by Skip Cohen 

Each month, since the start of the year, Chamira Young and I have had the privilege of working with a member of the Tamron "family." We started the Tamron Recipes project completely underestimating what we'd learn from some of the finest imaging "chefs" in the world. They're artists, educators, writers, and passionate about their careers and love for the craft. I continue to be amazed at the diversity and willingness of each featured "chef" to share their recipes.  

Alex Cearns joins us in the Tamron Kitchen in this new post and upcoming podcast. She's a remarkable artist with a love not only for her work, but the animals she works with, both domestic and in the wild. When you look at her work, there's an undeniable signature in so many of her images.

Shakespeare wrote, "the eyes are the window to the soul." One look at Alex's portfolio, and you'll immediately see why I'm making the reference. I grabbed screenshots of three of my favorites below, but it wasn't easy. They're all incredible!​

by Skip Cohen
 
​With each new "chef" who joins us in the Tamron kitchen, I like to go off in search of a quote that seems to fit their style and personality. Rick Friedman is definitely a photographer and educator who believes in fun. You can see it in every class he teaches. Walk by the Tamron booth at a convention or into a Tamron dealer where Rick is doing a demo, and you'll instantly be drawn to a photographer having fun! 

While I've known Rick for a lot of years, we never seemed to find quality time to hang out and talk until a couple of years ago. That changed in 2018 at WPPI, and since then, we've worked on several different projects together. When he recently became one of Tamron's newest Ambassadors, it was the perfect time to have him join us in this series.
 
Rick's best known around the world for his work as a photojournalist for the last 40+ years. In the podcast, he talked about the backstory of getting his first magazine cover on the right.

But, Rick's also an educator, and he's been teaching for the last sixteen years. He's well-respected as one of the leaders in lighting. It's under that umbrella of education that he's had an impact on thousands of photographers.

As we discussed in this new podcast, being a successful photojournalist and educator is about relationship building. It's about establishing trust with the clients as a photographer and the students in any class or demonstration. Even a twenty-minute demo on the floor of a busy trade show requires a level of trust with the attendees!

​Click on any of Rick's images below to visit his website. I pulled some of my favorites, but there was so much from which to choose.

"Chef" Rick's recipe is a click away if you missed it last week. And, check out two Tamron lenses that are a critical part of Rick's creative tools, no matter what the subject. Click on either thumbnail for more information.  
 
Rick shared a lot of great insight in this new podcast. He's based in Boston, but the world is his home. As you look through his images, it's obvious wherever his creative eye and camera's needed, that's where he's going to be.

​As Rick pointed out in the podcast, he believes in the expression, nothing ventured, nothing gained. 

Having lived in Boston a significant part of my life, Arthur Fiedler was a very special legend. Rick captured the image below shortly before Fiedler passed away, and all it took was a knock on his door.

The next thing you know, he's sitting in Arthur Fiedler's bedroom, having a conversation with one of the greatest conductors of all time! And what was Fiedler doing when Rick joined him? Reading music!

From photojournalism on the campaign trail to travel to lighting workshops and published editorial images, I'm not sure there isn't anything "Chef" Rick hasn't photographed!

 by Skip Cohen

One of the fun aspects of this series is sharing the work of a different artist each month. As always, I continue to be amazed at the diversity and willingness of each featured "chef" to share their recipes.  

Rick Friedman joins us in the Tamron Kitchen in this new episode. We had a hard time trying to figure out which image to share. I took the easy way out and featured two.   

In this new Recipe, Rick's working with two different Tamron lenses, but the common denominator is Julianna Nicole, one of his favorite models. And, the two images are entirely different. But if you know Rick or have watched him at a Tamron demo, you know creativity is in his blood - along with always having fun!

"Fun," as I've written in the past, is one of those words too often lost in business today. We're so wrapped up in deadlines and the stress of each moment we often forget about having fun. Well, you can't have fun if your heart isn't in it - and Rick's an artist whose heart is in every click of the shutter. ​

In the light-painting image below, I love the fun of Rick's comment about being in the picture, "That's fat me behind skinny her!" And photographers always have fun in Rick's workshops with his work-hard-play-hard style of teaching.

​With every Tamron Recipes post, I like to find a quote that seems to fit our guest "chef."

​"You gotta have fun. Regardless of how you look at it, we're playing a game. It's a business, it's our job, but I don't think you can do well unless you're having fun!"
Derek Jeter

Both images were from Rick's workshops/presentations. The top image was captured at T&F Camera in Vineland, NJ. The second image was at a lighting presentation in the event space at B&H Photo in NYC. If you're looking for a great class on lighting and developing a stronger reputation as a pro, check out Rick's workshops. 

Tamron never slows down on manufacturing some of the finest optics in photography. Visit your local Tamron dealer and take advantage of ​their special FALL SAVINGS program going on until November 2, 2019.

by Skip Cohen

When Chamira Young and I started this series, we had no idea of the degree of insight each artist would share in Tamron Recipes. The concept was a great way to introduce you to some of the industry's best artists using some of the finest optics in imaging.  But it's become so much more.  What we've been getting is diversity in each artist's primary focus; insight into their passion for the craft, and often, stunning creativity.

While the initial common denominator has been their love for Tamron lenses, there's another attribute they all share - a love and support for imaging. Each podcast has been inspirational, and the range of work has covered just about every specialty.

To date, there are nine artists featured in the series with many more to go. So, if you missed any of the Tamron Recipes since we started in January, click on the artist below and check out their work, websites and of course listen to the podcasts.

The Internet has made the world a smaller place, and thanks to Tamron, artists are capturing and creating images that help to redefine life around us.

Find the Tamron dealer nearest you, then click the banner below for details on their Fall Savings Program. And, follow their tech team on the road with great workshops. This is one of the most diverse groups of tech reps in the industry. They're all focused on helping you raise the bar on your skill set and the quality of your images. 

by Skip Cohen
 
If you're new to this series, I like to find a quote that seems to fit our guest "chef." After several phone conversations, followed by the podcast above, there's no question that Teal Garcia loves what she does, and her images clearly meet the definition of "great work."

Over the years, I've looked at hundreds, if not thousands, of online galleries and portfolios. One of the things I've noticed, often recognizable immediately, is the artist's ability to capture emotion. It's not just in the expressions of the subjects, but the composition, use of depth of field and even the exposure. 

One of the industry's most celebrated portrait photographers, Don Blair, used to say, "You have to learn the rules before you're allowed to break them." Teal Garcia has learned them all but chooses to violate them whenever it adds impact to a portrait. In the process, she spends a lot of time listening to her clients, building trust, and then the relationship necessary to capture their personalities in front of the camera.

Being a successful portrait artist isn't as much about the final photograph itself, but creating an experience for the client. It's about sharing your passion for the craft with your subject. It means being so involved in the process of capture, that the only difference between the artist and the client is a few feet.

Click on any of Teal's images below to visit her website. I pulled some of my favorites from her Instagram page as well. Teal Garcia should be on your radar!

by Skip Cohen

Ever feel like time is passing incredibly fast, like the hands on a clock spinning in an old movie? As we share a new "Tamron Recipes" with another "chef," I'm amazed this is now the ninth in the series. Each one has captured the passion of another chef when "cooking" with Tamron. Tamron's outstanding optical quality combined with the skillset of each guest has created a remarkably diverse body of work. 
   
Teal Garcia joins us in the Tamron Kitchen in this new episode. While her lens choice and skillset are obviously part of her success, it's her love for the craft that's a big part of the foundation for everything she does. ​With every Tamron Recipes post, I always go off in search of a quote that seems to fit both our guest "chef" and the image along with the upcoming podcast to be aired.

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life,
and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work.
And the only way to do great work is love what you do.
Steve Jobs

About "Chef" Teal: For the last year Teal's been based out of Oahu, Hawaii. It's a big change of scenery from previously living in Oklahoma. She's an internationally recognized award-winning portrait photographer, and there's a great line in her bio I want to share:

"I have an obsession with what I do and I love a good adventure."

Teal's husband is in the military and currently based out of Pearl Harbor. Having been around the military world in our own family, I can't help but think all the travel in Teal's life has contributed to her passion for adventure. Plus, think about how she's had to keep her skillset well-developed in order to create beautiful portraits in a wide variety of environments, no matter where she's based!

​Part II of Teal's recipe series is coming next Tuesday. You can be sure we'll be talking about the challenges of relocation; her mind's eye visions when she's working with a client and her absolute love for photography. Her website is just a click away.

Images copyright Voortex Productions. All rights reserved.

“Two or three things I know for sure, and one of them is that to go on living I have to tell stories,
​that stories are the one sure way I know to touch the heart and change the world.”
Dorothy Allison

by Skip Cohen
 
I love starting each Tamron Recipe with a quote that points out some unique characteristic of our "Chef." Well, it only took a few minutes to find a statement that describes Chef Charley Voorhis. He's a passionate storyteller, explorer, and adventurer. He's always focused on finding ways to expand the viewer's understanding of a subject via his filmmaking and still images. And, like the quote above he touches our hearts and changes the world one frame at a time.

A few weeks ago, I was able to sit in on one of Charley's workshops at ClickCon in Chicago. As he talked about the essential elements of a story, I couldn't help but notice that distinctive look you see on an artist's face when they're in the groove. Talking about filmmaking is all part of Charley's persona, and as an educator, he's entirely focused on the importance of the power of a great story when told in a film.

The short video below about Charley's company, Voortex Productions, says it all...
                                                             
​                                                             "We believe in the power of stories!"

​Besides his love for imaging and storytelling, another quality immediately comes out in any conversation with Charley - he's a team player. While the videos he shares are deeply rooted in his visions, it's his crew that helps him turn them into reality. Together they've written some of the best stories in imaging!

And check out the entire Tamron family of outstanding glass with a visit to your Authorized USA Dealer. Just click on the banner above to find the dealer nearest you!

While most of the work shared in the Voortex Productions portfolio are video projects and campaigns, their Instagram and Facebook pages show more about their diversity and expertise. I pulled a few of my favorite still images, but check out their videos and pay close attention to the way they tell each client's story! Click on any image below to visit Voortex Productions.

All images copyright Voortex Productions. All rights reserved.

by Skip Cohen

This is our eighth featured "chef" in the Tamron Recipes series. Each one has captured not only Tamron's outstanding optical quality but the passion of each featured guest. A big part of the fun of these images and podcasts has been the insight each artist has brought to the conversation. 
 
I've shared this quote before, but it's so applicable to everybody we've worked with: "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life!"  Each artist is wholly dedicated to storytelling, not only through their images but their online and educational presence when teaching. And with everything they share, Tamron is playing a pivotal role.

With every Tamron Recipes post, we always share a quote about the recipe for success, but today's recipe is from a "chef" who's a remarkable storyteller. His success is in part due to his exceptional skills telling stories, combined with his passion for people and exploring.  ​

​We're jumping into the Tamron Kitchen today with "Chef" Charley Voorhis. Charley is no stranger to the SCU blog. We've shared several of his Tamron videos over the years, but until recently we had never physically met. Our friendship has been a testimonial to social media, combined with a phone call here and there. 

Reading the quote above by Jay Acunzo, I couldn't help but think about Charley's passion for telling a story. We recently met for the first time in his program at ClickCon in Chicago. Sitting in his class, I had a chance to watch him teach, and without question his love for capturing great imagery and then telling the story shines through. 

About "Chef" Charley: I want to share the start of Charley's bio on his about page because he describes his love for storytelling far better than I ever could.  

There is nothing like a good story, honestly told, to unite people across town, or across the globe. I'm also a passionate explorer. I think of it as my job to get inspired by stories in unlikely places, uncovering details, and moving past simple stereotypes. Everybody has something great inside of them if you listen carefully. 

​Part II of Charley's recipe series is coming next Tuesday with a terrific and insightful podcast. We'll be talking a lot about his career in imaging and his passion for telling a story. His website is just a click away. ​

About the SP 15-30mm, SP 24-70mm and SP 150-600mm lenses, and the video:  Click on the banners below to find out more about these three outstanding members of Tamron's family. And, until September 1, 2019, the SP15-30mm and SP 150-600mm are both on the Summer Savings promotional program.
 
The video was created for the Adventure Travel Trade Association and filmed during AdventureWeek Peru. Watching the video, you'll notice how well Charley's skill set matches what they wanted to say about Ancash, Peru: 

​See hiking through Huascaran National Park, which is home to 300 lagoons, the stunning snow-capped Alpamayo mountain, and notable wildlife including the north andean deer, and andean condor, all of which are endangered. Feel the silence while gazing at 6,000 meter glaciated peaks. Whether embarking on a multi-day trek through the Cordillera Blanca, biking along the rough mountain trails, or kayaking on Laguna Llanganuco, Ancash’s vast, natural landscape is ready for adventurous exploration. 

"Dream big; work hard; stay focused and surround yourself with good people."
​Author Unknown

In looking for a quote to kick off Part II of our Tamron Recipes with "Chef" Erica Robinson, the quote above hit me as an almost perfect description of her work and her focus. She shares a lot of great insight in this new podcast. She's an incredibly passionate artist with a focus on not just her subject matter but adventure.

Here's my point about Erica - she's an adventurer, loving to travel and capture the stories she's able to tell with her camera. She works hard but never loses sight of the fun aspect of photography, her love for people, and new places. As part of the Tamron team, she's surrounded herself with good people. There's a line on her about page that really describes her love for the craft:

My hope, is that with one little tip or story, it will encourage YOU to explore, dare you to dance with a stranger, or inspire a new challenge in your photography and travel journey.

At a time where so many photographers waste space in their bios talking about their gear, awards, and experience, Erica shares her goal and part of her dream - to inspire us to push the boundaries on creativity and capturing our own stories. 

I hope you'll take the time for a scroll through Erica's galleries. Her images demonstrate her love for travel, people, and creativity. I pulled a few of my favorites for this post, but they don't begin to illustrate the world through Erica's eyes. Click on any image to visit her website and see more of her work.

Erica's working with one of her most favorite lenses, Tamron's SP 85mm F.1.8 Di VC USD lens. Tamron's making some of the finest optics in the world, and their part of their description online says it all:
​
"Just as a painter instinctively reaches for the right brush, a portrait artist reaches for an 85mm lens...The Tamron SP 85mm F/1.8 is the world's first* 85mm fast-aperture lens with image stabilization...What's more, our SP 85mm F/1.8 delivers edge-to-edge viewfinder brightness..."

"Chef" Erica's recipe is a click away if you missed it two weeks ago. Check out the SP 85mm lens with a click on the thumbnail to the right. And, v​isit your Tamron dealer to check this lens out for yourself.

In the podcast we talked about some of the workshops Erica's involved with. Tamron's schedule of local events and trade shows is easily accessible through the banner below. They never slow down in helping photographers raise the bar on the quality of their images, or manufacturing great glass!

by Skip Cohen

Working together with the team at Tamron USA, Chamira Young and I started this series in January, making this our seventh episode of Tamron Recipes. As I've written in the past, we completely underestimated what we'd learn about and from each featured artist, as well as the fun we'd have in the process. "Fun" is one of those lost words in business today, but each artist has expressed their love for the craft in so many different ways and they're definitely having fun!

There's a quote credited to several people, including Steve Jobs and Confucius: "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life!" Well, each artist is dedicated not only to their specialty but virtually every aspect of imaging. They've shared incredible insight into their growth as artists, and their dedication to telling a story with each image they capture, and always with Tamron lenses. 

A passion for "giving back" has been a common denominator as each chef has opened their heart and shared a wealth of knowledge. They've allowed us to share their recipe for a single image and then expand it to their ingredients for growth in their skill set and business, often going well beyond their photographs. 

With every Tamron Recipes post, we always share a quote about the recipe for success.  I recently found this one by Jim Rohn, American entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker who passed away in 2009. 

Success Recipe
2 cups faith, 2 cups love, 1 cup hard work, 1 cup persistence, 1 tbsp vision and a dash of swagger
Jim Rohn

We're jumping into the Tamron Kitchen today with "Chef" Erica Robinson. While the previous posts started with a phone call or two, today's is a little unique because Chef Erica isn't just a working artist, but also a dedicated member of Tamron's technical support team. I've met Erica many times before and she's no stranger to SCU readers having been featured in previous posts. 

When I found the recipe for success by Jim Rohn, I couldn't help but notice how well it described Erica. She's filled with faith in her skill set and understanding of the craft. She loves photography and has a passion for wearing the Tamron hat and working with other artists - if you've ever seen her at a trade show, you already know what she's like in action. She's persistent in her quest and hard work to capture an image or tell a story, and that little touch of swagger is demonstrated in her pride as an accomplished artist. 

About the images and the SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD lens: The Tamron SP 85mm "is the world's first* fast aperture lens with image stabilization." 

"It's unique design allows us to include our VC (Vibration Compensation) system - without the lens becoming too large or heavy. What's more, our SP 85mm F/1.8 delivers edge-to-edge viewfinder brightness for ease of composition and superior low-light performance. The fast aperture of the F/1.8 also offers the perfect balance of subject sharpness and bokeh, that dreamy blur which separates your portrait subject from the background."

*Among 85mm F/1.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras as of January 2016. Data source: Tamron

Click on the banner below to find out more about this outstanding member of Tamron's prime lens family.
 
When I looked at Erica's work, it was no easy task to pick one image. I couldn't do it and talked with her about using two from her past trip to Cuba. For so many of us there's still a beautiful mystique to the people, the culture and the country. Although legal travel for Americans started to open up in 1999, "President Obama restored people-to-people travel in 2011." (Source inSightCuba.com)
  
About "Chef" Erica:  One visit to Erica's galleries and you'll immediately see what I meant about her passion for the craft. I love her About-page description of herself, and it's so appropriate to share part of it here:

I won't write this out like a dating profile or write some perfect euphoric poem expressed on every Instagram post you see. But what I will tell you, is my life is in pictures. I travel around the US as a tech rep, and around the world for adventure. I'm proud to pass along my knowledge and experiences in seminars, workshops and now here. All, to others who feel the same travel pull on their heartstrings as I do. My hope is that with one little tip or story, it will encourage YOU to explore, dare you to dance with a stranger, or inspire a new challenge in your photography and travel journey.

​Part II of Erica's recipes is coming next Tuesday with her podcast. We'll be talking a lot about her journey as an artist and especially her adventures in Cuba. You can be sure she'll be sharing some great insight into how she's built so many unique relationships with her subjects, clients, and other photographers in the industry. 

Click on Erica's Tamron Recipe image to view in the SCU Lightbox. And, her website is just a click away, 

This special series is a kick to build and share each month. Join us next Tamron Tuesday when we share 
​Erica's podcast together with more of her images. Things never slow down in the Tamron Kitchen and each "Chef" brings a new recipe for success to the table!

"Good things happen when you set your priorities straight!"
Scott Caan

by Skip Cohen

Welcome back to Tamron Recipes and Part II, our conversation with "Chef" Marcie Reif. Marcie shares so much great insight in this conversation. Her passion for the craft, along with her clients, comes out loud and clear. Her goal with each client is to exceed their expectations, and as I've written in the past, make herself habit-forming!

We're having a lot of fun with this series. "Fun" is too often a mystical word that gets lost in business today, buried under the stress of decision making, interruptions, and priority setting. But, the quote by Scott Caan seems to define at least one aspect of Marcie's outlook on life, her priorities.  On her about page, she leads with a description of herself as simply, "wife, mother, artist." That pretty much says it all, establishing those three hats she wears that are a big part of the foundation of who she is.

I'd add one more hat, "friend." With each podcast, both Chamira and I have found the start of new friendships with our guests. Marcie's not just part of the Tamron family, but ours as well and that's one of my most favorite things about this industry - the friendships we all share that come out of everyone's love for the craft.

In wandering through Marcie's galleries, I wanted to pull a variety of my favorite images. You'll notice a universal theme - people! I doubt there's very much Marcie can't photograph, but it's her relationships with her clients that's demonstrated in great expressions in every image. Click on any photograph in this post to visit Marcie's website.

One of Marcie's most favorite tools is Tamron's new 35-150mm F/2.8-4 Di VC OSD lens. But it's not just about the quality of the optics, but the focal length. With a 35-150mm range she can be close to her clients and a director when needed, as well as a journalist's approach and back farther to observe. She talks very openly on her approach and why this lens is ideal for working with families and kids.

"Chef" Marcie's recipe is a click away if you missed it last week. Check out the 35-150mm lens with a click on the thumbnail to the right. And, v​isit your Tamron dealer to check this lens out for yourself and make sure Tamron's schedule of local events and trade shows is on your radar. You'll find their complete schedule below with an almost endless number of workshops, shows and dealer programs all year long.

We're in the Tamron Kitchen today with Marcie Reif. These posts and podcasts always start with a phone call or two. In my first conversation with Marcie, it was obvious she's entirely focused on her love for portraiture. She builds relationships with her clients, never doing anything just halfway. She loves her career choice. Like a world-class chef, she's always looking to be creative and is always looking for the precise moment to capture the personalities of her subjects, and she's part of an incredible team, the Tamron family. 

About the Image and the 35-150mm F/2.8-4 Di VC OSD lens: This new Tamron lens has become one of Marcie's favorites.

The 35-150mm lens "is based on the new concept of allowing you to concentrate on a wide range of portrait compositions without the interruption of pausing to change lenses. The fast F-stop offers F/2.8 at the wide end while maintaining a bright F/4 at the telephoto end."  

To the core I love photographing the joy of kids and families. Creating a strong and authentic portrait of their pure joy has definitely become my style and what people come to expect from me. This lens gives me a lot of room to play with that. Sometimes I need to be close to them to tickle them or sing. Sometimes I need to be farther away and it's their parents that can bring out that joy in them. Either way I can be close or far away with this lens.  M. Reif 
 
Click on the banner below to find out more about this outstanding lens.

About "Chef" Marcie:  Based out of Atlanta, one trip to Marcie's website and she sets the stage for her expertise as a family photographer. From her opening statement about being a "wife, mother and artist," to her description of her style of photography, there's no question of her goal to meet each client's mindset.

​My goal is to deliver you a unique set of images that are artistic, natural, and warm by mixing childhood images with connections to love. My style and heart lead to very natural photographs. I always try to deliver my clients images of their family “being” a family. This may mean singing, dancing, playing together, or maybe just some ginormous hugs! I LOVE to capture kids being themselves because best moments come when you set them up, sit back, and wait. M. Reif

​Stay tuned for Part II of Marcie's recipe coming next Tuesday with her podcast. She'll be sharing a lot of great insight into how she's built her business and reputation. She's a passionate artist with outstanding listening skills allowing her to better define each client's goals and relationships with a solid foundation of trust.

Just click on Marcie's Tamron Recipe image above to visit her website. And, follow her on Instagram and Facebook too.

​What a kick this new series is to build and share each month. Join us next Tamron Tuesday when we share Marcie's podcast together with more of her images. Things never slow down in the Tamron Kitchen!

Last month we shared a podcast packed full with great insight and a series of images by Tamron "Chef," Lisa Langell. The Tamron Recipe series always receives a great response, and today, Lisa's back with one of her recipes for success - how to photograph hummingbirds. The fun of working with Lisa is her attention to detail, combined with her willingness to share just about everything she's learned over the years to help more photographers fine-tune their skill set.

This new guest post is loaded with good solid information, especially Lisa's observations on the importance of "re-imagining nature photography" for today's contemporary clients and the interiors of their homes.​

Lisa's hummingbird images are all captured with Tamron's 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD lens. Just like Lisa's approach to photography, Tamron never slows down in manufacturing some of the very best optics in imaging. And, they're just as focused on helping photographers improve their skill set to help capture the very best photographs.

To find out more about this outstanding lens, click on the thumbnail to the left. The 70-210 lens is also included in Tamron's Spring Rebate program through July 6, 2019 with a $200 instant savings at authorized Tamron dealers.

Check out more of Lisa's work and her workshop schedule with a visit to her website. Just click on the banner below. While her August workshops are already sold out, with some classes, she maintains a waitlist. Make sure you sign up for her FREE newsletter, so you're always up to date on her workshops, trips, and latest information to help you become a better artist.

by Lisa Langell
​
​Creating wildlife and nature photography that works well into the interior designs of homes, offices and more is a true passion of mine.  Echoing back to my years long ago of working as a floral designer with other interior decorators to transform the indoors, I learned a great deal about people’s palates, tastes, design techniques, and decorating trends. 

Making wildlife photography something people want to hang in trendy, well-decorated and designed homes requires transforming how we perceive what constitutes “nature photography.”   We must go beyond the “rules” and restrictions long-associated with “classic” magazine and calendar-style photography.  It requires re-imagining how we photograph, process, print and display our work so that it is on-trend with the decorative and artistic look of today’s indoor environments. 

The high-key style hummingbird photography I do is just one example of re-imagining nature photography for today’s interiors.  Here is how it is done.
 
Recipe for Hummingbird High Key Setups

1 hummingbird feeder (which inevitably attracts bees and wasps, detested by hummingbirds)

3-4 speedlite flashes positioned about 18-24 inches from the bird, set to Manual, at 1/16th to 1/32nd power.
 
Zoom and aperture settings variable to achieve the light and look you need, depending on the placement of the flashes.

1 white backdrop about 24-36 inches behind the bird

1 flash positioned to illuminate white backdrop set to no higher than 1/8 power

1 camera on a tripod - Set camera to the following settings (slight adjustments made as needed):

• Focus on the hummingbird feeder and then set your camera to Manual Focus so it will not “hunt” with each shot
• Shutter Speed:  1/160th  to 1/200th second
• Aperture:  f/18 to f/25
• ISO:  100 to 200

​1 Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD lens

1 remote trigger (I do not recommend the type that requires line-of-sight communication)

1 or more stunningly gorgeous hummingbirds
 
Directions:

• Ensure your flashes are set to communicate with each other.  Depending on the brand and model, you may need to utilize the built-in master/slave settings, wireless communication via  via a trigger, by using pocket wizards and PC Sync cords, or other methods.
• Enable your “highlight alert” (a.k.a., “blinkies”) on your camera and ensure that the flash for the backdrop is positioned in such a way as to over-expose the white backdrop. 
• As the birds come in toward the feeder, or pull back from it, trigger the shot.  The flashes being set to 1/16 to 1/32nd power are what stops the high-speed wingbeats of the bird, not your camera’s shutter.  
• This method is “part art and part science,” so you will want to explore your options with positioning the flashes and the settings used.  You may also add flowers to the shot, or replace the feeder entirely with flowers for other effects.

"Don't just stand there; make something happen!"
Lee Iacocca

Welcome back to Tamron Recipes. This is our fifth episode, and the insight shared by each guest keeps getting better and better. There are a few common denominators with all of these fine "chefs," their passion for what they're doing in imaging and a never-wavering quest for success.

​The Lee Iacocca quote we found seemed like it was written for Lisa. She never slows down in her quest to capture images that stop us in our tracks. She's making things "happen," and in turn having an impact on her students, fans and the world of fine art in nature photography. She's focused not only on her subjects but pushing the creative envelope with her technique. 
​ 
Looking through her galleries, it was so hard to choose images to share with today's podcast. One image we wanted to make sure was part of the series is the companion portrait of the hummingbird with the wasp in the scene. We shared our favorite of the two in last week's post.

Lisa used Tamron's 70-210mm /F4 Di VC USD lens on a Canon EOS 7D body. Each Tamron Recipe is always in two parts, starting with an outstanding image, followed by the story behind it, as well as more about the "chef."  

Lisa's first recipe in the Tamron Kitchen is just a click away.  And, check out the 70-210 lens with a click on the thumbnail to the right. There's also a great rebate program going on right now at your Tamron dealer. Savings information on other Tamron lenses is just a click away on the banner below.

Visiting Lisa's galleries you'll immediately notice her diversity as a photographer and an artist. There's such a wide variety of presentations. In describing her approach to fine art nature photography she wrote:

Making wildlife photography something people want to hang in trendy, well-decorated and designed homes requires transforming how we perceive what constitutes “nature photography.”  We must go beyond the “rules” and restrictions long-associated with “classic” magazine and calendar-style photography.  It requires re-imagining how we photograph, process, print and display our work so that it is on-trend with the decorative and artistic look of today’s indoor environments.  

Click on any image below to visit Lisa's website!

Lisa Langell joins us today in the Tamron Kitchen. Talking to Lisa, it becomes obvious she never does anything halfway. As a contemporary artist, she loves what she's doing and especially the diversity into the fine art world. Like a great chef, she never slows down on creating her very best images with each click of the shutter. She never misses an opportunity to share her work, and she's part of an incredible team, the Tamron family. 

About the Image and the 70-210mm /F4 Di VC USD lens:  The 70-210 mm lens is one of Lisa's favorites and has enabled her to capture images, especially with hummingbirds that are different than what we usually expect to see with wildlife. Click on the banner below to find out more about this incredible lens.
 
About "Chef" Lisa: Lisa's had an incredibly diverse career starting in floral design, then psychology. She was a well-respected educational psychologist and International Consultant working in the school sector with a love for photography as a hobby since childhood. In 2010 she started her photography business but didn't go full-time as a career until 2016. 

​Lisa's also done a lot of research on flash photography with animals, especially birds. Her images aren't just about creating stunning images, but very much focused on the ethics of working with wildlife: 

"The ethics of using flash photography with animals and birds is something which I have spent considerable time researching before I comfortably employed these techniques specifically with hummingbirds. I am highly conscientious of being a good steward of our natural world and wanted to understand any impact low power flash photography may have on hummingbirds before engaging in this type of photography. The peer reviewed published literature available, although limited, suggests it does not cause harm." 

Stay tuned for Part II of Lisa's Tamron Recipe coming next Tuesday with her podcast. She's an amazing artist focused not only on her subjects but trends in fine art and her business. She's also a big fan of education, and in her hummingbird workshops, for example, every student has their own setup to maximize learning. 

Lisa's website is just a click away. And to maximize the viewing of her image above, just give it a click and view it in the SCU LightBox.

“Your true success in life begins only when you make the commitment
to become excellent at what you do.” 
Brian Tracy

Welcome to Tamron Recipes. This is our fourth episode and what a trip it's been so far. If you've joined us for the first three episodes, you'll notice a familiar theme, the recipe for success.

​There are so many quotes about success, but this new one we chose to share by Brian Tracy certainly hits on the importance of a commitment to be the very best. It almost seems like it was written for both our guest "chef," Mike Moats, as well at Tamron USA! 
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Mike is on a never-ending quest to capture images from a world most of us never really see. "Tiny Landscapes" is his website and it's perfect for his love of macro photography. In this new podcast, he shares a lot of wonderful insight and his love for the craft couldn't be more obvious.
 
For his first photograph, which we shared last week, he used Tamron's SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD lens on a FUJI S5 body. Each Tamron Recipe is always in two parts, starting with an outstanding image, followed by the story behind it, as well as more about the "chef."  

Mike's first recipe in the Tamron Kitchen is just a click away.  And, check out the SP 90mm lens with a click on the thumbnail to the right. There's also a great rebate program going on right now at your Tamron dealer. Savings information on other Tamron lenses is just a click way on the banner below.

​It's our fourth episode of Tamron Recipes. Time really does fly when you're having a good time. Looking back on the original idea, which seems like yesterday, we underestimated how much fun these would be to create. Even more important has been how much great information each artist is willing to share and their diversity. ​

​With each new post, we always comment on "the recipe for success."  We all know the expression, and there are four primary ingredients: ​

Mike Moats is with us in the Tamron Kitchen. And, like our previous artists his career matches that quote above. Mike loves what he's doing and especially the diversity in the images he shares. He never slows down on giving it his very best with each click of the shutter. He never misses an opportunity to share pieces of the world that most of us miss. And, Mike's part of an incredible team, the Tamron family. 

About the Image and the SP90 mm lens:  The 90mm is Mike's go-to lens for much of his macro work. We loved Tamron's explanation for one of the reasons why this is such a great lens for macro work: "Minute objects are projected on the camera’s image sensors at a magnification ratio of 1:1 so that the photographer can enjoy a macro world on print that would otherwise be impossible to experience with the naked eye."

Being a great macro photographer is about so much more than just getting in close - it's about finding character in your subjects, which is no different than a portrait artist - just in a smaller world, as Mike explains:

Finding character: When you are out shooting, go slowly and take the time to study every subject for interesting characteristics. All settings that contain flowers, leaves, trees, and bugs have the potential to reveal elements of character. Character is reflected in an object’s distinctive shape, remarkable lines, exceptional contrast, unusual pattern, unique texture, or special light. Finding character in nature is about creating images that set themselves apart from the ordinary and mundane that most photographers capture.

About "Chef" Mike: Mike's an award-winning photographer who started shooting as a hobby in 2001. Today's it's his full-time business and his images have been published in Outdoor Photographer Magazine, Natures Best Magazine, PC Photo Magazine, Nature Photographer Magazine, Photolife, Whisper In The Woods, Michigan Game Finder, NANPA’s Expressions Books, Pure Michigan Book, and Tamron and Fujifilm's Newsletters. 

He's also no stranger here at SCU and has always been willing to share his images and insight to help you become a better photographer. But, what's missing in his bio is his incredible passion for the craft, teaching and becoming one of the industry's most respected educators. Check out his workshop schedule, the Macro Photo Club and definitely wander through his galleries!

Stay tuned for Part II of Mike's Tamron Recipe coming next Tuesday with his podcast. You'll immediately pick up on his love for photography and education. Plus, we'll be sharing more of his work with a series of stunning images! Check out Mike's website with a click on his image above. 

As you listen to the podcast you'll pick up on Tara's enthusiasm and love for the craft. Take the time to check out her work, especially the way she's positioned Military, Motherhood and Memories the minute you enter her website. Tara's definitely a "chef" who should be on your radar.

​Click on any of her images below to visit her site. 
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​Welcome to our third episode of Tamron Recipes. Looking back on the original idea, it seemed like a fun way to introduce you to some talented artists and at the same time Tamron's outstanding optics. We underestimated how much fun this would be to share, and the fantastic insight each artist would bring to the podcast part of each recipe.

We've all heard people talk about "the recipe for success." That recipe is always changing depending on the individual, but as we've shared in each post, there are still four essential ingredients. ​

Tara Ruby joins us, and she's another amazing artist who lives by that quote from Ben Fairless:  Tara loves the career path she's chosen, and it's evident in each image she shares. She defines the art of listening when working with her clients. Her goal with each subject never changes - to tell their story in each image and exceed the client's expectations. She never compromises on anything but giving each photograph her very best. And, without question, Tara's part of a remarkable team, the Tamron family.

About the Image and the 15-30mm G2 lens: Tara told us the 15-30 mm has become her "go to" lens and sent us several images to choose from. In the photograph we chose for today's recipe, we loved the narrow depth of field and her camera angle. Put that together with her lighting, and it was different from so many sleeping baby images we've seen. 

About "Chef" Tara: Tara's focus for her business is in three parts: Motherhood, Military, and Memories. She's a passionate artist, and as you wander into her website three slides come up that tell you everything you need to know about her:
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• "I Understand Motherhood: From the first heartbeat to the first latch I can capture it all."
• "I Understand Military: I am a disabled military veteran owned business with a deep passion to support our military."
• "I Create Memories: How will your great-grandchildren view the memories you make today...let me help you with that."

Stay tuned for Part II of Tara's Tamron Recipes, and you'll spot her love for the craft in everything she talks about in the podcast. Plus, we'll be sharing more of her work. Check out Tara's website with a click on her image above and then join us next week for her podcast.

Welcome back to Tamron Recipes. I know I'm dating myself to use an expression like this, but my co-host Chamira Young and I are having a blast with this new series and we so appreciate the nice feedback. Comparing talented artists/photographers to great chefs is so accurate. Each image truly is a feast for our eyes and often hearts. (Sorry, it's hard not to drop a pun in now and then!)  
 
All of us use or hear the word recipe every day, most of the time in reference to either food or success. Our guest on this new podcast is Jonathan Thorpe, and if this were an episode of "Iron Chef" he'd be one of the resident Iron Chef's standing next to Bobby Flay and Michael Simon in Kitchen Stadium. 

Jonathan shares a lot of great insight into his passion for the craft and his journey into the business of being a successful professional photographer. Listening to the podcast above you'll pick up on his love for imaging almost immediately. 

​Jonathan is the ultimate storyteller, sharing images that have us looking into each photograph rather than just at them, and the SP 45mm is one of his favorite go-to lenses.

His recipe for the initial image, shared last week, was captured with Tamron's SP 45mm F.1.8 Di VC USD lens and a Canon 5D Mark IV.  Tamron Recipes always comes in two parts, first with a great image and then the story behind the photograph as well as the "chef." 

Jonathan's first recipe in the Tamron Kitchen is just a click away.  And check out the SP 45mm lens with a click on the thumbnail above, which is also included in Tamron's New Year Savings program going on through March 2, 2019. Just click on the banner below.