by Reed Hoffmann | Sep 1, 2012 | Beginner, Composition, Flash, Intermediate, Light, Travel
Recently I was wondering why photographers are drawn to broken-down stuff. Abandoned houses, peeling paint, rusted cars, dead trees. Is there something wrong with us? I don’t think so. At least not most of us. I think the real reason is the same rationale that drives...
by Reed Hoffmann | Apr 17, 2012 | Advanced, Exposure, Flash, Light, People
Most of what I do these days is teach photography. Which means I often find myself in front of a bunch of people, doing a demo where I hope everything goes right. Occasionally, though, things go wrong, and that’s when life gets interesting. A few weeks ago I was doing...
by Reed Hoffmann | Jan 15, 2012 | Beginner, Exposure, Flash, Intermediate, People
I was on the road teaching a workshop last week, and part of it involved giving a little how-to on the basics of off-camera flash. The group was amazed at how easy it is. That’s true now, but it wasn’t always that way. Back in the old days (pre-2004), getting...
by Reed Hoffmann | Sep 20, 2011 | Advanced, Camera Gear, Flash, People
One of my favorite accessories when doing flash photography is a VALS – Voice Activated Light Stand. In other words, a person you can direct to put a light where you need it. Recently my wife Sharon played this role for me, and is just one of the many reasons I...
by Reed Hoffmann | Jun 16, 2011 | Advanced, Camera Gear, Flash, Light, People
When you’re lucky, everything goes right during a shoot. Subject, location, exposure and equipment all work together for you. But without good light, none of the rest matters. I recently had an assignment to photograph Aldon Smith. A native of Kansas City, Aldon went...
by Reed Hoffmann | Mar 14, 2011 | Beginner, Exposure, Flash
This past weekend I was in Dallas teaching Nikon School. One of my resolutions for the new year was to try to get out and shoot in as many cities I visit as possible. Heading into Dallas I knew the weather would be good, and we’d be in a location not far from...
