SmarterPics

Photographing the Aurora?

We were blessed recently with a good solar storm that gave NORTHERN Michigan a good light show. Rumors are there are more coming that will be visible in the Mid Michigan areas. So GET READY!

To photograph the aurora borealis, a light meter is useless. Set your digital camera to manual mode and adjust shutter speeds to 3-30 seconds. YES, it takes experimentation. Mount it on a tripod. Use a wide-angle lens.

You of course want the smallest F-Stop to allow the most light. A really high ISO isn't needed. Try 1600-6400

Auto focus is useless. Manual focus is necessary. Try focusing on a tree or some other far away object.

And then take a LOT of photos!! Remember that the camera is going to see considerably more than your human eyes.

I have a gallery showing of my photos currently at the MICA Gallery in Old Town. Stop by if you are in the area! Tues-Sat 12-6

Thanks to my personal portrait photographer, Gigi Morton, I have a new headshot.

Gordon 5 years ago. How time FLIES!

With the magic of AI and PhotoShop, I can replace whatever background I use and replace it with almost anything you can imagine. Here is an example of a couple of performers.They really liked it!

Had the pleasure of spending the weekend in Chicago. The architecture is always so mind blowing! These photos were taken on a river cruise.

Black Squirrels are on of the natural treats here. They are not real common and are very hard to photograph. This guy was sitting just outside my window as I was working at my desk. What a TREAT!

What's interesting is their tails. Much less bushy and seem longer than the others. And brown!

On Saturday I had the pleasure of volunteering with the Salvation Army to photograph refugee families. It was a real experience creating photos of these beautiful families that had made it here from around the globe. Myanmar, Congo, Venezuela, Afghanistan to name a few.

The only real challenge was trying to engage with young children who spoke no English or adults that didn't understand posing directions. Got my non-verbal skills polished up. Fortunately they understand me favorite trick. Trying to get my stuffed dog Ralph to balance on my head.

I wish I could post a few of these beautiful photos but I was asked not to. Have to respect their privacy and security.

My good friend Gigi Morton is selling a Mark IV Canon system. Very complete system including a 24-105 4L. Take a look if you or someone you know wants to get going with some very solid gear.

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Had a little compositing fun with Beaut's acrobatics! Looks like she fumbled this ball. Kirby watches on attentively. He got the ball!