mastering "Off Camera" Flash (NEW!)

Dates: Saturday July 23rd, 2011 (1:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio & Warehouse Area close to AD "Doug" Barnes Park Miami FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 models
Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Price: $99.00

1st Part: The Class

• Introduction to OCF
• Manual vs. TTL
• What you need to know about your flash
• All the other OCF gear and grip
• Syncing your flash
• Understanding flash exposure (Main or fill)
• Incident flash metering
• Lighting techniques for OCF
• Lighting modifiers
• Preparing to work in the field

2nd Part: On Location

• Setting up for OCF
• 1st setup: Taming the sun (Ambient Balance)
• 2nd Setup: Hard Light is not always bad
• 3rd Setup: Soft Light
• 4th Setup: Dramatic OCF
• Q&A and Wrap Up.

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Studio Photography 101 Equipment List

2011-03-06T12:33:00.000-08:00

To all that attended my studio 101 workshop this past saturday, first of all thanks you. I hope you learned a lot and enjoyed. As promised here is a list of the stuff that I showed during the workshop. If you download the pdf version, you'll notice I included some links to sites where you can buy the stuff. Hey I love B&H, but I get nothing when you buy there, so please don't feel obligated to buy from them. You can get the same stuff from adorama.com or any other site that you like. To download the list with active links to sites/stores where you can buy the stuff please click here.

Small Flashes & Monolights
Canpn 430 EX II
Canon 580 EX II
Canon 420 EX
Vivitar 285HV
Alien Bees 800

Modifiers
Umbrella - White Satin with Removable Black Cover - 60"
Umbrella - White Translucent (43")
Umbrella - Beaded Silver - 43"
LiteDome Q39, Small Softbox , 16x22x13" (41x56x33cm)
LiteDome Q39, Medium Softbox , 24x32x17" (61x81x43cm)
TriGrip Diffuser, One Stop - 30" (75cm)
5-in-1 Reflector Disc - 40.5" (1 m)
5-in-1 Collapsible Reflector - 42x72" (1x1.8m)
Foldable Stripbox
Grids, barndoors, gel holders
Flash velcro straps

Triggers & Cables
Blazzeo Radio Triggers & receivers
Pocket Wizards Plus II Transceiver / Radio Slave
Mini Phono Plug to Female Hot Shoe Cord for Pocket Wizard (12") (use to connect PW to small flashes that do not have PC connection)
MM1 Miniphone to Miniphone Cable -12" (used to connect the PW to Monolights)

Grip: Everything you use to hold/mount stuff.
Impact Air cushioned light stands
Impact Multiboom Light Stand/Reflector Holder - 13' (4m)
Clamps
Background Support System - 12' Wide
Umbrella Bracket with Adjustable Shoe
119 Short (16mm) Adapter Spigot with 1/4"-20 & 3/8" Female Threads

Other
107" x 12 yds Seamless Background Paper (#1 Super White) (buy local)
Gaffer’s Tape
4x6 tile board (Home Depot) (buy local)
4x6 book ends (Made with 4x6 ft foam board) (Buy local)

If you have any questions, please pot here. Happy buying!

New Workshops coming up in February & March 2011!

2010-12-02T05:44:00.000-08:00

Life is all about change and although I thought I'll be moving in February it turns out I'll be moving in January. Soooooo... I will be rescheduling all the workshops to February/March. The good news: There's 2 new workshops: Studio Photography 101 and Photographing Families Outdoors! So I'm really looking forward to teach those. Below is the detail for all the workshops that will be happening in January. If you want to sign up for any of the workshops, please go to this site and complete your registration. Also if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Looking forward to learning together in January.

Studio Photography 101 (NEW!)

Dates: Saturday March 5th, 2011 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Location: Photography by Diego Studio, Miami FL
Participants: 12 Photographers, 2 models
Price: $70.00

• Introduction to studio photography.
• Managing the space & creating the set.
• Background options: Working with Muslim & Paper.
• Introduction to studio equipment.
• Choosing your lighting equipment: Mono Lights vs. Small flashes
• Triggering Systems (Radio, cable, Optical)
• Setting up the lights.
• Lighting modifiers: Umbrellas, softboxes and panels
• Incident & Reflective metering in the studio.
• Lighting Ratios.
• White Balance in the Studio
• Test shots, fine tuning and tweaking for desired results.
• Model Photo shoot.

Photographing Families Outdoors (NEW!)

Dates: Sunday February 27th, 2011 (2:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Location: Bill Bags, State Park, Key Biscayne FL
Participants: 15 Photographers, 2 Families
Price: $55.00

• Analyzing the subjects of the family.
• Planning the shoot.
• Scouting the location for good light and scenery.
• Identifying natural light modifiers.
• Selecting the proper background.
• Preparing your camera for the shoot.
• Selecting your lenses and other equipment needed.
• Pre Metering.
• Setting the proper custom W/B.
• Working with the family.
• Groups and Posing.
• Test shots.
• Family Photo Shoot.

Controlling Natural Light

Dates: Saturday February 26th, 2011 (3:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
Location: Veteran’s Parkway, Pinecrest FL
Participants: 15 Photographers, 2 models
Price: $40.00

• Nailing Exposure
• Reflective & incident metering.
• WB & exposure with a grey cards.
• Using a reflector.
• Using a diffuser.
• Negative fill.
• Tips: Looking for the best light conditions.

“On Camera” Flash Outdoors

Date: Sunday February 20th, 2011 (3:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
Location: Veteran’s Parkway, Pinecrest FL
Participants: 15 Photographers, 2 models
Price: $40.00

• Introduction to flash photography
• Modes: TTL/Manual.
• Achieve Proper Exposure with flash.
• Flash: Fill or key.
• Flash Exposure compensation.
• Balancing Flash & Natural light.
• Using modifiers.
• Tips: Getting blue skies.

Busy Saturday... 2 Workshops Back to Back

2010-11-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I hosted 2 workshops instead of one. We had one in the morning about Studio Lighting and the other one in the afternoon about Controlling Natural Light. IT WAS A GREAT TIME! (sorry I'm yelling) but I'm excited. After almost 8 hours of teaching I once again confirmed that:

1) I love doing it. (it feels great when I see the face of somebody having an aha moment)
2) I'm the one that probably learned the most.
3) I gotta keep doing this (It's way too much fun).

As you can imagine, I ended up the day super tired and got home to my 3 kids (full of energy) so it was not an easy afternoon. I think the participants enjoyed it and learned quite a bit.

That is why I'm asking them to post in this blog comments regarding their experience in my workshops. Tell me. Did you like it? Was it good? What do I need to change to make it better? Do you think the price was fair?

I usually get awesome feedback directly from a lot of the participants during or right after the workshops, but other people that might be interested in participating will never get to know about this feedback. It really helps everybody when the feedback is out there in the open, so please I kindly ask you to take 3 minutes and post a couple of lines in this blog. It will help people know they are not going to enroll in something that will be a waste of money or a scam.

Below you can see a couple of photos I took during both workshops. As usual, don't have time to snap a lot. Once again I want to thank the models and everybody that participated.

One More workshop!!!!

2010-10-31T08:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I did another workshop. Full house! It was a great group of photographers that I think left home with a great set of photos. I want to thank the models. Alicia, Patricia and Taishaly, they were phenomenal! We covered a lot of aspects of outdoor flash photography and had a great time photographing the girls. I want to thank all participants and encourage them to post their photos and questions here. Thanks!

More Workshops in November

2010-10-29T08:02:00.000-07:00

After all the success during the workshops in October I'm adding new dates for 2 of my most popular workshops and also introducing a new workshop for High/low key photography in studio.

These workshops are a forum were amateurs and pros have the chance to learn and explore key photography concepts in a friendly environment. Here you can ask questions, share your experiences, make a lot of mistakes and… hopefully learn from them.

Models will be joining us for the last portion of the training so you can apply what you’ve learned and go back home with some nice shots.

Here's the Deal.

Workshop 1: Controlling Natural Light

Date: Saturday 11/6/10
Location: Veteran's Wayside Park
Time: 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Price: $35

* Looking for the good light.
* Achieving proper exposure in natural light conditions.
* Reflective metering.
* Using references to establish proper white balance.
* Using a reflector.
* Using a diffuser.
* Negative fill.
* Tips: Shooting in open shade & direct sun.

Workshop 2: On Camera Flash Outdoors.

Date: Sunday 11/14/10
Location: Veteran's Wayside Park
Time: 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Price: $35

* Achieve proper exposure with flash.
* Modes: ETTL/TTL/Manual.
* Flash exposure compensation.
* Balancing flash & natural light.
* Using flash modifiers.
* Fill flash.
* Tips: Taming the sun.

Workshop 3. High/Low Key Studio Lighting (8 photographers & 2 models)

Dates: Saturday Nov. 6th 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, Sun Nov 14th (FULL) 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM & Sun Nov 21st 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM PM
Location: Photography by Diego Studio (Kendall, FL)
Participants: 8 Photographers, 2 models
Price: $70.00

* Preparing the set.
* Light position and functions.
* Light modifiers.
* Triggering Systems. (Radio, optical, cables)
* Metering in Studio. (Reflective & Incident)
* Test Shots and fine tuning.
* High Key to Mid Key to Low Key.
* Model Photo Shoot.

If you are interested in joining us, please follow the instructions below to complete registration for the workshops of your choice. Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis and only confirmed after receiving payment confirmation via PayPal.

Terms & Conditions Workshops will not take place with less than 9 participants. Since the workshops take place outdoors they are subject to the weather conditions and might be rescheduled or canceled if the weather does not allow. Refunds are only available if the workshop is canceled. Refunds will only be issued for customer cancellations submitted 10 days prior to the event.

This link will take you to my website where you can complete your registration. Feel free to tell your friends and forward them this information. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Looking forward to learning together.

Today's Workshop: Controlling Natural Light

2010-10-23T16:59:00.000-07:00

After some showers in the morning, I did not know if I was going to have to cancel this event or not, I hesitated at times, but luckily the weather improved and it happened. I had a great time. I think the participants were able to learn key concepts of light control and exposure and I was amazed at some of the photos they took. I have to admit it also helps when you have great models like Camille, Sean and Daniel.

As usual I do not have a lot of time to take pictures during the workshops but I did manage to take a couple of shots which I'm sharing below.

Finally, to all participants, please feel free to leave your comments or questions below and also if you are brave post any of your photos. Thanks for participating. Looking forward to see you in another workshop in the future.

On Camera Flash Workshop

2010-10-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

One more workshop done! I am a happy instructor! This last Sunday we had full house. Our "On Camera Flash Outdoors". I think the workshop was great. I had a blast teaching it and I honestly do believe participants actually learned something. I loved the location and the models that participated were great. During these workshops I don't really have a lot of time of photographing the models myself, but since the participants were so good I actually was able to snap some photos. Let me know what you think. Also I invite the participants to share some of their photos. By the way during the course I showed some flash diffuser-reflector and I promised the templates. You can find templates and design instructions here. (Credit goes to Photographer Chuck Gardner, not me). Looking forward to our next class.

Today's Workshop

2010-10-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

I want to thank all the participants and models for a great time. It was an afternoon packed with action. It started with some rain and then we had sun and plenty of clouds. I think overall it went very well, but I'll let participants chime in. After all, who am I to say how my own workshop was. We played with reflectors, diffusers, GOBOs and we battled trying to nail the proper exposure using the gray card. I saw some of the pictures that some people took and I was positively impressed with how good they were. We also had the opportunity to work with 3 great models that helped us during the photo shoot. Hey... Thanks to Lorena, Zoe and Zach.

I had a great afternoon with the group. I hope you found value in the workshop. By the way, I thought everybody asked really good questions and as I mentioned during the workshop, if you have any other questions, please feel free to post them in the blog. I'll try to do my best to answer them.

Below, you can see a couple of photos I took during the class, most of them are from Zach, since he seemed to be available most of the time while Zoe and Lorena were surrounded by a million photographers.

Once again thanks to all that participated. Looking forward to seeing you again in the near future.

You asked for it.... It's here

2010-10-03T07:10:00.001-07:00

The holidays are getting closer and this is a great time to schedule a family photo session. Get closer to the ones you love and don't miss the opportunity of creating wonderful memories you will cherish forever. Go ahead and take advantage of our holiday special package. Book a session before Halloween and get this amazing $500 value package at a great price

Holiday Family Package includes:

* 2 hours professional photo shoot (in studio or on location).
* (1) 8x10 or 8.5 x 11 high quality print.
* 3 photo enhancements.
* Online gallery to view your photos.
* 1 DVD containing 20-30 high resolution images of your session.
* Print release allowing you to print your photos.
* Phone consultation prior to your session.
* 20% discount on additional photo products you order.

Go ahead book your session prior to Halloween, and you'll pay $395 for this amazing family photo package

Don't let this great deal pass. Check our website and do your research and you'll conclude that this is great value for your money. Please hurry, slots for the sessions are limited and do fill up very quickly. Give us a call, send us an email or contact us through our website. Looking forward to photographing your family.

Sincerely,

Diego Matrajt

Upcoming Hands On Photography Workshops

2010-09-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

Yes... People asked for them and their demands are orders. During October I will be hosting a set of hands on workshops were amateurs and pros will have the chance to learn and explore key photography concepts in a friendly environment where you can ask questions, share your experiences, make a lot of mistakes and… hopefully learn from them.

Each workshop can accommodate 12 participants; we intentionally keep the group small to ensure a more organized effective and pleasant learning experience. Models will be joining us for the last portion of the training so you can apply what you’ve learned and go back home with some nice shots.

Here's the Deal.

Workshop 1: Controlling Natural Light

Available Dates:
* Sunday 10/3/10 (FULL)
* Saturday 10/23/10 (4 spaces left)
Location: Matheson Hammocks Park & Beach Marina
Time: 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Price: $30

* Looking for the good light.
* Achieving proper exposure in natural light conditions.
* Reflective metering.
* Using references to establish proper white balance.
* Using a reflector.
* Using a diffuser.
* Negative fill.
* Tips: Shooting in open shade & direct sun.

Workshop 2: On Camera Flash Outdoors.

Available Dates:
* Sunday 10/10/10 (FULL)
* Saturday 10/30/10 (5 spaces Left)
Location: Matheson Hammocks Park & Beach Marina
Time: 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Price: $30

* Achieve proper exposure with flash.
* Modes: ETTL/TTL/Manual.
* Flash exposure compensation.
* Balancing flash & natural light.
* Using flash modifiers.
* Fill flash.
* Tips: Taming the sun.

If you are interested in joining us, please follow the instructions below to complete registration for the workshops of your choice. Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis and only confirmed after receiving payment confirmation via PayPal.

Terms & Conditions Workshops will not take place with less than 9 participants. Since the workshops take place outdoors they are subject to the weather conditions and might be rescheduled or canceled if the weather does not allow. Refunds are only available if the workshop is canceled. Refunds will only be issued for customer cancellations submitted 10 days prior to the event.

This link will take you to my website where you can complete your registration. Feel free to tell your friends and forward them this information. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Looking forward to learning together.

Lighting Back to Basics Workshop - Almost 5 Stars!!!

2010-09-15T05:41:00.000-07:00

Wow… What a turnout! This past Monday I did the Lighting back to Basics class in Coral Gables, FL and it went great. Close to 60 people attended and we had an awesome time discussing technical as well as practical aspects of lighting. The course was focused a lot on the properties of light and how to control them. Overall the reviews were very positive. By the way, I do take the time to read the comments people leave so I can learn from my mistakes. Hummmm, my mistakes (hehe) so many of them, but the participants were very kind to point out only a couple. You can see all the reviews here, but I’d like to take the opportunity to answers to some of the constructive feedback provided.

1) Too much material, we were a little rushed at the end: TRUE (SOOOO TRUE), I always try to pack too much stuff, I just love teaching and I want to share all the knowledge. I’m really taking this one to heart; I will limit materials in my next classes.

2) Maybe a little too much science/technical, I was expecting more practical: I understand the feeling, but my view for this class in particular was to really understand basics of light, its behavior and the properties so we can learn to control and use it more creatively and efficiently.

All the other comments were positive highlights, and since I’m not a narcissist, I’m not planning to post here a list of glowing reviews that would just pump up my already heavily criticized “Argentinean” ego.

Finally I’d like to thank all the participants, as well as ZiZi from Shoot Miami for giving the opportunity to do this and let you know that there will be more classes coming up soon.

The Tantrum - Upcoming Oscar Nominated Horror Movie

2010-09-09T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hi, I have not posted in a while. As everybody knows it's hard for me to find time. Anyway, I did not want to miss the opportunity to share this movie poster I made for a photo challenge with you. This is one of my 3 kids (The middle guy). The whole thing is a joke and an obvious exaggeration, but believe me some days I wonder if he's not really possessed (he he, just kidding). It was a fun project, it took like 1.5 hours from concept to final product. If there's interest I can share some insights in how it was done. Let me know!!!

Lighting Workshop - Back To Basics

2010-08-14T06:24:00.000-07:00

And here we go again, I'm super excited, I will be teaching another workshop. This time the topic will be lighting. But not complex and crazy lighting patterns. I see this as a good opportunity to focus on the basics. The workshop will be held in Coral Gables for Shoot Miami Photo group. The workshop is already full so 62 people will be attending. It will be good. Here is the course outline.

Course Outline
Introduction:Photography and light
Understanding the physics of light
Angle of incidence and reflection
Properties of light (Direction,Color,Intensity, Quality)
The inverse square law (Light Fall Off)
Understanding different sources of light
Basic tips for working with natural light
Basic tips for working with artificial light
Achieving proper exposure
Metering 101
Reflective metering
Incident metering
Light control: Everything there is to it
Light modifiers:How to control the light
Putting it all together: Excellent light control = Great images
Q&A

See you there!!!

Cake Smash Tutorial

2010-02-27T13:31:00.001-08:00

Well, here I am, I have not used this blog in ages. But I'm back, This time doing something different. Like a week ago, I posted a cake smash collage at the kids and family forum at photocamel.com and some folks asked me if I would not mind putting a tutorial together on how to do it. Well here it is. My humble attempt to share how I did it. This is my first tut ever so please be critic and let me know how it came. Hope it helps. Although it might get a little blurry, I recommend you view full screen. Please leave your feedback.