Sam Mooney’s mum describes his intellectual disability as a “superpower”, and his photography certainly reflects his great potential.

Now thanks to community connectedness and an incredible act of kindness, the 18-year-old from The Gap in Brisbane can achieve his creative goals after being gifted some much-needed camera equipment.

It began in the midst of the pandemic, when Mr Mooney set himself a challenge to draw – either digitally or by hand with pencils – every day for a month.

When he shared some of that work on social media, he received plenty of praise and support.

That led him to photography, and Mr Mooney says he hasn’t looked back.

“The rest is history.”

When his mum, Jane Mooney, later asked if he’d be interested in taking a class with Brisbane photographer Colin Bushell, Mr Mooney leapt at the opportunity.

“Colin is brilliant, really lovely, and [there’s a] connection between him and Sam because they’re both big community [contributors] at that local, grassroots level,” Jane said.

Mr Mooney is currently involved in an inclusive sport and recreation reference group for the NDIS, which he was selected for as a result of that commitment to the community, as well as his passion for sport.

Mr Mooney’s carer, who also shares a love of photography, was just as excited to tag along for the recent workshop.

“It was extraordinary, learning all about the different [camera] settings and filters you can do,” Mr Mooney said.

Passing on creative knowledge

Mr Bushell has lived in Australia for 25 years, but his love of photography has led to a range of experiences – working with people of all ages and abilities – both here and in London.

“Now I’m in a position to give back to those who haven’t had the opportunities I’ve had,” he said.

Mr Bushell is passionate about helping budding artists as president of The Gap Creative, and through workshops that help amateur snappers refine their skills.

It was through one of these workshops, which focused on smartphone photography, that Mr Bushell first met Mr Mooney.

“Sam was really enthusiastic and keen to learn,” Mr Bushell recalled.

“You don’t have to go out and win photography contests [to feel] the absolute glow, the warmth, that’s felt on that community level,” Jane said of Mr Bushell’s workshop.

A ‘special’ gift for young photographer

Just days after the workshop, during a workforce capability exercise at Jigsaw – a Brisbane organisation aimed at helping people living with disability achieve their employment goals – Mr Mooney was asked where he saw himself in the future.

“I see myself getting better and better at taking photos of scenery,” Mr Mooney answered.

There was just one problem, he didn’t have any equipment other than his phone.

So when another Queensland photographer passed away, and Mr Bushell learned the family wanted his photography equipment go to a worthy home, Mr Bushell immediately thought of Mr Mooney.

“A little spark went off in my head,” Mr Bushell said.

He picked up the equipment and met with Sam and Jane to pass on the gift.

“It was a very emotional, and fun, thing to do,” Mr Bushell recalled.

“I felt very, very shocked,” Mr Mooney said.

He’s been testing the camera out at home, taking photos around the house and of the family dog.

“It’s quite overwhelming, we were nearly going to take it [outdoors] yesterday but it’s just so special,” Ms Mooney said of the professional equipment.

Continuing to explore photography and sport

Mr Bushell will be meeting with Mr Mooney again soon, helping the teen reach his full potential with the new gear.

Once he’s more comfortable with the camera, he and Ms Mooney plan to take it out and explore the region’s natural beauty.

“Colin told us about a reservoir, near where we live, where a koala lives. He said the camera will be fantastic if we spot the koala. There’s lots of good birds around there too,” Ms Mooney added.

Mr Mooney also has a passion for the Broncos and Ms Mooney says he would make a great sports photographer.

He currently plays Rugby 7s in the GPS All Abilities Program, and can see himself working for the Ashgrove club one day.

“The sky is the limit,” his mum agreed.

Landscape photography is a captivating art form that allows us to unveil the extraordinary beauty of our planet. From towering mountains and serene lakes to vast deserts and lush forests, the diversity of Earth’s landscapes provides an endless array of subjects for photographers to explore. In this article, we will delve into the world of landscape photography, discussing techniques, equipment, and the essence of capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet through the lens.

The Wonder of Earth’s Landscapes

Our planet is a treasure trove of natural wonders, each with its unique charm and character. From the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest to the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle, every corner of the Earth offers a distinct opportunity for photographers to witness and capture nature’s grandeur. Whether you are drawn to the vastness of canyons or the delicate intricacy of flower fields, landscape photography enables us to celebrate and share the wonders of our planet. Here in Ireland, we may not have the deserts or the rain forests, but we do have a wild coastline along the west that continues to evolve and offer many new compositions with every visit. This can be the same for your home country, you may not even need to travel far to witness them. 

Equipment Essentials

While having high-end camera gear can enhance the technical quality of your images, it is not a prerequisite for capturing the essence of Earth’s landscapes. Many photographers create remarkable photographs with entry-level cameras or even smartphones. The key lies in understanding your equipment, maximizing its potential, and harnessing your creative vision. So, whether you have a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or a smartphone, there are opportunities aplenty to create stunning landscape images. Practice, practice, and practice some more, understand what each setting does, and how shutter speeds can totally change a scene, even before you head out into the wilderness, this way you will have a better experience, fewer frustrations, and potentially more great shots.

Composition and Perspective

Composition plays a vital role in landscape photography. It involves arranging elements within the frame to create a visually pleasing and balanced image. The rule of thirds, leading lines, and foreground interest are compositional techniques that can bring depth and visual impact to your photographs. Experimenting with different perspectives, such as shooting from low angles or seeking elevated viewpoints, adds a unique dimension to your images, allowing viewers to experience landscapes from fresh and intriguing angles.

Harnessing the Magic of Light:

Light is the lifeblood of photography, and in landscape photography, it can make all the difference. The quality and direction of light transform the mood and atmosphere of a scene. The soft, warm light of sunrise and sunset, known as the golden hour, casts a magical glow on landscapes, while the dramatic lighting of stormy weather can create a moody and awe-inspiring ambience. Understanding how to use and manipulate light is crucial for capturing the true essence and beauty of Earth’s landscapes. You may not get the light you desire on your first or even tenth outing, but with patience and determination, the light will eventually come, and then, it is all worthwhile.

Chasing the Perfect Moment

Landscape photography often requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to wait for the perfect moment. Nature’s splendor unfolds in its own time, and being prepared to seize those fleeting moments is key. Whether it’s waking up before dawn to witness the first light breaking over a mountain range or enduring long exposures to capture the movement of waves crashing against the shore, the pursuit of the perfect moment is what sets extraordinary landscape photographs apart.

Post-Processing and Fine-Tuning

Post-processing is an essential part of the landscape photography workflow. Editing software such as Adobe Lightroom or Capture One enables you to enhance colors, adjust exposure, and fine-tune your images to reflect your artistic vision. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance and avoid over-editing. The goal should be to enhance the natural beauty of the landscape while maintaining its authenticity and integrity. Remember, the sliders aren’t really designed to go to 100. Less is more.

Let’s Summarize

Landscape photography is an immersive journey that allows us to connect with the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet. Through composition, perspective, and the mastery of light, we can capture and unveil Earth’s wonders. Armed with the right equipment, a keen eye, and a willingness to explore, we have the opportunity to create images that transport viewers to the breathtaking landscapes that grace our planet. The more you go out and practice, the better you will become, the first step to mastering landscape photography is to actually take that first step and head out into the wilderness.

So, venture forth with your camera in hand, and immerse yourself in nature’s splendor.

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

Hellen van Meene

Hellen van Meene was born in Alkmaar, Netherlands, in 1972 and studied photography at the Gerrit Rietveld Academie in Amsterdam. A professional photographer for almost 30 years, Hellen’s work has been exhibited around the world, including at the Guggenheim and MoMA in New York. She received an Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society in 2016 and won the Victoriefonds Visual Arts Culture Prize in 2022.

Van Meene’s photographs embrace an aesthetic of their own, appearing contemporary while at the same time, seemingly being from a different era. Influenced by 17th Century paintings, her work captivates the viewer, while embracing her own visual language. 

In each photograph, her aim is to capture the precious momentum of youth, which is characterized by openness, uncertainty, and dreams for the future. Her use of natural light, sensitivity towards the models and absolute attention to detail all help to create an eye-catching interplay. The girls’ facial expressions are particularly striking. At times, her subjects seem to be lost in their own thoughts, while at others, they almost appear to be challenging the viewer. Occasionally, some of her subjects even have their eyes closed, but through her skillful staging, each photo seems to stop time within itself.

Van Meene has been working with some models for years, and as they find their way into adulthood and evolve, so does her photographic work. In her latest series, she goes one step further, including an element of fire in her work for the first time.

Work courtesy of: James Freeman Gallery, London; Galerie Fontana, Amsterdam; Yancey Richardson, New York

Interview

“There are people in my photographs, but they’re not ‘portraits’ as such. It’s more like a translation of someone I see”

July 13 – Bryce Denison Photography Reception at Woods Gallery, FLORA of North America

Huntington Woods, MI – The Woods Gallery at Huntington Woods Library is hosting an opening reception for photographer Bryce Denison on July 13.

Here’s the info:

FLORA of North America: The Photography of Bryce Denison July 5 – Aug 31

Artist’s Reception: Thursday, July 13 | 6-8 pm

Artist Remarks at 7pm

Meet professional photographer, Bryce Denison, at the artist’s reception and experience his bold images of the flora of North America. Much of the exhibit will feature the colorful flora of Michigan, so come and be captivated by the dramatic imagery of the flowers in our home state and beyond, and enjoy this perfect exhibit for summer. Bryce grew up in Michigan. and teaches classes as Director, of Midwest Photography Workshops. He also leads photography adventures near and far.

For more things to do, visit the Oakland County Times Event Page! 

To submit event info email editor@oc115.com .

Thank you to Jim Shaffer & Associates Realtors for sponsoring this section!

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The actor Frances McDormand, who was present when her husband, the film-maker Joel Coen, first met the photographer Lee Friedlander, was struck by their immediate rapport. It was rooted, she writes in her afterword to a new book, Lee Friedlander Framed by Joel Coen, in “a familiarity that comes from their lifetimes of singular and eccentric visions”.

At 88, Friedlander is 20 years older than Coen, and has been looking at the world in his off-kilter way since he first picked up a camera, aged 14. His subject matter is extravagantly wide-ranging, from busy streets and deserted parking lots to the gloomy interiors of motel rooms and shadowy self-portraits, but his style is unmistakeable. “I’m still shooting the same subjects when I go out west,” he said recently. “The more jumble, the better I like them – if they work.”

Against all the odds, though, even the most jumbled or fragmented Lee Friedlander photograph works. His approach has often been described as “cerebral”, an acknowledgment of the fierce compositional rigour that imposes order on what, in lesser hands, would simply be chaotic. Revealingly, Coen was drawn “more to his beautifully strange sense of composition than to any specific subject”, which will no doubt make the resulting book fascinating to Friedlander devotees, but may not be the best place to start for anyone unfamiliar with his vast and challenging archive.

It was Friedlander’s gallerist, Jeffrey Fraenkel, who, having befriended Coen and McDormand during the pandemic – they live in adjacent towns in Marin County – suggested that the director might curate a show of the photographer’s work. “I thought Lee was ripe for an outside approach, and inviting a film-maker seemed like the way to go,” Fraenkel told the New York Times. “Anyone who’s seen Joel’s movies knows he has a special eye for images.” When the pair met, the chemistry was such that both artists felt as if they somehow knew each other.

The book, which accompanies an exhibition at Luhring Augustine in New York that runs until late July, is intriguing as much for what it says about Coen’s offbeat vision as Friedlander’s singular way of seeing. There are 70 images in total, many of which are lesser-known examples of the photographer’s work. They have been selected, as Coen puts it in his short introduction, “to highlight Lee’s unusual approach to framing – his splitting, splintering, repeating, fracturing, and reassembling into new and impossible compositions”.

It begins with a series of landscapes and street scenes bisected by vertical lines: poles, trees, parking meters, steel bars. Your eye is immediately drawn to these bold intrusions, which sometimes partially obscure the people in the photographs or places them at the edges of the composition. It is as good a way as any of announcing that you have entered the world of Lee Friedlander: a strangely familiar place of recurring signs, symbols, jolts and clues that, reflected through Coen’s eyes, suddenly seems cinematic albeit in a distinctly avant garde way.

It’s not just that many of the photographs resemble film stills: frozen moments that suggest a bigger, stranger narrative. Or that they make noirish use of reflected images in car mirrors, glass doors and shop windows. Or that Friedlander, like Hitchcock, appears, as a reflection or a shadow, in many of his own creations. More specifically, it’s the sense that the everyday landscapes in which the Coen brothers set films such as Fargo, The Big Lebowski or Barton Fink are not that far removed from the American terrain that Friedlander has made his own over six decades.

His photographs often evoke the energy of urban life in anonymous cities: the sense of individuals constantly on the move through crowded or deserted streets and revolving doors, and the suggestion that something is happening just out of frame, or is about to happen in the next shot. Sometimes, though, nothing is happening at all on Friedlander’s empty lots and half-empty car parks, and that eerie emptiness is also redolent of certain establishing shots from Coen brothers’ films, which always tend to take their own sweet time to get where they are going. In both cases, the unexpected and the almost mundane exist in an uneasy harmony that makes you wonder, as McDormand puts it: “Why, how and what did they see?”

For McDormand, Friedlander’s images and Coen’s films “hold mysteries that feel a bit connected”. Likewise, their respective ways of seeing seem somehow interlinked. “They both,” she concludes, “capture and fill frames with sometimes simple and other times chaotically elaborate images that cause us to wonder. Not to browse and swipe, but to wonder. And perhaps to allow some things into our heads we’ve never thought about before and think… Huh.”

• Lee Friedlander Framed by Joel Coen is published by Fraenkel Gallery. An exhibition of the photographs is at Luhring Augustine, Chelsea, New York until 28 July

Tamron – Need lightweight, compact mirrorless lenses? Tamron has you covered, with superior optics perfect for any situation. With weather sealing and advanced image stabilization, you’ll open up your creative possibilities.

Radiant Photo – Radiant Photo superior quality finished photos with perfect color rendition, delivered in record time. Your photos — simply RADIANT. The way they are meant to be.

AfterShoot – AfterShoot helps photographers cull their photos faster, leaving them more time to spend on creative tasks. Save $10 with the code PHOTOFOCUS10.

Mylio Photos – Access your photos from anywhere, without the cloud! Easily showcase your photos on-the-go, resolve duplicates, find faces and look for those stunning locations.

Skylum – Your photos, more beautiful in minutes. Skylum adapts to your style and skill level. Check out Luminar Neo’s unique sky replacement and portrait editing tools, now available.

B&H – B&H is a world renowned supplier of all the gear photographers, videographers, and cinematographers need and want to create their very best work.

MPB – Grab used but perfectly working cameras and lenses for less, or turn your old gear into cash by trading and selling them on MPB!

Learning flash can be a tough endeavor; it takes a combination of a lot of technique, attention to detail, and creative vision. If you are working on mastering flash, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing perhaps the biggest mistakes photographers make when working with flash. 

Coming to you from Jiggie Alejandrino, this awesome video tutorial discusses a common mistake flash photographers make: overcomplicating the endeavor. This can even mean using flash when ambient light is not only sufficient, but even more flattering. There is a tendency to create complex lighting setups simply for the sake of being complex, but it is important to remember that the aim is to create lighting that fits the best for scenario (and preferably accomplishes that in the most efficient manner). Like a virtuoso musician, just because you can shred a ton of notes does not mean it is appropriate for the musical context at any moment; sometimes, subtle is better. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Alejandrino. 

If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out “Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!”

The Fujifilm X Series of mirrorless cameras has become a favorite of many photographers, offering a fantastic blend of tactile shooting experience, professional features, and impressive image quality. The X-S20 is the newest member of the X Series, and it offers a nice balance of capabilities and cost, making it a nice option for many photographers. This great video review takes a look at the camera for photography use and the kind of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage. 

Coming to you from Maarten Heilbron, this in-depth video takes a first look at the new Fujifilm X-S20 mirrorless camera. Seated in the middle of the range, the X-S20 comes with a nice array of capabilities and features, including: 

• Back-illuminated 26.1-megapixel sensor X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
• Native ISO range of 160-12,800
• Continuous burst rate of 20 fps when using electronic shutter (30 fps with 1.25x crop)
• Continuous burst rate of 8 fps when using mechanical shutter 
• AI-based subject-detection autofocus leveraging deep learning technology
• 19 film simulation modes with presets for certain subjects
• Five-axis in-body image stabilization with up to 7 stops of compensation
• Single SD card slot
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
• Battery life of approximately 750 frames

Altogether, the X-S20 looks like another great entry in the X Series line of cameras. Check out the video above for Heilbron’s full thoughts on the camera. 

Pricing can be an extremely tricky things for photographers to master, and even small mistakes can add up to big losses over time. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced commercial photographer discussing a common and easy-to-make mistake, how to recognize it, and how to fix it. 

Coming to you from Scott Choucino of Tin House Studio, this excellent video tutorial discusses mistakenly pricing your work based on the time you have put into learning your craft versus its perceived value and your unique capabilities. It is understandable to price your work this way; after all, it is a very intuitive way of thinking. But it is important to consider the client’s perspective. The client does not know how long it took you to learn your craft, nor do they care; after all, it is the images that matter at the end of the day. It is important to understand the value of your work on its own merits and the market’s demands, rather than the amount of work you have put into it. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Choucino. 

If you would like to learn more about the business of photography, check out “Making Real Money: The Business of Commercial Photography With Monte Isom!”

Tamron – Need lightweight, compact mirrorless lenses? Tamron has you covered, with superior optics perfect for any situation. With weather sealing and advanced image stabilization, you’ll open up your creative possibilities.

Radiant Photo – Radiant Photo superior quality finished photos with perfect color rendition, delivered in record time. Your photos — simply RADIANT. The way they are meant to be.

AfterShoot – AfterShoot helps photographers cull their photos faster, leaving them more time to spend on creative tasks. Save $10 with the code PHOTOFOCUS10.

Mylio Photos – Access your photos from anywhere, without the cloud! Easily showcase your photos on-the-go, resolve duplicates, find faces and look for those stunning locations.

Skylum – Your photos, more beautiful in minutes. Skylum adapts to your style and skill level. Check out Luminar Neo’s unique sky replacement and portrait editing tools, now available.

B&H – B&H is a world renowned supplier of all the gear photographers, videographers, and cinematographers need and want to create their very best work.

MPB – Grab used but perfectly working cameras and lenses for less, or turn your old gear into cash by trading and selling them on MPB!