Long Exposure Photography – Guest Speaker Joe Houghton
Tuesday, 16 March
Week 11 Attendees 27
At ImageZ Camera Club last night we were privileged to have a presentation given by Joe Houghton. Joe is a lecturer on Photography in Dublin where he lives. He is also a management consultant, he ran Nikon’s training in Ireland from 2006 to 2015, is an Adobe certified expert in Light room, and has won a bronze medal in the Irish National Photography Competition. He has had a photography book published in 2019 called (Streets of Dublin.) He is about to have another published featuring Long Exposure.
His presentation was divided into subheadings, “Why is long exposure wonderful,” “What is Long Exposure,” and “How do we do Long Exposure” Joe finished his talk by showing us how to carry out his tips for Long Exposure in light room and Photoshop. He began by saying how important it was to Pre -Visualise your photograph. He quotes Ansel Adams saying “Bring everything you are when making a photograph”
This requires looking at “Photography as a Process.” Long Exposure he said gives Impact, Pre-visualisation, Surprise, Thought, and Consideration. Planning is everything. He explained that your image will be unique, and never to be seen by the human eye before. He added the enjoyment is in the process.
Equipment needed was listed as, a good strong tripod, Wide Angle Lens, ND Filters, and a Remote or Timer.
Joe went on to give us information on Panning and Intentional Camera Movement which included shutter speeds, exposure times and subjects to take including Fairgrounds, Fireworks, Dance, and Astro Trails. He suggested we look at the work of Gareth Hanks, and Gary Gough on Google.
Joe went on to show us some of his stunning images accompanied by his camera settings and tips on how to get a good image in particular settings, such as waterfalls, clouds, smooth seas, coastal waters, and buildings. He talked in depth about ND filters, and suggested not raising the central pole of the Tripod as this can cause “wobble.” His presentation is recorded and can be found in the Members area. It is well worth a view if you missed it or a second view as there was a lot of information to take in.
Joe said that during lockdown he had presented on zoom one hundred and thirty-one times. You could easily see why he is so popular. His presentation was inspiring, full of useful information on camera techniques and settings, tips on useful websites, and equipment, and expert advice on light room and Photoshop. But mostly, his delivery was humorous, insightful, full of knowledge and experience and from the heart. An excellent evening.
Next week: Tabletop/Still Life Results Night
