Christmas Photography

The Digital Photography School has posted 16 tips for Christmas Photography. It has inspired me to make plans for my Christmas photos.

1. I will bring my camera, new tripod, batteries, charger, USB key in case I need to unload at some point.
2. I will REMEMBER to take pictures. Every time I go to a personal event, I usually FORGET to take pictures, because I’m having so much fun. That is not going to happen this year and here’s how:

• I’m going to take pictures early in the event… before other family members arrive, I will take some time to take pictures of the Christmas tree, mom’s cookies, the dogs (because they are so fun to take pictures of), presents under the tree, decorations, etc. Also, because the night time comes so early, I’ll probably have time to get some pictures of Christmas lights outside (assuming it’s not too cold in Ottawa).
• I will have a list of things and moments I want to capture. I haven’t put enough time into this at the moment, but this will include what I have mentioned above, as well as moments of my nephew opening and enjoying his gifts, a picture of dinner (i.e. passing plates, etc). Usually my family doesn’t do much exciting for people photography. We usually just sit around and chat. The women are usually in the kitchen, so I’ll try to squeeze in there. Also, I have heard a rumour that my brother will be bringing Rock Band, which could make some great pictures.

Because my husband and I are visiting at Christmas (we live in Toronto, everyone is in Ottawa), this means lots of events, which leave little time for casual photography, but I’m going to try to squeeze in some time. I’ll be bringing my tripod, and my parent’s house is filled with things. Hopefully I will find something interesting that I can create into a beautiful abstract picture. That is what I’m going to try focusing on this winter. It is much too cold for me to hang out outside… I’m a big baby and I know it. I’d really like to find some time for that.

So, remember to visit the Digital Photography School’s website to check out their 16 tips. There is nothing new here, but a good reminder and in my case, also a good motivator to get my butt in gear!

:) Roon-bop

Photoshop Christmas Tutorials

Oh my goodness, I can't even believe my luck!

First I go to the store, because we're out of liquid hand soap, and low and behold, my favourite liquid hand soap is on sale! And there are 5 left. Very lucky me.

This morning, just this very morning, my husband asks me if I can help him create a company Christmas card with Photoshop. I'm a little lost on how I'm going to do it, but I know I'll figure something out. Then I get back from lunch and find this link! 24 Free Photoshop Christmas tutorials... seriously... my mind is blown.

So I thought I would share it, which conveniently enough also places it somewhere I can easily find it when I get home. This is amazing. I took a brief look at them. I wanted to create an ornament and have the company logo in the centre. And there is a tutorial on how to create a Christmas ornament... I mean really I'm a little freaked out by all this.

I hope this is as helpful to you as it should be to me. And thanks to toxel.com and digg.com for posting it.

Happy December First!
:) Roon-bop