Photography is an art that allows us to capture moments, freeze time, and express our creativity. One fascinating subject that many photographers are drawn to is small waterfalls. These cascading wonders provide an incredible opportunity to capture the beauty of nature. While wide angle lenses are often popular for landscape photography, telephoto lenses have their own unique advantages. In this post, let’s explore how using a telephoto lens can significantly enhance your photography skills when capturing small waterfalls. Specifically, we will discuss the benefits of long exposures at half a second, and explore the focal length range from 70 to 200mm.

The Power of Telephoto Lenses for Small Waterfalls

Telephoto lenses offer several advantages when photographing small waterfalls. Firstly, they allow you to isolate and emphasize specific elements of the scene, enabling you to focus on the intricate details of the waterfall itself. By zooming in, you can capture the dynamic flow of water, the cascading droplets, and the mesmerizing patterns they create.

Secondly, a 70 to 200mm lens compresses the perspective, making the waterfall appear larger and more prominent in the frame. This compression effect creates a sense of depth and makes the waterfall the main focal point, drawing the viewer’s attention to its natural beauty.

Mastering Long Exposures for Small Waterfalls 

Long exposures are particularly effective when photographing small waterfalls. They create a sense of motion and fluidity, transforming the falling water into a graceful, ethereal spectacle. By utilizing a half-second exposure, you can achieve the perfect balance between capturing the movement of the water and retaining the essential details.

To capture a long exposure, it is crucial to stabilize your camera to avoid any unwanted camera shake. A tripod is an essential tool in this scenario. It provides a sturdy foundation and allows you to keep your composition steady throughout the exposure. Additionally, using a remote shutter release or the self-timer function on your camera can help minimize any vibrations caused by pressing the shutter button.

Experiment with different shutter speeds to achieve the desired effect. A half-second exposure is an excellent starting point, but you can adjust the duration based on the flow and speed of the water. Longer exposures, such as one or two seconds, can produce an even smoother and more flowing effect. Conversely, shorter exposures, like a quarter-second, can emphasize the turbulent and dynamic nature of the waterfall.

Keep in mind that longer exposures may require you to reduce the amount of light entering your camera. You can achieve this by using a narrow aperture (higher f-number) or by attaching a neutral density (ND) filter to your lens. ND filters are particularly useful in bright conditions, as they allow you to use longer exposures without overexposing the image.

During post-processing, you can further enhance the impact of long exposures by adjusting the contrast, saturation, and sharpness of the image. Experiment with different editing techniques to bring out the intricate details of the waterfall and create a visually captivating final result.

Remember that practice is key when working with long exposures. It may take a few attempts to find the perfect balance of shutter speed, aperture, and composition. With time and experience, you will develop a keen eye for capturing the mesmerizing beauty of small waterfalls through the magic of long exposures.

The Magic of Half-Second Exposures

When photographing small waterfalls, using a half-second exposure can produce stunning results. This shutter speed allows you to capture the silky smooth flow of water, creating a dreamy and ethereal effect. The long exposure blurs the motion of the water, transforming it into a graceful veil that enhances the overall mood and atmosphere of the image.

During a half-second exposure, it is important to stabilize your camera to prevent any unwanted camera shake. A tripod is essential for this purpose, ensuring your composition remains sharp and crisp. Additionally, using a remote shutter release or the self-timer function can further minimize any potential camera shake caused by pressing the shutter button.

Exploring the Focal Length Range

The focal length range from 70 to 200mm offers excellent versatility when photographing small waterfalls. At 70mm, you can capture wider compositions that incorporate the surrounding environment. This focal length allows you to include additional elements such as rocks, foliage, or a captivating foreground, which can enhance the overall composition and provide context to the waterfall.

As you increase the focal length towards 200mm, you can achieve a more intimate and detailed view of the waterfall. This zooming capability allows you to isolate specific sections or patterns within the waterfall, revealing intricate textures and mesmerizing details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

5 Tips for Successful Telephoto Lens Photography 

1. Scout the Location: Before starting your photography session, explore the area around the small waterfall. Look for different angles, perspectives, and foreground elements that can add interest and depth to your images.

2. Optimize Your Settings: Set your camera to aperture priority mode to have control over the depth of field. An aperture setting between f/8 and f/16 is recommended to ensure the entire waterfall remains in sharp focus. Adjust your ISO to keep noise levels to a minimum.

3. Experiment With Composition: Play with different compositions to create visually appealing images. Consider the rule of thirds, leading lines, and foreground elements to guide the viewer’s eye towards the waterfall.

4. Utilize Filters: Neutral density (ND) filters are useful when working with longer exposures, allowing you to achieve the desired effect even in bright lighting conditions. Graduated ND filters can help balance the exposure between the sky and the waterfall.

5. Patience and Persistence: Nature is unpredictable, and capturing the perfect shot may require multiple attempts. Be patient and persistent, waiting for the right lighting conditions and adjusting your settings accordingly.

Using a telephoto lens to photograph small waterfalls offers a unique perspective that can elevate your photography skills. By isolating the subject, employing half-second exposures, and exploring different focal lengths, you can capture the intricate details and enchanting flow of waterfalls in a way that captivates viewers.

Remember, improving your photography skills is an ongoing process that requires practice and experimentation. Take the time to explore various locations, compositions, and settings to find your own creative style. With patience and dedication, your telephoto lens will become a powerful tool in your photographic journey, unlocking a world of stunning imagery waiting to be captured.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below.

This year, Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine held its annual Cover Photo Contest sponsored by Adventures on the Gorge to offer our readers and the talented photographers of our region the chance to land a cover and win an adventure. From views of mountainous sunsets to shots of raging river trips, all outdoor adventure photos taken within the Mid-Atlantic Southeast region were welcome for submission. We received hundreds of submissions and thousands of votes for the fifteen finalists, but one came out on top. 

We are excited to announce the winner of this year’s contest is Jared Kreiss with his stunning photo of a family of bears exploring Cades Cove of Tennessee. The winning photo will be featured on an upcoming cover of Blue Ridge Outdoors. The runner-ups for this year’s contest are Rob Giersch coming in second place with an epic shot of a C-1 paddler running advanced whitewater rapids, and Jay Michaud in third place with a gorgeous sunset of the Blue Ridge Mountains! 

We caught up with Kreiss to get to know the story behind the lens and learn his process in photography and capturing a family of bears in the wild. 

BRO: How does it feel to be this year’s Cover Photo Contest Winner?

Kreiss: It’s exciting to have my work recognized and am I proud to show off this area with my photography. 

BRO: We are dying to know—how did you capture this incredible photo of this bear family?

Kreiss: So, I spent over 60 hours in Cades Cove riding my bike around and relentlessly searching for any activity. I saw this particular family out in the field and just sat there and watched them for about 30 minutes with my camera ready. After a while of waiting, they just happened to pop up out of the grass.  

BRO: Tell us about yourself as a photographer and adventurer—how would you describe your work/process and where do you draw your inspiration from?

Kreiss: As a photographer I like to be able to create a sense of peace and connection to our planet with what I create. I am very dedicated with my work and hold myself to a high standard when it comes to capturing the perfect moment and bringing it to life with post processing. I try to keep my photographic style clean and minimal as well as having it be an accurate representation of how I saw it. I draw my inspiration from the natural beauty that surrounds us, especially the Southern Appalachian region. 

BRO: Where is your favorite place to explore / photograph?

Kreiss: The mountains of North Carolina are most likely my favorite place to explore and photograph. I find a great sense of peace and stillness in these mountains over many other places. 

BRO: What is one of your favorite photos other than this one?

Kreiss:  One of my other favorite photos would probably be a shot over the Na Pali coast in Kauai. I think the memory that photo gives me, hanging out the side of a helicopter while taking the photo is really just hard to top. 

BRO: What advice would you give to someone wanting to photograph wildlife, esp bears?

Kreiss: I am still relatively new to wildlife photography, however some tips I would give to someone starting out would be to familiarize yourself with the animal’s habits, patterns and behaviors. Knowing where they like to hang out, what they like to eat etc. Also be prepared to go days, weeks or even months without seeing anything or getting any good photographs. It takes patience. 

BRO: Where do you see your photography taking you next? Any big projects or ideas for the future?

Kreiss: I would love for my photography to take me to either Alaska or New Zealand in the near future.  As far as big projects or ideas, I would love to take on more commercial work and projects that will be displayed in advertising. Billboards, magazines, travel guides etc. I would like to continue working in the tourism industry while expanding my network of clientele and opportunities. Any project that involves sustainability or environmentalism would also be a project that would get me excited. 

Disclaimer: Wildlife can be unpredictable and dangerous to human life when approached in the wild. We do not reccomend interacting with wildlife without professional supervision or guidance. Kreiss took these photos with a very long lens at a safe distance from these bears. Always consult your local department of wildlife before recreating in the outdoors. 

Cover Photo by Jared Kriess

CHICAGO (WLS) — This week on “Windy City Weekend,” Val and Ryan catch up on the latest topics with some Host Chat!

We have our Golden Bachelor!

ABC’s new show “The Golden Bachelor” finally has its silver fox, and you’ll be surprised by his Chicago ties.

PARRISH LEWIS – CHICAGO-BASED PHOTOGRAPHER:

Prominent Chicago-based photographer Parrish Lewis is here to announce his debut solo photo exhibit, curated by acclaimed fine art photographer Bryant Johnson. This exhibition will feature Lewis’ extraordinary interpretation of the iconic Erik B. & Rakim’s hip-hop classic “I Know You Got Soul,” promising an immersive visual experience for all attendees.

Parrish Lewis has gained recognition for his exceptional talent and artistic approach, capturing the essence of moments through his lens. With this exhibit, Lewis invites viewers on a transformative journey, exploring the profound impact of hip-hop culture on his life and artistic expression. Featuring Chicago and hip-hop legends including J. Ivy and George Daniels, who have graciously lent their presence to this exhibition, Lewis’s photographs provide a unique perspective on the intersection of music, art and culture.

Lewis says, “This project, ‘You Got Soul,’ serves as a testament to the human experience within hip-hop culture. Through a series of evocative portraits, I aim to capture the essence of my subjects, each representing a unique version of themselves. Just as hip-hop encompasses a range of emotions and experiences, I seek to portray the depth and complexity of these individuals through their expressions and personalities.”

The solo exhibit will take place at Blanc in Bronzeville, located at 4445 S. King Dr., and will run from July 22 to August 5, 2023.

This Sunday, July 23rd, Val herself will be moderating a discussion with Parrish from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

You can find out more about the exhibition from Parrish’s website at parrishlewis.com.

COM-ED EV RALLY:

ComEd’s EV (Electrical Vehicle) Rally is an electric go-kart race and one of the many free STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education programs offered by ComEd to help prepare tomorrow’s STEM workforce for the transition to clean energy.

As northern Illinois embraces the shift to clean energy, new STEM jobs and opportunities are emerging. The EV Rally serves as a platform to empower young women and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this evolving landscape.

For this exciting event, 45 high school girls from across Illinois came together to form nine teams. These teams embarked on a journey of innovation and collaboration as they worked over the course of four build nights to construct and assemble their team’s electric go-kart.

But it doesn’t end there. The culmination of their efforts will be showcased on Race Day, which has been scheduled for Saturday, July 29th at the Museum of Science and Industry from Noon to 4PM.

Nine teams put their meticulously crafted go-karts to the test on a custom racecourse. They will compete for the coveted EV Rally Cup and other exciting prizes.

Additionally, to further inspire interest in STEM, ComEd is giving away 500 Museum of Science and Industry tickets for Saturday, July 29, so more girls from the region and their families can experience the museum and witness the thrilling race. Secure your tickets by visiting ComEdEVRally.com.

By offering programs like the EV Rally, ComEd is actively preparing today’s youth for the promising career opportunities that lie ahead in STEM and the clean energy sector.

Visit ComEdEVRally.com for ticket info and to learn more about upcoming STEM education events.

ROEPER’S REVIEWS: SPEND OR SAVE?

“Barbie” – SPEND

It’s a Barbie World! The long-awaited premiere of “Barbie” has finally hit the big screen, with Magot Robbie starring as Barbie herself and Ryan Gosling as Ken. They leave Barbie-world for the real world, and soon discover the joys and perils of living among real people.

“Oppenheimer” – SPEND

“Oppenheimer” is the latest Christopher Nolan experience, telling the story of American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his role in the development of the atomic bomb.

“They Cloned Tyrone” – SPEND

“They Cloned Tyrone” is a thrilling comedy starring Jamie Foxx and John Boyega. An unlikely trio goes down a rabbit hole into a sinister neighborhood conspiracy.

WILSON CHI-LEAGUE RETURNS THIS SUMMER!

Wilson Chi-League is back! Wilson Chi-League is Chicago’s Pro-Am basketball tournament with 4 straight weekends of men’s and women’s games starting July 22.

Come out to Whitney Young High School and watch pros like Jabari Parker, Wendell Carter and Talen Horton-Tucker face off with local talent and college players.

Admission is free so get in on the summer hoops action at Wilson Chi-League. Doors open at 11 a.m. You can learn more at wilson.com/chi-league.

It’s never a bad day to capture landscape photography on the dunes. This day, in particular though, was truly one to remember and I share a variety of techniques for how I take photos of sand dunes.

Scouting Ahead

Scouting is a crucial part of any photography endeavor, but when it comes to photographing dunes, it requires even more meticulous scouting. Finding an organized and compelling composition can be quite challenging. To tackle this, preparation is key.

Start by conducting online scouting using tools like Google Earth. This helps you familiarize yourself with the landscape, identify parking areas and hiking routes to the dunes, and gauge the size of the location. The 3D textures provided by Google Earth can give you a sense of the relative sizes of different dunes. Use this information to mark potential vantage points for your photography.

Scouting in the Field

However, online scouting should be complemented by in-person exploration. Download offline maps using Google or Gaia GPS to assist you during your on-site scouting. Ideally, allocate a full day for scouting, allowing ample time to explore, experiment, and mark spots that you may want to revisit under different lighting conditions.

If you have only one day, ensure that you still give yourself enough time, as truly immersing yourself in the landscape takes a few hours. Avoid showing up just 30 minutes before sunset and expecting to capture outstanding images. Remember, the creative process requires time, and photographing dunes can be particularly challenging

Lenses and Gear

Regarding gear, my personal favorite lens for dune photography is a telephoto lens. The versatility of my 100-400mm lens allows me to capture intricate details in the distance. However, there are instances when a wide-angle lens can be beneficial, especially if there is an interesting sky with texture.

I typically find myself either using the telephoto end (100mm+) to create simplicity and focus on details or opting for the almost ultra-wide end (16mm or wider) to accentuate leading lines and distortion. I rarely capture mid-range dune photos, so I usually leave that lens behind during dune hikes. Nonetheless, the choice of lens depends on your shooting style. While on the dunes, I try to minimize lens changes.

In windy conditions with blowing sand, it’s best to have the lenses you intend to use already attached to your camera. To protect your gear, consider using a filter on the front element to guard against high winds and dust storms. Personally, I prefer having a polarizer on my lens to reduce reflections, which also doubles as lens protection. Alternatively, a UV filter works just as well.

If you need to remove dust from the lens, avoid using a lens wipe, as it may smear the dust and potentially scratch the lens. Instead, use a dust rocket blower. If you feel concerned about your camera body, you can use a plastic bag for added protection, although it may become burdensome and hinder your photography. Additionally, consider bringing protective glasses for yourself and a scarf or bandana to shield your mouth from sand ingestion.

The Photography

Upon arriving at the dune field, take a moment to absorb the surroundings before reaching for your camera. Observe the location attentively. Look into the distance and observe how the lines of the dunes converge in certain sections. Start moving in a particular direction while keeping an eye on the same spot. Notice how the lines and shapes transform as you move. Pay attention to the edges of shadows and light, the color tones, and the quality of the light.

These elements will guide you in building your composition and story.

One technique that has proved helpful in dune photography is to begin with a wide shot, capturing the overall view or the specific feature that caught your attention. Then gradually zoom in to highlight the most captivating element of your composition, whether it’s a repetition of shapes, a balance of light and shadow, or the textures of sand ripples. If it proves helpful, take a moment to review your photo on the camera’s display and zoom in for closer inspection. Starting wide and progressively zooming in allows you to slow down and start to see the intricate details of the dunes. Additionally, while it may seem simple, use your fingers to cover parts of the scene and visualize different compositions/crops. I have found this technique to be remarkably helpful in my own photography.

When photographing dunes, my aim is to capture the entire scene in a single image. To achieve this, I typically select an f-stop of at least f/11, or sometimes even f/16, in order to avoid the need for focus stacking. However, there are situations where focus stacking becomes necessary, especially when dealing with dune layers at varying distances. In such cases, a few well-chosen focus points should suffice. I take separate shots for the closest dune, the midground, and the background. In some instances, when I’m in close proximity to the layers, additional focus points may be required.

If I plan to use a telephoto lens, it can be key to slightly increase the ISO, providing more flexibility with the shutter speed. Usually ISO 400 on some cameras, or on the Sony A1 at ISO 500, which is the second base ISO. This adjustment proves particularly useful during sunset shoots or in windy conditions. For obtaining crisp images, it’s important to set the shutter speed to approximately double the focal length, unless you have the advantage of optical or in-body stabilization, which allows for more leeway. However, when I’m exploring the dunes in search of captivating images, I prefer not to obsess over the exact shutter speed needed. Instead, I opt for slightly higher settings to ensure I capture sharp shots, erring on the side of caution.

The conditions on the dunes are remarkably versatile, offering opportunities regardless of the weather. Whether it’s a clear day or one with rainy, stormy clouds, you can always find interesting subjects to photograph. It’s also crucial to experiment with different compositions and shots. While making my video, I focused heavily on telephoto compositions and neglected to use the wide lens to showcase the captivating light rays and stormy atmosphere I encountered. Hence, don’t hesitate to diversify your approach and explore various compositions.

Contrary to popular belief, the time of day doesn’t have as much impact as you might think. Dunes can be captured throughout the day. The midday light is excellent for emphasizing deep, contrasting shadows and focusing on distinct lines and textures. During sunset, the golden directional light can beautifully highlight the dunes, casting a warm glow when facing the sun or creating captivating spotlighting when facing away from it. Even after sunset, don’t rush to leave; sometimes, the reflected light in the sky produces stunning pastel hues that bathe the dunes. Keep in mind that the lighting and colors on the dunes can change dramatically, offering a range of shooting opportunities within a single morning or evening.

When you feel overwhelmed on the dunes, it’s crucial not to get discouraged. Moments of frustration can arise in this demanding genre of photography. In such instances, take a break. Sit down, immerse yourself in the view, enjoy a snack, and give yourself a moment to relax. Eventually, you will find the perfect shot, and sometimes the unexpected moments yield the best images.

Remember, photographing sand dunes requires time, patience, and an artistic eye. Embrace the challenge, experiment with different approaches, and allow yourself to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of these natural formations.

About the Author: Michael Shainblum is a photographer, filmmaker, and educator based in San Francisco, California. He has been working professionally as a photographer and filmmaker for 17 years since the age of 16. He has been commissioned by clients such as Disney, Nike, Samsung, Apple, and Google. He also shares his knowledge via his Youtube Channel, Instagram, and workshops. This story was also published here.

As photographers, we are constantly in pursuit of the perfect shot. Sometimes, the conditions don’t align as expected, and the location we had in mind for a stunning sunset turns out to be better suited for a breathtaking sunrise. In such situations, it’s important to embrace the opportunity and capture the beauty of the moment.

In this post, let’s explore the scenario of photographing a location that is ideal for sunrise rather than sunset, focusing on a picturesque setting with a lake, a small church on an island, great light, and the presence of midges or as I like to call them, Flying Teeth. There are valuable lessons and growth opportunities that arise from shooting in less-than-ideal conditions, and how such experiences can help improve your photography skills.

1. The Charms of a Sunrise Location 

Photographing a location that is better suited for sunrise offers its own unique advantages and challenges. While sunsets are often associated with warm, vibrant colors, capturing a sunrise can bring a sense of calmness, serenity, and the promise of a new day. The soft, delicate light of the early morning can create a peaceful atmosphere and add a touch of magic to your images.However when you have a location that is stunning in itself, you should always at least try to see what shots you can get, and even if you don’t bag a banger, you will have learned more about compositions to try at sunrise and will have the light around you to see and find them.

2. Embracing Unexpected Lighting Conditions 

When photographing a sunrise location at sunset, the lighting conditions may not be what you initially envisioned. However, it is essential to adapt and make the most of the available light. The “golden hour” before sunset still provides a warm, golden glow that can lend a soft, dreamy quality to your photographs.

Experiment with different angles and compositions to maximise the potential of the lighting conditions. Consider capturing silhouettes against the vibrant sky, using backlighting to create a halo effect, or emphasising the interplay between light and shadow.

3. The Magic of Flat Water 

A lake with calm, flat water can be a photographer’s dream, regardless of whether it is at sunrise or sunset. The stillness of the water acts as a mirror, reflecting the colours of the sky and creating a captivating sense of symmetry and tranquility in your images.

Utilise the calm water to capture stunning reflections. Positioning yourself to include both the small church on the island in this example or whatever your point of interest is and its mirrored reflection in the composition. Experiment with different focal lengths and compositions to capture the scene in a way that emphasises the harmony between the subject and its reflection.

4. The Annoyance of Midges and the Beauty of Summertime 

Photographing in nature often presents unexpected challenges, and the presence of midges can be one such annoyance. These tiny insects can swarm around you, making it difficult to focus on your photography. However, it’s important to remember that midges are part of the summertime experience and can even add a touch of authenticity to your images.

While they may be bothersome, try to maintain a positive perspective and embrace the situation. Consider them as temporary companions during your photography adventure. Think of their presence as a reminder of the natural world and the lively atmosphere that summertime brings. This ideology can be difficult in practice, but if you stick with it as much as possible then you are sure to at least grab a shot before they drive you away.

To cope with midges, you can take practical measures to minimise their impact. Wear appropriate clothing that covers your skin, apply insect repellent. Although dealing with midges can be frustrating, the end result is often worth it. The images you capture will serve as a testament to your perseverance and dedication to your craft. They will also evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding viewers of the lively and vibrant ambiance of summer.

In photography, as in life, challenges can be viewed as opportunities for growth. The annoyance of midges can teach us to adapt, be patient, and appreciate the beauty that coexists with the less desirable aspects of nature. By embracing these challenges and continuing to photograph stunning locations despite their nuisances, we deepen our connection with the environment and further develop our photography skills.

So, when you encounter midges during your summer photography sessions, remember to focus on the bigger picture. Let their presence serve as a reminder of the fleeting moments of summertime and the determination it takes to capture the beauty that lies within nature’s grasp.

5. The Importance of Shooting in Any Conditions 

Photography is an ever-evolving journey of learning and growth. Shooting in less-than-ideal conditions, such as photographing a sunrise location at sunset, can push you to think creatively, adapt to unexpected circumstances, and overcome challenges. These experiences strengthen your problem-solving skills and expand your artistic vision.

By embracing the beauty of the moment, regardless of the anticipated conditions, you open yourself up to new possibilities and discoveries. It encourages you to explore different angles, compositions, and techniques to capture the essence and uniqueness of each location.

Photographing a location that is better suited for sunrise at sunset may initially feel like a missed opportunity. However, by embracing the moment, making the most of the available light, and creatively incorporating the elements at hand, you can capture stunning and evocative images that showcase the beauty of the location.

Remember, photography is not just about capturing perfect conditions; it is about expressing your creativity, learning from every situation, and continually improving your skills. By challenging yourself to shoot in unexpected circumstances, you develop resilience, adaptability, and a unique artistic perspective. So, next time you find yourself in a sunset location that should be a sunrise gem, don’t hesitate to explore and capture the beauty that awaits you.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below 

Countless pet owners claim that their dog or cat is the funniest animal on the planet. And those assertions might actually not be too far from the truth, as evidenced by the 2023 finalists of the Comedy Pet Photography Awards. From a poodle flying through the air to a kitty sticking its tongue out to the camera, house pet hijinks have reached a whole new level.

The winners of the contest will be announced August 11. 

A life changing event

Alex is the shy one. Max is the playful one. Together they form a lethally cute duo. I had more fun taking photos of these two than during my most adventurous wildlife photography trips.

Barking

In March 2019 I sat in the dog run in Union Square in New York City when I spotted a lady with a pink bag on her hand (to keep her hand clean) throwing a ball to her dog, which sat facing her. The dog then launched itself and flipped in midair to face me and snap! As you can see, the lady with her hand on her head was as surprised as me and I think she is saying “phew.” I have searched in vain via the New York media to find the owner so that I can send her a copy. No [luck], so I’m hoping this Pet Comedy competition can help me find the mystery woman and her leaping dog. You never know!

The big boss

Big Boss is the boss around here. He is gentle and [his] kindness just [as] big.

Kylian’s sleep

Kylian could not sleep in another bed. Maybe he dreamt of [the] jungle….

When digging gets serious

Shadow was digging holes as normal at the beach, when all of a sudden he was showing off his new technique! Luckily the camera was at the ready for this crazy position!

Victory

Perfect landing pose, right?

The three greys

Karin and her two dogs. Don’t they all look almost the same?

Albert Einstein

He [stuck] out his tongue at me [just like the] famous Einstein photo.

The 498th round of hide and seek

Misty the spaniel desperately wanted to play with Nala, the dignified older lady of the menagerie. She wasn’t that keen; fortunately Misty was pretty terrible at hide and seek.

Football free kick

The pressure of football and waiting for the free kick.

So, this is the source of happiness

That explains so much. (Don’t worry, it’s just regular hemp for industry.)

The first outdoor walk

Tiny happy ferret Boudicca (only 2.5 months old) enjoys her first outdoor walk.

Oscar

Yes, his name is Oscar. He is an Afghan greyhound and is very pleased with himself.

Bidule as goalkeeper

We were playing with our cat named Bidule, with a [ball of paper].

Keep your eye on the ball

Trying in vain to catch the ball. 

Pop up

He seems to pop out of the autumn leaves, doesn’t he?

Ball play silhouette

Bobby reaching for the ball against a beautiful sunset. We were taking photos of Bobby as the sun was quickly setting and disappearing behind the hill. I was changing the setting on my camera, to keep the detail on a black dog against a nice sky and soon realized to just go with the simple option and shoot him as a silhouette.

Zorro reborn

The avenger of the poor is back, but this time as a dog and not on a horse, but in a car! The obligatory black mask is a must, of course.

A lovely couple

I couldn’t get past this couple!

Little Daisy and her big future

Two sisters from different litters: self-confident Crystal and cute baby Daisy.

Is it a seal or a dog?

There’s a hiding place under the sofa where Louis likes to hide. That day I took his tennis ball from “his place,” he got angry and put his head out through the hole barking asking for his ball back. That’s when he turned into this angry seal, and I decided to register the moment.

Edgar’s dandelion

Beautiful Edgar’s favorite foods are the leaves and dandelions. Here she’s seen taking her time to savor the flavor.

Who are you?

Our cat Lilly played with a mouse. We saved the mouse, and our dog Amy was fascinated by it.

My face when my crush says “hi”

We tried to get a dreamy autumn photo of Milo. Instead of lying a bit on his side he rolled around like crazy. His family loves this shot because it shows his personality better than any other picture.

Flying poodle

This is Barney, our toy poodle, caught mid-flight while running.

On the National Museum of Natural History’s photography team, the answer is almost always yes.  Can you capture every tiny vascular detail in the wing of a fly? Yes. Can you photograph a gigantic stegosaurus skeleton in an exhibition full of visitors? Yes. Can you travel thousands of miles with unwieldy camera gear to bring vital field research to life? Yes.

In a museum brimming with astounding collections, diverse research, constantly changing exhibitions, and events that attract visitors from around the world, photographers need to be ready for anything.  And if their stunning shots are any indication, they always are.

A common saying among the Photo and Media team members is that their office has photographed everything you can find between 190 feet below the surface and 35,000 feet above.  “I spend most of my time with rocks and dead stuff,” said NMNH photographer Brittany Hance with a laugh. “But we have done such a wide variety of work from digitizing specimens of birds and gems to human forensics, underwater expeditions, field research, events, staff photographs, and exhibits.”

Although they can spend days or even weeks on a single photo shoot, the team doesn’t always know where their work will end up.  The photographs can often be found in books, research studies, articles for popular publications, documentaries, and a select few have even been used as Facebook profile photos.  Team members keep tabs on their work by searching their names on the internet, often discovering that their photos will appear in new digital and physical locations years after they are taken.

The museum maintains one of the largest and most unique collections of natural objects in the world, and the team’s photography methods have become equally unique as a result.  “As a commercial photographer, you are used to taking some hot glue and positioning your subjects exactly the way you want them,” said NMNH chief photographer James Di Loreto.  “But here, every specimen we photograph is a one-off, and there is no other object exactly like it in the world.” To prioritize the safety of all collections and staff, the photographers have become experts at designing non-destructive mounts on the fly – without hot glue.

Every couple of years the team buckles down for a series of oversized photography days.  This is an opportunity for the museum’s curators to pull out all the enormous objects in their collections that have never been photographed.  Most of these items have not been moved in decades, and the team stresses that their goal is to disrupt the delicate specimens and artifacts as little as possible. 

In order to get high quality shots without manipulating and destabilizing these towering wonders, which range from Easter Island Moai and canoes to sprawling whale skeletons, the photography team has learned to adapt their equipment to fit each situation. They now manufacture their own mounts to hold the objects and have developed a cache of camera creations that swing across vast collection spaces and rotate to capture every possible angle.

Some of the largest items that the team has ever had to photograph were murals by artist Ely Kish that were installed in the museum’s old fossil hall.  In order to take uniform shots across the entire length of the murals, the team had to build an entirely new camera rig.  “His name is Frank N. Stand, and he’s really cool,” said Hance.  “He is two camera stands that we combined to create cross polarized lights that travel simultaneously with the camera, and the whole thing is rolling down a janky train track we built.”  The largest mural, Life in the Ancient Seas, took the team over 16 hours to photograph, and the resulting image is a combination of 307 photographs that were stitched together on a high-performance computer.

While many of their photographs are carefully orchestrated with every detail planned, the team admits that some of their favorite shots come when they have time to let their creativity run free.  After a particularly long day of photographing a Tyrannosaurus rex skull in the middle of a tourist-filled exhibition in 2013, the photo team decided to pull out their color gels and have fun with their equipment.  The resulting image features a haunting red glow that illuminates the frightening fossil.  The T. rex jack-o’-lantern has remained a Halloween favorite around the museum ever since.

The photography team is essential not only to public engagement, but also to the research functions of the museum.  In the past, researchers spent extraordinary amounts of time photographing each of their specimens for inventory records.  Now NMNH photographers can take over and allow researchers to spend their time in the field rather than in the office.

A little-known but extremely important aspect of the team’s work is their participation in active forensic cases with the FBI or local and state law enforcement.  NMNH photographer James Tiller has a background in biological anthropology and has accompanied numerous Smithsonian anthropologists as they conduct field studies on skeletal material.  

“I have firsthand knowledge of skeletal anatomy, so I have been able to help implement actual forensic procedures to design a process for how to handle these types of photographs,” Tiller said.  “It has to be very specific because the pictures are used as evidence in court.”  Although these forensic images are rarely seen by the public, the photography team agrees that their ability to aid in legal procedures is one of the most unique and meaningful aspects of their work.

While the museum’s photographers spend most of their time behind the lens, another team is hard at work processing and archiving the images to make them accessible for future generations.  The digital asset management team cares for an archive of over half a million digital image files, contributing to the preservation of an essential record of the museum’s collections and history that can be viewed for public interest and used to further research efforts across the globe.   

“My hope is always that our photos inspire anyone who sees them,” said Kristen Quarles, a digital collections specialist at the museum.  “I want the public to appreciate the surprising beauty of our natural world, the awesome diversity of human cultures, and the profound importance of caring for and learning from both.”

Related Stories:
Iconic Photos Give Rare Glimpse of Smithsonian’s Storage Rooms
See Past Winning Photographs From the Wildlife Photographer of the Year
How to Take the Perfect Selfie at the Smithsonian
Lucy’s Legacy: Celebrating the 48th Anniversary of Her Discovery with a Selfie

The ArtRoom Collective First Friday Art Crawl is from 4-7 p.m. Aug. 4 at the Smiley Building, 1309 East Third Ave.

Ray Martinez will demonstrate his photography techniques through a white seamless portrait.

The Smiley Cafe will be open for a warm beverage, glass of wine or a treat.

The ArtRoom Collective at The Smiley is a diverse, working studio gallery where artists create, collaborate and share their passion with the community.

You can see more than 250 photographs taken between Nov. 1963 and Feb. 1964, all taken by McCartney himself.