http://murdercityphotography.com/index.htmlPhotographer's Notebookeninfo@murdercityphotography.com© Murder City Photography2010-09-08T12:29:06-04:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:48:20 -0400info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-09-08T12:29:06-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fbc45d8855a4547b1bac33fd5b0a8076-76.html#unique-entry-id-76http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fbc45d8855a4547b1bac33fd5b0a8076-76.html#unique-entry-id-76

The above is a screen shot from my new blog “Holga Life”. Based upon the cult favorite plastic camera from China, it is everything “Holga” My working cameras are dslrs by Nikon and I use them for almost everything I shoot. However, they can be cumbersome and sometimes I just want to travel light. Well you can hardly travel lighter with anything other than a Holga. Holga Life is a creative experiment and I encourage anyone interested in photographic creativity to give it a look and join in with comments/questions you may have as well as your own Holga photos.

Please stop by and say “hi!”]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-08-31T21:33:30-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f2f28d0a4a5e4830b311464775640af8-75.html#unique-entry-id-75http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f2f28d0a4a5e4830b311464775640af8-75.html#unique-entry-id-75

Today I had the great fortune to photograph Makenna for a future project called “The Forever Tea Party”. We used Leu Gardens as a backdrop and enjoyed perfect weather, a variety of flowers and many varieties of butterfly.



Sometimes you get lucky and run into someone who is a natural at posing. Makenna is just that. I point her to an area and she does the rest. All I have to do is shoot.



Casting is just beginning for this project and I hope to start shooting in March or April. The project is in the form of a still frame movie with dialog and soundtrack.



I will be posting additional project information regarding casting needs and the like in the near future.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-08-21T18:10:55-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8c51f041662a8e18937fdcc78925485c-74.html#unique-entry-id-74http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8c51f041662a8e18937fdcc78925485c-74.html#unique-entry-id-74

Taking a short break today before the frenzied shooting schedule resumes next week. The Murder City Project resumes with shoots on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday bringing the total completed shoots to 18. The last six shoots are much more complicated and will require additional time and resources to complete. I finally have an opening date for the Murder City Project and will announce it in a future post.

As the current project starts to wind down our schedule is filled with several small personal shoots and some larger commercial projects. The next large scale project, “The Forever Tea Party” should begin near the end of the year. I am actively casting for this project now. I will post casting notices her in the next few weeks.

All in all, it has been a relatively quite, relaxing day. It is raining steadily as I write this post on the laptop. and the sound is soothing. Tomorrow? Let the games begin!]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-08-13T18:54:25-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2359c0f1a75b0eb81fd9c84e650172f0-73.html#unique-entry-id-73http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2359c0f1a75b0eb81fd9c84e650172f0-73.html#unique-entry-id-73

The other day I was asked how I felt just prior to a photo shoot. Surprised by the question, I had to think about that for a moment. I never really gave it much thought before now and it made me consider my feelings about many things related to what I do.

I must admit to feelings of anticipation before a shoot but I’m not nervous at all, even when the shoot is very complicated, in a public space or attended by clients. Generally I am preoccupied with final preparations, questions from cast, clients and crew and a myriad of other details. On top of this I am running through the course of the shoot in my head. Again and again working angles, lighting and placement. I think careful planning removes most if not all anxiety I might have regarding a shoot.



Another contributing factor is the competency of the cast and crew. Working with dedicated professionals with a common goal in mind is very reassuring. It is nice to know that other eyes are paying attention to action and sound off if anything is amiss. Working with a new staff has its challenges but as time passes the process becomes ever smoother.



I guess the question many photographers continue to ask themselves is, “Am I good enough compared to my peers?” To be honest I never really ask that question. I don’t worry about other photographers at all. The question concerning me is, “Can I pull this shoot off?” The answer to the question is “I hope so.” I am comfortable with my skills as a shooter and I am always looking to further my experience. If the answer isn’t so positive I take the steps necessary to ensure success. HIt or miss is not a formula I use.

I have additional thoughts on this profession and will share them in future posts.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-08-11T09:21:28-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/4bc747c404f49e1ea0015d40177dd39e-72.html#unique-entry-id-72http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/4bc747c404f49e1ea0015d40177dd39e-72.html#unique-entry-id-72Yesterday morning was pretty hectic around the office. Documentary film maker Bill Suchy and the crew from Vision TV set up shop to interview me and shoot some of the business side of Murder City Photography for a documentary project he is working on. The filming went well but I must say being in front of a video camera is a very different experience for me.



Vision TV member, Orlando setting up the video camera.



Crew member, Barry setting me up for sound with a lapel mike.



Director, Bill Suchy coaching me on the how the interview will go.



“Action!”



In the hot seat for about two hours.

All in all we had fun. Bill seemed happy with his footage and no furniture, people or cameras were broken. Now, like so many of my clients, I am waiting to see the results of this session and their coverage of some of the Murder City Project shoots. All I can say is, stay tuned.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-07-31T14:22:34-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8eb482a459f89c54711df5a7da0ec09d-71.html#unique-entry-id-71http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8eb482a459f89c54711df5a7da0ec09d-71.html#unique-entry-id-71

Murder City Project “4 p.m.” is the first shoot to be filmed by award winning documentary director/producer Bill Suchy. Suchy is documenting the Murder City Project via behind the scenes video and interviews with me on the project and my career. You will be able to view clips of this project when finished on the MCP website.



Videographer Lucas filming me reviewing images on the laptop.



Videographer Lucas at work.



Nikon D3x tethered to a MacBook Pro using Lightroom 3. So far I have photographed all but one of the MCP Project shoots tethered to the laptop. I like knowing exactly what I am getting down to the finest detail.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-07-20T18:19:42-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/4eed5d0cf4144696ebb62170ee702bb9-70.html#unique-entry-id-70http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/4eed5d0cf4144696ebb62170ee702bb9-70.html#unique-entry-id-70

Make up artist and effects specialist Paula works on a prop for tomorrow’s Murder City Project shoot in Orlando. This will be the first shoot to be included in a documentary by Bill Suchy on Murder City Photography and the Murder City Project.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-07-13T16:03:10-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/919089e55db561da7c2a29274c098daa-69.html#unique-entry-id-69http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/919089e55db561da7c2a29274c098daa-69.html#unique-entry-id-69

It has been awhile since my last post. Sometimes I get so busy I can’t find the time to update the website. I have just returned from the National Press Photographers Association annual convention in Charleston, SC. The city of Charleston is historic and charming with an equal mix of the old and new. After three long days learning new ways to capture video, tell stories with multi-media and catching up with old friends I decided to take a leisurely route back home to Orlando. The above photo is of the Tybee Island shrimp boat fleet. A storm was coming on fast so I did not have much time to shoot. Tybee Island is just east of Savannah.



Jekyll Island off the southern coast of Georgia was my next stop. The Island is home to many magnificent “cottages” belonging to many of the early captains of american commerce. The Jekyll Island Hotel pictured above is the site where the Federal Reserve was born.



I spent several hours just walking around making photographs of things that caught my eye. The champagne glass above, a remnant of last night’s party perhaps, missed the eye of the house staff. I shot it where it was left. The cottage behind it is the largest on the island.



Most of the homes on the island had inviting wrap around porches. I was sorely tempted to park myself in one of those rocking chairs but I am pretty sure they are reserved for “paying” guests.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-07-04T13:36:42-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d5a223bdbc322d6976745712d8f98ae2-68.html#unique-entry-id-68http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d5a223bdbc322d6976745712d8f98ae2-68.html#unique-entry-id-68

Murder City Project - “9 a.m.” was shot Friday night at the MCP mixer. Our guest victim was none other than Robert Vanelli of Photoshop World fame. The poison (a particularly nasty type) was applied quite liberally by our guest killer, Carmen. The mixer attended by people involved in the photographic community in various capacities was informative and a lot of fun. The was the second mixer to date and bigger than the first. There will be more to come so check back for details.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-29T07:32:12-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/75e9455b6148916d589bfd074ddf055c-67.html#unique-entry-id-67http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/75e9455b6148916d589bfd074ddf055c-67.html#unique-entry-id-67Next MCP mixer is Friday 7/2 from 7 pm to 10 pm. I will also be shooting a MCP Project installment, "9 a.m." during the mixer. Robert Vanelli, NAPP member and Photoshop educator from Photoshop World will be attending the Friday mixer and photo shoot. NYC / Orlando Photographer Betsy Hansen and SNAP Orlando Producer Patrick Kahn will be at tending the MCP mixer on Friday as well. This mixer promises to be one you won't soon forget.
Due to limited space I can accept the first six “Photographers” to respond by email to: info@murdercityphotography.com, Subject = Invite.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-26T13:30:39-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8e4d138366f3839b60d372c07e5b0612-66.html#unique-entry-id-66http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8e4d138366f3839b60d372c07e5b0612-66.html#unique-entry-id-66

We shot “5 a.m.” on Thursday morning at the Dickinson Azalea Park in Orlando. Actor J. LaRose (Saw III, Mortal Kombat) played the part of the hapless victim killed by Charlie Howse. Shot with a Nikon D3x, 24-70mm f 2.8 N, ISO 250, F 8, 100/sec. manual. Lit from front by a Nikon SB900 at 1/8 snooted and from behind by an AB800 at 1/16. Both units controlled with Pocket Wizard Plus IIs.

I am looking to incorporate a MCP Project shoot in the next MCP mixer at the office so stay tuned for further details.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-13T21:59:26-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e40b7782840280c740e8c123c7ddd9e7-65.html#unique-entry-id-65http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e40b7782840280c740e8c123c7ddd9e7-65.html#unique-entry-id-65

I shot the Murder City Photography Project # 5, “6 a.m.” this morning in Winter Park. The shooting space was very tight and I lit the scene with a single AB800 at 1/8th power through a 24” by 36” softbox positioned High and to the right of the subjects in the bed. Shot with a Nikon D3x, 40mm, 250/sec at f9.0, ISO 320. I still have another 19 shoots to finish this project so the next few months will be pretty busy.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-12T08:30:18-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ec36e5d6ec0bf19ac7b6ddcfcdb657b2-64.html#unique-entry-id-64http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ec36e5d6ec0bf19ac7b6ddcfcdb657b2-64.html#unique-entry-id-64

I will be shooting Murder City Photography Project # 5, Sunday morning in Winter Park. Things will be picking up rapidly now that SNAP Orlando is over and I have finished some commercial projects. More MCP Project shoots will be announced soon.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-04T11:44:00-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fc3d96c7462b99a315d1b75f244555b6-63.html#unique-entry-id-63http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fc3d96c7462b99a315d1b75f244555b6-63.html#unique-entry-id-63

I needed to take a break so I headed out to Mead Gardens, one of my favorite quiet places. Found these male wood ducks sharing a log.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-03T15:04:24-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/20c237d9a4fdd7b456a8b06e52a5acc5-62.html#unique-entry-id-62http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/20c237d9a4fdd7b456a8b06e52a5acc5-62.html#unique-entry-id-62Looking for an intern. If interested email me at info@murdercityphotography.com. You don't have to be a pro (obviously) but passion for photography, a willingness to listen and learn, and the ability to work long hard hours is paramount. Ability to have fun is a plus.
]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-06-01T15:08:07-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/251de89a55f582e021d6278334dcfaa3-61.html#unique-entry-id-61http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/251de89a55f582e021d6278334dcfaa3-61.html#unique-entry-id-61Friday 6/11 from 7pm to 9pm, I will be hosting the first Murder City Photography Mixer at the MCP office. This is a chance to hang out with other serious minded photographers and talk about anything and everything. Bring examples of your latest work, equipment, and questions to a relaxed atmosphere and have a great time. BYOB if you wish. Space is limited so only the first six people who respond by email to info@murdercityphotography.com, subject “Invite” will be able to attend this first mixer. I am Iooking forward to meeting you. Address details will be sent to those attending.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-28T16:37:06-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/627e176d77cd58f35f56632bd2e68660-60.html#unique-entry-id-60http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/627e176d77cd58f35f56632bd2e68660-60.html#unique-entry-id-60

“Mabel”, the Murder City Photography wonder car gets a bath courtesy of Mother Nature. I wonder if she can detail the inside as well?]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-27T22:44:10-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b12a82bf12247807aaa05406df54df7e-59.html#unique-entry-id-59http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b12a82bf12247807aaa05406df54df7e-59.html#unique-entry-id-59

A couple of nesting swans at Lake Eola in Orlando. By the way, the fountain is working again!]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-25T18:13:38-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f1268a828f9722d977ca76e137ecbdd5-58.html#unique-entry-id-58http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f1268a828f9722d977ca76e137ecbdd5-58.html#unique-entry-id-58

I am taking a few days off after Snap Orlando to rest and recoup. The show was very good but very long. I met hundreds of people and made many new friends, some from far away. Off course it is hard for me to just sit and do nothing so today I grabbed a camera and set out for Azalea Park in Winter Park. A very windy day, it was hard to get a clear shot at anything without movement. Here are a couple of things that caught my eye. The shot above, Nikon D3x, 200mm ISO 400, f2.8 at 2000/sec handheld.



Who says there isn’t poison ivy in Winter Park? Nikon D3x 70mm, ISO 400, f2.8 at 500/sec. handheld.



This female cardinal stopped for just a second to say “hi”. Nikon D3x, 200mm, f2.8, ISO 400, 2000/sec handheld.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-22T10:40:32-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/49d97ada844f2b8dd9d8322474f2be17-57.html#unique-entry-id-57http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/49d97ada844f2b8dd9d8322474f2be17-57.html#unique-entry-id-57

Snap Producer Patrick Kahn (left) , Norbert Duffort (Cultural Attache, French Consulate) and his wife viewing the Murder City Project at Snap Orlando. Snap kicked off yesterday in downtown Orlando. I am showing a special preview of the Murder City Project in the “Darkroom” gallery. I will be in my gallery from 12 noon to 11 pm today (Saturday) so please come on by and visit.



Howard and Barbara Gold with the first Murder City Project shoot.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-16T16:29:54-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/84d98edffc095b126ea0df07ac3f7645-56.html#unique-entry-id-56http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/84d98edffc095b126ea0df07ac3f7645-56.html#unique-entry-id-56

I finally finished the new office for Murder City Photography. More room and a new conference table along with a couple of new computers and external hard drives and finally a wireless all-in-one printer (Epson Artisan 810). I also upgraded to Photoshop CS5, Lightroom Beta 3.02 and added an Apple Airport Extreme router for better wireless performance.


]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-15T17:15:59-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/78094df38e9211b165222bdf3ae10585-55.html#unique-entry-id-55http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/78094df38e9211b165222bdf3ae10585-55.html#unique-entry-id-55

In spite of a horrible cold I managed to hang the preview editions of the first four Murder City Project shoots. I must say hanging heavy framed photographs by yourself on a ladder is no easy task. The trick is to get them all at the same height and level. Next, the lighting specialist will hang the spotlights and direct them onto each photograph. The room is large and the lights should provide just enough illumination to leave darkness between each photograph. The room will be lit by the spotlights only leaving the rest of the space in darkness.

Snap Orlando starts next Thursday at 7 p.m. with a gallery walk and continues through the weekend.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-11T21:22:25-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5c70f11ebd75d326483d104f6ea74fb9-54.html#unique-entry-id-54http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5c70f11ebd75d326483d104f6ea74fb9-54.html#unique-entry-id-54

The team from Performance Health, Inc. review video clips from today’s shoot. A long day shooting but all in all quite successful. Most of todays video work was put together on the fly. Luckily, multiple takes were few and we finished ahead of schedule.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-06T12:36:37-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/eddc538e156522e2dc9f01958faa8fb1-53.html#unique-entry-id-53http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/eddc538e156522e2dc9f01958faa8fb1-53.html#unique-entry-id-53

A few shots from a walk in Azalea Park yesterday. The birds, Great Egrets are nesting there and the young have hatched.



The trick is to catch these birds at rest, something they almost never do. Always feeding the young or working on the nest, they are always in motion.



You might be wondering if every shot comes out wonderful? I can assure you they do NOT.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-04T18:21:15-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/774cd8e122a1fe948441c0b3318aef26-52.html#unique-entry-id-52http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/774cd8e122a1fe948441c0b3318aef26-52.html#unique-entry-id-52

Brian Smith of Corners Custom Picture Framing, prepares frame segments for the Special Preview editions of the Murder City Project to be shown at “Snap Orlando”. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a good relationship with a custom framer. An excellent framer can provide great ideas to enhance your images and we all want our work to be seen in the best way possible. Timely delivery and fair pricing along with a great eye for design sets Brian apart from other framers. Brian is a seasoned professional and the only framer I trust my images with.



Brian called me in to sign my images before framing. These are one of a kind 16”x24” prints signed as s/p 1/1 (special preview 1 of 1) of the first four Murder City Project photos. They will be on display in the “Dark Room” at the Exchange Building during Snap Orlando. Dates of the show are 5/20-23.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-05-02T16:54:18-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ac7de96bdf5259678549b465574010f6-51.html#unique-entry-id-51http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ac7de96bdf5259678549b465574010f6-51.html#unique-entry-id-51

I decided to take a walk behind Park Avenue this morning and test a new Nikon D3x. I shot all images in RAW and FX size medium. The original files even at that reduced size came in around 28 Mbs on average. This camera truly can generate enormous files however, I find that FX Medium produces images of better quality than the D300 at full rez in RAW. You also get a boost in write speed with the smaller files.



Something to keep in mind when shooting tethered to a computer is the speed at which an image can be rendered. A full sized FX RAW will take a minute or two on a fully loaded MacBookPro. This can put a serious damper on the flow of a shoot not to mention the models and support staff. Shooting tethered to a Mac Pro tower with a bunch of RAM is certainly the answer but is only practical in a studio setting. I will keep you posted as I work through this issue.
]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-25T11:54:06-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2a00becaf1fada861d147b0f66550262-50.html#unique-entry-id-50http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2a00becaf1fada861d147b0f66550262-50.html#unique-entry-id-50

As promised here is Murder City Project image #4. Once again thanks to everyone who made this shoot and the project possible, especially Lido’s Italian Restaurant and Camera Concierge. I will be posting the time and location of the next shoot in a few days so check back.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-23T19:13:24-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d67f96e4398ba75c8c89c67d1f9fe52f-49.html#unique-entry-id-49http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d67f96e4398ba75c8c89c67d1f9fe52f-49.html#unique-entry-id-49

An after shoot portrait of the mob starting on the left with Ed Hasduk, Michael Moreschi, Darryl Smith (our killer), and Buster Silva (owner of Lido’s Italian Restaurant).



Members of various local camera clubs attended the shoot to learn about lighting and direction. Pictured above is Betty Feng, Kimberly Thompson and Zac Long. I’m the guy in red. Betty and Zac are the owners of Camera Concierge, a photography equipment rental company in Orlando. I am using a Nikon 14 - 24mm zoom provided by them and I could not have completed this shoot without it. Do yourself a favor and check them out.

Lido’s had a full house with some having to stand to watch. We started around 11:30 with makeup and set build. Shooting started soon after, lasting for about 45 minutes. All-in-all everything went smoothly the challenges being a chandelier in the way of overhead lighting and the close confines of shooting in a very tight corner. The Nikon 14-24 zoom handled the corner and the light was provided by a Nikon SB800 bounced of the white ceiling. I shot tethered to a MacBook Pro using Lightroom 3.0 beta.

Stay tuned for the posting of Murder City Project image #4.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-23T09:04:02-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/93deb9f3927d3057d7b2285b16656fae-48.html#unique-entry-id-48http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/93deb9f3927d3057d7b2285b16656fae-48.html#unique-entry-id-48

My black and white show, “Grayscale” opened last night at Corners in Winter Park. Brian Smith of Corners Custom Picture Framing hosted the event and catering was provided by Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant. Patrons had a chance to view some of my black and white images from around the world and enjoy the wonderful food and wines provided by Giovanni’s.






]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-21T11:37:54-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/c97962d73227d79deb082873fbffd245-47.html#unique-entry-id-47http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/c97962d73227d79deb082873fbffd245-47.html#unique-entry-id-47

Murder City Project shoot # 4 is scheduled for Friday, April 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lido’s Italian Restaurant, 2509 S. Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32806. Everyone is welcome to attend and have lunch while you’re at it.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-18T21:25:02-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/77be45e72dfbbf5f9801b6ca113e2c64-46.html#unique-entry-id-46http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/77be45e72dfbbf5f9801b6ca113e2c64-46.html#unique-entry-id-46

I shot Murder City Project #3 at the Daytona Beach Kennel Club and Poker Room today. Alison, my studio manager was in the shot so I enlisted John Kuchera to assist with lighting. Paula Costantini provided our makeup (models sporting the latest in bullet holes in their foreheads). The location, chips and security for the shoot was provided by Mark Hayes, Poker Operations Manager for the kennel club.

My next project shoot is scheduled for April 23, 11:30 a.m. at Lido’s Italian Restaurant in downtown Orlando.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-12T12:42:38-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/71064d95d624188b9aa4efb4fe247c0a-45.html#unique-entry-id-45http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/71064d95d624188b9aa4efb4fe247c0a-45.html#unique-entry-id-45

The results of Murder City Project shoot number two, “11 p.m.” was shot at the Jam Inn in Mt Dora, Florida. For a run down on the shoot see the next post. Our next project shoot is scheduled for Sunday, April 18th at the Daytona Beach Kennel Club. Everyone is welcome to attend and further details will be posted shortly.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-12T11:43:22-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/99217d995ab1ed68616980e9c57559ae-44.html#unique-entry-id-44http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/99217d995ab1ed68616980e9c57559ae-44.html#unique-entry-id-44Saturday night we shot scene number two of the Murder City Project at the Jam Inn in Mt Dora, Florida. My studio manager, Alison and I started setup at 7 p.m. and completed the shoot by 8:30 p.m. Lighting the set was pretty straight forward the trick being to add just enough light to highlight the killer but fall off rapidly and leave the bystanders barely visible in the background. I accomplished this with the main light provided by an AB800 at 1/2 power shooting into a silver umbrella folded down around the flash head to restrict the light to the killer. Additional light was provided by a Nikon SB800 at 1/8, domed and placed behind a scrim across the far end of the pool table. I fired the lights using Pocket Wizard Plus IIs. Camera was set to ISO 320, f10, 250/sec manual mode, RAW format. The camera was tethered to a MacBook Pro using Aperture 3.02.



Setting the murder weapon (a broken pool cue) over the head of the victim (Carolina Dave).



Reviewing images on our MacBook Pro workstation with members of the cast and the Mt Dora Police Department.



Detective Barb was on hand to speak about Crimeline and the Harley Davidson raffle.



Carolina Dave (victim) and Kato Rand (killer) after we wrapped the shoot.

Larry Cook graciously provided the use of the Jam Inn and arranged for a band, Valence Shell to perform after the shoot. The murder weapon (pool cue) was provided by Grant Twilley of The Pool Table Store in Winter Park. I answered questions about the shoot as it progressed and shared the results via the laptop with
the audience. I got the shot I wanted enjoyed some great music and had a wonderful time meeting the people of Mt Dora and members of the Orlando Digital Photography Group.

I wish to thank JR of JR Photography for providing the above images.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-06T10:40:29-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/09ddd01e772bdae0d3090725783332b3-43.html#unique-entry-id-43http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/09ddd01e772bdae0d3090725783332b3-43.html#unique-entry-id-43I need a dark colored Chrysler 300 ,model year 2008, 09, 10 or the same in a Dodge Charger. Vehicle must have no tint or very little tint in the rear window. I need this vehicle and driver for a shoot in the Murder City Project. If you can provide this vehicle you will receive a signed/mounted/matted copy of the photo from this shoot. Please respond by email to info@murdercityphotography.com.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-04-02T19:41:05-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/3e5440591d4c67419d8d1d8ec51a350b-42.html#unique-entry-id-42http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/3e5440591d4c67419d8d1d8ec51a350b-42.html#unique-entry-id-42The next Murder City Project shoot is scheduled for April 10 at 7 p.m.
Location, the Jam Inn, 21800 US Hwy 441, Mt Dora, Fl, 32757.
The owner is pretty excited about hosting the shoot and is hiring a band “Valence Shell” to play after the shoot so everyone can hang around and have a good time. Like the previous shoot, I will be talking about the lighting and setup used for the shoot. This will be a tethered shoot.
This is a commercial shoot by Murder City Photography. This shoot is part of a project called "The Murder City Project" a series of 24 murder scene shoots in and around Central Florida. Part of the proceeds from this shoot will go to Crimeline. This is not a group shoot but rather a chance to observe a commercial shoot and hear a running commentary about the setup and actual photography taking place. ]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-28T13:09:09-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/714cd54c700e8d586e1688770d82df4e-41.html#unique-entry-id-41http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/714cd54c700e8d586e1688770d82df4e-41.html#unique-entry-id-41

Last week Photoshop World was held at the Orlando Convention Center. Zack Arias, Joe McNally, Moose Peterson, Scott Kelby and many others made extraordinary presentations on all things Photoshop. The convention was attended by Photoshop users of all levels as well as amateur and professional photographers from all over the world. In addition to the workshops, classes and general hob-nobbing, many vendors made an appearance in the convention hall. One of them was Midwest Photo Exchange, well known to most if not all of the Strobist ilk. I too paid Midwest a visit and the three Pocket Wizard Plus IIs pictured above followed me home. Can I keep them Mom? I promise I will take good care of them, change their batteries, never attach them to a Canon and keep them dry. Fingers crossed.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-16T21:37:31-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2a258ec0bfbebb3832afcac64cea3140-40.html#unique-entry-id-40http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2a258ec0bfbebb3832afcac64cea3140-40.html#unique-entry-id-40

Murder City Project photograph “10 a.m.” This is the first of the series of 24 shoots. I am looking for people to be in the photographs as well as businesses willing to donate space for the shoots. I need a wide range of looks for the shoots so all can apply. If interested, send a recent photo of yourself with your name and contact number to info@murdercityphotography.com. Remember, a portion of the proceeds from this project goes to Crimeline, a very worthy organization from which all central Floridians benefit.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-14T10:23:18-04:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/da0e9de135995f69fdab3d438f9aa4be-39.html#unique-entry-id-39http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/da0e9de135995f69fdab3d438f9aa4be-39.html#unique-entry-id-39

Saturday we shoot “10 a.m.” First of the 24 Murder City Project shoots 10 a.m. was photographed at the La Dora Manor mobile home park in Tavares, Florida. After two days of steady drenching rain I was not sure what to expect from my chosen site, but was surprised to find it in perfect condition. The wind became a factor early on during the setup and required the lighting rigs to be held. I shot the scene tethered to a MacBook Pro using Aperture 3.0 software. It really makes a difference to be able to see large captures on site. Several members of the Orlando Digital Photography Group attended the shoot and I was able to answer their questions and give a step by step rundown of the shoot as it happened. Barb Bergin from Crimeline attended and answered questions about the Crimeline program.

With 23 additional shoots to complete this project, I am looking for local people and business owners who might like to be in a shoot or provide a location for a shoot. If interested, please contact me at info@murdercityphotography.com.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-12T21:35:04-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fcce70756ba5677a7486fb1fe1559eeb-38.html#unique-entry-id-38http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fcce70756ba5677a7486fb1fe1559eeb-38.html#unique-entry-id-38I will be shooting one of the series of 24 images for the Murder City Project, tomorrow at 9 a.m. Location - 14742 Tangelo Street in Tavares, Florida. Setup will commence at 8 a.m. and should take about an hour to complete. The shoot should last about an hour and I will be providing commentary on the project and the particulars of the shoot. I will also be available to answer questions. Please feel free to come and watch. A portion of the proceeds generated by the project will donated to Crimeline (800-423-8477).]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-09T16:10:31-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ce1e3d02ede75a7b69f95e553fef061a-37.html#unique-entry-id-37http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/ce1e3d02ede75a7b69f95e553fef061a-37.html#unique-entry-id-37



Here are a couple of out-takes from this mornings photo session with Marilyn. Marilyn is the President of the Annie Russell Theater Guild at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. We spent the morning shooting backstage, making use of the various lighting and other theater equipment as backdrops. Post processing was done with Aperture 3.0.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-03-04T07:40:25-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e55e8dff74d0201d99efccb19abecf38-36.html#unique-entry-id-36http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e55e8dff74d0201d99efccb19abecf38-36.html#unique-entry-id-36

My next show, “Grayscale” is opening April 22 at Corners Framing in Winter Park. Show times are from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This show features landscape and still life black and white photographs from around the world.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-26T22:04:27-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fa5f52d249007a856020cdfb8ff6f672-35.html#unique-entry-id-35http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/fa5f52d249007a856020cdfb8ff6f672-35.html#unique-entry-id-35

The image above is from the Magic Finals Game 5 against the L.A. Lakers. It was not one of my final selects at the time however, I find myself revisiting old shoots from time to time to see if I can find a new vision for them. Occasionally I come away with a little something extra that eluded me at the time. The Goodyear Blimp circled the Arena constantly during the pre-game and I took quite a few shots of it. Only one became a select (not this one) and was turned in with the others.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-24T18:38:53-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2e02485cb0825d109b2295ed58c5aa26-34.html#unique-entry-id-34http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2e02485cb0825d109b2295ed58c5aa26-34.html#unique-entry-id-34

Another shot from the raging inferno in the sugar cane fields.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-24T17:03:05-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/63b3ba5e2dbfb28f7f7d17df73632b08-32.html#unique-entry-id-32http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/63b3ba5e2dbfb28f7f7d17df73632b08-32.html#unique-entry-id-32

This is from a shoot I did in Clewiston, Florida this morning. It is customary to burn the sugar cane fields just hours before harvesting. This reduces the waste from leaves and simplifies the cutting process. The burning does not harm the crop that is harvested. It did harm me somewhat as I got a little too close. Between 3 and 12 feet during the entire shoot. Toasted my face and arms a bit. To put a scale to things, the stalks pictured here are between 8 and 10 feet tall. I shot this sequence at 18 mm

.

My guides this morning, Karl Larsen, sugar cane plantation owner and Roger from the United States Sugar Corporation.



Empty rail cars disappearing in the mist wait to be filled with harvested sugar cane.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-19T14:03:54-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/0c97beadc0c723feefa951a31ddca65e-30.html#unique-entry-id-30http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/0c97beadc0c723feefa951a31ddca65e-30.html#unique-entry-id-30

A shot from a D200 mounted high on a tripod. Wired to an AB800 aimed at a white shoot-thru umbrella pointed at an angle toward room center, it fired every 10 seconds for 5 hours. The show was a success, photographs were sold and everyone had a great time. Looking to put on another show featuring black and white photos in April.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-18T09:27:14-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/791ea2edb7e45c04ef9281bf98a57fbc-29.html#unique-entry-id-29http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/791ea2edb7e45c04ef9281bf98a57fbc-29.html#unique-entry-id-29

My show “A World of Color” opens tonight at Corners Picture Framing, 1909 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32792. The gallery will be open from 5 pm to 9 pm and refreshments will be served. The photographs are from locations around the world and reflect people, places and things. No cover, lots of fun, bring a friend.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-10T18:55:05-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/aecde6fdd10a4265068c88af0118f2ce-28.html#unique-entry-id-28http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/aecde6fdd10a4265068c88af0118f2ce-28.html#unique-entry-id-28The shots below are for my newest client Taylor Smith of Taylor’s Treasures in Winter Park. At nine years old Taylor is my youngest client but I have found her to be a delightful and competent business person. She paints smooth stones with her own designs and protects the designs with a clear varnish. Her work has some of the usual qualities of a young persons work but there is an edge to some of the designs.



For the above shot I wanted to emphasize the raw nature of the designs. The stone with the skull is matched nicely by the owl feather. I used a single SB800 shot through a white umbrella. I also used two white cards to reflect the light into the nest. I kicked up the contrast to help the mood.



For this shot I wanted to concentrate on the color of the stones. Same image as the above but I softened the edges and brightened the colors. The feel is very different from the first image but communicates the message of Taylor’s art well.

If you are interested in purchasing some of Taylor’s Treasures you can find her work at Corners Custom Picture Framing, 1909 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32792. Just a couple of doors down from Bank of America.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-09T20:10:07-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/131cf6f2fef625015c32cd7c345e48c8-27.html#unique-entry-id-27http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/131cf6f2fef625015c32cd7c345e48c8-27.html#unique-entry-id-27

Another shot from my black and white landscape series. These are the western edge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-06T17:59:19-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b6564b243645e4f94f52df657ffe6701-26.html#unique-entry-id-26http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b6564b243645e4f94f52df657ffe6701-26.html#unique-entry-id-26

Working on a series of black and white prints for another gallery show. My show “A World of Color” opens Feb. 18th from 6 pm to 8 pm at Corners in Winter Park, don’t miss it.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-05T10:01:32-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a8b10c773016416519343f213356b2f1-25.html#unique-entry-id-25http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a8b10c773016416519343f213356b2f1-25.html#unique-entry-id-25

Another shot from the North Carolina shoot. So quiet and cool there. It was hard to leave and come back to Orlando.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-04T17:24:15-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5df05a3920e1084527bcf06a783ea741-24.html#unique-entry-id-24http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5df05a3920e1084527bcf06a783ea741-24.html#unique-entry-id-24

It was looking kinda grey outside my office windows just now so I thought I would throw some color into the world. This shot is from a week long Murder City Photography shoot in the mountains of north Georgia and North Carolina.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-02-03T11:04:48-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/15482ba54c03f4ffd3f665d4f46bb04b-23.html#unique-entry-id-23http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/15482ba54c03f4ffd3f665d4f46bb04b-23.html#unique-entry-id-23

This is another shot from one of my escapes from the studio. Sometimes I just have to get the hell outta there. Grab a camera and hit the streets for awhile. Consider it therapy or just a change of scenery it always helps to put a fresh perspective on things.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-30T20:58:36-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8d6feb9903e3ed2a436edb1aa23e8972-22.html#unique-entry-id-22http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8d6feb9903e3ed2a436edb1aa23e8972-22.html#unique-entry-id-22

The original “Crying Buddha”. This is one of Murder City Photography’s best selling images. A drop of water fell onto his cheek as I was making the shot and I did not notice it until post processing. It has turned out to be an extraordinarily fortunate accident.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-30T19:17:29-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b05f0f68c3289eb2ecb283b53d127f8e-21.html#unique-entry-id-21http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/b05f0f68c3289eb2ecb283b53d127f8e-21.html#unique-entry-id-21

Not all of them make it. A fallen young egret.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-28T18:41:29-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a4bcf84ec2726570ef4345ad3e86e4e9-20.html#unique-entry-id-20http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a4bcf84ec2726570ef4345ad3e86e4e9-20.html#unique-entry-id-20

This shot is from an assignment for Cracker Barrel restaurants. A rugged landscape, tough to navigate but worth the effort. Part of a lifestyle shoot. This print is available for order. Visit the "Purchase Prints" selection.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-27T08:29:36-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/37c924f0ee16de8ccf98fe0775bd69fd-19.html#unique-entry-id-19http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/37c924f0ee16de8ccf98fe0775bd69fd-19.html#unique-entry-id-19

This is an outtake from the first shoot of 24 in the Murder City Project. Stay tuned for shoot dates and locations. Many people have asked if they can attend a shoot. Why not? It is both interesting and fun.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-26T20:40:27-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/6f3f82579816398d34ab300f846851bd-18.html#unique-entry-id-18http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/6f3f82579816398d34ab300f846851bd-18.html#unique-entry-id-18

This shot is from an assignment for Cracker Barrel restaurants. A rugged landscape, tough to navigate but worth the effort. Part of a lifestyle shoot.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-24T19:56:36-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8edb86b3c83e391f9c206d879389bc76-17.html#unique-entry-id-17http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/8edb86b3c83e391f9c206d879389bc76-17.html#unique-entry-id-17

A preview from my gallery opening, Feb 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Corners, 1909 Aloma Avenue, Suite A, Winter Park, FL 32792. This is first show by Murder City Photography since 2003. Call Brian Smith the gallery owner at 407.331.3726 for further details.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-22T18:32:09-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/99ea341864fd5937c9156f5299a749b1-16.html#unique-entry-id-16http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/99ea341864fd5937c9156f5299a749b1-16.html#unique-entry-id-16

I came across this bunch of leaves among the dead remains of plants frozen by Orlando's recent freeze. I am amazed how one small tree can survive when everything around it did not.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-22T18:29:14-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2724b1861cd5c08c745adc688574d1f6-15.html#unique-entry-id-15http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/2724b1861cd5c08c745adc688574d1f6-15.html#unique-entry-id-15

New camera features: Manual focus, guess on exposure, optical viewfinder, high quality lens (well, not actually "high" quality), 0 megapixel, no batteries needed. Light weight even if the lens does fall out of the body occasionally. And by the way film is no longer made for this sweet piece of technology. It is however, "Made in America".]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-22T18:22:35-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/acc0987b70399e756b5f8cc44959d383-14.html#unique-entry-id-14http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/acc0987b70399e756b5f8cc44959d383-14.html#unique-entry-id-14

Early morning on a farm road out in the corn fields of Indiana. This is from a story I shot on the Amish community near Ft. Wayne, Indiana.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-22T18:18:09-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/897ff1e5e2ce247063598c2cbb3cce04-13.html#unique-entry-id-13http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/897ff1e5e2ce247063598c2cbb3cce04-13.html#unique-entry-id-13

I had to stand on the very top of a ladder to photograph the tops of this corn field. The stalks were 10 feet tall and still growing.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-15T21:20:21-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f513e14520c72b0ba06f03579d37bc35-12.html#unique-entry-id-12http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f513e14520c72b0ba06f03579d37bc35-12.html#unique-entry-id-12

Flight. Freedom from the bonds of earth. How wonderful.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comNone2010-01-14T08:45:27-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/7ebfdb0ba58f31ad57f3c854bc542a2d-11.html#unique-entry-id-11http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/7ebfdb0ba58f31ad57f3c854bc542a2d-11.html#unique-entry-id-11

Hindu gods from the jungles of India.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-11T18:34:27-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/790823360969a871854c5b4450080f29-9.html#unique-entry-id-9http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/790823360969a871854c5b4450080f29-9.html#unique-entry-id-9

A close up of the Murder City Photography staff car. Images like this are available for licensing from our stock collection or contact us for assignment work. Let Murder City Photography provide you with the “Killer Images” your business needs.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-10T14:30:48-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/19aefc4ad3b24ea13cf345900ef8ca08-8.html#unique-entry-id-8http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/19aefc4ad3b24ea13cf345900ef8ca08-8.html#unique-entry-id-8

Taking the lead from photographer Chase Jarvis, I have put together a portable digital workstation. At Murder City Photography, we use this station for on-site shoots and can get instant pre-approval from our clients saving time and reshoots. Our workstation includes a Pelican 1490 hard case with a foam interior. We went with foam because of superior shock protection it gives over the fitted laptop insert. We use a 15" MacBook Pro (4Gb RAM, 320Gb Hard Drive) as our workstation and loaded it with Literoom 3 beta as a front end to Photoshop CS4, Photo Mechanic, Nikon View, and the entire NIK suite of programs. We shoot tethered to the workstation using Sofortbild.



To the left of the laptop we store a surge protector. Under the laptop we store a 250Gb LaCie shock mounted hard drive. It connects to the laptop via Firewire 800 cable. The foam is notched on the side so the cable can connect to the laptop and everything stays in the case. The hard drive is attached to the case by velcro. The other bay is where the power supply is stored or sometimes an additional 250Gb hard drive.



In the top pockets are stored blank DVDs for instant deliveries, cables for drives etc., and a Wacom "Bamboo" graphics tablet with mouse. I personally would rather use the mouse than the onboard laptop track pad. The top right pocket holds a card reader and pens, pencils, etc.

This system has proved invaluable to our operation. The ability to provide real time previews to clients during a shoot is both reassuring to client and ourselves. We know we have the results we want before we leave the shoot and many times we are able to deliver the finished product to the client by the time we are packed and ready to leave. A great savings on time and delivery expense.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-10T14:27:48-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f09c9f916851b428699a07597e6e4360-7.html#unique-entry-id-7http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f09c9f916851b428699a07597e6e4360-7.html#unique-entry-id-7

At Murder City Photography we deliver images/video to clients in a number of ways. For a small number of images we either FTP them to the client's location or send them on DVD. For larger projects the preferred method is by hard drive. Pictured here are two 250Gb drives from Western Digital. Very small USB 2.0 drives, they work with Macs and PCs.

Most of our clients request two drives with all images/videos on both for a working and backup copy.

We also provide off-site storage for client work at an additional fee. This is inexpensive insurance against data loss resulting in a costly reshoot.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-04T11:14:27-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f5c1ce01a7bcaece42f18a6027637ddf-6.html#unique-entry-id-6http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f5c1ce01a7bcaece42f18a6027637ddf-6.html#unique-entry-id-6

The U.S.S. Constellation at berth in Baltimore, Maryland.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-03T09:06:38-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5717702cc59f95ed1e2a4ad0e3cc8eb0-5.html#unique-entry-id-5http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5717702cc59f95ed1e2a4ad0e3cc8eb0-5.html#unique-entry-id-5

The window of a construction trailer. Notice the old “Bush ’04” campaign sticker in the window.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-02T08:39:11-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e8c2a02b48789794640c92cb4511c26d-4.html#unique-entry-id-4http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/e8c2a02b48789794640c92cb4511c26d-4.html#unique-entry-id-4

One of the more “iconic” scenes native to Florida, this image was made with a Nikon P5000 point and shoot. The native format of the image sensor is different from the normal 2x3 of a Nikon dslr and thus the results above.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2010-01-01T09:05:14-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d964d6c5f14aa3e480b3731e42a994a8-3.html#unique-entry-id-3http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/d964d6c5f14aa3e480b3731e42a994a8-3.html#unique-entry-id-3

The corner of Park Avenue and Canton at 6:30 a.m. today. Had an early meeting with a good friend of mine and shot this before going into Panera’s. Going to try and post a photo a day on the Murder City Photography, blog (The Photographer’s Notebook). I shot this with my Android 2 Google phone and processed with Literoom 3 Beta.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2009-12-27T13:43:45-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f22c75e3becd19b4faf63934e71c4aec-2.html#unique-entry-id-2http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/f22c75e3becd19b4faf63934e71c4aec-2.html#unique-entry-id-2

This is one of a series of images of well known locations throughout the city of Orlando, Florida, home of Murder City Photography.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2009-12-27T11:45:58-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5d7700a7d4342ec45ae3d407486afeab-1.html#unique-entry-id-1http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/5d7700a7d4342ec45ae3d407486afeab-1.html#unique-entry-id-1

Without a doubt the Murder City Photography staff car is the baddest ride in town.]]>info@murdercityphotography.comPhotographer's Notebook2009-12-27T11:39:15-05:00http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a96991e1051583cc60614235fad72f15-0.html#unique-entry-id-0http://murdercityphotography.com/photographersnotebook/files/a96991e1051583cc60614235fad72f15-0.html#unique-entry-id-0

Typically I shoot with Nikon professional cameras. The Nikons have performed well for me for over 36 years and I would not trade them for anything. That said, sometimes it is nice to just leave it all behind and travel light. That could mean packing a point and shoot (I have a Nikon P5000) or going ultra-light ie: camera phone. These shots were made with a G2 phone from T-Mobile (Android 2.1).

Sure, post processing was involved, but these are examples of vision over equipment.



I can't count how many times I am asked about the equipment I use and while I will acknowledge good equipment gives me a certain amount of flexibility, it cannot make up for a lack of vision.



I believe many people rely on equipment to provide them with professional images. Sadly without vision, it is just another boring photograph.

I think everyone should leave the heavy metal at home and go for a walk. Anywhere will do. Just go and carry the least capable camera you have at your disposal. Open your eyes and view the world through that little camera. Many times you will experience the most using the least. And it is fun. Go! Do it now and email me your results.

info@murdercityphotography.com
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