Exploring Long-Lens Success

Camera Craft | Duration: 4 weeks | Session: 3 September - 4 October 2008

Many photographers see telephoto lenses as just a way to get closer. True - there are definitely times when "flighty" wildlife, inaccessible situations - risky and dangerous - circumvent simply "getting there and close" with a shorter focal-length alternative. Telephoto lenses, though, are a whole lot more than most photographers ever touch upon. Possessed of a shallow depth-of-field and soft-focus characteristics, longer lenses hold the potential to deliver impressive portraiture and dramatic interpretations of a range of - otherwise - "everyday" scenes and situations. This course is designed specifically to have you learn and apply the full spectrum of optical benefits offered by telephoto lenses, making them a working part of your photographic repertoire.

View from Above

Designed for intermediate through advanced levels of photographic expertise.
Gain a clear and comprehensive knowledge of the longer focal-length category of lenses.
Learn and practice how to see as a telephoto views the world.
Learn effective and dramatic composition with soft-focus and limited depth-of-field.

Toolbox Needs

Digital or 35-millimeter film camera (the latter requiring access to a film scanner).
Working knowledge of manual camera controls (i.e. aperture and shutter speed) and the ability to accurately manage exposure.
Telephoto lens (zoom or "fixed" focal-length) in the 85-mm or longer range (up to 200-mm will serve just fine for this course).
Sturdy tripod.

Dan_ouray_portrait

Daniel Bailey (view profile)

Course Outline

Week 1: In the Land of "Impressive Glass."
The long and short of things - just what are the differences? Fixed and zooms - choosing what is right for you. Fast, compact, Image Stabilization.

Week 2: Seeing Like a "Tele."
There and back - fast! Learning from the "Classics."

Week 3: Gaining Perspective.
Where did "everything" go? Prospering from reduced depth-of-field. Use long-lens characteristics to compose for impact and drama.

Week 4: Walk the Walk - Talk the Talk!
Choosing appropriate subjects. Indoors where light is low. "Tack-sharp" and nothing less. Giving "long" your "voice."