After I issued the recent challenge to light paint still life subjects I had several people, via email and online posts outside this blog, express that they didn’t know how to use layers and layer masks in Photoshop. While doing so isn’t necessary for participating in the challenge, knowing how can definitely be a big help in creating unique images. I have created a video tutorial to show readers how to use layers and layer masks in the short video linked below. Make sure to view it in full screen mode.  Enjoy.

Hopefully there will not be any more major snow storms so I thought it would be nice to remind everyone of all the snow that just melted!  Hopefully this is my last snow photo until late fall…

This photo was taken while visiting a local WaWa not too long ago. Photos are where you find them!

The "After" Light Painting Image

The above image is another form of light painting. Instead of just painting a whole scene with light I isolated sections of this still life and used a small flashlight to highlight detail in several separate images. Then in Photoshop those images were combined into layers and then layers masks were used to isolate each light painted area to best effect into one final image, which is shown above. A little glamour glow and warmth was also added to complete the image.

Another variation using the same files used for the first image but masked differently.

The challenge issued two weeks ago for viewers to create their own light painted landscapes was answered by only one photographer despite several emails from photographers saying they were inspired to get out and create some unique images of their own. Jim Wilson of Chester County, PA should be applauded for his efforts which can be viewed here. Thanks Jim.

Perhaps it was the snow or the idea of light painting in the dark and cold outside that deterred a few. So the next challenge is to create a still life setup inside and light paint it. You can do it in one exposure or by combining several as shown here. Let’s see the still life scenes that you can bring to life through this technique! April 1st I’ll link to everyone’s image that participated by posting a link to their image in the comments to this post.

What the image looked like with just available light from a nearby window.

The light painted image files that were layered and masked to create the final image.

Make room!

Photographing snow geese in flight is a lot of fun but can also be challenging. To make it easier use a long lens and don’t allow yourself to be overwhelmed by the large numbers of geese flying all at once. Pick a bird, or a small group, that looks to have a flight path that will cross close enough to get good image and track them until they are close enough to make a nice composition.  Also watch for the geese to turn into the wind at the last second and cup their wings to land amongst other geese. And don’t forget that a plus exposure compensation is often needed photographing light subjects like snow geese!

What do you think they would be saying?

In for a landing.

Heading north.

Speeding across the surface of the lake.

Every year in late February through March snow geese migrating north stop over at the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area in Lebanon County Pennsylvania. The numbers of geese visiting the lake and agriculture fields are often numbered in the tens of thousands and make a great photographic opportunity in the early spring.  This year the snow geese are just starting to arrive at Middle Creek after heavy snows and winter weather kept them south longer then normal. The next few weeks should be a great time as masses of birds arrive in the area.