Mosaic Music Festival 2011 Feat. Razorback

It's bee a while since I last saw Razorback performed in Philippines. Seeing them in Singapore with their new line-up is surely exciting to watch. An amalgamation of Razorback and Wolfgang members. Manuel Legarda is not new to most of the hard-rocking Pinoys. He is well recognized as the lead guitarist of rock / metal band Wolfgang  and he's a very welcome addition to the new line-up of Razorback. They still rock hard, everything you'd expect from the band and more! I regularly go to Mosaic Music Festival every year especially when a favorite band is on their schedule. Usually I just go and listen but this time I really want to capture the rawness of the band so I took photos of them in action. You will definitely bang your head and move you feet to the classic songs like "Payaso" and "Giyang" - songs from the LA-105 FM era. Razorback just never fails to ROCK!!!

Razorback Live & Raw

The lighting is not that bad considering it's a free concert. I had the chance to get near the stage to shoot them with my trusted Nikon D700 equipped with a Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G VRII lens - a great combo for concert photography. It's important to know when to use a tele-zoom  or a wide-angle lens (e.i. Nikon 16-35mm f4G VR or Nikon 24-70mm f2.8G) on a concert. For me I use the wide to shoot the whole stage with all the band members in action, a wide worm's eye view or for crowd shots and the tele-zoom for tight (close to the action) individual shots. Timing is very important 'cause the lighting is constantly changing. If I need to travel light on a concert probably I'll just bring a fast (f1.4) fix prime lens but on this case I can shot whenever I please. I know that A flash would be helpful but be considerate to the band do not use flash photography on a rock/metal concert it's just not natural besides new camera bodies now a days are capable of performing in high ISO. Only use flash if the staff allows it (that I definitely doubt). I saw some people using a 70-200mm f2.8 lens still using flash. Not sure if their camera body is not capable of high ISO or they just don't know what to do. I will understand it if someone is using a kit lens with flash but a 70-200mm f2.8 on a hard rock concert with flash? Maybe it's just me I don't know. Utilize the light on the concert like I said earlier timing is important, move around to get the nice spot, what's the point of bringing your 24-70mm f2.8 or 70-200mm f2.8 lens if you just sit there. The bad thing is you'll just get the same angle of shot the whole time. Be more assertive, anticipate the situation, take control and don't forget to have a great time shooting.

All photos taken with Nikon D700 with Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G VRII except last photo with Nikon 16-35mm F4G VRII. No flash. You can view the complete series on My Flickr Photostream or My Deviantart Gallery. Any questions or suggestions you can email me at lordgyron @yahoo.com or krsigironella@gmail.com. Cheers!

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Baby Kirsten Jae on "The Cutest Baby Contest 2011"

One day at the office I received and email from my senior high schoolmate and asking me to vote for her son. I followed the instructions and voted. I replied "done" - informing her that I already voted. I went to the contest website of Little Pepo and saw the mechanics. Sounds interesting. I have no plan in sending Baby Kirsten Jae's photo but my wife insisted. I said I will but I won't get involved in any way. She agreed on our small talk and submitted Baby Kirsten Jae's Photo. After few minutes or so they already uploaded the photo of Kirsten Jae on Little Pepo Facebook page. I'm the first to vote. I informed my wife and start her campaign for the Cutest Baby Contest 2011. As I follow the progress of votes I was drawn to it by some invisible force, I can't resist the urge to promote my little angel. Now I know how it feels like to be a stage father. This will be an interesting and exciting game. If you'll read some comments you'll see that things are getting pretty hot on the parents side exchanging comments on how cute their babies are (love your own), different strategies and campaign. Let's all remember that this is only a game, not much is at stake here only a custom design t-shirt with the baby's name, top 3 babies will be features on Little Pepo's website and most important the parent's pride (priceless). All in all its an exciting game for the parents and a fun contest to participate in (even though the babies have no idea what the heck is going on).

Click "My Photo" to like.

Hi my name is Kirsten Jae Gironella. Your "Votes" will make me the cutest baby on Little Pepo. Please "Like" me. I promise to stay cute all the time. ;-)

Simple Steps:

1) Like "Little Pepo"

2) Then like "My Photo" 

3) Wish me luck!!! :-)

Thank you!!!

More of Baby Kirsten Jae's Cuteness (Cuteness is not a crime)

"Kae Approves"

This photo was taken at Universal Studios 

Singapore novelty shop.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 16-35mm f4G VR

Exposure: 0.017 sec (1/60)

Aperture: f/4.0

Focal Length: 35 mm

ISO Speed: 3200

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"Tripple Action"

This photo was taken at Marina Bay Sands 

Singapore lounge.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 0.017 sec (1/60)

Aperture: f1.4 - Can you believe this? Still sharp at F1.4!

ISO Speed: 3200

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"Loads of Motherhood"

This photo was take at Marina Bay Sands

Singapore infinity pool side.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 0.017 sec (1/60)

Aperture: f1.4

ISO Speed: 3200

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"Kae on Red 01"

This photo was taken in our bedroom with

my Pello chair as background.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: f2.8

ISO Speed: 1000

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"K on Red 02"

This photo was taken in our bedroom with

my Pello chair as background.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: f2.8

ISO Speed: 1000

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"K on Red 03"

This photo was taken in our bedroom with

my Pello chair as background.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: f2.8

ISO Speed: 1000

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

"K on Red 04"

This photo was taken in our bedroom with

my Pello chair as background.

Camera used: Nikon D700

Lens used: Nikon 50mm f1.4G

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: f2.8

ISO Speed: 1000

Exposure Bias: 0 EV

No Flash

View the complete album on my Flickr Photostream.

Thank you for liking "Kirsten Jae's Photo"!!!

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Deftones - Diamond Eyes Tour Singapore 2011

When I first saw the concert poster I almost peed  myself (yuck). My junior high heroes are performing in Singapore LIVE!!! I've been a fan since yeah high school (Jr. high) although my first Deftones album is "Around The Fur" I bought the "Adrenaline" album few months after. I have no means of buying the first album my allowance won't allow me. When I went to college I have enough allowance to buy CD's.  I found a copy of Adrenaline at CD Warehouse a record shop at Greenhills Manila and the price was ripped-off. I have no choice 'cause there's only one copy so I hid it behind the sucky albums. A week later went back "yup still there" so I bought it. I have all of their albums except the rarities album I still find it expensive (please don't call me cheapskate) that is how geeky I am. Been playing few of their riffs on my guitar but never manage to perform it on a live audience. On post college days I'm with a band that plays similar tunes but not exactly Deftones. I will not name the songs we've played that will reveal how corny we've been before. Moreno, Cunningham and Carpenter were skateboarders before they formed Deftones which is a good thing 'cause I myself is into extreme sports but not skateboards. Me and our vocalist are into BMX  so I can relate a bit on their history. It may not make sense to some but It make sense t o me. Before I post the photos here's a brief backgound of Deftones.

"The Altar"
Taken with Nikon D700 and Nikon 50mm F1.4G. No Flash
Shutter speed: 1/20, Aperture: f5.6, ISO Speed: 3200
Eposure Bias: 0EV

From Skaters to Deftones 

When Carpenter was 15 years old he was hit by a car while skateboarding. This left him confined to a wheelchair for several months. It was at this point that he began teaching himself guitar by playing along to bands such as Anthrax, Stormtroopers of Death and Metallica. It has been reported that the driver paid Carpenter a cash settlement that allowed the band to purchase equipment, but drummer Abe Cunningham commented in an interview that this was "a myth about how our band was started."

Carpenter, Moreno and Cunningham went to the same high school. They were childhood friends and remained friends through the skateboarding scene in Sacramento. When Moreno found out Carpenter played guitar, he set up a jam session with Cunningham and the three began playing regularly in Carpenter's garage circa 1989. After playing with several bassists, the band settled on Chi Cheng and recorded a four track demo soon after. Within two years the band began playing club shows and later expanded their playing territory to San Francisco and Los Angeles where they played shows alongside bands such as Korn.While closing for another band in L.A., after the majority of the audience had left, the band impressed a Maverick Records representative. They were soon after signed to the label after showcasing three of their songs for Freddy DeMann and Guy Oseary.

The name "Deftones" was created by Carpenter who wanted to pick "something that would just stand out but you know, not be all cheese-ball at the same time."Carpenter combined the hip hop slang term "def", which was used by artists he listened to such as LL Cool J and Public Enemy, with the suffix "-tones", which was a popular suffix among 50s bands whose music he also enjoyed (e.g. Dick Daleand the Deltones; The Quin-Tones, The Monotones, The Cleftones and The Harptones). Carpenter said the name is intentionally vague to reflect the band's tendency to not focus on just one style of music. - band history courtesy of Wikipedia

Members:

Stephen Carpenter - guitar
Chi Cheng - bass guitar, backing vocals (currently in a coma due to a tragic car accident)
Abe Cunningham - drums
Frank Delgado - keyboards, samples
Chino Moreno - vocals, guitar

Sergio Vega - bass guitar (session bass)

The Concert

16th February 2011 Concert time 8pm - It's a bit hard for me to take these photos because of the restriction of digital SLR in the concert. I was ask to stop taking photos by a bouncer (will discuss the details later) or else he have to drag me out. I did stop for a while then move on a different location and start shooting again. I would regret it if I did follow what the bouncer said but it's a risk I have to take. Remember to follow rules. Don't argue if you know you're wrong. Be extra nice to the bouncers they might let you shoot photos or even get your tees and CD's signed. Usually I inquire for press pass but unfortunately I was not granted so I shoot on stealth mode. I used Nikon D700 and Nikon 50mm f1.4G prime lens. How I wish I've brought my zooms but I have to make the best of what I got for the moment. I was also thinking that It's the lightest setup I can bring on a crowded concert. Stealthy? Not very much but that was my bad. I got carried away with Deftones hypnotic sound waves I was bangin' may head gently (while take photos)... did't notice the bouncer was behind me, grabbed my shoulder and ask me to stop taking photos. I told him everyone's doing why should I? He said just put the camera om my backpack let it stay there or else I'll be forced to leave. That's the whole story. 

All photos taken with Nikon D700 and Nikon 50mm f1.4G. No flash.

Veiw the complete series on  My Flickr Photostream

Deftones history - courtesy of Wikipedia

All Photos by: Kris Gironella (except "Deftones Fan Photo")

"Deftones Fan Photo"

Photo courtesy of LAMC Productions

Photo By: Aloysius Lim

View the official Deftones Diamond Eyes Tour photos here.

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Manny Librodo - Fashion Photography Workshop

Who is Manny Librodo?

I know little about his background but all I know is this guy started from humble beginnings. Grew up in Lambunao a small town in Philippines having only a point and shoot camera and few Airline magazines for inspiration this fella' manage to make it to be one of the best known photographers in the international scene. 

"Rosalinda"

Photo by: Manny Librodo

www.pbase.com/manny_librodo

One of my personal favorite is his Rosalinda series. He just captures her emotions and gives it back to you so hard your heart will stop beating for a moment. 

"Kharunisia Jazmin"

Photo by: Manny Librodo

www.pbase.com/manny_librodo

You'll probably see her (Kharu) on most of Manny Librodo's works. I don't know the deal with this two but If  I'm on his shoes I will definitely take her as my model and shoot her 24-7.  You just can't get enough of beautiful Kharu.

"Manny Librodo  In Action"

Photo by: Jay Jallorina

http://digitalphotographer.com.ph

Here are few of his photography achievements:

- Named by Scott Kelby as one of the world's FIVE BEST PHOTOGRAPHERS IN 2009 (that you probably haven't heard about)

- His photo of a little boy in Burma appeared in the cover of UNICEF's (Geneva) Wall Calendar 2009. A regular contributor to UNICEF since 2007 for their calendars, postcards and other items.

- Second Most Popular Photographer at www.dpchallenge.com

- His picture of Rosalinda was made as a poster of an International Music Festival in Poland.

- 22 Million hits is www.pbase.com

- has conducted workshops in many countries: US, Canada, Australia, Holland, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Hongkong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, etc.

- has won countless competitions online and on print. Three time Grand prize winner in www.beterphoto.com; Fisrt Place in Dusk til Dawn Category, POTY - Digital Camera Magazine; two-time Finalist Travel Photographer of the Year, TPOTY;

- endorser of Nikon Philippines, Columbia

-EPSON Pro - Epson Philippines

- He conducts one-on-one workshops in Bangkok Thailand (by request).

You can see most of his works at www.pbase.com/manny_librodo

Humble Words

“Initially, my love for photography was confined to just being a spectator of beauty. I like colors and patterns. I like displays of majesty and splendor. I like to experience unique cultures. All of these interests eventually led to travel and photography entered the mix merely as a means to document my journeys. At first I carried a simple point and shoot camera and always wanted to be in the picture myself. After all, how would friends and relatives know that I was there if I didn't appear in the photo? So I posed whenever, wherever and however” - Manny Librodo

The Ultimate Workshop

This is a highly anticipated workshop in Singapore organized by Xilver Claire Events. Manny Librodo joining force with Rocky Gathercole - this duo surely is unstoppable. International Haute Couture Designer - Rocky Gathercole will travel all the way from UAE and will bring along his spectacular wardrobes and unique fashion styling. This will be the first collaboration of  Manny Librodo and  Kharunisia Jazmin (fashion model) with Rocky. A must see workshop of the year. Hope to see you there!!!

References: achievements from www.pbase.com, humble words from www.digitalimagecafe.com

Workshop by: Xilver Claire Events

Poster Design Layout by: Kris Gironella

"Manny Librodo In Action" - courtesy of Jay Jallorina of http://digitalphotographer.com.ph

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Fashion Photo Shoot with Miss Singapore 2009 Pilar Arlando

History

Pilar was raised in Singapore, but has always had questions about her unique heritage. Her father is of Chinese-Indian descent while her mother is of Portuguese-Indo-Chinese-Dutch descent. Arlando speaks 4 languages, English, Malay, Mandarin (Basic) and Portuguese (Kristang). At the moment, she is also taking up French. She is currently majoring in her Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management Diploma at the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS).

Miss World Singapore 2009

During the Miss World Singapore pageant, She earned the 2nd Runner Up 2009/10 title; however, due to the furor that arose (credit fraud scandal, bipolar disorder and the infamous mocking of her English language skills by some citizens of Singapore) about the current title holder at that time, Ris Low, she eventually took over her Low's reign as Miss World Singapore 2009/10. Arlando had also attained a few subsidiary awards during her Miss World Singapore pageant in 2009. Her other titles include: Miss World University Singapore 2009, Miss Personality 2009, Miss Abry 2009, Miss Vitality 2nd Runner Up 2009.

Miss World 2009

She went on to represent Singapore at the Miss World 2009 Pageant, held in Johannesburg, South Africa on 12 December 2009. She represented her nation as one of the top 12 for the Sports Fast Track Event.

The Photo Shoot

This series was shot last month of January 2011. A friend organized a shoot called "The Rainbow Lady" hence the rainbow face paint and colorful petal like skirt on Pilar. She is very patient despite of the hot weather. We started 9am until 1pm. The sun is scorching hot but we did manage well. Special thanks to stylist Calay of Xilver Claire and the makeup artist Jacky Agabon for the awesome costume they made. Hope you enjoy the photos. Cheers!!! - Kris

"Rainbow Lady pt.1"

This photo was shot with Nikon D700 and Nikon 105mm F2.8 Micro VR. 

Also my personal favorite.

"Rainbow Lady pt.2"

This photo was shot with Nikon D700 and Nikon 105mm F2.8 Micro VR. 

"Boff Babe"

This photo was shot with Nikon D700 and Nikon 105mm F2.8 Micro VR.

"Rainbow Lady pt.3"

This photo was shot with Nikon D700 and Nikon 105mm F2.8 Micro VR. 

"Flight Version 2.0" 

This photo was shot with Nikon D700 and Nikon 16-35mm F4 VRII @ 35mm. 

Note: Contents on "History", "Miss World Singapore 2009" and "Miss World 2009" are courtesy of Wikipedia.

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Glamour Photography with Ukrainian & Belarus Beauties

Glamour Photography (According to Wiki)

A genre of photography whereby the subjects, usually female, are portrayed in aromantic or sexually alluring way. The subjects may be fully clothed or seminude, but glamour photography stops short of deliberately arousing the viewer and being hardcore pornography.

Glamour photography is generally a composed image of a subject in a still position. The subjects of glamour photography are often professional models, and the photographs are normally intended for commercial use, including mass-produced calendars, pinups and for men's magazines, such as Playboy; but amateur subjects are also sometimes used, and sometimes the photographs are intended for private and personal use only. Photographers use a combination of cosmetics, lighting and airbrushing techniques to produce an appealing image of the subject.

The Gears

Outdoor photography is not that hard only if there's enough light and it's not raining. Well actually it rained a bit but  thank goodness it stopped on the actual shoot. The basic gears to bring aside from my Nikon D700 are speedlights and reflectors. Reflectors are very useful on rendering light to your subject just enough to fill light on the dark shades of the body and face makes a very flattering effect. I always bring my Nikon SB-900 and SB-600 and a portable soft box just in case but most of the time I end up using it for more dramatic lighting. There are many ways to isolate the subject either by light or by depth of field (DOF). The most common in subject isolation is by DOF. You crank the lens aperture to the maximum stop or close between F1.4 - 4.0 - it gives a very good out of focus background. Now this brings us to what lens to use. I always use my Nikon 50mm f1.4G and Nikon 105mm f2.8 Micro VR for this kind of shoot. Some might react why the Nikon 105mm f2.8 Micro VR? It's obviously for macro photography. People who might ask this were either - 1) They don't own one; 2) They own one but they haven't tried portraiture; 3) Just a curious soul. It makes a lot of sense to use this as a great alternative for 85mm (f1.4 or f1.8) or the 135mm f2 DC 'cause you can go very close to the subject for better isolation and if your a fan of "bokeh" this baby delivers a creamy one. I use this lens more often than my Nikon 50mm f1.4G. It's medium telephoto range gives me an advantage to shoot in a distance giving the model space to do her thing but might be limiting on a very tight area. In this case no problemo 'cause it's outdoor. I'm not saying the 105mm f2.8 lens is better than the 50mm f1.4G No! It has a different purpose. I use the Nikon 50mm f1.4 for half body shots or full-body shots and use the 105mm f2.8 Micro VR for head shots and close details (like eyes and lips). If you'll ask me which is the best lens to use I'd say if budget permits - the new Nikon 85mm f1.4G and Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VR mark II. That's all you'll need for an awesome portrait, glamour and fashion photography unless you own a Hasselblad then that's a different story.

The Scenario

3 gorgeous ladies in one shoot! What more can I ask for? These ladies can pose, project and having fun while doing it.  Didn't have the chance to know them well during the shoot but one thing I know about them is they're full of energy and spirit. Next time they visit Singapore I'll be there (for sure) to take their photos again.

Alyona Vasilets (Ukraine)

Karine Alkasem (Ukraine)

Natalia Vikhrova (Belarus)

Note: Special thanks to Shel Conte and St. Paul for organizing the photo shoot. Cheers guys!!!

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Baby Photography with Kirsten Jae

Baby Photography

There's a lot of ways to achieve a good baby portrait - the right equipment and the right timing when the baby is in the mood for vogueing and there's a lot of materials on the web to give you tutorials and advice but the most important teacher of all is experiencing it yourself. It's not a walk in the park either specially for babies within 6 months to a year old but for babies with the age of 0-4 months is still manageable ('coz they just sleep most of the times) You might wanna shoot the first yawn. I remember the first time I saw my baby on the nursery window she yawn at me good thing I have my trusty camera with me. You cannot direct babies on what to pose you have to shoot the right timing. Some babies don't like props because it's irritating to them. They put everything inside the mouth so don't put any props that might get swallowed. If possible use hypoallergenic materials on your props so your baby or the client's baby won't get rashes - you don't want clients suing you for that specially if it involves babies, people will see you as Dr. Evil or some evil creature that harms babies (hehe). Use lights that won't harm babies. Just use a simple speed-light or much better if you can manage without one and use available lighting. A 50mm f1.4 prime will do the trick. Hope this helps, click away and treasure every captured moment (sounds like a good tagline to me).

My Thoughts

A good remedy for stress (in my opinion and it works for me) is looking at baby photos. Why? Because it reminds us how beautiful life is. Babies grow fast. If you don't monitor them frequently you will miss a lot on their developments. Every second counts - every expression they make; the first smile; the first sound; the first time they play close-open wiith their hands is just amazing. Before I say to myself "What's the bigga' deal with this baby stuff?" (that's when I was single and no kids of my own) yeah it's cute but that's it - No! there is more beneath the cuteness and cuddliness of babies. The magic of something peaceful and vulnerable coming to this dangerous chaotic world gives me an indescribable sense of protectiveness so it's my responsibility to make sure may little angel is safe from harm. This photo session with my baby means a lot to me (actually it's my whole world). There is no single day that passes without me viewing the photos of my Baby Kirsten Jae.

To Kirsten Jae:

Eventually you will grow up and may choose not to be with us anymore (or get married... something like that) but one thing is for sure - You'll always be my Little Angel.

"Diaper Model pt.1"

Shot with Nikon D700 with Nikon 50mm f1.4G and SB-900 Speedlight

triggered by Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers.

"Diaper Model pt.2"

Shot with Nikon D700 with Nikon 50mm f1.4G and SB-900 Speedlight

triggered by Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers.

"My Little Angel"

Shot with Nikon D700 with Nikon 50mm f1.4G and SB-900 Speedlight

triggered by Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers.

"Good Morning Baby Kae"

Shot with Nikon D700 with Nikon 50mm f1.4G and SB-900 Speedlight

triggered by Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers.

To view more photos visit my "New" Flicker Photostream or visit my Deviantart Gallery.

If you like what you see or read please follow me @ Facebook.

If you have questions about photography you can email me @ lorgyron@yahoo.com. 

Comments are much appreciated.

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Natalia Taffarel - High End Beauty & Fashion Retouching Workshop

Introduction

Some purist photographers might raise their eyebrows when others (including me) talks about post-processing in photography. Some say it's graphic design not photography; some might say it's against what they new about "natural" photography; some crazy people might say that it's the way of the devil (just kidding) and the ranting goes on and on. Most professional photographers doesn't do image retouching but their photo ends up on a poster, magazine or books retouched anyways (the irony of life). There are professionals that do the retouching or post processing for photographers like Natalia Taffarel and she is the best of what she does. Okay you might hate me for saying this but post-processing, retouching or editing your photos gives you and your photos identity (in a very distinctive way). Now we're on the digital era a lot of competition out there who's eager to pound everything that you can do and offer so instead of hiring a graphic artist/designer you have to do your own retouching, besides you don't want your ugly photos ending up on the wrong hands do you? (hehehe). Enough of my babbling. I was ask to support a friend for this workshop and I believe that pros and new comers in photography and also graphic designers will learn a lot from this so I post it here on my blog. I, myself will attend on this once in a lifetime opportunity to meet Natalia Taffarel because I've heard that she seldom do workshops in Asia so wherever you are hope you could come!!!

The Interview

Learn more about Natalia Taffarel and how she started photo retouching from a hobby to a full blown career. I Admire people like her because most of what she does now are all self-thought. There is no special magic to this - it's all about dedication and love of what you are doing.

Video courtesy of Calvin Hollywood Photography

The Video Tutorials 

She also have video tutorials from from famous video blog hosts like Vimeo and Youtube. These are very useful materials for pros and beginners alike. I also like hearing her Argentinean voice (blush) while learning. You also might wanna check her new works on Facebook.

Sample video courtesy of Natalia Taffarel 

The Workshop

(click photo to enlarge) 

Poster courtesy of Xilver Claire Events

* Do you ASPIRE that "VOGUE" magazine quality OUTPUT? 
* Do you have tons of beauty/glamour/fashion shots yet no matter how you post process it, it just won't standout?
* Does it come out like a mannequin because of being too white and perfect and doesn't look naturally of human qualities?
* Do you wish to know what are main ingredients in doing so?

Learn from Professional High End Retouching Artist NATALIA TAFFAREL all the way from Argentina for a 2 day retouching class on 19-20 Feb, 2011.

The retouching workshop will show Natalia's complete workflow from start to finish as she works first on a beauty image and then the hair image, working in Adobe Photoshop CS4. The main goal of the workshop is to show and explain the entire process and techniques needed for retouching high end beauty and hair images. Not only does Natalia show and explain the techniques she also explains the thought process behind the techniques and why they are used or why not or when. This makes for a much more thorough and complete learning tool, with the hope that the attendees can walk away with the knowledge needed to competently evaluate an image, envision the result in the mind's eye, plan the process and execute the work needed to achieve the vision.

Her clients are:
* Vogue * Michael Jackson * Westlife * Rihanna * Fatboy Slim * Florence and the Machine * Alex Reid
* JLS - Jack the Lad Swing * Pendulum * Lily Cole * MIA * Elle Magazine * Sugar UK * Fabulous * The Big Issue * Q * Sublime UK * Loreal * Maybelline * Revlon * ASOS * N Peal * Wella * Unilever

Natalia Taffarel has a 5 star reputation as a teacher, she has a crystal clear voice and is English proficient. She's already been conducting workshops all over the world for the past several years.

The workshop will teach us on how to retouch beauty and fashion shots to make it naturally perfect while not being digitally obvious. From whitening and straightening the teeth, redefining lips, reshaping and resizing the nose, sharpening eyes, perfecting the face features, adding and removing makeup, creating different skintones and the most challenging hair correction or redoing as well as the background and elegant lighting adjustment to produce that "vogue magazine" output.

The main goal of the workshop is to show and explain the entire process and techniques needed for retouching high end beauty and hair images. Not only does Natalia show and explain the techniques she also explains the thought process behind the techniques and why they are used or why not or when. This makes for a much more thorough and complete learning tool, with the hope that the attendees can walk away with the knowledge needed to competently evaluate an image, envision the result in the mind's eye, plan the process and execute the work needed to achieve the vision.

If you are into portraiture, this workshop is perfect for you. The knowledge you will gain here is very valuable that could even land you a job in top fashion industries or simply make your works like a 'Real Pro' or make you into a 'Pro'.

Certificates will be given away signed personally by Natalia Taffarel. You only need to bring your laptop with photoshop CS4/5 installed and whatever knowledge you have in photoshop is enough for you to become a High End Retouching Artist.

The Photoshop class by Natalia Taffarel can be followed well even with beginner students. Her voice speaks with clarity and the speed is very moderate for everyone to follow with full understanding of what is being done to the images..

Ealy Bird Price is only $405 till 10th January(extended due to holidays). We only require s$200 downpayment and the rest can be paid on or before workshop day. This is a very reasonable price for 2 full days Photoshop learning of such valuable knowledge.

At the end of the workshop, 2 lucky drawn winners by Natalia Taffarel can claim $100 Discount for the next Manny Librodo workshop this year. And another 2 lucky drawn winners will have a FREE registration for the next themed/bodypaint photoshoot organized by Xilver Claire Events.

Lunch is free and handout materials will also be given.

During photoshop demonstration, PS tool bar and option bar are always visible so you if your ears are momentarily distracted, your eyes will lock on to what’s going on. Natalia's voice is crystal clear and smooth flowing, relaxed and at times humorous as the class proceeds. Her pace is neither too fast nor too slow and is well synched to her workflow. Her workflow is easy to follow – there is no accelerated portion – the kind where everything is sped up to the point where you cannot visually follow or absorb the content.

Natalia never once uses a tablet, demonstrating that high quality retouching can be done with a mouse.

For more info check out this link.

Contact Info:

Calay Gallinero
Xilver Claire Events
(65) 9771-2430

Note: "The Workshop" poster and literature courtesy of Xilver Claire Events.

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Audiophile & Sennheiser Product Shot

Note: This is not an official audiophile review but rather a simple sharing of my own hi-fi sound loving experience. To make things a bit interesting I mixed this article with a basic easy-to-do info of product photography. Enjoy reading!!!

Audiophile According to Wiki

An audiophile, from Latin audio"I hear" and Greek philos "loving," is a hobbyist who seeks high-quality audio reproduction via the use of specialized high-end audio electronics. Audiophiles prefer to listen to music at a quality level that is as close to the original performance as possible using high-fidelity components. These specialized components include turntables, digital-to-analog converters, equalization devices,preamplifiers and amplifiers. Both high quality solid-state and vacuum tube amplifiers are used. The quest for audio perfection can also include horn loudspeakers or electrostatic speakers, power conditioners,subwoofers and acoustic room treatment.

My Audio Experience

I can't really say I'm an audio junkie (maybe people have their own levels of addictiveness) but I know a thing or two about audio equipments thanks to may dad. He is the real audiophile in the family. He still have his audio equipments form the 80s' and he listens to music louder than me (for realz). Let's just say I'm a fan of good quality hi-fi sound system but not as hardcore to the point that I'll buy audio equipments like turn tables, amps, speakers etc. (but I did buy an amp for my guitar) also because of my lifestyle I can't manage all those things. Besides I need a bigger place to dump all of that stuff. So I'm referring to portable audio systems with high fidelity sound.  I have quite a library of CDs mostly songs or bands that you don't usually hear on the radio with music genres including - Hardcore/Punk, Groove, Metalcore, Death, Grindcore, Rapcore, Punk, Ska, Emo, Indie, Energetic (dunno why they call it that), Hard Rock, Trip-hop, Hip-hop, R&B and a long list of genres. All of these are just round silicons with inlay cards and plastic cases without the right sound system and your iPod or MP3 player is as good as paper weight without the right headphones.

What I need to get my audio fix is a good set of headphones. I need my music when doing almost everything specially in my photography (it gives me motivation and inspiration). So what brand should I get to fill up my  sound wave addiction? Monster Beats? Sennheiser? Bose? Audio-Technica? Scullcandy? OK I have my prospects but what about budget? Definitely it's one of my main concern. I need a hi-fi sounding headphones but my budget is limited. Some of you might think I'm either crazy or a cheapskate or both. Is there such a headset out there that can meet your sound expectations and limited budget? Believe it or not there is - Sennheiser is well-known for their hi-fi headphones, microphones and audio equipments and the good thing is they have a mid-range line-up of good quality hi-fi sound headphones for my active (or sometimes not so active) lifestyle.

The Headphones

"Sennheiser HD 448 - Taken with Nikon D700, Nikkor 16-35mm F4 VR,

Nikon SB-900 triggered with Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers with 

Rime Lite mini softbox to soften shadows."

"Sennheiser HD 448 (close-up) - Taken with Nikon D700, Nikkor 105mm Micro VR,

Nikon SB-900 triggered with Phottix Strato 4-in-1 radio triggers with 

Rime Lite mini softbox to soften shadows."

Sennheiser HB 448 - This baby is one of the best headphones in the market (on the mid range that is) but surprisingly I've seen reviews that says this can pound the Monster Beats by Dr. Dre on sound quality. A $400-$600 headphones versus a $100 Sennheiser? I just can't believe it! One day I'll try Beats by Dr. Dre if the speculations are true. Well I've seen Beats and it totally blew me away on just built quality alone (haven't tried one). Let's say OK Sennheiser and Beats were stalemate on sound quality crisp treble clear high and mids with a satisfying punchy bass (but not boom bass) a more real stereo sounding experience, built quality wise Beats win but don't disregard the high-grade plastic and partial metal used in HD-448s. It's lighter than it looks and feels very comfy (fits my big head). It has good quality cable but not the same as the ones on a Pro monitor headphones. No noise bleed (not nose bleed) what so ever. One drawback is it doesn't have enough grip to hold on my head tight. If I bang my head few times while listening to Deftones it will slide off my head. The rest is fine I just wish it's more grippy.

For Sennheiser HD 448 product details click here.

"Sennheiser HD 218 - Taken with Nikon D700 and Nikkor 16-35mm F4 VR

with available florescent lighting"

Sennheiser HD 218 - the cheapest of the Sennheiser HD series for S$80 or US$50. Don't get turned off by the low price this baby is better than most of the headphones on its class. Noticeable bass, high and mids are OK. Nothing to complain about, regarding the very affordable price. It's very light and it rests comfortably on your head. Nice high-grade plastic built quality. Again my complain is that it's not that grippy. One time I'm rushing to cross the street then it just fell off my head. One more thing despite of the close back design this headphone bleeds a bit of sound  but not as much as the Sennheiser HD 238 Precision (open back design). This is a very good replacement for the stock earphones on your iPhone or iPod or any MP3 players.

For Sennheiser HD 218 product details click here.

Conclusion

A sure bang for the buck and definitely one of the best headphones in the market. It has it's drawbacks but hey you get what you pay for and the deal breaker aside from the low price is that you get more than you'd expected. Noise cancelling is not that stellar but it still OK at least it doesn't need batteries to operate unlike other noise canceling headphones. I can say that the Sennheiser HD 448 and Senheiser HD 218 serves its purpose. Maybe one day I'll try Monster Beats by Dr.Dre (if budget permits). Peace!

Notes About Product Shots

Usually product shots have 3 light source - Main light, Fill light and Background light. Some products only need 1-2 light source depending on your presentation. In my case a low key shot. On the photos above I've used only one light source with soft box to soften the shadows and just enough to give the subject a certain sheen to it for a more sophisticated look. You might need a polarizing filter for very reflective surfaces (you don't want your face appearing on the subject) to reduce reflections unless you intentionally want it. Hope this helps. Cheers!!!

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