Photographer Artem Shestakov Took to the Sands of Miami Beach
Ukrainian photographer Artem Shestakov took to the sands of Miami Beach to photograph the world's most beautiful models at the Bang Model Volleyball tournament.
Taking over the Presidents' Day weekend, crowds turned up to watch the beautiful models serve, spike, and dive right on the beach in hopes of earning the championship trophy and bragging rights for a year.
Competition in the battle consists of a bracket-style round-robin format where teams compete against one another, ultimately resulting in a winner. Teams compete for a unique global ambassador charity trip to Haiti alongside the Jack Brewer Foundation.
Artem Shestakov says, "It was my first event here in Miami. I had a wonderful time. Normally, I am in the middle of the wilderness taking photos of landscape, so this was a different experience. I am very happy to be part of this amazing tournament and I'm already looking forward to the next one."
Over the past 10 years, Model Volleyball has taken over Miami Beach and gave everyone a new experience. More importantly, it has given Miami a good reason to get outside and enjoy what it has to offer.
The tournament, which is always free and open to the public of all ages, features each city's top model agencies, as well as some of the top professional volleyball players across the world, competing in a co-ed beach volleyball tournament. These top agencies include Next, CGM, Elite, MC2, Mega, Front, BMG Runways, 2BC, K2, DAS & Dorothy Combs.
In the end, Miami’s own “The Industry Miami” took the prize.
Noteworthy guests have included Dwayne Wade, Chanel Iman, James Marsden, Jamie Foxx, Rob Gronkowski, Geoff Stults, Cedric Gervais, Omar Miller, Cedric the Entertainer, Hassan Whiteside, Rohan Marley, Andrea Denver, River Viiperi, Calvin Klein and Reggie Bush, along with performances by Jamie Foxx, DNCE and Travis Scott.
Five Tips To Capture The First Lunar Phenomenon Of 2019 - 'The Blood Moon'
In the early hours of the 21st January we will experience a total Lunar Eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, when, if the skies are clear, the moon will appear red as light from the sun is blocked by the earth as it passes in front. This rare event will be visible over most of west and northern Europe.
Canon ambassador and acclaimed landscape photographer, David Noton, has provided his top tips to keep in mind when photographing this occasion.
1. Download the right apps to be in-the-know
The sun’s position in the sky at any given time of day varies massively with latitude and season. That is not the case with the moon as its passage through the heavens is governed by its complex elliptical orbit of the earth. That orbit results in monthly, rather than seasonal variations, as the moon moves through its lunar cycle. The result is big differences in the timing of its appearance and its trajectory through the sky. Luckily, we no longer need to rely on weighty tables to consult the behaviour of the moon, we can simply download an app on to our phone. The Photographer’s Ephemeris is useful for giving moonrise and moonset times, bearings and phases; while the Photopills app gives comprehensive information on the position of the moon in our sky.
Armed with these two apps, I’m planning to shoot the Blood Moon this January over Dorset’s famous UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Jurassic Coast. I’m aiming to capture the Blood Moon during the period of total eclipse (between 0441 and 0543) when it will be high in the sky to the south west,
2. Invest in a lens with optimal zoom
Essentially, I’ll have two choices, shooting wide to capture the moon in the context of the landscape, or framing the moon tight in the frame, so we can see every crater on the asteroid pockmarked surface. The latter is a task normally reserved for astronomers with super powerful telescopes, but if you’ve got a long telephoto lens on a full frame DSLR with around 600 mm of focal length, it can be done, depending on the composition. I will be using the Canon EOS R with an EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Ext. 1.4 x lens, and also the ubiquitous 24-70mm f2.8 L III for the wider shot.
3. Use a tripod to capture the intimate details
As you frame up your shot, one thing will become immediately apparent; lunar tracking is incredibly challenging as the moon moves through the sky surprisingly quickly. As you probably be using a long lens for this shoot, it’s important to invest in a sturdy tripod to help capture the best possible image. Although it will be tempting to take the shot by hand, it’s important to remember that your subject is over 384,000km away from you and even with a high shutter speed, the slightest of movements will become exaggerated.
4. Integrate the moon into your landscape
Whilst images of the moon large in the frame can be beautifully detailed, they are essentially astronomical in their appeal. Personally, I’m far more drawn to using the lunar allure as an element in my landscapes, or using the moonlight as a light source. The latter is difficult, as the amount of light the moon reflects is tiny, whilst the lunar surface is so bright by comparison. Up to now, night photography meant long, long exposures but with cameras such as Canon’s EOS-1D X Mark II, Canon’s EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon’s recently launched, EOS R now capable of astonishing low light performance, a whole new nocturnal world of opportunities has been opened to photographers.
5. Master the shutter speed for your subject
The most evocative and genuine use of the moon in landscape portraits results from situations when the light on the moon balances with the twilight in the surrounding sky. Such images have a subtle appeal, mood and believability.
By definition, any scene incorporating a medium or wide-angle view is going to render the moon as a tiny pin prick of light, but its presence will still be felt. Our eyes naturally gravitate to it, however insignificant it may seem. Of course, the issue of shutter speed is always there; too slow an exposure and all we’ll see is an unsightly lunar streak, even with a wide-angle lens.
On a clear night, mastering the shutter speed of your camera is integral to capturing the moon with a shutter speed fast enough to stop the motion from blurring. How fast will depend on your focal length, but if you’re filling the frame with the moon using a long lens you’re going to need a shutter speed of about 1/250th sec. Get the technique right and with the high quality of cameras such as the Canon EOS R, you might even be able to see the twelve cameras that were left up there by NASA in the 60’s!
About David Noton:
With a portfolio of jaw-dropping landscape and travel images, including the BBC Wildlife Photographer of The Year on multiple occasions, David has been leading his field for over three decades. After 34 years as a pro David is still specialising in landscape and travel photography with his preferred Canon camera and lens being the EOS 5DS R, EOS 5D Mark IV, EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM.
For a full list of all ambassadors within the programme, please visit
www.canon-europe.com/pro/ambassadors
Canon sponsors exhibition in partnership with The Photography Movement to raise mental health awareness in the UK
The exhibition which opened on the 4th October and runs until 13th December, is a carefully curated programme from The Photography Movement, a not for profit organisation founded to help all humankind express their feelings and emotions through the medium of photography. In partnership with Canon (UK) Ltd it showcases work from leading photographers promoting the benefits of photography to support mental wellbeing, as well as raise awareness and funds for charity partners including Help for Heroes, Maytree, Mental Health UK, OCD-UK, and YoungMinds.
Launching on October 10th to coincide with World Mental Health Day, is an exhibition by students from The London Academy of Excellence in Tottenham and The Photography Movements youth programme, in partnership with Canon (UK) Ltd. This specific exhibition is a series of images shot on Canon cameras that shine a light on students emotions and explore the theme: “How does it feel to be a teenager in the modern world?” The exhibition will raise awareness and funds for YoungMinds, the UKs leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health.
“We are delighted to be partnering with The Photography Movement to support this exhibition. Their focus struck a chord with us because photography is such a powerful visual storytelling tool that can be used to tell the stories that need to be told and drive change,” said Matthew Searle, Country Director, Canon UK & Ireland.
“At Canon we’re committed to our corporate philosophy of Kyosei: living and working together for the common good, and we demonstrate this through not only working with organisations like The Photography Movement, but also with our own Wellbeing strategy which puts as much importance on mental wellbeing as we do physical wellbeing in the workplace,” Searle added.
The programme of exhibitions, workshops and talks, are taking place at the Exposure Gallery in London and will be open to the public Monday – Friday 09:30am – 7:00pm, and include exhibits from;
- David Noton, Canon Ambassador (1st – 14th November) – explore the power of photography as therapy with the renowned landscape photographer with “Waiting for the light”, a collection of images portraying sublime moments of harmony from some of the most beautiful locations across the globe
- Daniel Regan (15th – 28th November) – presenting “I Want to Live”, an exhibition and accompanying book of interviews and portraits of the suicide respite centre Maytree’s volunteer workforce, alongside images of the transitional space
- Charlie Clift (29th November – 13th December) – in collaboration with illustrator Kate Forrester, the intimate portraits photographer presents images where the subjects inner thoughts and mental history are boldly painted onto their faces
The images exhibited throughout the exhibition series will be available for purchase with proceeds donated to our charity partners. Please visit tictail.com/thephotographymovement and we thank you for your support and generosity.
To learn more about the exhibits and how you can support Canon’s charity partners visit the Exposure Gallery webpage for more information.
Ballerina Orders In-N-Out in First of New Concept Photography Series From Albert Halim
Photographer Albert Halim recently collaborated with ballet dancer D. Sine Chan-Golston and launched a new concept photography series where ballerinas are captured in common everyday settings. The first photo in the series was taken as Sine was placing an order at In-N-Out. Albert was recently interviewed by Creative Squeeze and shared his experience putting the project together.
What was the inspiration behind this photo?
"I’ve been wanting to shoot this concept for a while now and I’m stoked to finally get it off the ground. I’ve always had a gravitation towards ballet dancing. There’s a beauty and grace to it that simply inspires me. My idea was to contrast a ballet dancer in different scenarios throughout the city where they would be doing different things that you wouldn’t normally picture them doing in ballet form."
Who was the subject?
"Sine was the model for this photo and she was incredible to work with. She’s actually a ballerina and travels back and forth between LA and New York to dance. She was fearless and not afraid to put herself out there and do her thing."
How difficult was it to shoot this?
"Incredibly nervous! I knew we had very limited shots and time to work with, so we had to plan out the pose and composition ahead of time. We actually had a few other concepts we wanted to shoot, but we had to settle for the first and only composition we were able to shoot inside the location."
Was everyone okay with the shoot?
"There was definitely a lot of staring, but surprisingly no hard time from In-N-Out. I’m sure they appreciated that we were quick about it. The cashier was game and willing to cooperate with us. I’ve learned over time to not be afraid to simply ask. Asking, being polite and respectful will surprisingly get you further than you think."
Are there other concepts or ideas lined up?
"This is the first of a series that I have lined up, but I’ve got more coming up. Can’t wait to share it!"
After the photo, was there any ordering done?
"Of course! Double-Double - Animal Style with extra grilled onions and whole grilled onions. With fries and a root beer :)"
Wedding Website:
Personal Website:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/alberthaleem/
D. Sine Chan-Golston (Model):
https://www.instagram.com/sine.changolston/
The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS features a powerful 65x fixed lens zoom with DSLR-style looks and true portability
Canon Europe announces the launch of the PowerShot SX70 HS, a bridge camera with a powerful 65x optical fixed lens zoom, equivalent to a 21-1365mm focal length. Featuring DSLR-style looks and handling, a 7.5 Vari-Angle LCD screen, 20.3 Megapixel sensor and 4K Ultra High Definition video, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS is an ideal all-in-one camera, capable of handling all types of shooting scenario, without the need to carry multiple lenses.
The PowerShot SX70 HS’s 65x zoom extends to an impressive 2730mm equivalent focal length with Canon’s ZoomPlus functionality, ideal for capturing distant scenes from afar. With a focal length of this strength, the camera is well equipped to capture everything from a concert, graduation ceremony or even the details on a distant plane. The 0cm macro mode enables users to focus on objects that are virtually touching the lens, ideal for capturing the intricate detail of a watch face, plate of food or wild flowers in bloom. The Zoom Frame Assist Lock function helps maintain framing when taking super-telephoto images, suitable for capturing fast-moving sports or wildlife.
The classic DSLR-style ergonomics of the camera and its high-resolution OLED electronic viewfinder delivers sturdy handling and control when composing photographs, particularly helpful at popular tourist attractions or while on the move.
The power of the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS lays with the cutting-edge and superfast DIGIC 8 processor, which produces high resolution images, 4K Ultra High Definition video and a continuous shooting speed of 10 fps (frames per second). The autofocus is highly responsive and adaptive, even in low-light and continuous autofocus is possible when shooting at 5.7 fps, allowing spontaneous moments to be captured with ease.
The DIGIC 8 processor also powers the cameras 4K Ultra HD video capabilities, including 4K time-lapse and 4K frame grabs, so stunning landscapes or special memories can be captured and preserved in the highest of resolutions.
The camera’s enhanced 20.3MP 1/2.3-type CMOS sensor delivers a 25 per cent increase in resolution, compared to the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS predecessor, the SX60 HS at 16.1MP, bringing a new level of detail and vividness to images. This sensor upgrade also means that large photo prints look beautiful when taken on the camera, doing justice to precious family memories as they take pride-of-place on the wall.
In addition to sharp JPEGs, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS can capture images in RAW or compact RAW format, opening a world of professional post-production techniques, providing limitless ways to impress with optimised photographs.
It has never been easier to sync images or videos to a smart device, PC or Mac1 via the Auto Image Sync and Transfer mode using the Canon Camera Connect app (iOS/Android), or Image Transfer Utility 2 for PC and Mac. The PowerShot SX70 HS also features Remote Live View, which enables images to be taken remotely via a smartphone2, meaning no-one is ever left out of a family portrait.
Canon’s new premium bridge camera delivers a truly portable and versatile shooting experience, capable of capturing everything from a vlog to wildlife on the African Savanna or a portrait of a loved one at a family occasion. This multi-purpose camera will get users closer to the action, when it matters.
The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS will be available to purchase from November 2018
For more information, please visit: Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
Abby Ziemer Malone of Pawsonality Pet Photography is honoured by peers and jurors for high-quality pet photography.
Abby Ziemer Malone of Pawsonality Pet Art in Central Arkansas was named a Bronze Medalist during Professional Photographers of America's 2018 International Photographic Competition. Malone's work will be on display at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, Jan. 20-22, 2019. This International Photographic Exhibit is held in conjunction with Imaging USA, an annual convention and expo for professional photographers.
A panel of 32 eminent jurors from across the United States selected the top photographs from nearly 5,073 total submitted entries at Gwinnett Technical College in Georgia. Judged against a standard of excellence, 2,622 images were selected for the General Collection, and 513 (roughly 10 percent) were selected for the esteemed Loan Collection—the best of the best. The Loan Collection images will all be published in the much-anticipated “Loan Collection” book and over 365 selected General Collection images will be published in the “Showcase” book by Marathon Press. Malone's image "Orobouros" will be featured in the 2018 "Showcase" Collection.
The level of the award is determined by how many of those four images receive the highest possible honour: acceptance into the PPA Loan Collection, which is displayed at photographic exhibitions, conventions and other photography events. Malone was named a Bronze Medalist by earning a merit—a mark of quality and honor—for each of the four images included in her entry case to the International Photographic Competition. This is the most prestigious competition of its kind, where images are judged based on a standard of artistic excellence, not against each other. In 2018, She was one of only 208 Bronze Medalists.
About PPA:
Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is the largest international non-profit association created by professional photographers, for professional photographers. Almost as long-lived as photography itself, PPA's roots date back to 1869. It assists 30,000 members through protection, education, and resources for their continued success. See how PPA helps photographers be more at PPA.com.
About Abby Ziemer Malone:
Abby Ziemer Malone is an artist and photographer located in Central Arkansas and operates Pawsonality Pet Art. Pawsonality Pet Art, founded by Malone in 2012, offers pet photography services for pets and their owners and focuses on capturing each pets unique personality. Malone captures pets and their owners from all over the Central Arkansas areas of Benton, Bryant, Hot Springs, Little Rock, Maumelle, Conway, Cabot and beyond. Many of her client images have been featured in the General, Showcase or Loan collections with the Professional Photographers of America. Malone offers photography services beyond her pet brand and offers quality photography and printmaking to children and families in the Central Arkansas area.
Contact: Abby Ziemer Malone
501-749-3814
Picture Your Name Proudly Presents the Signature Collection of Original Home Décor Featuring Creative Photographic Art Framed With Reclaimed Barn Wood
Dawn DeCourcey, artistic director and owner of the Fredericksburg, Virginia home decor company, Picture Your Name, releases her Signature Collection of photographic art with recycled barn wood frames. The unique concept of “alphabetography,” the art of photographing everyday items that appear to form a letter of the alphabet or number, is featured in this signature product line of custom-made home decor signs.
The photographer and designer, DeCourcey herself, combines her creatively captured photographs of numbers and letters into custom names and dates, which are framed as special gifts to commemorate a wedding date, arrival of a new baby, birthday, graduation or other occasion.
After forming the artistic photographic letters into custom designed phrases including names or dates specified by the customer, the designer frames each individual letter and number in a rustic-style picture frame made of reclaimed barn wood.
As a unique way to display a baby name, wedding date, or other special occasion, each item in the Signature Collection will be custom made to order as a conversation piece for those who love to decorate their homes, create family memories, and celebrate the proud moments in life.
Picture Your Name carries the slogan, “Create the Unexpected” as an answer to the “call of the wall,” a catchy phrase referring to the search for tasteful home décor items to display on a wall, shelf or fireplace mantel. A custom-made photographic name or date sign from the Signature Collection adds a personal touch to a living room, kitchen, bedroom or baby nursery.
A custom framed wedding date with the names of the bride and groom is perfect as a personalized gift for the happy couple, or as a fun and eye-catching piece of art to be displayed on a table at the wedding reception. A set of artistically photographed letters that spell out a soon-to-be-born baby’s name is a creative idea for a unique baby shower gift.
The Signature Collection includes a selection of Picture Your Name’s most popular wedding date signs, family name signs, and individual photographic letters and numbers which can be formed into phrases of up to ten characters per frame. Each custom-made sign, framed with rustic reclaimed barn wood, showcases a one-of-a-kind design which will be treasured as an heirloom and proudly passed down to the next generation.
The photographic prints of alphabetic letters and numbers in the Signature Collection are available in black & white, sepia, or colour photography. The neutral tones of black and white or sepia photography lend themselves beautifully to a wide variety of home decor settings, and the rustic barn wood frames fit perfectly with today’s design trends.
In addition to individually framed photographic letters, numbers and custom phrases, Picture Your Name also offers printed greeting cards and ready-made signs featuring popular words and phrases about the celebration of life’s memorable events and the joy of family togetherness.
The Signature Collection ranges in price from $3.99 to $185.00 and will be released on Sept. 1, 2018, online at https://picturename.etsy.com.
Picture Your Name can also be found on the following social media platforms:
Facebook: https://facebook.com/PictureTheName
Instagram: https://instagram.com/picturenamesby_dawn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drenedecourcey
For more information about the Signature Collection or to contact the owner/designer of Picture Your Name, please email Dawn DeCourcey at [email protected].
An Interview with Evan Batky
We recently spoke with Evan Batky, 19-year-old photographer from Colorado, USA, who currently resides in Geneva, Switzerland. He tells us about his inspirations and why photography is so important to him.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and why photography is important to you. What was it that first got you interested in photography?
My name is Evan Batky, I'm 19 years old and I lived in CO for 18 years. For the last 2 months I've been living in Geneva, Switzerland. Photography is important to me because it combines all the things I really value. It allows me to connect and make amazing friends. I've made so many friends who either also take photos or model. It's an amazing community that stretches all around the globe. Second photography takes me on amazing adventures. I'm always looking for a new mountain to climb, or lake to swim in. The photography then comes in to capture all the memories. Behind every photo there is a story, and whenever I look at one of my photos I always remember everything about the moment I took the photo. I first began interested in photography along with a group of my friends around 3-4 years ago. We would all go out and take photos in the mountains. It was just for fun, and to make memories.
"I've made so many friends who either also take photos or model. It's an amazing community that stretches all around the globe."
Who or what are your main sources of inspiration?
For inspiration I have to start with Kent Johns (@kent_johns), and Michael Graef (@mikeygraef). They were the first professional photographers I ever met, and their work back then, and now, constantly inspires me. Besides that I don't really have a specific source of inspiration. I try to look at as many different social media platforms as I can to get inspired. Recently I've been spending a lot of time of Pinterest and Behance.
Click here to read the full interview with Evan Batky in Issue 06 of DEZINE
David Calvert Celebrates 10 Years as Official Team Photographer for Reno Aces
Calvert Photography's David Calvert grew up with a glove under his bed and a dream that someday he might play professional baseball. Or maybe, just get to work at the ballpark.
A self-proclaimed failed junior varsity athlete, this season, he celebrates 10 years as the official team photographer for the Reno Aces, Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
For the past decade, Calvert has captured the moments that matter to his client. From the first pitch in 2009 to Reno’s sesquicentennial celebration earlier this season, his photographs serve as a visual record for the club and region.
This past decade with the Aces has been incredible. Working in this town with this club, documenting a decade of Triple-A players, is a privilege and dream come true.
“Having David Calvert as our team photographer has put the Reno Aces into a position unlike any other franchise in minor league sports,” said Eric Edelstein, president of the Reno Aces. “We have a visual history of every important moment in our existence and even before. I’ve never understood the power of this medium until working with David and can’t imagine Greater Nevada Field without him.”
“In high school — when I stopped playing baseball and started photographing it — I knew then that I wanted to work with a team,” Calvert said. “This past decade with the Aces has been incredible. Working in this town with this club, documenting a decade of Triple-A players, is a privilege and dream come true.”
To mark their tenth season, the Aces will host many exciting events at Greater Nevada Field. There will be concerts, fireworks, fan giveaways and theme nights. And all summer long, Calvert will be there to photograph them.
A graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, Calvert is an alumna of the esteemed Eddie Adams and Missouri Photo Workshops. In addition to working with the Aces, he is also the official team photographer for Reno 1868 FC of the United Soccer League.
Calvert Photography serves numerous corporate and editorial clients including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Getty Images, The Nevada Independent, Renown Health, Rye Patch Gold Corp, Reno Bites Week, the Abbi Agency, 120 West Strategic Communications, Bishop Mule Days Celebration and the Boys & Girls Club of the Truckee Meadows.
VR Maker is Google Street View Ready
iStaging announced last week at the Street View Summit that its VR Maker app is now Street View ready (https://www.google.com/streetview/publish). Users can now effortlessly share their 360° panoramas captured with the app directly to Google Maps Street View with just one click. The VR Maker app, which comes with a free capture kit, is one of the most affordable virtual tour solutions on the market and is used by thousands of real estate agents, photographers, designers and retailers to digitize spaces in more than 60 countries.
VR Maker is a spatial VR capture solution that enables any individual with a mobile device (Android or iOS) to create immersive virtual tours in minutes using a fisheye lens and Rotator. The solution also comes with an all-in-one virtual tour builder that can create real estate walkthroughs, digital stores, 360 previews of vehicles, and more. Pricing plans start at $29/month. Registrations are available here: https://www.istaging.com/en/livetour?ref=gsvr.
Our customers have high-quality standards, and we've worked hard on creating a capture solution that delivers on their expectations. We're humbled to see it recognized as Street View ready by Google.
“Our customers have high-quality standards, and we’ve worked hard on creating a capture solution that delivers on their expectations,” noted Johnny Lee, CEO of iStaging. “We’re humbled to see it recognized as Street View ready by Google”.
With the addition of Street View, iStaging eases the workflow of professional photographers by adding another option to share 360° panoramas within the iStaging ecosystem. Every iStaging LiveTour also has its own unique web link that can be embedded on any website, viewed in VR using Google Cardboard, or shared on various real estate websites.