The Right Gear
People always argue that photography is not about the gear but about the photographer. There is no arguing that, but gear is important as well. For me, something with a lower f-stop number is the best. Why? Because they give me a better depth of field. I love concentrating on my subject more, than the background.
My choice of gear — Canon EOS 550D, and Canon EF 40 mm f/2.8 STM lens. Great choice they were.
Right time of the day
Another main important thing to plan about is the right time of the day. I understood that shooting in the golden hour is THE best. Golden hour is also known as magic hour.
During each golden hour (morning and evening), you will find that the sun is low in the sky; when a light source is larger and closer relative to the subject, soft, diffused light is produced. Soft light is preferable for virtually any subject, as it doesn’t create harsh shadows and tends to be very dynamic-range-friendly, meaning you won’t lose any details to extreme shadows or blown-out highlights. Shadows themselves, though, aren’t necessarily a bad thing; the long shadows created by the sun at these times of day can help add texture, depth, and ultimately, interest to your final product. And let’s not forget that warm, golden glow. You’re not afforded any of these benefits when shooting under an oppressive midday sun.
Source : Light Stalking
You can plan your day with the help of The Photographer’ Ephemeris. It is the best app that I have come across for a photograpgher. It gives you the exact position of the sun based on location data, sunrise and sunset time and similarly moonrise and moonset time. Basically it is the holy grail for understanding and playing with the light, which is the most important in photography.
Your Body, and Mind
The last thing you want is your empty stomach growling. If you are heavy muncher like me every morning, be sure to have your full before heading out. Have sufficient amount of water. And wear free clothing.
Never go alone
Take friends who share your love for photography. They will not only be companion on the walk but will be a good support as well. You can learn from each other.
Post Processing
It is important that the post processing is to the right limit and not too much. It is important that we don’t soften the texture of the flowers. A basic adjustment, with a little bit of saturation in colours are my basic processing.
Now it is your turn! Let me know what you think! Let me and others know about your experience shooting some Sunflowers.
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