The Internet is Insane | Stoke-Ness
This month
I’m sharing a photo technique for shooting professional car photos, a book I am studying to become a better artist, and the single most impactful share of the year.
Be stoked,
Isaac
New Photo Set
This summer I had an idea for a truck/auto focused shoot that featured a woodland firefighter character who worked to protect the wild lands, but also played in the wild lands. We found some recently burned areas for the shoot that made for some striking images. I’d love to hear what you think.
Protect the Wild, Play in the Wild |Toyota
Gear and Tools
Running Pack
This summer I did more mountain running than ever and found that other than a well fitting pair of shoes, a running vest is a must have.
I work with Salomon often and have picked up a ADV Skin 12 running vest. It holds my rain jacket, water, snacks, phone and most importantly my small camera at the ready.
No matter how rough the trail it doesn’t move or chafe and feels like you are wearing nothing at all. I have actually taken to using it while biking and riding motos because it’s so comfortable. If you want a better fitting pack for active/light missions then check it out.
Photo/Video Technique
Automotive Composite Bracketing
Have you ever seen ads for car commercials and wondered how they get the cars to looks so perfect? Of course it’s Photoshop, but you still have to have the right techniques in camera to make it work. I was curious enough to learn four years ago and have been working on my technique ever since.
The technique is called bracketing and compositing, which involves combining three or more images to make the car appear brighter and stand out.
Here is how I do it:
Set your camera up on a tripod about belly button height.
Use a 50mm lens for the least amount of distortion.
Shoot 3 images. Meter for the car then shoot underexposed a stop, exposed in the middle and overexposed a stop. It is important the camera doesn’t move between shots. I use the two second timer.
Combine them in photoshop using masking and brushing, making the shadows of the car brighter for that high end car ad feel.
Edit your image as usual.
This is a very brief description. A quick search on youtube will give you more in-depth tutorials and help you start this as a practice.
Send me your photos if you try it.
Who I am Following
Patrick Witty suggested by Pete Milne
My friend and fellow photograpaher Pete Milne shared the Field Of View newsletter with me. Written by Patrick Witty, a long time photo editor for the likes of Time magazine. It’s a fascinating deep dive into the most iconic photos ever taken. Every issue is delightful and leaves me wishing for the next one.
Listen
Search Engine Podcast: Is there a sane way to use the internet.
I know, another podcast episode for the same place as last month?
This might be the most important thing I have recommended this year. My friends and I have been using the internet and social media for work for years and have often had discussions about how healthy it is for us. This episode distills what we all think and know about the internet but didn’t have the words to say. So much wisdom and insight in one episode, I had to share.
Videos, Movies, and TV
Pecos Hank bio film
I’ve been watching Hank’s tornado chasing videos for years. His quirky style, sense of humor and self made sound tracks are youtube gold. This bio made me love him even more.
Reads
Hold Still by Sally Mann
The last year I have been studying some of the greatest photographers work. I read a photo book with their work, then a biography of them. Last month I studied Sally Mann and her bio “Hold Still”. Her journey as an artist has so many valuable insights but is also a riveting story of growing up an outsider during the 70’s and 80’s. It’s got an Americana twist with wisdom built into every memory.
Parting Thought:
There is a reason the most resounding work comes from those who take years to create it. There is a value in sitting with creative work before sharing it. Sitting changes you and the work, creating a timeless and grounded perspective. Taking deliberate breaks instead of constantly sharing to please an algorithm is where the next best art will come from. It can be you that makes it.
Be stoked and have a great month,
Isaac
This newsletter, my photography and my videos are all free, but not cheap. If you want to help me continue to make things you can buy my all new Pitch Deck Kit HERE or buy me virtual coffee.
Don't have the funds to buy a coffee at the moment? Then sharing this newsletter with someone you think would like it is the next best thing. Thanks!
