First of all, to shoot a sequence shot, I highly recommend a camera that shoots faster frames per second, preferable 5-6.  I was using a Canon MK III, which shoots around 9 frames per second, but honestly, I used every other frame for this sequence, so shooting that fast really wasn’t necessary.  Personally, I didn’t want to use all the photos, when I originally stitched them, I tried with every frame, for me it was just too busy.  I prefer to have some spacing between the different parts of the maneuver.  To make matters much easier, its in your best interest to use a tripod for this.  No shifting of the camera means a much easier time stitching the final image together.

Obviously the first step is to bring the photographs into Adobe Photoshop.  Rather than pasting the different images straight in, I mask them before pasting, so I only grab the information I need, which will save you looks of time.  To do this, I use a quick mask, which you can use by pressing “Q” in photoshop.  The advantage to using the quick mask, is that you can see what you’re masking, while you paint, it shows up as a transparent red.  When doing this, I start with a bigger brush to cover the majority of the subject, then size it down to grab the finer details.  I also use a harder brush edge, so I go really close to the edges, I usually grab this roughly, then go back and touch up the edges.  When you’re masking for a sequence, make sure you grab something that will allow you to line the subject up consistently.  In my example, I used the ramp they’re jumping off, it has a hard edge, which makes it easy for me to line the different photos up in the sequence.  Once they are lined up, you can mask out the ramp.  The rest of the work will be fine tuning the mask around your subject, making sure to drop out any parts of the background that may change, move, etc.  My sample photo isn’t a great example of masking, these are merely showing you how the stitching is done.  Once you’ve gotten your first photo masked out, and aligned where you need it, you can move onto the next one, and the next one.  I realize this isn’t the most in depth tutorial, but I hope this steers you in the right direction when you attempt to create a sequence shot.  Please share your results when you’re finished!

Lets just say, there will be new work coming very shortly, as well as a new website.  Although there is no exact date for the officlal launch, it is within site.  To sum it all up, I personally don’t find that there is anything wrong with social networking; it’s a great way to create conversations with peers and perspective clients, just don’t go overboard.  Don’t set aside your work in order to let people know what you had for lunch.  That’s a big no no.  Remember the reason you first got into photography, it wasn’t to rant online, it was to go out and create some kick butt images.  To finish off, I want your two cents on the matter.  What are your opinions about social media and photography?

Be punctual.

On the day of a photo shoot, it is essential that you show up on time.  There’s always things that can go off schedule or obstacles, and you have to be there to take care of business.  The photographer, can’t be stressing, trying to locate you because you’re not there when you’re supposed to be.  Being punctual will make everyones life easier and confirm you as being reliable.

Dress appropriate.

When shooting with clients, always dress the part.  A typical dress code for me while on a shoot is khakis and collared shirt.  If its a big client, dress shoes, but this is a gray area because you’re on your feet all day.  I like to dress in shoes that I know are comfortable.  If you’re running around a lot or on-location outside in the mountains, don’t wear loafers.  Use your head.  Same with clothes, if the shoots taking place in the mountains where its cold, jeans are probably ok, and if you have any concerns, ask the photographer what the appropriate attire is.

Always carry a notepad.

As I mentioned, while on shoots, things can go wrong, you forget something, equipment breaks, you need to run an errand.  Having a notepad handy will make your job easier because you can WRITE THINGS DOWN, and won’t forget.  Making lists will allow you to check things off as you go along, and allow you to double check that everything has been taken care of.  Trust me, you don’t want the responsibility of remembering to take the camera batteries off the charger, only to forget them.  These kinds of setbacks can be very costly to a shoot, especially if its an on-location shoot.  So write things down, double check, and you will be a lot less stressed.

There’s always something to do.

Eventhough your lights are set up, the camera is ready to rock ‘n roll, you can still find other things that can be done.  On location?  You can organize the workspace, neatly stack strobe cases and camera bags, tape down extension cords, even hang softbox cases on the light stands.  Any simple tasks that will help you pack your gear faster when the shoot is done.  These simple little tasks will minimize accidents and show you are a hard worker.  When you’re in front of clients, the last thing you want is to be sitting around messing with your iPod or reading a magazine.  I made this mistake as a “youngster”, trust me, this does not bode well with your employer.

Always think two steps ahead.

If you’ve been working with a photographer over a period of time, you’re probably getting more comfortable with his routines, how he prepares for a shoot, even what settings they may use constantly.  (Keep in mind, not all photographers are comfortable with you changing camera settings, some prefer to do it themselves.)  Consider these instances, if you’re setting up strobes and you know the photographer is going to meter, make sure you have it handy so they don’t have to ask for it.  Or, you’ve been shooting for a good amount of frames and you think the card may be getting full, have them in your back pocket, or ask how the memory is looking.  Just use your head, if you know the photographer is going to need something, don’t wait for them to ask, have the gear ready where its easily accessible so you don’t have to go looking for it.  Small details like these will keep your shoot running smootly, without frustration and save you time.

Keep your mouth shut.

If there;s an issue that needs to be addressed go about it in the most professional way.  You never want to make a scene or draw attention to yourself, attention should always be on the photos.  Even if you’re not getting along with someone on the shoot, take the high road.  Not to say this tip is only if you have something negative to say.  Just remember, you never want to say anything in front of the client that can potential embarrass or make the photographer look bad.  If you do, there’s a good chance it will be the last time you work with that photographer, or you will get an ear full after the shoot is a done.  Not to mention, in the photo community most photographer know each other, and word travels fast.  If you do something stupid , you can bet word will get around to other photographers which can hurt your chances of a working with anyone else in the area.

Leave the art to the art director.

When you’re in the middle of shooting and the photographer and art director are discussing a shot, listen to them because it will probably involve moving a light or grabbing an apple box; but don’t throw in suggestions about how the shot could be framed or changed (different light setup, lens, wardrobe, get the the idea).  Even if you have good ideas, by adding your input, you could potentially be adding a new shot to the shoot, which can put it over time and over budget.  This is a big no no.  So if do have a suggestion, pull the photographer aside and say something to him, but don’t just outburst because it can cause some problems, even if your intentions are good.  Only give opinions if you are asked for them.  As the assistant, your job is to set up lights and make sure everything is in line to make the shoot go as smoothly as possible, you’re not paid to talk.  When you’re shooting and have your own clients, that is the time to state your expertise.

The clients product is always the best.

Even if you’re casually talking over lunch or discussing the shoot beforehand, always remember, the client is coming to you to advertise and help sell their product.  Because they have hired you, their product is the best there is.  For example, if you’re shooting an ad campaign for Coca-Cola, that’s your favorite soda in production.  Even if you prefer the taste of Pepsi, as long as you’re working for Coke, it is the last product on earth.  If you’re out to lunch during the shoot, you drink Coke products or water.  May not seem like a big deal, but you don’t want to work for a client and give them any reason to think you don’t believe in their product.

These are just a few quick items that I listed off.  There are always more to add, in fact, if you think I’ve left something off, feel free to comment!  Next time you’re on a photo shoot or dealing with a client, keep these in mind and you’ll have more success in the future.

Social Networking:

If you are reading this blog, you are most likely familiar with some of the social networking applications out there: twitter, facebook, linkedin, skype, the list goes on. These are the main ones I use. They are typically used to connect with friends, family, etc, but when used correctly they can become a powerful marketing tool to connect you with peers and potential clients  It can also be used to build your online reputation.  I’m still getting used to all of these new trends in soclal media, which is why I’m going to be brief, i’m no expert.

Number one, I’ve been spending more time writing articles for my blog, (obviously).  This takes lots of strategy though, you don’t want to fill your blog with meaningful journal entries, links, etc.  You want to stay focused and bring in content that closely relates to your field.  Doing so can build your reputation as an expert in your field, which will bring you more followers, others asking for your advice, and lastly, more clients!  One way I have been finding new articles and information is browsing other reputable photography blogs.  Just make sure you’re not paraphrasing what another person has written.  If you come across an article that you would like to post or link, make sure you add your 2 cents to the subject, otherwise you’re not contributing, you’re just regurgitating others information.

Another tool I use to network is, you guessed it, twitter.  Only problem is, most users only use it to post random, worthless information that doesn’t benefit anyone.  Unless of course you want know what everyone is watching on tv, or eating for lunch.  I typical use for twitter is posting links up to valuable articles i’ve come across, and directing traffic to my own blog after I’ve finished a new article.  Twitter is a great tool for free advertising, as long as you’re using it to direct traffic.  I also will direct conversations towards specific people, if they’ve posted a comment i agree with or find interested, i’ll either retweet it or comment on it.  Doing so can give someone the opportunity to respond back to you, which gets your name mentioned, which begins familiarizing people with your account.

Apply to contests/grants:

There are plenty of contests out there to be found, whether on the internet, local galleries or museums.  Lately, i’ve been doing most of my searches online:  popular phtography sites, blogs, even camera manufactures or magazines.  The internet is my best bet mainly because its quicker to find quality results, and usually less time consuming.  Entering contests is a great way to keep you motivated.  There are so many great photographers out there, that the competition is always fierce, which is a good thing.  It keeps your brain ticking, you have to keep learning and progressing to stay on top of the game.  And you can gain some great exposure.  You don’t even necessarily have to win, an honorable mention can still skyrocket your page viewings and status.  Not to mention, winning can change your life has a creative professional.  Win a grant, that couldn’t be more true.  The National Geographic grant is giving away $30,000 to the winner.  That kind of money can jumpstart your career, giving you so many opportunities to explore different projects.  Personally, with that kind of money, I’d upgrade my camera gear (my camera and lenses are less than stellar), then I’d buy an underwater housing kit.  Nothing is going to hold me back from exploring the depths of the ocean.  Okay, I’m starting to ramble, but you get the idea.  Hard work can yield great rewards.

Re-design website or identity:

Probably one of the best ways to spend your downtime, working on your corporate identity.  There is no better way to get yourself noticed then through great advertising.  By putting out a new design campaign is a create way to bring in clients and get yourself noticed.  At the same time, it can be a lot of work, and sometimes frustration.  I suggest gathering inspiration, looking at other photographers and designers mailers, business cards and websites, then brainstorming on how you’d like your finished product to look.  This will make your life so much easier, trust me, i’m not amazing designer.  But if you have a reference to look off, it can help guide you in the right direction.  Not all photographers have the skill set to create their own identities.  Lucky for me, I was originally trained as a graphic designer, then decided to make the switch.  I’ve been an artist my whole life, so having a good sense of design and balance is one of my strong points.  Even if you can’t come up with your own designs, you can surf the net and brainstorm what you would like your new site or business cards to look like.  I usually go about doing this by googling “best business card designs”, etc.  Typically your results will be a design blog with an article containing 20 to 30 designs.  I start by quickly browsing through, eliminating the ones that don’t jump out at me.  The ones I do like, I’ll save to a folder, so I can refer to them later, when I am jotting down ideas in my sketchbook.  I do the same thing when re-designing my website.  This way, even if you don’t have the ability to create your own website, you save the designer lots of time by being able to show them exactly what you’re looking for.

Finally finish editing older, maybe forgotten work:

As a photographer, I am constantly shooting photos, (duh!), but I rarely have time to edit all of them, I don’t think anyone actually does.  So when I have some downtime, I’m behind my computer, crunching out photos.  Some take more than others, you can usually look at a photo and decide how much work it actually needs.  Some are fine and just need some tweaks in the exposure, curves, sharpening.  But for some, you can just tell you need to dodge, burn, heal, drop in a different sky.  Doesn’t happen for all, but when it hits you, you have to suck it up and get to work.  I don’t always enjoy editing photos, but as a photographer, it comes with the territory.   There are times I hit a dead spot where I dread editing, but i drag myself to the computer and force myself to come up with some new work.  In the end, I’m glad I did it, because of my new favorite things is to post new work on my blog and share any new ideas I’ve been coming up with. 

Personal work:

When it comes to personal work, I don’t necessarily mean, side projects for photography, although it is included.  Lately I have
been focusing more on personal projects along with my “work”.  Its something I lacked in the past, and now that I am doing it, I’m not sure how I can go without it now.  Over the past few months, I’ve spent time rediscovering different mediums I used to spend countless hours on, but then somehow drifted away from.  In my spare time, I’ve worked on a lot of collage work, something I did a lot while I was in art school.  I loved shredding National Geographic, surf magazines, newspapers, anything I could get my hands on, then piecing it all back together to make some crazy, abstract looking work.  Recently, I took a single surf magazine and reconstructed it into a sequence of surfing.  It will eventually turn into a diptych, just needs more time.

I’ve also been spending more spare time writing music.  I used to take lots of guitar lessons, played for like 9 years straight, then went head over heels for photography and sports.  I played a lot of lacrosse in college, and somehow strayed away from guitar for a year or two. I picked it up occasionally, but nowhere close to how much I used to play.  My brother and I recently put together a home recording studio in my “office”, so when I get time, I pick up my guitar, plug up, and record straight into the computer.  I’m not great at it yet, but its been a lot of fun messing around with different sounds, throwing in some drum beats and just jamming out for an hour or so.  No to mention, the more I play, the more I find myself able to come up with riffs that I actually want to hold onto.  So lately I’ve been coming up with lots of good stuff.  Once I get to a good point, I plan on finishing it up and sharing it online.

Alright, so there’s is my input on how you can keep busy and motivated when clients are busting down your down.  I assume that all freelancers have the same slow months, but no matter what time of year, you can apply these strategies.  As a photography, yes I love to take pictures on a daily basis, but there does come a time when you need a spark of inspiration to keep going.  When you have day after day of the same routine, sometimes you can get burned out, and tired of the same ol’ thing.  So having a side project is always great because it keeps you thinking, and coming up with new ideas.  So go out there, stay productive and create something.

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