One Light Workshop ... Seattle

I should say up front that because I consider myself a self taught photographer, I have always been really intimidated by studio lighting.  Just looking at all those lighting, stands, flashes, umbrella's, softboxes, and backdrops sent shivers down my spine.  Not to mention the cost of all that equipment ... until now.

For the last 2 years I have casually looked around for a class that would fit my needs and my learning style.  I say my learning style, because it is safe to say that I am NOT a good student.  Whenever I  go to a classroom type setting, my brain automatically checks out and I become the world's most proficient doodler.  Really, you should see some of my doodles, they are fun! 

So finally a friend of mine sent me a link to a site called the One Light Workshop.  I went there and read Zack's story and philosophy and was instantly convinced.  The concept of being able to combine the natural light available with one light really appealed to me.  Mostly because I can never see myself hauling around a bunch of lights.  I'm clumsy enough as it is that I would break all that stuff in about 2 days. 

I learned so much that I can't possibly highlight it all here but what I can say is that I had a fantastic time and am no longer scared of flash or artificial lighting.  I feel like a whole new world has been opened to me.  As Zack said in the workshop, I now have more 'options'.   With all the light limitations in Seattle, options are a good thing.  I can now confidently say that if I wake up and it is raining outside (which happens more than I would like), that I can still take good, no ... great, photos. 

I'm not sure how this new lighting knowledge is going to translate into my dog photography, but I have a few ideas that I will be trying out in the next few months.   For now, here are some fun shots that I took at the workshop.  My favorite from the day is the very last one in the post.

I'll be off for a couple of days trying to catch a big fish with my new fishing pole and tackle box!  Bet you didn't know that about me huh :)

Have a great weekend everyone.

Comments

[Gloria Meredith]

Like the 3rd and 4th the best. This set is very differdnt from the photos before. Like the feeling of it.

[Dennis]

Sounds like it was a great learning experience Erin. Good shots!

[SaraD]

Oh man, I'm right there with you, I'm so intimidated with lights, flashes..... I've heard about this workshop, may have to check into it someday! Your photos look awesome, the lighting in that last one rocks!!