slinkygenius

10 Day Photography Adventure in South America!

2012-01-23T22:31:00.000-08:00

If you want to read the whole skinny and watch the video be sure to check out the latest post on my trip to Colombia Photography Trip. In the meantime enjoy some of these photos taken the past few days: Jardin, Valparaiso, Supia and Manizales.

Gearing up for 2012

2011-12-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

Self-portrait - Playing with Hard Light

2011-11-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

I completely destroyed my bedroom while working on some lighting ideas. I wound up doing a self-portrait. I used my ML-L3 remote for the first time. Serious look, red scarf and two light set up. More to come...

mixing, moving, shaping, playing with light

2011-11-12T06:13:00.000-08:00

I have started playing with a very affective light set up that gives me tons of flexibility. It's rather simple; I point two lights towards each other and then shove the model directly in between. I can then move the model in and out of the two lights while shooting from all different directions. I don't have to move the lights...I move and I move the subject until I find the shot.

Crazy shoot yesterday. Almost started a riot in the hood, parrots showed up out of no where, 4 cop cars blocked the street while I shot. When I asked my model, Laura E., what kind of music she wanted to hear she said, "Metal."

New York City - Architecture

2011-11-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

I was walking around Sunday in New York City after a long week of teaching a workshop and giving a presentation at B&H Photo. I decided to do some shooting for myself and ventured into the lower east side. I became fascinated by rooftops and this is my vision. Simple set up: 24mm lens and a ND filter to produce some vignetting. A little messing around with color kept me inspired in post.

St. Louis Cemetery in New Orleans - Voodoo!

2011-10-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

New Orleans has always been one of my favorite cities to visit. From the smells of debauchery on Bourbon Street, the sounds of the origin of jazz, the aroma of French creole cooking and the vibe of back porch voodoo, New Orleans has a special place in my heart.

I'm in New Orleans hanging out with a group of photographers this weekend. We are about to set out on a photo adventure that captures the essence of New Orleans. I managed to get some shoot time before everyone else arrived and soak up some of the vibes. I walked around one of the above ground cemeteries shooting with my Lensbaby fisheye and a ND and noticed some voodoo being practiced in the cemetery. Check out the last shot of this series.

Jenna Z

2011-10-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

I had a great time shooting with the Backpacker Studio in Cocoa Beach. I've decided to get back to my roots of traveling light and having fun. Less gear, more communication, experience the adventure and search for the Holy Grail of shots.

2011-10-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

I found an old mobile home park in Clearwater that I like. It has a weird vibe to it, I felt like I was stuck in the 1950's with a bunch of old people staring at me. But, the pics are kind of cool. Amber and I went for a retro vibe. I used a beauty dish, octabox, bare bulb, softbox, ND filter, 50mm 1.4 and broke my Westcott.

No assistant today. Windy as hell, semi-hot, full sunny conditions and strange location. You can feel it in the pics. But, I like the strangeness of these images.

Rare Ninja

2011-09-04T05:07:00.000-07:00

My video experience started out with a Canon Powershot 750 point and shoot style camera. I made almost 100 videos with that little camera, mostly for lightenupandshoot.com with not much creativity in the actual video. Recently I upgraded my video quality to a Nikon D7000. Most of the time I shoot video clips of travel, photography tutorials and B-Role (like a street sign or landmark that helps tell the story of where you are). Now that I have upgraded to the D7000, I can use all of my Nikon lenses to shoot video (wide, telephoto, fisheye, or strange Lensbaby effects) which helps in the creativity department.

On Friday I went to the beach with my friend, Caroline, to take a few pictures. I was using the D7000 because I had been shooting Lightenupandshoot video earlier that day. I decided to shoot some B-Role of the set-up so I could make a short tutorial on how to use a beauty dish and to show off my new minivagabond. I liked the little 2 second clips of Caroline so much I threw together a quick video. This video has me thinking how I could have really done something cool if I had thought about it. More B-Role to show the environment and put together a storyline. Video is becoming an important part of what we do as photographers. Audio is the one part of video that really frustrates me, so shooting lots of little clips to tell a story is something I want to experiment with more in the future. Enough of my rambling, here is Caroline playing around on the beach (shot with a 50mm at an aperture of 1.4; ND filter to adjust exposure)

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

While Hurricane Irene was heading up the East Coast I took advantage of the wind with some cool shots on the beaches of Southwest Florida. Chris Grosser and I met our model Rachel at the Don Cesar on St. Petersburg Beach at 8:00am for a short photo session. At first it looked as though it was going to poor rain but the heavens provided some beautiful light poking through the clouds when we first arrived. At the end of the shoot we broke out the Octabank and some powerful lights to get a few dramatic shots before calling it quits. We had strong winds that almost blew away our gear, but the shots came out great. Enjoy! Mikey

New York City Workshop July 16-17th

2011-07-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

I am totally excited to be doing some shooting and conducting a workshop in one of my favorite cities...NEW YORK!!! July 16-17th Check out the video and link below for details! ~Mikey

http://lightenupandshootnewyorkcity.eventbrite.com/

London Shoot

2011-06-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

While teaching a Lightenupandshoot workshop in London I met two sisters that became models for Matt and Stephane (attending the workshop). Photography has a funny way of leading you down the path of the unknown; during a conversation with one of the girls she asked if I could take photos for her new fashion line. Come to find out she is a designer and needed some pics. She organized an entire production for an editorial and we all made it happen. Artperience Collective helped with the production and video as well...it was a great collaboration and some of the photos came out great. Big thanks to Jarek Jarosz for shooting the video you see here and we are working on a video tutorial of the entire production/shoot.

YYZ, NYC and LON in less than a week

2011-06-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

I have been slammed! Shot with Derek Shapton of Westside Studios in Toronto before the workshop last week. 2 Days of shooting with the awesome people of Toronto; booked it down to New York to do a presentation at B&H Photo before a shoot together; and finishing up the weekend by doing a workshop in London. DIGGING EVERY MINUTE!!!! MISS JOHANNA.

Hong Kong session

2011-06-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

I did some shots of a model that was updating her portfolio. These are some of the artsy shots when I was experimenting with light and a little messing around in post.

jardin, colombia

2011-05-29T22:46:00.000-07:00

I have been experimenting with shooting video and using the Manfrotto monopod for video. The first time I have used the monopod for video and after reviewing the results I can see I need a lot more time. I basically just started shooting and really didn't think too much about the process because I was having a good time hanging out with Johanna. If you have some video tips, let me know.

Behind the Scenes Video in Singapore

2011-05-18T07:47:00.001-07:00

singapore shoot

2011-05-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

I had a shoot today in Singapore. 5 models and a gazillion outfits...totally tired after shooting all day. The 5 start hotel where we shot was not too keen on us shooting and told us no lights. I would quickly set up a lighting scenario and fire off about 5 shots before hauling ass to the next model and location.

Lamma Island

2011-05-09T18:49:00.000-07:00

...more on my adventures of Lamma Island later. But, I wanted to share some images taken and edited on an iPhone.

Hong Kong Portrait Session

2011-05-04T01:52:00.001-07:00

I had an awesome portrait session in Sai Kung which is an hour outside of Hong Kong. We rented a junk boat and went to one of the islands for a gorgeous shoot before sunset. Here are some of my favorite shots from the shoot...

Lightenupandshoot Hong Kong - Asia Tour

2011-04-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong is a kick ass city. I have a workshop this weekend and working with an agency to get some paid fashion assignments while I'm here. Here are some jet lag images:

An interview with Lightenupandshoot on The Candid Frame

2011-04-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Andy and I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Ibarionex Perello of The Candid Frame. The Candid Frame is an interview show of photographers and their photography. If you want a behind the scenes peek into the world of Lightenupandshoot then I think you will enjoy this interview. Not only do we discuss the Lightenupandshoot philosophy but we also discuss our personal perspectives as to why we shoot the way we do. Check out interview #112 here

Kunas

2011-03-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

I went to the border of Colombia and Panama on the Atlantic side to spend time with my girlfriend and take photos. I decided to visit a tribe that rarely has contact with tourist because of it's remote location in the Darien Gap. I will write more soon...but, I wanted to share some of the photos.

Displaced Families in Colombia

2011-03-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

It's a humbling experience to see people that have been displaced from their homes. I went into the mountains above Medellin, Colombia to visit a school that is for displaced kids due to the Colombian civil war. My heart was nearly broken when I heard that there isn't enough money to feed all the kids. Many of the kids don't have food to eat at home and often go hungry. The school was filled with laughter and smiles as I walked around taking photos and teaching the kids English. Check out Angelesdemedellin.com if you would like to read more about a program that Marcos created to help the kids of El Pinar, Colombia.

This is what a lot of the homes look like. They are made from whatever people can find.

This young girl turned 15 today. I asked her if she had plans for her birthday and she said, "no."

A group of kids heading up to class. Marcos "The Father of the Mountains" is holding an umbrella.

I get several girls to pose for me.

Some of the kids get an apple and a cookie each day. For some, this is all they will eat in a day.

A shot of some of the older kids in a classroom. Some of the older kids don't like having their photo taken.

work and play

2011-03-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

I took a few portraits over the weekend in South America while spending time with friends and working on a visual art project.

How to find a Location, Wardrobe and Model in 1 Hour

2011-03-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

Andy and I hit the streets in search of a model, location and stylist in one hour. Check out what happens in this video!

Las Vegas - Leave Your Comfort Zone!

2011-02-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

So we decided to end up in Las Vegas for the WPPI show! We had originally decided that we wouldn't go because after all... WE AREN'T WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS! But, Casie Shimansky from Rebel Belle Photography, Ron Henry from BlackRapid and Amber from Westcott where all going to be there, so why not take advantage of the situation and meet up with some cool people! And after all, it was Las Vegas, I'm sure we could find something to do if the show sucked!

Luckily the show was pretty cool, I wouldn't say it's the most amazing show I've ever been too, but it definitely has it's place! We ran into a whole bunch of lightenupandshooters and because of that we decided to have a photoshootogether and hit the Las Vegas Strip to do some shooting! We twittered, facebooked and yelled to get the word out! Ron said he would be glad to give BlackRapid straps away, so that brought even more people!

It was an awesome time shooting around the strip in total lightenupandshoot style! We approached strangers, found cool locations and realized one very big thing - EVERYONE THAT COMES TO LAS VEGAS STAYS ON THAT STRIP!
So in total lightenupandshoot style, we had a great idea for a video called - LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE!

To us, photography is adventure. We love leaving the studio not knowing where we are going to end up. To us, this is leaving the comfort zone. When we ended up in Las Vegas shooting on the strip, we realized that
2011-02-22 WPPI Lighten Up and Shoot 039 copy_1

everyone that comes to Vegas stays on the strip. After all where else will you be able to get a buffet dinner 24 hours a day while playing blackjack and having Elvis serenade you into breakfast time. My point is that everyone that comes to Las Vegas...well comes to Las Vegas!

We wanted to explore, we've done the strip, we've lost at blackjack, we saw the show...now what? Well, we leave our comfort zone, that's what!

We had talked to some locals and instead of asking what was cool in the city to shoot, we asked what was outside of the city! We probably asked 20 people and they all said the normal things like the Grand Canyon and so on...until we ran into Mark! Mark was a photographer and he told us of this place called Nelson.

Nelson, Nevada is a photographers paradise! It's only about 20 minutes outside of the city and the town is home to 40 people! YES I SAID 40 PEOPLE!

Holy crapola, we're totally there!

2011-02-22 WPPI Lighten Up and Shoot 037 copy_1

We recruited:

Casie Shimansky from Rebel Belle Photography

Hardy WIlson from Hardywilson.com

Dennis Viera from Viera Photographics

and Mikey and I!

We all piled into a rental car ($50.00 for a day rental is about 2 hands at a blackjack table, just think about that when you come to Vegas) and Nelson bound we went! We stopped and picked up some sandwiches and water and headed to the dessert!

Let me just tell you how amazing that day was, if we never left our Las Vegas Strip Comfort Zone we would never have experienced it. We ended up at a place called EL DORADO MINE TOURS, which is run by Tony Werly ( http://www.eldoradocanyonminetours.com ) . This pleace is amazing, it's an abandoned Gold Mine that Tony mantains with tours and canoe and kayak rentals. For you photographers out there with commercial work, he also rents the place out by the day. I'm telling you the mix of rust, sand and all those faded colors are something that is so hard to find it's ridiculous. Definitely put this in your little black book! He has it full of rusted old stuff, even an airplane tail that is sticking out of the ground!

In any case, the point of this entire post is that many times we miss amazing opportunites because we never leave our comfort zone! If we would have done the usual Las Vegas trip we would never have ended up anywhere else than the STRIP! We would have missed the pleasure of meeting Tony and shooting in one of the coolest places we have ever shot!

So this brings us to YOU! We want YOU to leave your comfort zone and show us the results. You can either post your pictures in the comments section or our forum! We want to see how you leave your comfort zone and get some great images out of it! We are going to choose someone after a few weeks and do a story on them. So make sure you get out and LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE!

Now we are not saying, go break any laws (unless the photo is worth it), just get out there and do something that is not your usual. Whether it's talking to strangers, changing your regular route or simply changing your photographic style. Whatever it is we want to see and hear about it. We want you out shooting!

Like always, if you have any questions, just leave a comment!

Photo District News - Article on Michael Thompson and Lightenupandshoot

2011-01-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

The February 2011 issue of Photo District News features an article on the Lightenupandshoot style of photography and how the BlackRapid strap is such an important piece of gear for street style photography. The piece also mentions a photo shoot done with an athlete in the extreme sport of Parkour. Check out the article in this month's PDN Magazine. A huge thanks to the BlackRapid team for their support and Photo District News for being so kind. Photography: Michael Thompson

How to find a model in 5 words or less?

2011-01-18T05:51:00.001-08:00

A classic video from Mikey and Andy:

some recents

2011-01-16T19:44:00.000-08:00

first post in 2011

2011-01-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

I haven't really shot anything since the Blackrapid shoot in LA. A girl from one of the barrios asked me if I would take her photo, so I said yes. Not really excited about doing a freebie I waited until the last minute to get my ass in gear for the shoot. While rifling through my camera bag I realized I couldn't find half the crap needed to put together a simple light rig. So, I slithered out the door unshaven and stinky with simply a reflector tucked under my arms. Whatever.

Navidad en Colombia ~ Short Film made in Envigado, Colombia

2010-12-18T06:52:00.000-08:00

The sweet sounds, lights and smells during Christmas in Colombia.

Help Portrait Lightenupandshoot Style - Influenced by Jeremy Cowart

2010-12-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

Tis the season to give back and help portrait is all about giving back! For those that don't know, Help Portrait is an amazing project created by Jeremy Cowart. The concept is simple - Find a person in need - take their photo - print it - and deliver! Sounds simple, but us tell you, it's UNBELIEVABLE!

We as professional photographers take photos for granted sometimes but there are thousands and probably millions of people who have never had a photograph taken, let alone a professional one! So this holiday season, GET OUT, GET INVOLVED AND GIVE BACK!

Check your area for HELP PORTRAIT events going on and get over there!

Lightenupandshoot is committed to this program that will be held every year! This video is all about Help Portrait Lightenupandshoot style in Medellin Colombia! With a simple setups - Nikon Camera, 50mm lens and Scrim and Reflector, Mikey set out to shoot, print and deliver photographs to the people of EL CENTRO (downtown) Medellin Colombia!

Keep in mind, you don't need thousands and thousands of dollars in photography gear to make someone smile...all you need is the spirit of the Holidays and a camera!

More pics after the break!!!!!

Live, Die and Shoot in LA ~ BlackRapid

2010-12-06T05:57:00.000-08:00

Exactly one week ago I got a call from Ron Henry, founder of BlackRapid, about joining him on a photo mission in LA. I had just finished posting a video and photos from my parkour photo session with Paul Andrews when I got the call, "Hey Mike, I just saw your video and pictures...amazing work. How would you like to shoot with me in LA on Tuesday?" I said, "Are you kidding me? I'm there!" Ron had a vision of finding and shooting normal people walking around the streets of LA; the Lightenupandshoot style was a perfect match. Not knowing who you are going to meet or what is going to happen can sometimes be risky business when you need to grab amazing images for a marketing campaign. But, I think our adventure of hitting the streets and beaches of LA paid gold. Armed with a Profoto light, speed lights, reflector, softbox and a slew of lenses we managed to grab a boat load of cool images for some new products put out by BlackRapid. Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, Manhattan Beach, Sunset Drive and the back streets of West Hollywood was our playground...

Shooting Parkour

2010-11-25T04:13:00.000-08:00

Over the past couple of weeks I have had the chance to shoot my friend, Paolo, who an in athlete in Parkour. Parkour means to move quickly and efficiently as possible through an urban setting. Parkour has also been described to me as the art of escape; think of a wild animal being chased and how quickly they move over objects to get away.

Shooting an athlete flying through the air is a lot tougher than you might think. Light, physical form, environment, mood, which lens, and limited time are racing through my mind when I shoot Parkour. Some of the Parkour moves are so extreme that they can only be performed once or twice by the athlete, so you betting get it right with one shot! It helps to know the exact move being performed, where the athlete will be while flying through the air and the exact position of the body for the shot. Basically, I collaborate with the athlete to create the final image.

more after the jump!

New Video!!!! Return to Colombia (part 3) - Lightenupandshoot.com

2010-11-08T07:06:00.000-08:00

I'm gettting back into photography and working on producing some amazing images. Being on the road for 8 weeks kind of takes the mojo out of you. So, I'm relaxed and ready to shoot! Enjoy the video...some cool photos from this shoot.

Gear:
50mm 1.4
105mm 2.0
12-14mm 4.0
SaberStrips
Alien Bees
D700

Shoot with Paolo and Johanna - SaberStrips (Johanna)

2010-11-06T19:03:00.000-07:00

A bunch of people have been asking me about the new SaberStrips. So, the shot of Johanna was taken with SaberStrips. The ones of Paolo were taken with an Alien Bees. I should have the video up shortly.

Lightenupandshoot and Blackrapid Workshop

2010-11-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

I love giving little gold nuggets of information on how to take a better photo. What I love even more is helping people overcoming the fear of rejection when approaching people for the first time for a picture. The lightenupandshoot workshop is more than a bunch of geeky technical information; it's more a hands on approach on how to work with models and how to nail a beautiful image. In every photo there is a little piece of the photographer to help tell a story. I get a great deal of satisfaction when I can get people over the next hurdle. Here's a little piece that BlackRapid put together during a workshop we did in Seattle:

Return to Colombia (part 2)

2010-11-03T05:35:00.001-07:00

Johanna and I headed north of Medellin to a little town called San Pedro de Los Milagros for some street photography. This is sort of a behind the scenes look at what I like to do for fun on the weekends...

Return to Colombia (part 1)

2010-11-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Medellin yesterday afternoon and thought it would be fun to do some shooting in a little pueblo about 45 minutes away. Watch part one of my series of what happens when I head out to do some street style photography...I have no idea what's going to happen. I don't wait for inspiration; I get out and make things happen. I love the opportunity of personal expression through photos. Then I get the satisfaction of getting the pics out into the world with social media. Not to mention creating a video to set up what happened.

Gear:
One lens (50mm), BlackRapid Strap, Full Frame Camera, Saberstrip Light Modifier, Cybersync Triggers and a speedlight

8 Weeks of Travel with Lightenupandshoot.com

2010-10-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

I finished up an 8 week tour around the world teaching photography for lightenupandshoot.com and working on a personally photography project. I wanted to share a glimpse into my adventure that brought me to Germany, Ireland and the west coast of the US. I'm jumping on a plane to Medellin, Colombia today...heading back home to prepare for my next travel adventure which I will announce soon.

Faces

2010-10-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

The heart of inspiration for my photography comes from the people I meet and the places I travel. While in search of something I have never seen before or someone incredibly interesting I look for light. I am a natural light shooter most of the time, so I look for pockets of unusual light. I'm often searching for reflections off of glass buildings in an urban city or giant white walls that are being beamed with light from the sun become beautiful light sources. The environment becomes my studio and not knowing what quality of light I will find in a new location keeps me interested in the photography process. I'm constantly discovering the new and the unusual. Sometimes I scout out the light source and then the subject; other times I find someone interesting and then quickly find a light source. It's often the luck of the draw. When I'm not inspired by the natural light I recreate my own light with speedlights. Click "Read More" at the bottom to view more pictures.

More faces after the jump:

Leaving Photokina and Heading to Dublin

2010-09-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

Andy and I had an awesome time at Photokina. We got to shoot with Hassleblad Master, Joao Carlos. A few Lightenupandshooters met us for the shoot. We had an opportunity to play with a bunch of new gear and meet some amazing people. Great contacts and hopefully some new relationships will come out of all this. Now we are off to Dublin for a workshop. Photos from Germany (mix of a new light that has not hit the market and the iPhone)

Westcott Top Pro Workshop was a success

2010-09-19T21:53:00.000-07:00

We had over 70 people show up to our workshop sponsored by Westcott on Saturday. What a great turn out with a amazing models that we invited and there happened to be a rock-a-billy show about a block away at the State Theatre. So, there were lots of rock-a-billies hanging out next to their 1930-60's cars parked along Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg. The rockabillies are true characters to say the least and everyone just ate it up (even the rockabillies)!!! Next, we are off to Cologne, Germany and then Dublin, Ireland...taking the show on the road. -Mikey

Lightenupandshoot DAY with Westcott TOP PRO TOUR!!!!

2010-09-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

Lightenupandshoot is kicking off the Westcott Top Pro Tour this Saturday, September 18th at the Morean Arts Center in downtown St. Petersburg at 1:00PM. We have space for 70 people and about 40 have already signed up!!! More info at the bottom:

We will be covering lighting with minimal gear (speedlights), how to find models, how to direct your subject, composition, how to find a location anywhere and it's going to be inspiring! Bring your Backpacker's Studio (one light, stand, modifier, one lens and camera). We will be shooting around downtown and it's best to travel light so you can focus on your photos and not a bunch of gear. You can sign up for the event here: Sign Up for Lightenupandshoot DAY! Morean Arts Center which is located at 719 Central Ave in downtown St. Petersburg: Google Maps Morean Arts Center

Slinky releases his new V-Book with Lightenupandshoot!

2010-09-01T23:08:00.000-07:00

The V-Book is out and it's amazing! Over an hour of video teaching photography, tons of images, total Lightenupandshoot style and filled with gobs of information. You can watch the new preview video and then go to Lightenupandshoot.com to purchase now for under $10. On September 18th the price will go up so be sure to purchase a copy now to help support the Lightenupandshoot Project. Also, if you aren't 100% happy with the V-Book we will refund your money. How can you lose? Enjoy the new V-Book!!!!!

Slinky Shoots Sexy Undies with Famous Colombian Model

2010-08-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

I did a shoot and assisted in production for Santa Paloma (fancy sexy undies) with famous Colombian model, Angela. I used both natural light and studio lights when taking the photos. Enjoy!!!

Michael Thompson Kicks off Westcott Tour Sept. 18th in Tampa

2010-08-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

I was recently nominated as a Top Pro for Westcott Lighting Company. I am kicking off the Westcott Lighting Tour on September 18th in Tampa, Florida sign up here. Amber from Westcott found me through my online-photography project called Lightenupandshoot. I started Lightenupandshoot with my good friend Andy Strachsky last November after we made a series of funny videos telling our story as photographers living in Medellin, Colombia. The website immediately gained a lot of attention throughout the photography community because of our unique teaching style and crazy sense for adventure photography. After Andy and I kick off the Westcott tour, we are planning a series of workshops of our own. You can check out lightenupandshoot.com for more details and a video showing behind the scenes footage of our workshops. I hope to see everyone there because it's going to be a blast!!!!!

The President of Pentax Loves Lightenupandshoot

2010-08-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Recently the President of Pentax wrote about the Lightenupandshoot project on his blog read post here. Ned really likes my project that teaches and inspires photographers from around the globe. I had the opportunity to meet Ned at the PMA's earlier this year; he's a great guy and really loves shooting. I think I may have to switch to Pentax because I honestly think Pentax is the coolest camera company out there. Who else makes a limited edition tie dye painted camera?

SlinkyGenius in Bogota

2010-08-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

My personal project is to show some of the work and accomplishments from the past year. It's been an awesome ride and I have completely failed to showcase my actual work. That being said, enjoy a video I made from my 24 hour trip to Bogota (street photography).

3 Weeks On the Road

2010-07-27T19:17:00.000-07:00

I just did a three week tour for Lightenupandshoot. Andy and I figured out that we were on 11 different planes over the past few weeks...Puerto Rico, Atlanta, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, South Carolina (hiked the AT Trail) and finished up in Toronto. We saw a lot of people and had an absolutely amazing time. A huge thanks to everyone who helped pull it all together (no way we couldn't have done it without the help of Hector, Angel, Anton, Curtis, Mark, Kevin and all the amazing models we pulled off the streets to come shoot with us. Be sure to check out the video and more photos after the break!

Work on your chops through the approach

2010-07-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

One of the things I love to do is hit the streets and find people to shoot. Location and model hunting is where I practice my chops. One of the things I have learned recently is how to look for different light. While I'm hunting for a location I think about color, contrast and softness. I typically carry one speedlight and a reflector because I want to be able to set up in a matter of seconds. I don't want the model that I have just met to get bored. I know that I have probably less than a minute before the subject gets bored and loses interest in taking a picture with me. While I am setting up, I am joking around with the model and asking her questions. I am trying to maintain the high energy I had when I initially approached the subject. Once we start shooting I keep very relaxed and try to have fun with the subject. Not only do you get to practice your photography skills but you never know the future possibilities of approaching someone for a shot. I have had photo opportunities, friendships and a slew of different adventures arise simply because I asked to take a picture.

Here are some shots I did with a few different people over the past week while walking around my neighborhood:

Lighten Up and Learn Workshop Tour - Atlanta - July 17-18th

2010-07-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Atlanta - Lighten Up and Learn Workshop July 17-18th

July 16th we have a mixer open to all Lightenupandshooters. This is a great time to network with other photographers and we might even do a spontaneous shoot-together. Click the registration button above to get the fully skinny!

Michael Thompson hosts Wescott Top Pro Tour

2010-06-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

Andy and I head to Tampa, September 18th for the Westcott Top Pro Tour. Be sure to make this event!!!! Please spread the word. Also, click on the link below and comment on the Westcott Blog page if you are fan of my work and Lightenupandshoot. I would love to hear your comments and give me some ideas what you'd like to see during the show!!!!!

Wescott Blog (click here)

Slinkygenius Posted on The Candid Frame

2010-06-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

I've been an avid listener of Ibarionex Perello's The Candid Frame for over a year now. The Candid Frame is a series of podcast/interviews of famous photographers from around the globe. The interviewer, Ibarionex, digs deep into the psyche of his subjects and raises some very philosophical questions. If you get a chance, listen to some of these fascinating interviews of true artists. I was surprised to find out that Ibarionex had chosen one of my pictures for "Listener of the Week." Thanks Ibarionex and I love your show!

amazon fotos

2010-04-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

My flight rolled into Bogota around midnight last night. I have spent the past 10 days in the Amazon River Basin. Please excuse me as I am suffering from that made me really sick while walking through the jungle. I am barely alive, but I managed to pull out some black and whites from the camera and want to share these photos with everyone. Taking pictures in the blistering heat, mosquito infested jungle and humidity is near impossible; I'm surprised my Nikon survived. A lightenupandshoot video will be up in the next few days, so be sure to check the website.

An important video showing my work with Lightenupandshoot

2010-04-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

A quick video to show what lightenupandshoot has done in the past 6 months. We love this rollercoaster we're on, and we hope it never ends!!

Lightenupandshoot.com is not about Andy and Mikey, it's about a photographic lifestyle. It's about living life and capturing moments that would normally slip away. It's about feeling like you've changed someone's life with a quick press of the shutter button. It's about being you. Not what some camera company wants you to be!

Lensbaby and One Light

2010-03-23T01:07:00.000-07:00

I ventured south of Medellin on Saturday to do some hiking near a pyramid shaped mountain called Cerro Tusa. I hiked along an old railroad track that winds through the mountains and came across an old bridge that is probably 500 feet above a river. A group of fire-fighters from Itagui were repelling down to the river; somehow I ended up in gear and had a chance to do some repelling. Note: avoid trying a dangerous hobby if instructions are in a language you don't understand. I used my lensbaby to get a shot of an angel that must have been watching over me. I survived.

Sunday, I headed to Santa Elena for some wine and photography with my new friend Patricia. I gave Patricia a lesson in speedlights. The shots are examples of how to control exposure using shutter and aperture. The girl with the dog was so impressed with the pictures that she is going to hire Patricia for a shoot.

still trying to make art

2010-02-24T00:15:00.000-08:00

In the past couple of weeks I have taken about hundred pictures of textures with my Canon point and shoot to combine with previous pictures hanging around in my catalog that I just haven't gotten around to deleting. I am amazed how I have transformed these crummy pictures by combining pictures of a variety of different textures. I have spent hours walking around taking pictures of grass, dirty windows, leaves, mold and splattered paint to name a few. Now that I have a good idea what I am doing in photoshop I am ready to set out and start the process of deliberately making art from the ground up. I want to do a shoot with a model and then build the textures around the shot. So far I have only randomly combined textures with pictures that never made it to my portfolio. Time to set out and come up with some cool art...I'm getting closer.

is it photography?

2010-01-26T12:59:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to get better in photoshop; quite honestly I have been avoiding learning because I prefer to shoot and not spend hours on the computer. I realize that in this day and age it is important to master photoshop to move with the times and obtain more work. My solution: take pictures of textures and combine with my body of work to create interesting photos or pieces of photo-art while teaching myself photoshop. I'm not sure whether I would call this photography and quite frankly I don't care because the creative juices are flowing. I have spent the past week running around taking pictures of textures to combine with portraits. A whole new world is opening up to me because now I see a photography as a layer potential layer of many photographs. Here are my first attempts in what I am calling "Cooked Photography."

paulo escobar action shots

2010-01-18T18:52:00.000-08:00

Andy and I have been busy with lightenupandshoot.com; the shots above were taken over the past few days at a finca in El Penol. Andy and I decided to do a few action shots for our friend, Paulo Escobar. Paulo is an incredible athlete and did some amazing flying through the air moves about 100 times until we got the shot we wanted. I used to think sports photography was a bunch of crap, I now have a different perspective. It's tough!!!! Check out lightenupandshoot.com for the full video (on location, shooting diagrams and live music jam).

feliz ano nuevo

2010-01-04T07:50:00.000-08:00

I spent new years do a little bit of traveling and taking photos for lightenupandshoot. Villa de Leyva, 450 year old pueblo, was probably my favorite stop on the journey. Enjoy the pics and check out lightenupandshoot.com for the video! Happy New Year! Michael

one light techniques

2009-12-24T22:04:00.000-08:00

The first image below was shot using a bare light to the right of the subject. There was a tremendous amount of fog which provided for some interesting back light. I adjusted the hues to get an even more moody effect.

The second image was created by using a 28" Apollo softbox directly above the subject. When out on the streets looking for locations I don't have the luxury of carrying around a c-stand so I can put the softbox directly above. Solution...ask someone nicely on the street to be your human lightstand. In return I offered some nice portraits for the man holding the stand and his wife. Notice that the 28" Apollo creates a nice gradient and natural vignette effect.

The third image was also taken with the 28" Apollo. This was a tough shot because I was trying to get that flying horse in my shot and come up with a nice composition. I really wanted the blown out portion in the clouds to frame her head; I just couldn't quite frame it the way I wanted. But, this is probably my favorite shot of the series. You may also notice that I have been experimenting with blue hue in post production. I haven't mastered this technique yet and I may ditch it all together because I don't want to be known as the guy who turns all his pics funky blue.

Happy Holidays!

Michael

travels and stuff

2009-12-18T09:53:00.000-08:00

The past month I have been busy working on the new site called lightenupandshoot.com. Lightenupandshoot is a collaboration with another photographer and friend that also lives in Medellin, Colombia. Our messages is simple, lighten up and take photos. We both love taking pictures so we decided it would be fun to document everything from client shoots to street photography. There are discussions on the minimal gear we use, tricks of the trade and inspiring videos to encourage everyone with a camera to get out and take pictures. There has been an overwhelming response in the photography community as a whole; I believe it through our simplistic and humorous approach that we already have a following that we never expected. Our goal is evolve as a photographers and share our vision with as many people as possible.

Notes on photos above: Top photograph was taken for our help-portrait series. Andy and I traveled to two different pueblos last weekend and took photos of people that are less fortunate. Then we printed their portraits as a gift. The reactions were sometimes heartbreaking to say the least.

Second photo was my first attempt at taking pictures of "star trails." The idea is to put your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to capture the stars (continuous light source) as the earth spins. I should have left the shutter open for at least 40 minutes but I was too impatient and wanted to see the results after 12 minutes. I attempted a second photo but my lens was covered in moisture from the humid mountain air near Rio Negro, Colombia. The shot could have been amazing if I had been patient...But, you get the idea. Lighten up and shoot!

-Michael

Los Mamos de Sierra Nevada

2009-12-15T19:29:00.000-08:00

Andy and I had the rare opportunity to take photos of the Mamos Indians (note: they are actually referred to as Los Mamos de la Sierra Nevada, an indigenous tribe from the mountainous region of Sierra Nevada). The Mamos don't normally allow people to photograph them because of their spiritual beliefs. This particular family fled to the region of Antioquia to escape persecution from the FARC (guerillas). We drove deep into the mountains to meet with the family, and when we arrived the smell of roasted tobacco and burning herbs permeated the crisp air. Andy and I took time to get acquainted before asking if we could photograph them. I even had a chance to play some guitar with the head chief before taking Josca with the family (Josca is some sort of drug that the Momas cultivate and is used to rid your body of bad thoughts) Read more at lightenupandshoot.com. -Michael

Behind The Scenes: La Ceja: lightenupandshoot.com

2009-12-14T21:37:00.000-08:00

Andy and I just returned from a two day trip to La Ceja and El Carmen, Colombia. Check out the full post at lightenupandshoot.com

Typical Shutterbug Interviews Michael Thompson

2009-12-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

I had the amazing privilege to be interviewed by Victor Cajiao from Typical Shutterbug; the podcast interview was specifically geared towards how to use small off camera speedlights. Victor and I discussed in detail the basic principles of off camera flash and what gear is needed to create amazing pictures using small speedlights. I asked Victor why he wanted to interview me and not one of the great photographers that use speedlights such as Zack Arias or Joe McNally. He is answer was simple, "I liked your photos on your website slinkygenius.com and the fact that you are a professional photographer in Medellin, Colombia. A unique combination that is interesting." Since the podcast was recorded I have made a video series that goes into detail about speedlights: lightenupandshoot. To listen to the full interview go to: typicalshutterbug.com

nicole after the workshop

2009-11-28T06:23:00.000-08:00

I met Nicole while conducting a workshop in downtown St. Petersburg. I asked her if she would like to model for the workshop and she said yes. The next day I emailed her the photo I took of her and she asked me if I would take more pictures. Nicole and drove around until I found an interesting abandoned lot near the Gandy Bridge. Here are the shots!

Be sure to check out http://lightenupandshoot.com (my latest project...it's fun!)
Michael

mirador shoot

2009-11-14T18:57:00.000-08:00

I did a shoot with Andy today at Mirador Las Palmas. The sun had already gone down past the horizon but I wanted the sun in my shot. I decided to put a flash camera right and actually fire it into the camera (to get the sun effect). I think I pulled it off!

Here I am cooking my chorizo. You can see a video of how I made the shots at http://lightenupandshoot.com

lighten up and shoot

2009-11-13T06:04:00.000-08:00

I have spent the past six days with Andy creating content for a new site that is inspirational, funny and educational for the online photography community. We have had a lot of fun shooting the video series and poking fun at the photography industry. Our motto: lighten up and shoot!

The pictures you see below were taken for Angels model agency in Medellin, Colombia. The model needed some interesting pictures for her portfolio and this is a sample of what we came up with. You can see the video of how we made these pictures at http://lightenupandshoot.blogspot.com

slinkygenius sessions 1

2009-11-03T20:09:00.000-08:00

Andy and I are making a series of tutorials over the next few weeks. We are going to speak the truth about lighting, gear, photoshop, working with models, business and what it's like to live in one of the most dangerous cities in the world :: Medellin, Colombia. How the hell did we end up in Colombia? What gear do you need to pull off a shoot for a magazine :: you will be amazed that you don't need that much. Tricks to make compelling pictures anytime :: day or night. Tune in, because it's all 100% free!!!

what is wrong with my Nikon?

2009-10-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

Awww, exposure is looking okay in Photo 1

Photo 2. Why did the background just go dark?

Photo 3. What? Background and subject just went black!

Speed light mystery problem:

I have never had problems with gear until recently. There is nothing worse than your client thinking you are clueless when you are in the middle of a photo shoot. The last thing you want is your client to lose faith in you. I have had all sort of technical problems in the last two weeks. I was shooting a client and both speed lights decided they did not want to work. We literally had to stop shooting because the lights would not fire. I trouble-shooted everything...batteries, cables, connections, radio triggers...they still would not fire. The next day I plugged them in and they worked! I even bought new batteries and new cables; I had the same problem when I went to Santa Fe de Antioquia for a shoot last weekend. A famous photographer in the area told me, "there are physical problems and there are meta-physical problems; I think you are experiencing the meta-physical." So, today I borrowed three speed lights as back-up because I have an important shoot next week.

Another strange problem! See photos above.

Yesterday I was taking head shots for a girl interested in getting into modeling. The lights are firing and everything seems to be working okay. But every photograph has a different shutter speed. What is wrong with my camera? I know I am not changing the shutter speed dial. How can I go from 1/250 to 1/125 to 1/60 shutter speed? What? I was ready to send me camera to Nikon. My friend looked at the camera while we drinking beers later that night. "You dumb ass! You have the bracketing mode on!"

I was able to figure out the problem with different exposures. But, the speed lights..both of them working sometimes. I can figure this out. I switching speed lights, cables and possibly radio triggers. (by the way I tried out four different sets of cyber sync triggers. I have never had a problem. It does not make any sense that they would stop working now)

That being said. Yesterday I was interviewed by Victor Cajiao for his famous podcast: www.typicalshutterbug.com. We went over in-depth my use of speed lights.

note: I later discovered that the PC port does not work that well on the Nikon SB's. Solution: gaffer tape the connection to make sure it's good and tight

santa fe de antioquia

2009-10-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

I visited the colonial pueblo Santa Fe de Antioquia over the weekend. I managed to do some location scouting for a series of photo shoots I have in the next two weeks. The six historic churches, cobblestone streets, classic Colombians (paisas) and 400 plus year old architecture make it the perfect backdrop for photos. You can check out my pictures on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=mikeyorange#p/u/0/HZIS5w4FKTE

mistakes are beautiful

2009-10-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

I had a recent post on facebook entitled “I am starting to love photographs that were originally mistakes” that got a lot of responses. I actually touched a few people in a unique way. The unique photo was of a friend in Santa Elena; I was teaching her some basic photography and I accidentally snapped a photo that turned out to be beautiful. I’m starting to look at my pictures, and life, a little differently after creating such a wonderful moment from nothing. With that in mind I want to spontaneously write about the little things that make Medellin so special to me:

1. 1. Girls that call your cell phone and hang up (they want you to call them back on your dime)

2. 2. The funky boiled quail egg hidden in your hamburgesa (sometimes you get two!)

3. 3. The late night roach coach that has a huge menu and sells every item for a dollar

4. 4. I had a intense debate with a friend a few weeks ago; we both agreed that a high number of car wrecks in Medellin are directly related to the half naked chicks on billboards that litter the city

5. 5. $2 breakfast that includes the whole works! $4 lunch (salad, soup, huge entre, juice and desert)

6. 6. Butt implants. It took me several months, but now I recognize a fake ass when I see one

7. 7. I am starting to understand why the mother is the most important woman in a man’s life

8. 8. The strange and beautiful tasting indigenous fruits of Colombia. I think I know why they are not being exported to USA. Ex: there is one fruit that looks like a gazillion fish eyes inside. But, it is delicioso!

9. 9. Super models at Bodytech. I find it humorous that I have been warned to stay away from them because they probably are dating local mafia

1010. The weather. Perfect everyday.

1111. Local expression “Que chimba”

1212. It’s not hip to wear shorts or flip flops (never...no exceptions)

portada de toda mi boda magazine

2009-10-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

Lorena and I started www.bodadearte.com. As a team we will be doing fine art wedding photography in Medellin. We have our first series of photo shoots starting next week; it's exciting to work with another photographer on this project. We want to create something totally different...the focus will be fashion/art rather than classic wedding shots. The cover of Toda Mi Boda is just the beginning:

life of a gringo fotografo

2009-10-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...a day in the life of a gringo photographer in Medellin, Colombia: I usually wake up around 7am to the roar of buses and crappy 100cc motorcycles blazin' up Calle 10 every morning. The ear plugs always manage to fall out of at least one ear. Then the phone starts to ring, and it's usually Carlos who wants something. The cord isn't long enough to reach my bedroom so barrel down the stairs to answer hoping it's my next magazine gig. Nah, it's Carlos. He's this older dude that used to help me with translation; always nickel and dimming me to death. The Colombian's have a saying, "Don't ever give papaya, only take papaya." I still haven't figured that one out, I'm always giving papaya. After hitting the gym and gazing at the super models, I flip through some Spanish books and learn a few phrases. Ana stops by and cleans for several hours. I have the smallest pad in the world...I still don't know what she does all day. Last week I got a call about doing some work for a Colombian bridal magazine. I went with a friend who helped me out as a translator and stylist. The magazine people and Lore spoke for over an hour and I finally asked:

"Well, do they like my work?"

"Michael, one minute. Por favor."

Another 20 minutes goes by; I'm tired of looking at pictures of brides all over the office walls. "Michael, they like your work and want you to shoot the next cover."

To myself, "What the hell was said for almost an hour and a half?"

We had three other meetings about location, models and ideas for the shoot. Thank god I had Lore to help me...everyone of the meetings was well over an hour. I'm so tired of looking at bridal pictures. I had no clue what was being said. A few days later we arrive at the location in Colombian fashion...an hour late. Everyone else was late too so it didn't matter. Hair and make up went a little longer than expected. So, a 2:00pm shoots finally rolls out at 5:00pm. Okay! Ready to shoot!

"Michael, the model has to leave in 15 minutes and we have three different dresses to shoot."

"What??!"

"Yes, 15 minutes. So please hurry."

So, I start shooting away and about an hour later I said:

"What happened to the 15 minutes?"

"Nevermind, just take photos."

Several meetings later the magazine finally decides on a photo. You got to be kidding me!

Jajajaja. Everything I said was true...except the photo. I truly had an amazing time with everyone. Awesome shoot and the magazine did decide on a cover. I'm happy.

shoot for toda mi boda

2009-10-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

modelo :: carina

modelo :: julia

I did a shoot today for Toda mi Boda magazine. There's no way I could have pulled off this shoot without Cata -for introducing me to Toda mi Boda - and Lore -for helping come up with creative ideas and help coordinate everything. Everybody was completely awesome and I think we pulled it off! I'm working on which pic to recommend for the cover now.

I think I've gone a little bridal crazy.

I few images I had forgotten aboute

2009-10-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

Andy retouched a few images from a shoot we did a couple of weeks ago. I had forgotten all about these shots. Not the best shots in the world but it works well for Colombia. This is the sort of work that has landed me a shoot for a magazine cover this Thursday. I'm shooting for "Toda mi Boda" I'm stoked. We have a big production...make up artist, set stylist, small film crew, two models, magazine director and my silly ass. Wow!

fotografo con queso

2009-10-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

The sepia tone might be a little too cheeseball. I went to a colonial town about an hour south of Medellin to drink some beers and take photographs. Before hanging out with a local family I managed to do a little one-light shoot while standing in a farmers field.

fin de semana

2009-09-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

Jim and I took the metro up to Santo Domingo. It used to be one of the most dangerous barrios in Medellin. Fairly tranquilo now and awesome views.

A little drunk dancing in the streets of Santo Domingo. Hittin' the bottle, baby!

Jim and I arrive at the top of the mountain in Santo Domingo. Some guy walks by all bloody which looked like three or four knife wounds. "Jim, what do you want to do?" "I think we should get a beer." "Ok, sounds good. Did you see that guy?" "Yeah, but I really want a beer."

Natali. We hung out with her parents and took photos. Her dad bought us a beer. I love Colombians.

She has such amazing eyes. I took photos of her and her daughter on the bus to Santa Elena.

Chillin' at the Pat's finca. My new Michael Jackson jacket.

Priscilla. Thorton's wife. She's a photographer. We will all having Sunday brunch at Pat's finca.

Trucha tartar on potato pancakes dressed with a spicy roasted pepper emulsion. Baked fish covered in herbs from Pat's garden. Pat's vino: fruit from fresa, mora and uchuva. No forks or plates required. "Everybody, fucking dig in!"

undies foto shoota

2009-09-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

I had a foto shoot today for a company who makes undies for chicas. Totally fun and I worked out all the lighting scenarios on the fly. Enjoy!

medellinblues.com

2009-09-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

:: check out the Virgin Mary above my right shoulder :: a little creepy but I guess she guided me through a night of the blues during our first night at Dali Bar. The sound was fantastic and the lights made the stage hot as balls. Speaking of balls, Knuto and I are thinking of forming a Christmas blues band called Blues Balls.

:: above, me playing the second night at Barking Spider ::

Fotos by Cata and Felipe. Felipe was getting some cool effects by zooming the lens in and out.

:: Rock n Roll or the Blues? :: Knuto and I jammin' (with the help of the sweet virgin Mary)

Well, it's official :: Crossroads blues band of Medellin debuted with some raunchy blues this past weekend. Playing blues in the style of Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaugh, Albert King and Eric Clapton we were a hit at both venues. It was a pretty good feeling to hear the crowd yell, "mas mas mas" after we finished our set at Dali Bar. We got back up on stage and finished the night with an unrehearsed version "Hoochie Coochie Man." The band has some big plans in the next couple of months. We would like to add a horn section and female back up singers so we can do some soul blues from the 70's. That ain't no lettuce blues fans!

check out the new site: medellinblues.com

jessi

2009-09-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

Before my first gig with Crossroads I took some shots of Jessi just for fun. Jessi is an actress and also makes short films. She has that Gina Gershon look...don't you think? By the way, the gig was awesome last night; Muchas gracias por venir! All pics of Jess here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/35061378@N05/sets/72157622286178039/

what I've been shooting...

2009-08-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been a whirl wind. Between attending EAFIT University everyday and rehearsing with the band I managed to squeeze out a couple of pictures. The first two are from last Friday night when I did a little partying in some of the funky barrios. I experimented with multiple exposures; the beauty of multiple exposures is you don't know how the picture is going to turn out. Sunday a ventured out of the city to Santa Elena to see Patrick, Jamie, James and a few new friends. We cooked up some trout that we caught on the finca and made tapas (Mexican style fish tacos and some Euro delight). Shot a few pics of Diana :: a young inspiring model.

workshop technique - lesson 1

2009-08-16T09:52:00.001-07:00

Here's an example of how with a speedlight you have more control over your environment. The photo on the left was shot with natural light. To properly expose my subject the background went almost completely white. With the use of a speedlight you have the option of bringing out the detail of the background or make it completely black. When you using flash the two main components of exposure are shutter speed and aperture. The shutter speed controls the available/ambient light and your aperture controls the exposure from your flash. We will drill this into your head during my workshop until it becomes second nature.

mirador las palmas

2009-08-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

Shots of a fashion photographer in Medellin. There was a group of us taking photos during sunset at Mirador Las Palmas (amazing views of Medellin). The first two shots were taken after the sun had completely disappeared. I had to shoot at 1/4 of a second so that the background wasn't completely black (hand held). Last photo is backlit by the sun, the light just wraps around the subject (natural light).

diana shoot

2009-08-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

I've taken pictures of Diana a couple of times. She's always really cool to work with. Yesterday I went up to Santa Elena to see friends, Diana and Patrick, and take a few photos. I'm just starting to feel comfortable with natural light and onelight photography. Next on my list is a conceptual shoot. I'm looking forward to doing something exciting.

one light inspiration

2009-07-27T01:20:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Zack Arias' Onelight Workshop, I decided to take some photos with one light and an umbrella. Chevere!

gabi

2009-07-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

Shooting all natural light today with Industrial Designer, Gabi. She's not a model, but was really easy to work with. I grabbed a reflector and 24-70mm lens. Shot a bunch of back lighting for that 60's golden glow.

altos de las palmas

2009-07-23T19:20:00.001-07:00

Visited new friends in Altos de Las Palmas. Absolutely beautiful place to take pictures. Maravillosa! Six people with cameras all taking bad ass shots!

kelby walk in medellin

2009-07-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

Over 2,000 cities across this big spinning planet of love participated in photo walk today between 9:30-11:30am. About 20 photogs joined in on the fun in El Centro, Medellin. We had two police escorts and tons of camera gear. The only gear I brought was my camera and a reflector. Enjoy!

onelight workshop with zack arias

2009-07-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

The Zack Arias workshop in Atlanta has been awesome! It's been a three day intensive workshop on everything from gear, client relationships, photo 101, marketing, light and critique of work. The above shots were all taken with natural light.

finca de andres

2009-06-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

Andres was so kind to let me use his two hundred year old finca to do a shoot with Antonia. Antonia is a fashion designer (shoes and handbags). She is so much fun to work with...and really patient dealing with me running around crazy adjusting lights, repositioning her and messing around with camera equipment for a couple of hours. Antonia says to me at the end of the shoot, "I want all the pictures, even the ones that are blurry!" You can see all the photos at: http://picasaweb.google.com/michael.orangetree/AntoniaAndresFinca?feat=directlink

cover of the arepa

2009-06-17T05:51:00.000-07:00

Originally we had planned a conceptual shoot at a mannequin factory but we were denied permission last minute. Hair, make-up and wardrobe took about an hour and everyone is racking their heads trying to figure out what to do. So, I called a friend who has a large apartment in El Centro (Casa de Carlos) who occasionally holds art exhibitions and also teaches art at the local university. Carlos graciously let us use his apartment for the shoot and we were able to get some great shots. After an hour of shooting Robin, editor of the Arepa, scored some lunch from a local restaurant and we ate right in the middle of the art gallery. I'm getting some photography work thanks to the Arepa!

liliana shoot

2009-06-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

Colombia has proven to be a challenge. Our location backed out last minute. The Colombians are looking at me like, "what are we going to do?" I scrambled and asked a friend who has an apartment with cool art if we could use his location; bingo! I'm pleased...awesome make up and the model did a fantastic job! A big MIAUUUUUUUUU!

the nikon arrives in medellin

2009-06-11T18:45:00.001-07:00

My new nikon arrived today. I was so stoked that I grabbed two friends to do a shoot on top of Tigerpaw within minutes of getting my gear. My good buddy Camilo brought my gear from Miami...he is the man! No post production done on these photos. I used a shoot through umbrella with a 25mm 2.8 lens. I think the pics were taken at f8 1/250 of a second. Stoked for my shoot saturday...the cover of the Arepa!

published in "The Arepa"

2009-05-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

I will be taking photos for a monthly publication in Medellin called "The Arepa." I will start out shooting a local model once a month. Check out this month's pic in "The Arepa!" Top pic: Robin Finley, editor of the Arepa, emailing me a picture of my advertisement in the Arepa. Bottom: The shot of Diana to be in the latest issue.

cage fightin' chica

2009-05-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

I took promotional photos for Caroline's cage fight which is to be held in Las Vegas later this year. The wind of was whipping about 15 knots making it impossible to use any sort of light modifier. I had to go "bare" with two strobes (camera left and right). I think I shot at about 1/8 power and put the strobes approx 10 feet on either side of Caroline. I am not a big fan of harsh light but I didn't have much choice. I think the skin tones came out nice for such a hard light being thrown...

colombian artist

2009-05-02T15:47:00.001-07:00

My friend Betty is an amazing artist that lives just outside of Medellin in a town called Santa Elena. Her latest abstract work is currently displayed at metro stop Itagui in Medellin (which Betty so graciously took me to see...chevre!) She also has an exhibition in Bogota that starts at the end of May. If anyone is interested in checking out her work I can probably put you in touch with her.

finca (farm) en santa elena

2009-04-28T23:31:00.000-07:00

I had the most amazing experience visiting some friends who own a finca (farm) about an hour outside of Medellin. The finca is at about 7,500 ft elevation and gets chilly at night. Diana and Patrick live almost a self-sustaining life on their finca...they raise trout, grow their own veggies, have every herb known to man (including some rare indigenous herbs to Colombia), make strawberry wine (delicioso!), and have an amazing Spanish style country home. I was completely in love with the finca. Something completely resonated inside of me while at the finca, "this is what it's all about...!"

Szandra

2009-04-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

I love the light that a softbox produces. These really came out better than I expected. Wow! Model: Szandra from Hungary. D300, light - Nikon speedlight with softbox