Leica (M-9) & (D-Lux 4)

Dry Winter

2012-01-21T15:07:00.000-08:00

Leica D-Lux 4 winter photos taken in Northern California in early January before the rains came. Plus one photo taken yesterday with the Apple I-Phone 4s using the Tadaa app.

Every time I walk through a particular area of Woodside I'm intrigued with the birdhouses at the entrance to a estate property. Note the leaf in the lower opening, apparently no birds are currently occupying the premises.

This creekside willow tree that has lost its leaves is highlighted by the strong blue sky and bright colored leaves on the tree behind it.

My eleven month old German Shepherd is intrigued by the horse that lives inside this fence. Her intensity easily seen along with the colors of winter.

The horse she was so interested in rendered in black and white with Silver Efex Pro 2.0

Lastly the photo taken with my I-Phone using the free Tadaa photo app. This app allows you to see the results you will get using the filters build into the app. This is one to try.

Last post of 2011

2011-12-31T14:30:00.000-08:00

Here it is the end of another year. I have these pictures taken near home on this last day of the year and the beginning of what appears to be a dry winter in Northern California. All pictures taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0.

Walking along this back trail a wide look through the trees.

I switched from holding the camera in lanscape position to portrait and you got a interesting different look. Next year I hope to highlight more of these type of photos by switching the position or the perspective in which the photo is taken.

Here I used the tree to frame the view through the garden to the house.

Out of the tree shrouded trails to blue sky and this lovely old oak tree.

Wishing you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Late Fall Light

2011-12-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

I'm sharing three pictures that I took recently that highlight interesting late fall light.

In this first picture strong sun was filtering through cloud cover which added light highlighting the weathered wood of this old shack. (Leica D-Lux 4)

The inside of the same shack with strong light filling in the open spaces ranging from bright white to a sunny warm glow adding interest to the already strong contrasts. (Leica D-Lux 4)

The clouds have almost cleared away and another view of the shack. Converted to black and white with Silver Efex Pro to show the interesting contrast and soft light of fall. (Leica D-Lux 4)

Two Pics

2011-12-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Two pics taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 on a recent walk with my dogs through the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve.

Black and white photo taken as the early morning fog was dissipating. The fog back lights the tree giving a interesting glow to the picture.

Photo taken along a creekside path with light filtering through the trees and surrounding foliage. Lots of color contrast and range. The Leica D-Lux 4 is a versatile little camera that is easily carried in a jacket pocket and is easy to use even when you have two large dogs on leash. Shooting in RAW gives you good quality images that are easily fine tuned in Adobe Lightroom.

Dumpster Treasures

2011-11-22T16:37:00.000-08:00

Walked by a home under going a renovation and thought that I would capture a few pics. Dumpsters sometimes contain some interesting material. These pics were taken with the Leica M-9 and post processed with Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Silver Exex Pro.

Headboard, drapes and old carpet.

Over flowing, even this lovely old chair had to go.

Side table showing lots of character.

The moral of this posting is that you never know when you are going to run into interesting subjects to photograph. The more you carry your camera with you the more opportunities you will have to capture interesting pics.

First Day of Fall 2011

2011-09-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

I've been real busy that last two months and have been remiss in adding new pictures to this blog. Today was the first full day of fall and here are a few pictures highlighting the changing seasons. All photos were taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and processed using Adobe Lightroom.

Close up of a bronze statue processed using Silver Efex Pro. Note that selective areas of the statue have had part of the bronze color brought out using the add a point function and then selecting selective colorization.

Looking through the gates into this beautiful estate flanked by trees starting to change into their fall colors.

Colorful leaf lying on the pavement.

Interesting colors highlighted by defuse lighting through the trees.

Natural sunlight highlights the interesting shape and colors of this fallen leaf.

Topaz Filters

2011-07-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

Some examples of photos taken with the Leica M-9 and post processed using Topaz filters, Detail 2 and Adjust 4. Photo one is a crop with Topaz Detail 2 Applied. The absence of color works in this rendition with lots of highlight changes in his markings.

Here is the same dog in color with detail enhanced using Topaz Detail 2 and Adjust 4.

Fluffy clouds processed using Detail 2.

One of the dogs balls sitting in partial light and shadow Topaz Detail 2.

Nika my older female taking a break on her stack of dog pillows. Topaz Detail 2 brings out her coat detail.

2011-06-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

Another day at the shopping mall with the Leica M-9. It seems that I go to the Stanford Mall to purchase fresh bread at least once a week. Even thou I usually go before the major stores are open there are always a few people around to photograph.
The little girl to the right was enamored with the chocolate goodies and the small toys in the window. All photos in this posting were post edited using Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Adobe CS-5 with plug-ins from Nik Software and Topaz Labs.

Lovely summertime flowers in bloom.

A fontaine of fun with frog statues and water attracting all the little children.

Mom saying its time to go.

Outside the bakery waiting for there morning snack.

Covered walkway with interesting lighting effects from Nik Software Color Efexs Pro 3.0 .

Taking a break in one of the peaceful lounge areas of the mall.

Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers Day out there, I've been busy this week so here are a few quick pics I took with the Leica D-Lux 4.

Windy Hill Pond

Flower in macro mode.

Water flow hand held at 1/5 sec.

Wants to go every where with me.

Out for a stroll.

Typical June

2011-06-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

June in my neighborhood is a mixture of sun, wind and cloudy cool to warm conditions. This makes for some interesting photographic opportunities. These pictures were all taken on Saturday morning and highlight how weather conditions may give you some interesting results.
Our friend Martin a lovely horse is in the shadows of the tree with strong back lighting caused by the sun being magnified through the foggy clouds. It makes for a interesting look with strong contrast between colors and strong light.

The next two pictures were converted using a solarizing filter and then converted to black and white. The picture was taken at the same time as that of Martin the horse and was your everyday shot of someone walking up the trail. Ho-hum I thought as I took the shot but it does have some interesting aspects when seen through a more artistic perspective.

The open field and hillside highlight the weather conditions and the ever changing colors exhibited at this time of year.

Flower with its paper like leaves is contrasted by the gravel background.

Macro mode was used to take this photo of a bright red of this bottle brush and then some glow was added in photoshop CS5. All photos in this post were taken with the Leica D-Lux 4.

Nik Software Response

2011-05-31T14:02:00.000-07:00

Here is Nik Softwares response to my question about error code 151:

"Thank you for contacting Nik Software. Error code -151 means that something has occurred in your system which disconnects our activation server. Usually this is due to a system update. This can be resolved by restarting your machine. In some instances, you may need to restart twice after installing updates. Restarting your machine will re-connect the activation server and resolve error code -151."
If you have any questions you can contact them here:

Nik Software, Inc. | Photography first®

7588 Metropolitan Drive | San Diego, CA 92108
Tel - 619.725.3150 | Fax - 619.725.3151
supportus@niksoftware.com | www.niksoftware.com

Black and White Conversion

2011-05-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

Sharing some black and white images converted in Silver Efex Pro 2. Photos take with either the Leica M-9 of Leica D-Lux 4. I have been very happy with the results using Silver Efex Pro 2. The only issue I have run into was after using the program for sometime now it suddenly said that the demo version time had ended and to enter in the product serial numbers to register. I did and the program said that it couldn't authenticate the serial numbers and gave a error code of 151. It was the weekend so no tech support was available form Nik Software. Sent a e-mail outlining the problem and then went on line and searched for error code 151.
It seems that there were a lot of others having similar issues with Nik Software. After reading a number of posts on on-line forums I decided to try to rectify the problem by uninstalling the software and re installing. This worked and hopefully it will take of the issue from here on out. I will keep you all posted on my experience with this software.

Leica M-9 Stanford Shopping Center.

Leica M-9 close up.

Leica D-Lux 4 taken on a recent rainy day.

Leica D-Lux 4 the rain moving in- interesting light

Porsche 912 processed to give a old film look accented with the use of negative space. Leica D-Lux 4.

Thought I would share a interesting Leica video I recently saw.

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M 9 and Errands

2011-05-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

I was out running some errands on Friday and took some pictures with my Leica M-9 as I visited Stanford Mall and downtown Menlo Park. Some of today's pictures are in a 16x9 format, I'm experimenting with this format for use in video displays.

A great bakery that serves sandwiches, goodies and custom coffee drinks. (16x9)

Local photographers checking out settings before capturing the display window.

What a display of some very expensive purses.

The courtyard with all its spring plantings.(16x9)

Close up of some lovely roses.(16x9)

Early morning shoppers taking a break.(16x9)

No visit to the mall is complete without a stop at the Apple Store.

While downtown in Menlo Park I took a minute to grab a few shots of the Porsche 911T that has seen better days.

Parked under a shady tree this old Porsche is still in daily use.

A rear engined car this black and white rendition makes for a interesting image. All of the photos for this posting were processed in Adobe Lightroom 3. Plugins used were Topaz Labs and Nik Software.

Mid Spring

2011-05-16T14:40:00.000-07:00

It is now the middle of spring and the deep greens seen earlier in the season now are changing to gold. Lots of clouds, blue skies and gold to green grasses highlight this dead tree.
The photo below is in the same area the dirt trail leads the eye through the photograph.

Some black and white photos taken later in the afternoon.

Looking down on to the valley.

The sign in this next picture tells it all.

Pictures of a lovely new Ferrari I saw in a local parking lot.

First details lovely wheel calipers and prancing horse badge.

The engine bay taken through its clear engine cover.

Lastly the lovely car itself.

Spring Colors and Textures

2011-04-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

Springtime in the valley has arrived the flowers are starting to bloom showing off their magnificent colors. The grass and trees are all turning a rich shade of green as new growth emerges everywhere.
It is a good time to grab your camera and head out the door for a little walk to grab some shots. All of the following pictures were taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and post processed using Adobe Lightroom 3. A number of the pictures were further enhanced using Adobe CS5 and plug-ins from Nik Software and Topaz Software.

Falling away not much time left for this fence.

Clouds, blue skies and open space highlight the little cottage.

Half way up the Windy Hill Trail looking back towards the south bay.

This garden is just overloaded with colors and textures.

Growing wild in Windy Hill.

Looking down the trail into a clearing what a idyllic setting complete with swing.

Oaks

2011-04-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

This week I concentrated shooting Oak Trees as they start showing their new spring growth and color. All photos were taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and was post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0.

A cluster of oaks showing off all of their new green.

Windy Hill Preserve Oak.

Climbing out of the shadows.

Fresh look for a old tree.

Solarized view.

Lonely Oak.

Hanging On

2011-03-27T11:47:00.000-07:00

Yes winter is still hanging on here in Northern California.We have had rain every day this week and not just a little. So I'm sharing some pictures I took this week with my Leica D-Lux 4, I'm one of those folks that won't drag out my Leica M-9 in the rain. All pictures were post processed with Adobe Lightroom 3.0

In between rain storms this little gem was sitting out ready to be serviced and put back on the street for spring and summer fun.

The clouds are moving out leaving a smattering of rain and a lovely blue sky in its wake.

Horses out in their pasture grazing away waiting for more rain to return. Silver Efex Pro 2 was used to convert to a antique plate look with a tattered frame to accent the old and aged look.

Interesting building and lovely light filtering through the trees highlighting the building and green foliage.

On the top of the hill this lovely villa sits behind stone walls and wooden gates. Processed in Silver Efex Pro 2 I turned the image into a black and white image and then using the add a control point I brought back some of the color to help direct the eye to the stone wall and villa itself. Note I also added just a touch of color to some of the plants in the front of the picture to give the illusion of natural light.

More storm clouds moving in over the foothills. Viveza 2 filter was used to bring out and contrast this photo.

Late Winter Green

2011-03-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

In between the rain I had the opportunity to get a some fun and interesting photos. The flowers are starting to pop showing off all their colors for Saint Patrick's Day and to welcome in Spring. All photos taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0. Color Efex Pro was the filter used in this photo to bring out the contrast between the green and the yellow.

The photo of these artists taking advantage of a break in the weather had the Topaz Labs Adjust 4 filter (Simplify) applied to soften the image.

The same photo as above rendered in black and white with in Silver Efex Pro 2 using the new sliders to bring out the highlights and structure.

Miniature horse waiting for his carrots post processed in Silver Efex Pro 2 and then finished in Color Efex Pro 2 using the glamor glow filter.

First of the fun photos processed using Topaz Labs Adjust 4 to add dramatic depth and structure to the photo.

Topaz Labs Adjust 4 using the vibrancy filter to bring out the colors and add a little definition to the photo.

More Silver Efex Pro 2

2011-03-06T12:58:00.000-08:00

I said that I would be taking some pictures with the Leica M-9 and also converting and commenting on Silver Efex Pro 2. All of the pictures in this post were taken with the M-9 fitted with the Elmarit 2.8 90mm lens and post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0. Black and white conversion was done using Nik Software Silver Efex Pro 2.
The photo to the right is of my 14 month old German Shepherd Monty. Using the new expanded slider controls in Silver Efex Pro 2 I was able to bring out the strong markings on his face.

Color photo that was just re sized for use on the web shows the color rendition and sharpness of the Elmarit 90mm 2.8 lens.

The same picture converted using Silver Efex Pro 2 in the default mode.

Crop of the eyes showing the lovely color rendition and sharpness at the focus point.

Crop of Kong love again clarity of this camera lens combo is highlighted.

Crop that started as a close up of my senior female German Shepherd shows the lovely pattern of her coat.

Color photo of a blooming Camilla and then converted with Silver Efex Pro 2 to show the new ability of being able to colorize specific objects in the photo. Framing is also a new feature and was added to photo.

I used control points to specify the areas of the photo that I wanted to bring out and modify the color of the flower. I could have made the color the same as the original photo but I wanted to show that you can control the saturation and depth of color brought out in your pictures.
I will be exploring more features and commenting on them in future posts. If you are interested in Silver Efex Pro 2 I would suggest that you go to Nik Software and watch their videos on whats new and how to use the software.

Silver Efex Pro 2 Examples

2011-02-28T16:20:00.000-08:00

I just upgraded from Silver Efex Pro to Silver Efex pro 2 and I thought I would share a few early and quick examples.

Close up of the entrance to this unusual bird house. Added structure and contrast only in Silver Efex Pro 2 in Lightroom 3.0.

Visit to the vets office with some nice and very life like photos of their pets. Processed with Silver Efex Pro 2 in Adobe Photoshop CS5.

Alpacas checking out visitors, note their jackets to protect their valuable wool. Processed with Silver Efex Pro 2 in Adobe Photoshop CS5.

Old unoccupied mansion rendered using a antique plate filter in Silver Efex Pro.

Another photo rendered using Silver Efex Pro 2 in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 to add more structure to the clouds.
Early observation of this upgrade include a much faster rendering and saving of images. More preassigned filters including some frames. Updated interface and a history view and much more that I haven't yet explored. I will let you know how I like this new version in a later post.

Rainy Days

2011-02-20T11:34:00.000-08:00

It has been rainy all week after having a winters break the previous three weeks. In those three weeks we lost our male German Shepherd Ricki to liver cancer. Then a week ago a opportunity came our way to add a 14 month old male German Shepherd Monty to our family.
Monty flew into our lives from Ohio on Valentines Day at 11:00 PM and of course so did the rain and it has stayed all week long. I do have a few pictures to share from this hectic week all taken with the Leica D-Lux 4. I'm afraid I can't bring myself to drag my M-9 out into the rain. I will hopefully have some M-9 pictures shortly depending on the weather.
The picture above is of Monty enjoying playing with his new toy. He has made the transition to his new home seamlessly.

Here is a fence with interesting yellow growth on it and framed nicely by the green plants and wet roadway. Post processed in Viveza 2 and Color Efex Pro 3.0

Monty and Nika are checking out the horses running in the pasture.

The same picture post processed in Silver Efex Pro and then using Color Efex Pro 3.0 to adjust the color tones to get this interesting effect.

Interesting fence post and contrasted by new green growth and bare fallen tree limbs. Post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0.

Tonal Adjustment

2011-02-13T16:03:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sharing some pictures taken this week with the Leica D-Lux 4, post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0. Then I adjusted the tonal values using the tonal contrast adjustment tool in Color Efex Pro. Using this filter tool allows you to fine tune Highlight Contrast, Midtone Contrast and Shadow Contrast along with saturation.

Tonal contrast used to smooth the sky and highlight the dark shadows.

Even in black and white tonal contrast brings out the subject of the picture.

Tonal contrast adjusted to make the leaf pop.

Tonal contrast used to highlight the subtle color differences.

Tonal contrast brings out the paint loss and rust on this pick-up.

Poplar Beach

2011-02-05T16:32:00.000-08:00

Pictures taken at Poplar Beach in Halfmoon Bay California on the first week of February. This week has had some early spring mild weather conditions and warranted a trip to the beach. 60 + degrees and sunshine were the only prodding necessary to get out of the house and enjoy the weather. All photos were taken with a Leica M-9 fitted with a 90mm Elmarit 2.8 lens. Post processing was done using Adobe Lightroom 3.0.

Never to old to enjoy a romp at the beach.

Late afternoon light.

Out for a jog.

Wind blown tree on a cliff over looking the sea.

A sea bird looking out to sea.

1:1

2011-01-27T14:31:00.000-08:00

The Leica D-Lux 4 examples shot in the 1:1 aspect ratio and set to film mode Nostalgic which gives a interesting look that I think works well for blog postings. All of these examples were shot using this mode and down sized from 2736 x 2736 to 1200 x 1200. To access this mode go to the menu and select film mode and select the film mode of your choice. Then continue to the third menu screen to select the 1:1 Aspect ratio.

Black and white converted using Silver Efex Pro.

Post processed using Viveza 2

Post Processed using Color Efex Pro - Glamor Glow filter.

Post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0

Close up post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0

Post processed on Color Efex Pro to add definition and added brilliance and warmth.

Post processed in Color Efex Pro the cross processing filter.

It feels like spring

2011-01-20T15:20:00.000-08:00

The weather has been very spring like encouraging longer walks which results this mix of indoor and outdoor pictures taken this week.
The indoor shoot to the right was a indoor picture I took looking to highlight color saturation with interesting lighting used to bring attention to different areas of the photo.
The picture was taken with the D-Lux 4 and post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3 plus Color Efex Pro 3.0 to add the soft glow on the dried flowers, background and table.

The picture above was taken with the M-9 and caught a quite moment on the sofa. I wanted to depict this exposure in soft colors and soft sharpness to capture the mood. I used Topaz Labs Adjust 4 to deepen the colors and soften the sharpness.

Light blue skies and flimsy white clouds mesh nicely with this pathway photo taken with the M-9. There was some heavy shadows throughout this image so I shot it by taking my exposure reading on the bright white and then in Lightroom I brought up the fill light added back some black and clarity.

This unused boarded up cabin appears out of the trees and is heavily shadowed. I took my exposure reading on the white of the building and then adjusted it in Lightroom using the tone adjustment sliders to balance the photograph.

M-9 F16 at 1/45 sec allows for a slightly blurred background and sharp subject. I panned this pictured to get this desired effect it gives the photo depth and dimension.

Walkers out enjoying a warm morning on a shady lane, captured with the M-9 as the light filtering through the trees highlights them. Post processed in Lightroom and converted to black and white in Silver Efex Pro.

D-Lux 4 Musing

2011-01-13T15:55:00.000-08:00

Some thoughts on the Leica D-Lux 4, its usefulness, quality of build and quality of images. In the last year I have taken in excess of 4000 exposures with my D-Lux 4 over 154 days shooting this camera. My first thought is I take this camera with me more than any of my other cameras so size and easy access has played a important factor in its heavy use.
I have tried the camera in all the different modes available and have found that I shoot in aperture priority mode the most. The macro selector switch allows for very acceptable macro focus shots with very close focus distances. Some of the other settings that I have found useful are the burst mode in snapshot mode that I have used to capture continuous action shots. Other scene mode choices that are useful are high dynamic and portrait. The movie or video option allows for limited video capture at acceptable quality levels.
The build quality is excellent, battery life has been more than acceptable and still holds its charge at original levels. Wear and tear, all I can say is that I have dropped the camera several times, it has been in and out of all types of weather and the camera still works and looks great. Plus I still have almost two years left on the three year factory warranty.
I will continue to use this camera for at least this year before I consider upgrading to a newer camera. The Leica D-Lux 5 seems to have upgraded the zoom range and some other minor functions but not enough for me to upgrade at this time. The D-Lux 4 takes excellent photos and is extremely flexible for people want more photographic control than your every day compact cameras.
Pictures for this week taken with the D-Lux 4:

Winter Skies

Antique Look

Trespassing is Frowned Upon

Wild cat that lives creek side.

100

2011-01-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

This is my 100th post to this blog something I was not sure I would ever attain. The original focus was to document my experience with the Leica D-Lux 4 compact camera. It later expanded to my experiences with the Leica M-9 and photo editing software. Today I'm also going to comment on a book that I have just got through reading. Hopefully some of my experiences have been either interesting or helpful to my readers.

Understanding Exposure the third edition by Byran Peterson available in paperback and Kindle edition at Amazon. This book is a guide on how to shoot great pictures with any camera. The book highlights in simple to understand terms how to evaluate exposure and to implement some simple steps to get the best exposure possible.
Byran uses DSLR camera as the basis for his instruction but if you are using a range finder camera you will find that he strongly advises the taking photos in manual mode. This transfers to range finder cameras easily and you can work through his model for getting the proper exposure easily.
If you are interested in learning more about exposure, ISO, depth of field and how to use them to get the picture you want then you might consider looking at this book. I read the book on my I-Pad the color photos and the layout of the e-book was very good. I wish more photography books were available in this format. It would make for easier reference and storage.
I had the opportunity to take some photos with the Leica M-9 this week as we searched for some new lamps. Here is a short video highlighting our search it is viewed best in HD full screen.

Close Crops

2011-01-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

Sharing some New Years Day photos that benefited with a bit of cropping to get better composition. One can't always get in the right position for the shot you want, a fence or other obstacle may be in your way of getting the picture you want. So a little cropping here and there helps over come those limitations. All photos taken with the Leica M-9, post processed in Adobe Lightroom and cropped in Adobe Photoshop 5.0.

The dog was on a long lead watching some critter only he could see. Cropped 33 percent to fill frame and lead was removed using Photoshop content aware tool.

Garden display, I was unable to get close enough to get the picture framed the way I wanted to see it. Cropped 25 percent.

Taken with a 35 mm lens cropped to show detail and sharpness.

A wire fence kept me from getting as close as I wanted so again a little cropping did the trick.

A Eucalyptus tree up close.

The cropped version makes for a interesting picture.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure what the New Year will bring but for all of you I hope it is best New Year ever. Lets jump for joy.......!!!!

Street Pics

2010-12-27T14:41:00.000-08:00

Some street pics taken this holiday season, highlighting a cafe and Apple Store. Starting with this embroidered Christmas scene. The holiday season seems to bring out the best in folks as they catch a quick respite in the Copenhagen Bakery in Burlingame, California. The pictures in the Apple Store feature youngsters enjoying exploring Apples latest products.
All photos were taken with the Leica M-9 and post processed using Adobe Lightroom 3.3, Silver Efex Pro, Topaz Lab or Adobe CS5.

Children and their wonderment highlight the season.

Stopping in for a quick pick me up.

Enjoying the company and moderate weather.

Reflections, the mirror is a useful prop.

Youngsters are not intimidated by the latest tech toys.

Trying out the Macbook Air

I-Pods and I-Phones are intriguing.

Barely able to see over the table.

Parents can't believe what the kids are capable of.

Sights

2010-12-11T14:54:00.000-08:00

Cornucopia of images taken with the Leica D-Lux 4. Everything from lovely skies, trees and landscapes to a interesting building and friends.
First on a quiet lane colorful trees highlighted by the blue sky and clouds. Rendered with Adobe Lightroom and Topaz Labs Adjust 4.

Fallen leaves lead up to the estate gates. I got a little damp while taking this photo as I had to get the camera very close to the ground to get the perspective I was looking for. Rendered with Adobe Lightroom and Topaz Labs Adjust 4.

One of my dogs special friends just waiting for another treat. Rendered with Adobe Lightroom and Topaz Labs Adjust 4.

While wandering down a private road I saw this house under going renovation and just had to have a closer look. What I found was that the exterior had been decorated with artwork etched into the exterior coating. Rendered with Adobe Lightroom and Topaz Labs Adjust 4.

Who ever the artist was they certainly were talented.

Last of the wall etchings, you just never know what you will find when you are out exploring.

A special friend Daisy who just can't wait for her carrots. Rendered with Adobe Lightroom and Silver Efex Pro.

Shopping Center

2010-12-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

A visit to our local shopping center was another opportunity to get a few quick shots of people, animals and places with the Leica M-9. All photos were processed using Adobe Lightroom 3.3 (the latest update). Black and white photos were processed with Silver Efex Pro.

Interesting window display taken through glass with reflections.

Women and child enjoying the sunshine and the water fountain.

The Apple Store shoppers checking out the I-Phone.

A students mode of transportation.

Lounging around enjoying the ambiance of this quieter location.

Close up of a fixed gear bike with lots of white to contrast the dark burgundy frame color.

Santa was there in spirit.

More reflections are highlighted in this stores mirrored layout.

Shoppers checking out the tree as the Santa ornament pictured above looks on.

A power shopper looks thrilled to be there.

Oh yes here is the cutest shopper in the mall.

Altered State

2010-11-21T13:13:00.000-08:00

I thought that you might be interested in a image I took yesterday with my Leica D-Lux 4. The image is nothing special but it does act as a platform to illustrated what you can do to alter the statement you want to make with your photo.
Ok lets get started by looking at the original image converted from raw in Adobe Lightroom 3.

What was I looking for when I took this picture? First I wanted to highlight the leaf in the foreground and its raindrops. I secondly wanted to use the background to add contrast and interest. When I opened the picture in Lightroom I thought what can I do to enhance my original idea. So off I went to Nik Software Color Efex Pro to add some glow to the photo, here is the result.

I then took the original image again and went back to Color Efex Pro and added the bleach bypass filter to whole photo.

Then using Adobe CS 5 I isolated the leaf that was the main subject of the picture and blended it into the above photo.

Now not leaving black and white out here is the original image processed using Silver Efex pro.

I guess what I'm trying to illustrate with this post is you can enhance your vision with the use of all the amazing software tools available to all of us in the digital age.

New Leica Images Site

2010-11-13T16:03:00.000-08:00

I have been using a new Leica images only site to post and share pictures, Leica Images.Com. When you sign up you get your own gallery with sub galleries that you can use for any purpose you need to. Share pictures with friends, social media sites or just post them for other Leica fans to see. Here is a random picture from a Swedish members gallery.

As you can see in album view you get a nice presentation of your work and below the photo is all the data about the camera, lens and exposure used.

The service is free and I highly recommend you try it.
I have had a very busy two weeks with lots of family birthdays but here are a few pictures taken with the Leica D-Lux 4. All were post processed using Adobe Lightroom 3.

A leaf on a moist background of fallen and rotting needles.

A crooked fence, enhanced with Color Efex Pro by applying a small amount of the Glamor Glow filter.

A calm day at the pond enhanced with Topaz Adjust 3.

A quick portrait taken on her second birthday enhanced with Silver Efex Pro for conversion to black and white and then using Color Efex Pro add some skin softening to the image.

A close up of leaves turning from green to red enhanced using Topaz Labs detail filter.

Another look at the pond through the reeds, across the water to the colorful trees. Enhanced with Viveza 2.

Halloween

2010-10-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Pre-Halloween Eve photos taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 during my daily excursions into the haunting season. A floating ghost and his shadow flying low in anticipation of all those little ghosts and goblins inhabiting the neighborhood. Photo processed in Adobe Lightroom 3 and Silver Efex Pro.

A interesting pumpkin sitting on the fence showing the ravishes of time. Lots of mold gives the pumpkin some natural hair contrasted by some scribbled eyes, nose and mouth. The glow was added with the use of Nix Software Color Efex Pro and then was further enhanced with the use of Topaz Labs Detail plug-in.

Have you seen the black and white version of Nosteratu ? A great move from 1922 well here I may have spotted him lurking in the shadows of the valley. Actually the picture is of my shadow and was refined with the use of Nik Color Efex Pro Glamor Glow filter and then processed into black and white using Silver Efex Pro.
Happy Halloween and have fun getting those scary party and trick or treat pics.

Gazo Creek Cutoff

2010-10-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

More beach pictures this week in color plus some interesting apps for your I-Pad. LFI the international Leica photography magazine has just updated its free I-Pad, I-Phone app to include not only a great photo database but also now you can read the current issue of the magazine for free on either device. The other interesting app is Air Display which will allow you to use your I-Pad as a 2nd monitor. I have been using this app to watch video blogs etc. while I work on my photos. It works great but is expensive for a I-Pad app at $10.00.
Now back to Gazo Creek Cutoff which is located on the San Mateo County coast in California. The day was comfortable for a Northern California Beach, meaning the temperature was in the middle 60's. There was sun, fog and very little wind. The sun, water and fog all tend to intensive the light and not always in a good way which calls for shooting at higher speeds and f stops than normal (f-11 to f 16. The camera was the Leica M-9 fitted with Summarit 35 mm lens, post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3 and Nik Software plug-ins.

Looking north towards the Pigeon Point Lighthouse.

Fog rolling in towards shore.

Fog bank in the distance contrasted by the blue sky.

Light peeks through the overcast and highlights the white water.

Manresa Beach

2010-10-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Manresa Beach is located south of Santa Cruz, California and photographed on a foggy morning in October 2010. Today I'm sharing all black and white images that seem to work well in depicting the mood of the beach on that day. Next week I will share some color photos taken up the coast at Gazo Creek Cutoff in San Mateo County which were taken on the same day.
All photos were taken with the Leica M-9 fitted with the Leica Summarit 35mm lens processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Silver Efex Pro for conversion to black and white.

The view as you walk down to the beach.

Surf Fishermen

A look down the empty beach

Light attempting to break through the fog.

A friendly Dachshund comes to see what we were doing.

Solitary Log

Black & White

2010-10-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

I had the occasion to go to the local pumpkin patch & haunted house along with my Leica D-Lux 4. There were plenty of interesting subjects to photograph and I processed all of these pictures to black and white using Adobe Lightroom 3.0. Halloween as a theme seems to just scream for the use of black and white, you get that old feel to the pictures and the ability to add some eerie effects to complement them.
The first picture of the pirate skeleton was taken inside the haunted house and was converted to black and white using the new 64 bit version of Silver Efex Pro. I then used Color Efex Pro to add some glow to the image.

This kind fellow was similarly processed and looks more malevolent in black and white.

Apparitions are always a good subject for Halloween pictures.

What fun would the visit be without some photos of children enjoying the experience.

Making new friends is part of the fun this picture was enhanced with Color Efex Pro using the tonal filter.

As the light fades it is time to leave for home.

1.4 Magnifier

2010-09-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

I just received my new Leica Viewfinder Magnifier M 1.4 and thought I would share a few thoughts on the performance and value of this accessory. I'm using it with my Leica Elmarit 90mm 2.8 on a Leica M-9 body. My first impression was this costs a lot I hope it makes focusing easier with a telephoto lens.
When I received it I was impressed that the quality of this accessory is in keeping with other high end Leica products, first class.
The viewfinder comes with a leather case that attaches to the camera strap with a leash that attaches to the magnifier. The magnifier screws into the M-9s eyepiece and it does a great job of magnifying the focusing circle. The framing lines are also magnified and appear brighter.
How does it perform in use ? For me just great, I have only shot with it for two days but my picture hit rate for sharp focus is improved. How much improved ? I would say about twenty to thirty percent which makes this purchase worth the investment for me. Others have had different results and results may vary with different lens combination. Here are a few photo examples:

Old farm equipment taken through a barb wire fence sharp focus on the disks.

Fall colors highlight this leaf, note the sharpness on the stem of the leaf.

Old oak tree converted to black and white with Silver Efex Pro.

Elmarit Examples

2010-09-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

I'm sharing a few pictures taken with the Leica M-9 fitted with the Leica Elmarit 90mm 2.8 lens.
Plenty of people will tell you that long lenses are very hard to focus and to get sharp images. This maybe true depending on your eyesight and your expectations.
I will be the first to admit that it is much easier to get very sharp images with my Nikon D300 and I will and do use that camera when my intent is to focus on sharpness and speed. The advantage of the Leica and 90mm lens is the feel of the photograph. It maybe in the rendering of the color or the smoothness of the bokeh. Sometimes I have a hard time explaining to others what it is that gives these images the qualities I appreciate. I just think of it as a artistic rendition this lens and camera produces. Here are some examples.

This first image was converted from color by using Silver Efex Pro and highlights what I think of as a artistic rendition. Setting where F 2.8, ISO 160 at 1/180 sec.

This image was taken at the opposite extreme of photo number 1. The photo was taken indoors with challenging lighting conditions and was taken at ISO 1250 at 1/45 sec. The color tone highlights the old age of this statue.

Sharpness I'm including this shot to show that you can shoot wide open at F 2.8 1/1500, ISO 160 and still get a very sharp image while rendering the background in a smooth bokeh.

Close up of this fuchsia was taken at a minimal distance from subject at F 5.7, ISO 400 and speed of 1/60. Which highlights the bokeh with a little of graininess.

Stain-glass close-up taken at F 2.8 ISO 160 at 1/350 sec. Again the sharpness of this image is more than adequate for this type of photograph.
If you are looking for a 90 mm lens for your Leica don't be put off by perceived difficulty in focusing this lens. The Elmarit 2.8 90mm in my opinion is a excellent choice.

Some Examples

2010-09-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

A few new examples taken with the Leica M-9

A close-up of a old fire hydrant rendered in black and white using Silver Efex Pro.

A small cat peeking over the fence at my dogs, processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.2.
Now some pictures taken with the Leica D-Lux 4.

A close-up of that demonstrates the clarity you can obtain with this little camera.

A old abandoned shed that has seen better days, processed in Silver Efex Pro and then Color Efex Pro to add a custom vignetting.

I saw this maple tree which is changing color to red while losing its leaves. The contrast with the green in the rest of the garden is highlighted using Color Efex Pros brilliance and glamor glow filters.

Misc

2010-09-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

Leica D-Lux 4 pics taken this week. I'm always looking for interesting things that occur naturally to photograph. Sometimes it is people, places or inanimate objects. Here are some miscellaneous subjects taken during my daily excursions. 9/04/2010 Had to add a few more pics from Saturday morning taken on a leafy back road.

This leaf is naturally framed by light filtering through the trees.

Even though it is still summer this leaf is already sporting its autumn colors.

Straight over the top, looking straight down on the leaf highlighted by the stem casting its shadow across the leaf. Subtle color change is a surefire indicator of fall being just around the corner.

Stuck - a leaf blown in the wind gets caught in the bark of a redwood tree. Nice contrast in color and texture and no this photo was not staged.

Looking up - A old stone gate post with what is left of a light post as the light is filtered through the trees. Converted to black and white with Silver Efex Pro.

Spokes - What is left of this old wooden wagon wheel now posing as a garden ornament.

Rest - Ten year old German Shepherd takes a rest and waits patiently while I take a few more pictures.

Contrast - strong contrast of light, dark and structure in this close up of a stone bridge. Converted to black and white with Silver Efex Pro.

Quick Pics

2010-08-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

A few quick pics from this week.

Sunflower with a busy bee - Leica D-Lux 4

Abstract Sculpture - Leica D-Lux 4 - Adobe CS5 and Topaz Labs-Detail-2

Scratching a Itch - Leica D-Lux4 - Nik Software Color Efex Pro

First shot with Pentax Optio W90 that I just purchased to use in the pool. No raw just jpg but a very robust, waterproof to 20 feet and shockproof to boot. Very useful when you have little ones around who want to take pictures too.

Pillar Point Harbor

2010-08-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

A gorgeous summer day on the Northern California Coast - A visit to Pillar Point Harbor, Princeton by the Sea. A lovely lunch, good company and some pictures, a perfect day. All photographs were taken with the Leica M-9 and post processed using Adobe Lightroom 3.0.

Looking through the harbor docks towards the breakwater.

The breakwater provides a nice place for visiting boats to anchor.

Here is a video slide show highlighting some of the pictures taken on this day. They were prepared in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 slide show module. If you are using a computer with out flash support or a Apple I-Pad and would like to see the video click here.

Contrasting Light

2010-08-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

More Leica D-Lux-4 pictures taken the week of August 8-14th. Starting with these roses taken through some trees as I peered into this hidden garden. The image was captured with a manual exposure setting of -1 and 2/3. I used this setting so that the light coming off the flowers would not be blown out and to enhance the darkness behind the flowers. Processed using Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop CS5.

A old sink that had been discarded beside the road. The sink is highlighted by the filtered light coming through some trees and rust in contrast to the original color.

A peaceful creek setting taken mid day again I used a manual exposure setting of -1.0.

I located this lizard lounging on the bank of a pond and slowly got close enough to get this shot without disturbing him. I try not to disturb wildlife when taking pictures if at all possible.

Here are a few black and white photographs that were processed using Silver Efex Pro. The highlights in the boys hair where heightened using Color Efex Pro 3 and applying the Glamour Glow Filter.

A pond scene with the dark water contrasted by the sun drenched foliage, make for a interesting picture with reflections highlighting the water.

Dark to light gives depth to this picture as the strong light at the rear of this picture draws ones eyes from the front to the rear. I metered on the subjects face and shirt and it worked out well.

Using Light

2010-08-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

Today's pictures were taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and concentrates on light and how it impacts your pictures.

This flower picture was taken in program mode at minus 2 exposure. The result is that the flower itself that was strongly over exposed compared to the background is now properly exposed and the background is under exposed and the results are what I was visualizing when I took it.

I this picture the available light was bright sunlight that was filtered through the trees and nicely highlighted these leaves. The details in the leaves were brought out with Topaz Labs Detail 2.

This picture was taken in extreme lighting conditions and then processed with Nik Software Color Effects Pro. I used the glamor glow filter to accentuated the warm colors and darken the background for further contrast in the image. The way the light fell on this fern again called for under exposing the photo by -2 1/3 so that I didn't blowout the highlights.

This last picture of a boy and his dog works well in black and white as well as color. The strong contrast of light coming through the trees and reflecting off of the leaves help make this picture work. Photo was processed in Nik Software Silver Efex Pro.

17 Mile Drive

2010-07-30T16:10:00.000-07:00

More pictures from the Monterey Bay Area featuring the 17 mile drive that winds through Pebble Beach to Carmel. All photos were taken with the Leica M-9 with the 90mm Elmarit 2.8 and processed with Adobe Lightroom 3.0, Nik and Topaz plug-ins.
In this first picture you see one of the world famous Cypress trees at Cypress Point. The skies where overcast and the ocean calm which is common for early summer.

A lone fisherman on the colorful rocks, Pebble Beach.

Who is watching who? I love this picture with the young lady taking a picture of the chipmunk as another one is checking out her pocket for some goodies.

Looking over the side of the cliff down at the blue water.

On the beach the remains of a seal, just skin and a few bones are left.

Looking south from Cypress Point towards Big Sur.

A rocky beach between Pebble Beach and Carmel.

Looking down through a Cypress tree to the rocks and ocean below.

A last look at a Cypress tree which almost growing out of the rocks.

Moss Landing

2010-07-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

We took a drive down the California coast on Wednesday and here are some of the images I took. All were taken with the Leica M-9 using the Elmarit-M 90mm 2.8 lens. Today's pictures are from a quick stop at the working harbor of Moss Landing. Starting with this interesting view of the smoke stacks of the local cement factory taken from across the Moss Landing harbor.

Processed with Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Viveza 2.

Working fishing boats sharing the harbor with small sailboats.

Point Lobos a local location and the name of this boat, they do lots of whale watching from this harbor.

This is where the fish are processed and sold. Note the Pelican perched on the processing equipment watching and waiting for a handout.

A working boat docked and ready for tomorrow.

As you may have guessed all of the photos were taken on a dreary overcast morning, not that unusual for this time of year. Next stop is the famous 17 mile drive.

Contrasting Elements

2010-07-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

A few interesting pictures taken with the Leica D-Lux 4.

1940's Chevy truck sitting out in the open air waiting for service. This photo was taken at a local garage that has a interesting client base. On any day you may see everything from a new Bentley to a vintage Ferrari. In this picture the brightness of the chrome grill is what caught my eye and is in complete contrast to the dirty windshield and faded paint.

Close up of the grill converted to black and white using Nik Software Silver Efex Pro. The reflections off the grill really jumps out at you.

Going back to nature a overgrown garden cart with strong filtered light highlighting the leaves and spokes of the wheel. You never know where you may find a interesting photo opportunity. That is one of the reasons I try to carry a camera with me. The D-Lux 4 is great for throwing into your pocket or purse.

I'm not sure who is more interested, looking through the glass a safe way to meet new friends.

Follow Up

2010-07-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Just a few words and pictures to follow up on my experience with Elmarit 90mm. The first picture is a black and white of a flowering agapanthus in my garden just as the sunlight was filtering through the plants. The photo was processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0.
This next photo was taken at the minimum focal distance of about 3.0 feet at f4.0. I was sitting on a bench, stuck my foot out, focused on the tied laces. You see the sharpness at the point of focus and the softening of the image as you go away from the focus point.

The other images are indicative of the quality of the lens as you get the focusing down. It seems that I'm now on target with about 70 percent of my shots. Not bad as I have a feeling my eyesight isn't what it used to be.
The horse photo was taken on our walk and she welcomes the attention and carrots that we bring.

Old farming equipment is also a familiar site and makes for interesting photographs. This one was taken from beyond a fence and through some over grown grasses and weeds.

I will finish up with a enhanced photograph of this flower taken through a chain link fence. I processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and then with Topaz Filter Adjust 4 I enhanced the detail of the image.

Elmarit 90mm

2010-06-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a used 90 mm Leica Elmarit-M 1:2.8, after reading an article by Steve Huff detailing his experience with this lens. I was so impressed with his positive experience with this lens that I decided to get one for myself. I contacted Ken Hansen who seems to be able to get his hands on outstanding used Leica lenses and equipment. In short order Ken found me a mint lens with the retractable lens shade but no 6 bit coding.
I thought about the purchase for about 5 seconds before I decided that I could live without the 6 bit coding. Without the coding you just have to go into the M-9's menu and choose the lens manually. It only takes a couple of seconds and the lens works just like one that has the 6 bit coding. Ken shipped it to me on Friday and I got it Monday night. The lens was just as he described it to me or maybe even better, it looks brand new and the glass is perfect. It came with its original documentation, box, caps and leather pouch.
As you may have guessed I immediately put in on my M-9 and took a few shots. The first thing I noticed was that the focus ring has a long but very smooth stroke that helps get the focus right. I always set the focus to infinity and then work my way back which helps me to get the focus right with out having to go back and forth as when you start from the closest focal setting.
The aperture runs from f2.8 to f22 and has a positive click as you move the aperture ring to chose your setting. At f2.8 you have a narrow but very usable depth of field with excellent contrast and smooth bokeh. At f5.6 to f22 you get more depth of field and still excellent edge to edge contrast.
You might ask why I chose this lens over the newer Summicon or Summarit models. The Elmarit is the most compact and what I thought the most bang for my money. Here are some test shots using this lens.

In the shade f2.8.

Note the focus point f2.8 and smooth bokeh.

Even at f16 the smooth bokeh helps frame the subject.

Minimum focal distance and f2.8 gives excellent sharpness.

Clarity and sharpness at f5.6

More of the same at f2.8

This one is just for fun these boys were having a great time jumping their scooters. I took it from a good 30 feet away and this is a crop with Topaz Filter applied for the colorful effect.

2010-06-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

Is this blog helpful ? I'm asking the question and you can vote here now. Thanks for your interest in this blog please take a second to vote so that I now how my readers feel about the content of the blog. If you have comments, suggestions or a question please post them in the comments section.

Garden Views

2010-06-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

A few different garden photos shot with the Leica D-Lux 4. Everything from garden ornaments to redwood trees are featured today. All photos were post processed with Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Topaz Filters.
In this first picture I over exposed the image by one full stop to counter act the shadows that fell on the stone ornament. It worked beautifully and exposed the detail that I wanted to see in the photo.

Close up of a Iris flower with its striking colors. Photo was taken using the macro-focus mode.

Plant shadow on crushed rock makes for a simple but striking picture.

Close up in macro focus-mode.

Sun light pores through the strand of redwood trees, accented by the green foliage.

Vintage Black & White

2010-06-22T16:28:00.000-07:00

I have been busy scanning some old family photos from the early 1900's and thought you might like seeing some of them. The quality of some of these pictures is amazing someone before my time was a excellent photographer. Unknown camera type but still interesting to see and admire.
All of these pictures were taken in Germany or Austria to the best of my knowledge and are of my grandmothers side of the family. As I go through these photographs I will share some of the better ones with you. The results in black and white are very interesting and are something that I would like to recreate in my photographs.

Happy Hollow

2010-06-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share some pictures from our day trip to visit Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in San Jose, California. The park has just reopened after a major renovation and the results are very pleasing to adults and the children who visit. The weather was beautiful and our grandson had a wonderful time.
All the photographs were taken with my Leica M-9 with a 35mm Summarit 2.5 lens and later post processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 and Topaz filter Adjust 4. The challenge for me was in using just a 35mm lens and to see if it is possible to get some interesting shots without the use of a telephoto lens. For me the answer was yes there where times I would have like to have a longer lens but having to move and plan my shots more was a small price to pay for a lighter load.

All the children seemed to love the chance to intermingle with the animals.

A black and white close up that was converted using Nik Software Silver Efex Pro.

Roller coaster madness the small roller coaster provided plenty of thrill for all ages.

Checkout those facial expressions as usual click on any of the photos to see a larger version.

There are lots of interactive educational exhibits that allow for the capture of some candid pictures.

Interesting Week

2010-06-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

It has been a interesting week with some interesting images. This week I'm highlighting the Leica M-9 and some of the more unusual or sometimes different and interesting images I acquired. They were taken during my daily walk, trip over the Golden Gate Bridge and a stop at the local repair garage.
The picture to your right needs no introduction, the Golden Gate Bridge is world famous and I took this shot from the vista point on the north side of the bay. It was one of those days where the skies were clear and cloudless with only a hint of lingering haze on the horizon.
Of course anytime you stop at any of the vista points there are lots of opportunities to get some photos of others enjoying the view. Here is another photographer setting up his camera in the middle of others trying to look at the view.

There is a bronze statue of a sailor in the middle of the vista point and people were lining up to get their pictures taken with it. These two men caught my eye as they were playing to their friends camera as I also took this shot.

On we went up the coast towards Jenner and Bodega Bay where we stopped for lunch, the fish was excellent. here is a decaying pier being used by the seagulls. I really like the simplicity of the picture and the way the pier gives depth to the photograph.

In the restaurant we meet a couple visiting from Germany with their 7 month old daughter I asked if I could take a picture. In these days and times when it comes to young children I would rather ask than to make people uncomfortable about having their children photographed.

After getting their permission I took this photo which I later converted to black and white using Nik Software plug-in Silver Efex pro.
These next pictures are from my daily walks and the first one highlights the thoughts of the owner of the property.

It seems they don't want anyone on their property and haven't wanted so for a very long time. In the next picture I saw this on the side of the trail and liked the texture and colors on the discarded planter.

This last picture I got at the local garage of a vintage Maserati it was parked in the middle of some modern prestige type vehicles but stood out like a sore thumb.

All photographs were post processed using the new Adobe Lightroom 3.

I-Pad for Photographers (2)

2010-06-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

In this installment I'm just going to show you some results from some jpg shots I took today and that were processed on the I-Pad. I used 3 different apps, Photogene, Filterstorm and PhotoPad to get an idea of which is easiest, most effective as far as their layout and available tools.
PhotoPad has a few filters, like cutout, contrast and color adjustments along with paint brush and paint bucket for the artists out there. The menus are simple to use as are the available tools including a history option to go back to different state in your processing. The picture below was processed in Photopad of a macro focus mode photo shot with the Leica D-Lux 4. The filters use were chromaticity and contrast to bring the differences out between the in focus and out of focus elements.

Filterstorm comes with a demonstration video that highlights a lot of tools and filters available including the ability to apply filters to specific colors. A nice application for those projects that require more processing than normal. I used the black and white conversion filter and then added the sepia filter to get the desired effect. (Leica D-Lux 4)

Photogene is the one I find I use most often it has a large number of adjustments and filters available in a intuitive format. Included is symbols which may be useful for some as you can drag them into the photo and then edit them by double tapping on the symbol. Included is a custom format for text font, color and fill. In this first shot I added sharpness and contrast to make the photo pop. (Leica D-Lux 4)

In this next photo I used the web effect filter, the highlight and shadow adjustments to bring out the strong color contrast between the sky and the grasses. Then I used the frame effect to round the corners and to give some depth to the photo. (Leica D-Lux 4)

In this last photo I just did a simple crop using the 1 to 1 ratio. (Leica D-Lux 4 in macro focus mode)

The answer is yes you can use the I-Pad to edit your pictures in the field especially if you just plan to use them for the web. There are plenty of You Tube videos out there if you want to see how folks are using these apps to process their photos.
My choice for photo apps are Photogene for the number of tools and ease of use and Filterstorm for the ability to select individual colors to apply filters to more difficult to process images.
For me I will continue to use the I-Pad to edit photos only when I'm away from my computer. For blog publishing and e-mailing, fun and or interesting photos the I-Pad is a wonderful tool. Try it yourself and you might be hooked.

I-Pad for Photographers (1)

2010-06-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share some of my experiences with the Apple I-Pad with Wi-Fi, 3G and photo-kit. Is it something worth while for you? The pictures that accompany this posting were all downloaded and processed in the I-Pad using the Apple Photo-Kit and the Photogene App.
I thought that I would break up the postings between interesting tools and actual photo editing tools. Today I wanted to highlight some of my experiences with two applications I use to keep track of photography information. They are both RSS feed readers that are configured differently but make keeping up with whats happening in photography and other interest easy.
The first App is Early Edition and it is laid out like a Newspaper it goes out and gets your feeds and allows you to get a quick look at the information. The picture to right shows the page layout and the picture below shows the feed directory so you can easily switch between different sections as in my case photography and high tech.

This next picture shows you how a page looks from a individual story.

The next app that I use is Pulse which also uses RSS feeds but has a more visual format that is excellent for keeping up with picture sites like Smugmug and Flickr.

As you can see the app is laid out like a bunch of film strips and you just swipe through them to find a article you are interested in. Tap on it and here is what you see.

You have a choice of the above text view version or the below web view version.

In both versions you have the article strip below so you can navigate to other articles of interest. I like and use both of these apps they save time and energy along with simplifying the retrieval of useful information. I find that since I got my I-Pad I read more photography based literature on it than I ever did on the computer.
The form factor and the easy transport of the I-Pad make it a handy tool, even if you don't use your I-Pad to import and edit photographs the research tools alone make this a useful tool for photographers.
The photo-kit cost was $29.00 from the Apple on line store. Early Edition App $4.99 and Pulse App $3.99 both from the Apple I-Tunes App store. In the next posting I will share my experiences with importing and processing photos in the I-Pad.

Santana Row

2010-05-31T17:20:00.000-07:00

Santana Row in San Jose, California a modern outdoor shopping center with a European theme. I took several pictures with a Leica M-9 with a Leica Summarit 35mm lens. The photos run the gamut from flowers to people enjoying the warm sunny day.
I thought that I would work a little on my street photography and found with this first picture that I was some what out of focus as I didn't gauge the distance as well as I might have. I'm sure I'm not the first person to have done it so in post processing I decided to tweak the photo in Topaz Labs filter Simplify 3. The result is a image that looks like a colorful painting and rescued this shot.

Artistic view of outdoor cafe seating.

Father and son playing chess in a courtyard

Entering a wine shop

Sunday Brunch

Hotel Entrance

All of the above photographs were processed in Adobe Lightroom 2.7, Adobe Photoshop CS5 and Topaz Filters.

Landscape to Macro

2010-05-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

A potpourri of images today as the Memorial Day weekend and summer approaches. You can still see some of spring time in the green grasses and the emergence of bright colored flowers.
Wildlife is more abundant and the days are longer. El Nino has had its impact on the weather with more rain and less fog than we would see in a normal spring.
In this landscape you can see the effects of El Nino the road is damp and the grasses and foliage are bright green bursting with new growth. This private road leads to open space and some amazing creek side trails.

(Leica D-Lux 4 - Topaz Filter Detail 2)

Today the featured animal life ranges from domestic horses to wild deer and the backgrounds range from a dusty corral to open grasses that are turning from vibrant green to a golden straw color. The horses at this location look forward to our visits and the carrots we bring them.

(Leica D lux 4 - Adobe Photoshop CS5)

The deer was caught mid-morning grazing on the grass and just looked up for a moment so I could take her picture. I used Topaz filter Detail 2 to bring out the contrast of colors and textures in this picture.

(Leica D-Lux 4)

Back to the rain and the use of Macro Focus mode on the Leica D-Lux 4. Note the detail on this California Poppy. The water droplets seem to just jump out at you and the focal plane is narrow giving some nice depth to this image.

(Topaz Filter Adjust 4)

Another macro focus image that caught this bee on these bright yellow flowers contrasted by the lavender and green foliage surrounding it.

(Leica D-Lux 4 and Adobe Lightroom 2.7)

Gymnastics

2010-05-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I attended a friends daughters gymnastics meet where I used both my Leica M-9 with a 35 f.2.5 and Nikon D300 with a 70 to 300 zoom. Today I'm sharing two pictures taken with the Leica, both in low light conditions. I set the ISO at 400 for picture number one and ISO 1250 for picture number two as the lighting conditions varied greatly in this arena.

In this first picture little girls scurry to find the scrunchy that best matches their outfits under the watchful eyes of the vendors. Lighting conditions were good in this area of the gym and it shows in the results.

In this picture the lighting is problematic the area behind the girls is well lit and the girls are standing in a darkened area. I metered for the well lit area behind them to eliminate any blown out areas and in Adobe Photoshop CS5 I brought the girls out from the shadows. I used Topaz DeNoise 4.1 to reduce the noise that shooting in ISO 1250 in combo with the subjects of the picture having to be brought out of the shadows had caused.
The rest of the event was shot with the Nikon D300 and I will share some of those pictures with you later on as I have not processed them as of yet.

Signs of Spring

2010-05-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

There are still plenty of signs of spring having arrived here in the valley. Flowers are blooming, new babies of all sorts are appearing and spring showers just wont go away. Just the other day I got a one of those surprise moments as I was preparing to cross a cement bridge. I saw what appeared to be a very young fawn on the trail he looked our way and they laid down, a defensive measure. The fawn allowed us to get very close as I tried to get around him without disturbing him. Then he just sprung up and ran into the woods I did get a couple photos and here is one of them.

Leica D-Lux 4 processed through Adobe Lightroom.

The next shot I took on the shady trail leading back to the house the color in the leaves and the contradiction it presented with the rest of the background caught my eye.

Leica D-Lux 4 processed in Adobe Photoshop CS5 to add a little sharpness and to bring out the colors in the leaves.

Back to the young wildlife with this photo as I was walking down a trail I caught a glimpse of this small baby lizard sunning its self on this weathered liken encrusted fence post.

Leica D-Lux 4 processed in Adobe Photoshop CS5 to remove some small shadows around the lizard.

This last picture is taken after one of those spring showers that deposited some interesting rain droplets on this spring flower.

Leica D-Lux 4 processed in Adobe Lightroom and Topaz Filter Adjust 4 to bring out the water drops.

Into the Valley

2010-05-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share a few shots taken with the Leica M-9 on a recent walk into the valley. Spring is waning here Northern California and even thou we have gotten the occasional day of light to moderate rain fall the colors are changing. In this post you see one of my favorite areas to shoot landscape photos. There are interesting backgrounds and unusual objects available all within easy walking distance from the house.

Photo was processed in Adobe Lightroom 2.7 and Topaz filter detail 2. There are two old sheds in this grassy field that make for interesting subjects along with the high grasses and changing colors.
Not far from the above photo sits a house with several old tractors that have seen better days. As they age and the paint drops away a rust appears everywhere that makes for a great photographic subject.

Photo was processed in Adobe CS5 and Topaz filter Detail 2 to enhance the natural patination that has occurred through many years of weathering .
In this last photo I wanted to show the color and texture of this spring time flower with a soft bokeh background.

Photo was processed in Adobe Lightroom 2.7. Simple subjects like this flower abound in the valley and there always seems to be something new to photograph.

Caught by Light

2010-05-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share two recent pictures that highlight the use of natural lighting conditions to make a interesting picture. I like looking for naturally occurring lighting effects to highlight my pictures. Some seem to be just right as they occur naturally and give a great shot just by moving into a good position to use it as in the first photo. Other times you see the picture and have to adjust the light a little to get the dramatic effect you envision as in the second photo.

Photo one was taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 and the natural light following over his shoulder highlighted the picture. I saw how the light was accenting the subject of the photo and just had to move my position to best take advantage of it. There is no post processing on this picture other than resizing it and converting from raw to jpg.

In this photo I was working mid morning on a sunny day with filtered and shadowy light falling on this flower. To further focus in on the subject of the picture I set the camera the Leica D-Lux 4 to F4 ISO 80 1/800 and -2 exposure compensation. This did the trick it highlighted the natural light and framed the photo just as I had envisioned it. No post processing was needed just conversion from raw to jpg.

Sentimental Mothers Day

2010-05-09T18:12:00.000-07:00

A hug says it all on this sentimental day of appreciation honoring mom.

Leica M-9 at ISO 1250 shot wide open with Summarit 35 f2.5.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

2010-05-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday we took a little ride down the coast and stopped to visit the Pigeon Point Lighthouse. I had my Leica M-9 with a 35mm lens and my Nikon D300 with a 70 to 300 zoom lens with me. Spring is a beautiful time of the year on the Northern California coast with wild flowers blooming and some spectacular scenery. Here are a few pictures from this afternoon of exploring.
(The first image on right is the lighthouse and its out buildings. Taken with the Leica M-9)

The lighthouse taken across from Whalers Cove with the Nikon D300.

The lighthouse and this out building are surrounded by chain link fencing. You can still make out the interesting architecture and the ravages of weather and time. Leica M-9

Another view of the small house and the base of the lighthouse. Leica M-9

Two visitors enjoying the view from the rear observation walkway. Even thou the day looks spectacular the wind was blowing strongly making standing out there a bit chilly. Leica M-9

A view below the lighthouse at Whalers Cove. Leica M-9.

Content-Aware

2010-05-02T13:49:00.000-07:00

I just installed the upgrade Adobe Photoshop CS5. The new feature that is great for photographers is the content aware brush and fill in the edit menu. All I can say is that so far it works great and I will be using it a lot. As usual I think that pictures tells the story so here are some examples.

In this first photo you see a nice red building with a ugly open area with takes away from the look I was hoping for.

In this photo you see by using the lasso tool in CS5 to outline the open area I wanted to get rid of. I then selecting fill content aware in the edit drop down menu and it magically filled in the dark area.

Here is a picture of my female German Shepherd and the leash sort of messes up a good picture.

I opened up the photo is CS5 and used the healing brush tool set to content aware and just brushed away the leash. I also adjusted tone and brightness and there it is a much better picture.
Now besides installing CS5 I received my new I-Pad with WI-FI and 3G on Friday so yes I have been doing a lot of playing around with my new toy. So far so good I love it and there are some great apps available for photographers. I will comment on some of those in future postings. I will end with a picture of my new set up.

Lighting Effects

2010-04-29T14:51:00.000-07:00

Pictures taken this week in different lighting conditions using the Leica D-Lux 4.

A field of wild flowers shot from under the tree line and looking toward the hills. Processed in Adobe Lightroom 2.7 and Topaz filter Adjust 4.

A darkened sky highlighted with Nik Software Color Effect Pro to give the look of night time with moonlight accentuating the highlights.

A tree lined and sunlit country road processed with Nik Software's glamor glow filter adding warmth to the picture.

A sunlit meadow with contrasting shadows was converted from color using Nik Software Silver Effect Pro to give this photo a nice antique look.
All of these pictures were taken with the purpose to highlight shadows and color contrasts to hopefully make them more interesting to the viewer. The use of filters in the processing of these pictures was used only accentuate those highlights.

Pic's of the week 2

2010-04-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

Pictures taken this week with the Leica M-9 and Leica D-Lux 4.

This first picture says it all. All signs lead to where ?

Antique store.

All photos taken with the M-9, using no flash only using available light and are cropped in Adobe CS4.

Hats and one interesting face.

Pedal car - I love the quality of the colors captured.

Old photographs again all these photos were captured using available light.

Now some shots taken with D-Lux 4 !

Fence Line - Processed with Nik Software Viveza 2.

Old Horse Shed - Processed in Adobe CS4

Road Show

2010-04-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday April 20th I attended the Leica North American Road Show for the Leica M-9 in San Francisco California. There were about 30 other attendees who ranged from people who were making the switch to Leica from DSLR cameras to professional photographers and everything in between.
The road show was hosted by Leica and they had their west coast distributor and there USA representative from New York handling the presentation. It covered the M-9 from top to bottom starting with the controls on the outside of the camera body to software shooting and set up menus. A number of the attendees had brought their own M-9s and Leica supplied the others with cameras and lenses they had brought with them for the hands on portion of the seminar.
Everyone was encouraged to follow along with their camera through set-up, trouble shooting and hands on focusing practice. It seems that the biggest adjustment for people is to get a grip on how to focus a range finder camera quickly and accurately.
One of the hints during the focusing session was to start your focusing from the infinity position rather than the close focus position. I found that for me this really helped in the accuracy and the speed of focus. They went over the use of Hyper Focal and Zone focusing systems which was helpful.
There was also a very good demonstration of street photography by Chris Weeks if you are unfamiliar with his work do yourself a favor and check out his website.
They also had every lens available for the M-9 for the attendees to look at and try. Probably the only time I will get my hands on a $10,000.00 lens. If you have the opportunity to attend one of the road shows I think you will find it well worth the time. Especially if you are interested in purchasing a M-9.

Attendees getting their questions answered.

Working on the menus and camera set up.

Focus slide demo the lights are out and I took this photo without flash.

Comparisons

2010-04-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

Comparison photographs processed with different filters allow you to detail a picture to better tell your story. Today's pictures were processed with Topaz Labs Filters Detail 2, Adjust 4 and its newest release Clean 3. All photos were taken with a Leica M-9 with a 35 mm lens on Saturday April 17th.

This first image is cropped from the original with no editing applied.

Image two has been adjusted with Topaz Detail 2.

Image three is image number two which has been adjusted further with Topaz Adjust 4 to give a even more dramatic effect.

Image taken at the local Apple store they are always busy. Image was adjusted with Topaz Detail 2 using the Lithograph filter.

The same image adjusted with Topaz Adjust 4 applying the Psychedelic filter.

A crop of the above image with Topaz Clean 3 filter Curly Smooth applied. I hope these examples all show a slightly different story and encourage you to try them for yourself.

Quick Shots

2010-04-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Sharing a a couple of quick shots from this week.

Old tractor that is still in use even thou it may have seen better times.

(Leica D-Lux 4)

The blue skies have returned after a weekend of rain.

(Leica M-9)

Fast running water taken hand held at 1/8 sec.

(Leica D-Lux 4.)

Working truck still going strong despite its heavy use.

(Leica D-Lux 4)

Here are the owners of said truck hard at work with a beautiful back drop.

(Leica D-Lux 4)

A black white landscape to end with taken on a overcast morning with some sun light breaking through the cloud cover to light up flowers and grasses.

(Leica D-Lux 4)

Not a Locomotive

2010-04-10T16:10:00.000-07:00

Fresh pics from today's walk taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 using the high quality jpg setting.
From the the first shot you might say that a locomotive is heading my way, but no it is a old Chevy truck I found parked in the local school parking lot. I just had to get some shots of this classic pick-up truck which looks like it has been stored outdoors in the dirt. It still comes up beautiful to my eye and I hope you enjoy these pictures.

Bright red with black trim this truck really pops.

What a massive grill this is what it may have looked like if one had taken the photo when the truck was brand new. Photo was converted from color with Nik Software Silver Efex Pro.

Peering into the cab through the rear window reflections and all.

Note the split front windshield when this truck was designed they didn't know how to curve the glass to make it one piece.

If you look real closely you maybe able to see my dogs and my reflection in the chrome bumper. Post processing of all these pictures was in Adobe Lightroom Beta 2, Adobe CS4 and Topaz Filters.

Pic's of the week

2010-04-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

In the future I will be trying to put up some of my pic's of the week. This week I have chosen to feature some pictures taken with the Leica M-9. Next weeks pictures will be from the Leica D-Lux 4.
I just ordered and received a SteadePod a device to use in lieu of a tripod. I hope to have some demo shots and my experience in using this tool posted in the near future.

Just had to add this picture taken right at the shoreline.

Leica M-9, Adobe Lightroom 2.6

A wind swept tree on the Northern California Coast taken this week.

Leica M-9, Adobe Lightroom 2.6 and Adobe CS4.

Easter Tulips.

Leica M-9 and Topaz Detail 2 filter.

Saturday ride through the valley a illusion of speed.

Leica M-9 Topaz Adjust 4 filter.

Just for fun !

Leica M-9 Topaz Adjust 4 filter.

Fading Light

2010-04-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

Photographs taken with the Leica M-9 with fading light accenting these shots. Even though these photographs were taken in the late morning with the use of Topaz Adjust 4 filter I was able to give them the appearance of being taken much later in the day.
Photo number one is of a horse waiting for his carrots to be delivered. Heavy shadows along with brighter sun light accent this picture.

In picture number two this unusual rock faced building has the look of a old world castle. Remaining light is reflected off the rocks for a unusual look.

Picture number three is of a now still dormant vineyard accented by the green grass growing between the rows of vines.

Weekly Pics

2010-04-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

On this holiday weekend just a few pictures from the past week.

Stone garden coming to life. (Leica D-Lux 4)

Entranced by the music video. (Leica M-9)

Sunset after the last rain. (Leica M-9)

Reflections on Windy Hill Pond (Leica D-Lux 4)

Visualization

2010-04-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Visualization what we see and what we capture in a picture may be many different things. Today I saw a bunch of flowers laying on a log and they had obviously seen better days. In my my minds eye I thought that they told a story that I wanted to capture. Here are the steps I took to transform a image into what my minds eye saw.

This is the image as it came straight from the Leica D-Lux 4 camera and was downloaded into Adobe Lightroom 3.0 beta 2.

Here the image is after cropping and tonal adjustment in Adobe CS4 to brighten and to add contrast to the image.

This version of the image is the result of adding a glamor glow effect in Nik Software Color Efex Pro. Softening and adding highlights to the picture.

This version of the image is after adding another effect in Nik Software Color Efex Pro called Lighten - Darken Center. It allows you to adjust the light on your image where you want it. In this photo I have used it to darken the area around the flowers and stems.

For another different look I processed the photo to show it as a black and white image once again in Nik Software using Silver Efex Pro.
My minds eye had seen something not so readily apparent to the casual observer. That even thou these once vibrant flowers had out lived their use to someone and had been discarded as trash. They still have a natural beauty that is worth recognizing and collecting as a prized photograph.
If you like this type of post where I show how I arrived at a final image or images, please let me know by posting a comment. Thanks for taking a look at my blog.

Macro Mode

2010-03-31T14:19:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I would share a few shots I took this morning using the macro focus mode with the Leica D-Lux 4. The photos were all processed in Adobe Lightroom 3 beta 2 and Adobe CS4.
As you may know I recently started shooting with a Leica M-9 and have added my impressions of it along with the Leica D-Lux 4 to this blog. For your use in the future I have begun labeling my posts to reflect the camera and software I'm using for any particular post. You will be able to find any individual posting featuring either camera by clicking on the appropriate Label in the label field to your right. Now back to today's blog.

Photo one is Raw straight from the camera and post processed in Lightroom 3 beta 2

Photo two is a 100 percent crop showing the detail captured with a small amount of sharpening.

Photo three is processed the same as photo one.

Photo four is processed the same as photo number two with addition of Topaz Filter Detail 2 to enhance the contrast.

I have been very happy with the results I have obtained with the Macro Focus mode while shooting using the RAW setting. The Leica D Lux-4 has proved to be a versatile performer and just a good all around camera. I continue to carry it with me every day, even when I have my Leica M-9 with me, you never know when you might need it for a specialty shot.

Cars

2010-03-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

I was out taking some sunset shots when I came upon these interesting vehicles. They were all processed in Lightroom 2, Adobe CS4 and Topaz Adjust 4 and taken with the Leica M-9.

Old Alfa Romero that has seen better days, what a shames.

Well used but apparently still running Chevy Van.

This accident scene highlighted in filtered light.

The Girl Next Door

2010-03-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

Yes I have a seductive girl next door pic, she is lovely with those enchanting eyes. Her coquettish manner and wow that very slinky body. She just drives my two German Shepherds nuts. She entices them at least once a day and seems to know exactly how close she can come to get the reaction she is looking for and still be safe.

This picture was taken with my M-9 last evening as she lounged on the fence just out of reach of Nika who was doing her nightly check of the area. Our lovely friend just sat there tossing longingly looks and that here I 'am come get me if you can stare at the dog. Then she decided she had enough and slowly made her way home, without even a glance back over her shoulder. The arrogance of it all.

Downtown

2010-03-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just concluded a trip downtown for a little shopping and took a few more practice shots with the M-9. The first shot is inside a coffee store looking out towards the street through a large back lit window. This type of lighting gives the picture some color and vibrancy contrast due to the soft light in the foreground and the strong bright light in the background. [as usual you can click on the pics to enlarge]

I took this next shot outside of the coffee store and the sharpness of photo is readily apparent and the colors are faithfully reproduced.

In post processing I used the Topaz Simplify Filter to get this painting effect which works really well as my desk wallpaper.

I have just downloaded the newly released (3/23/2010) Adobe Lightroom 3.0 Beta 2 and will comment on this version as soon as I have the opportunity to process some more pictures.

M-9 Impressions

2010-03-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

I thought I might share a few of my early impressions of the Leica M-9. The reason I purchased the camera was for its size, ability to capture full frame images and the quality of its build and lenses. The size and weight of the camera fit what I was looking for. The camera is easily carried around ones neck with the provided camera strap. Even after several hours of walking the camera strap does not cut into your neck and the weight of the camera seems to hold it in place while walking.
The quality of the build is excellent and the controls are simple and easily accessible. The view finder is bright and the focusing screen is readily visible. I must admit that I'm still trying to get the manual focusing down. I do think that with more practice I will become more proficient and comfortable in focusing manually.
The raw images are what I expected excellent and very adjustable in Lightroom, Aperture and Photopshop. I wanted a camera that was simpler, lighter and smaller than a DSLR and one that would force me to think more before taking a picture. I want to improve my process of selecting and shooting pictures and to this end the M-9 is delivering. I will continue to update you on my progress and here are some pictures from the first partial day of spring.

Entrance to a nice little house.

Battle Scarred Cactus

I was on the move and so was the horse - a different effect.

A old abandoned pump house.

Spring Just Around the Corner

2010-03-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air, the days are getting longer, the days are warmer and the sun feels good on ones skin. All of these things tend to put one in a good mood. It is a time for some long walks in the open space around the house and I'm sharing a few pictures from those walks today.
Here are some pictures I took with my Leica D-Lux 4 a great camera to carry on my walks especially while controlling two large dogs and shooting pictures.
The first shot is of a trail leading to the Windy Hill Open Space and was processed in Adobe Photoshop cs4 and Topaz Adjust 4.

This shot was taken on a trail with lots of over hanging trees and through filtered light and was processed in Adobe Lightroom and Color Efex Pro.

This shot is of Ricki my male German Shepherd on a now dry trail but with evidence of recent damp conditions exhibited by the moss on the rocks. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and Viveza 2 to bring out the texture and vibrancy of the moss.

Shot in macro focus mode of the bee and the newly blooming flowers. Processed in Adobe Lightroom.
Yes I did get a chance to take some pictures with my Leica M-9 when we had visitors the other day. I decided to try the vintage black and white mode and here is what I came up with.

This picture has had no processing and was only cropped for use on the web. To say the least I'm extremely pleased with results. The picture has the warmth which I find very pleasing. I will be trying more black and white in the future.

Mirroring

2010-03-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

Thought I might say something about mirror images. I just upgraded from Adobe Photoshop Elements to Adobe Photoshop CS4 and was playing around with some of the manipulations of photographs that are possible in the program. I saw a video by Tony Sweet a Nikon pro photographer on easily applying mirroring in CS4.
I decided to follow along with the video to see how difficult it would be. As it turns out it is fairly simple and if you are interested in trying it for yourself just click on the link above. Here is what I came up with from a picture I took with my Leica D-Lux 4.

"G" enjoying a cupcake and water.

I'm also posting these street photos that I took at the shopping center with my Leica M-9 fitted with a 35mm f/2.5 Summarit lens.

This lady looks a little bored while shopping for produce.

Young man eating a sandwich and texting at the same time.

Looking down the breezeway.

Leica M-9

2010-03-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

After months of waiting I received my Leica M-9 this week and have been busy acclimating myself to shooting with a range finder camera. The question you may have is why did you buy a range finder when there are so many wonderful full frame DSLR cameras available?
Good question and the answer for me was that I have two primary cameras that I have been using a Nikon D300 and Leica D-Lux 4. The D300 is a 3/4 sensor camera and takes wonderful pictures but I have found that as versatile as it is, it is larger than I want to carry with me everyday. The Leica D-Lux 4 on the other hand is small and easy to carry takes beautiful pictures but does not have a changeable lens.
The Leica M-9 on the other hand is smaller than the D300 and is way smaller than the full frame Nikon D-3. The range finder thing on the M-9 brings me back to my old Nikon FM both in size and need to manually focus the camera. Simpler menu systems a solid build quality and very comfortable to carry. No pocket camera like the D-Lux 4 but can be carried very comfortably with the supplied camera strap around ones neck.
The M-9 is not a camera that is versatile as the full frame DSLR's as far as the ability to attach telephoto lenses or high ISO's. There is no perfect camera you need to choose one that meets your needs, what your shooting style and expectations are. Having this in mind I will still be shooting with my Nikon D300 a great camera for low light and telephoto shots. The D-Lux 4 for the ability to put it in your pocket and take it anywhere. The M-9 will be my camera of choice for the style of shooting I like to do.
For those of you interested in the D-Lux 4 I will continue to share my thoughts and suggestions on this great little camera along with my thoughts on the M-9. Today's pictures were taken with the M-9.

Black and White Horse

Boarded up Cottage

HDR Orchids

Fairness

2010-02-27T19:01:00.000-08:00

Out of fairness I decided to look at the Lightroom 3.0 Beta and today I'm highlighting the slide show function that like the new Aperture release has a save to video option. I personally like this feature on both offerings. It easy to pick some pictures and add some music to show off your pictures.
In today's video I'm sharing some pictures I took this week, predominately with the Leica D-Lux4 but there are a few shots I took with my Nikon D-300 with a 50mm F1.4 lens combo. I think you will be able to pick out the D-300 pictures by the smooth Bokeh that the fast 50 mm lens exhibits.
The horse shoe impression (upper right) is a good indicator of the type of weather we have been experiencing. Wet with sun and big fluffy clouds. I call this picture "Watermark" sort of a play on words and a lot easier on the eye.
The picture of the horse has a story of its own. Yes that is his tongue you see is a bit large I would say. The horses on this property have come to know that we carry nice organic carrots for their enjoyment and he can't wait to get his share.
Anyway onto the video with this weeks highlights I hope you enjoy the show. You can watch this video in high definition by clicking on the box in the lower right of the video box.

Aperture 3.0

2010-02-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

I have been busy this week exploring the trial version of Apples Aperture 3.0. There has been a lot written on photo blogs about all of the new and upgraded features of this product. Rather than going over all the technical changes, I'm just going to give you my early impressions.
My likes are, speed, how fast photos upload from my memory card and into the program. The new tools especially the brush tool that lets you easily dodge, burn and sharpen individual parts of your pictures easily. The interface on the whole which opens in the library tab and has additional tabs for meta data and adjustments. The ability to see and work on your picture in full screen mode just by using the (f) key and to zoom using the (z) key. Both of these keys are toggle keys so to go back to the old view just hit them again.
Dislikes I can't say that I dislike much in this new offering. I personally don't especially like the loop tool but that is a personal thing with me. The other thing is the face recognition portion to this offering. I have experimented with using it in iphoto and find that it doesn't work all that well for me.
I'm sure as I experiment more with this program I will find more likes and dislikes and I will share them with you as I find them. Now if you have been following this blog you will know that I presently use Lightroom by Adobe for my photo processing and I have been very happy with the way this program performs. I'm not sure if I will be switching to Aperture as of this time that's why I'm happy that Apple allows you 30 days to play with the full program before making a buying decision.
Below is a slide show of some of the pictures I took over the last few weeks and that I processed in Aperture 3.0 and used its slide show module to construct. As always good shooting.

Out of the Box

2010-02-11T15:57:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to share with you today a picture from a regular reader of this blog. We have been e-mailing back on forth on questions he had on the Leica D-Lux 4. Recently he made the plunge and I'm happy to post this lovely picture he took within his first 100 shots.

I really like the composition, color and natural lighting that he captured in this photograph. If you enlarge the photo by clicking on it you can see the excellent clarity and depth of field. Congratulation Ian and I'm sure you will enjoy your new camera.

Exposure

2010-02-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

Hand held long exposure demonstration. I thought that today I would show the capabilities of the camera while being hand held and while using a longer exposure time with the anti-shake feature activated. The scene I choose is of a creek with moderate water flow from our latest rain.

Picture one was taken at F 2.8 125 sec which is a normal setting for the ambient lighting conditions.

Picture two was taken at F 6.3 1/5 sec. Notice the blurring of the flowing water but still with the sharp details of the surrounding objects.

Picture three was taken at F 8.0 1/8 sec. More blurring is seen in the water flow with little distortion of the surrounding objects.

Picture number four is of picture number three with Topaz Lab Detail 2 micro contrast filter applied.

Picture number five is a crop of picture four which was then highlighted in Viveza 2. I think that the results speak for themselves it is possible to to get a hand held shot that has the look of a long exposure on a tripod. Try it the next time yourself you might be surprised by the results.

Wet Week

2010-02-05T15:46:00.000-08:00

It has been raining a lot this winter and that makes for some nice fresh green grasses a nice contrast from the dry summer and fall. I thought I would share some pictures that I took this week which highlight the winter colors.
The first picture to the right highlights the green grasses and the bare tree has lots of green moss instead of leaves. I softened the look by applying a Topaz Labs Adjust 3 filter.
The next picture is of a faded and rusted trailer and old disc used to plow the apple field.

Now its off to see a window of a uninhabited house. The green vine growth is reflected in the glass and the picture is highlighted by using the darker corner of the building to add depth. The window frame was brought out with Viveza 2 a filter that allows you to add brightness, contrast, saturation and structure to a specific area of the photo.

The last picture is of open pasture with the three horses being the focal point. Again I used Viveza 2 to bring out the yellow of the Acacia in the right foreground and to make the light colored trees in the background pop.

Dynamic Black & White

2010-01-31T06:50:00.000-08:00

Is one of the selections you can make in Film Mode of the set up menu. So today I thought I would share a few pictures I shot on Saturday in this mode. They were taken on a overcast day that ranged from sun breaking through and drizzle to rain. Here are some of the results.
Looking up from the base of a dead tree to the clouds in the sky a favorite nesting and storage container for the woodpeckers who reside in this neighborhood.

Looking up from the valley floor to the coastal mountains as the sun tries to break through the clouds.

A young horse that we regularly feed organic carrots.

Rusting farm equipment behind barbed wire

This last picture is of a garden fountain in the dead of winter.

How would I rate my black and white experience? I'm generally pleased with the results strait from the camera. I set up the camera to auto select the ISO which explains the graininess in some of the pictures. I normally try to set the ISO to 80 - 200 for my color photos and then use Silver Efex Pro to convert them to black and white. Shooting directly to black and white is a interesting experience and I recommend you try it for yourself.

Lens Resume

2010-01-28T15:11:00.000-08:00

Lens resume is one of the new functions added in the latest firmware update. I received a inquiry about this feature so I tried it today. To turn on the feature you need to access the setup menu and on the third screen you will find Lens Resume. Use the toggle switch to select the on position. The next time you turn on the camera you will see a message that tells you that the lens will return to the position it was in when you last turned off the camera.
The function works well and adds little time to the start up procedure. If you need to have your lens set at a particular zoom position this function should serve you well. I found that I rarely use the same lens position from shot to shot. Give it a try for yourself it might be something that works well for your style of shooting. Here are a few pictures from today.

Reflections in a puddle

Interesting tree in HDR

Totem Pole

2010-01-27T16:12:00.000-08:00

Who would expect that during a nice daily walk through the valley one would see a real totem pole? I couldn't get to close so I thought this might be a nice way to show photo cropping. I have found that while shooting in raw which gives you a 10 megapixel picture you can get a nice crop from your photo.
I processed the photograph with Adobe Lightroom 2.6 and cropped the image with Adobe Photoshop Elements 8.0.

As you can see sometimes using a crop gives you access to picture you might not have been able to get other wise. Click on the images to see then in a larger format. The little Leica performs well in this type of enviroment.

This last photo was cropped to 5 x 5 using Photoshop Elements 8.0. I really like the rain drops on the leaves of the flower.

Alpine Inn

2010-01-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

Today I'm featuring Alpine Inn or better known to older residents as Rossotti's or Zotts. It has been a landmark in Portola Valley, California for over a 150 years. If you are interested in the history of this old building here is a link to a article written in 2004. This is not a food or history review so I'm just going to share four versions of a picture of the old building that I took on my daily walk. The weather was pleasant overcast with a light rain falling. Click on the photos to see larger versions.

This is the original image a conventional look and feel.

This is the same image given a antique look with Silver Efex Pro.

This version was done in Adobe Photoshop Elements 8.0 to give it a look like the photo was printed on water paper.

The last rendition is as a halftone for a unusual lighting effect.

I will be continuing to do these short posts as my daily walks with the dogs seem to always have some interesting objects, plants or wildlife to photograph.

Winter Blooms

2010-01-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

A few pictures from today, here we are in the middle of winter but there are still a few new blooms to be found. The lighting is overcast with a few rain showers leaving some drops of water on some of the plants.

A Iris with a single bloom note the shadow highlights on the leaves.

Multiple blooms on this Iris with delicate white pedals highlighted with a tinge of yellow.

A vine with delicate purple buds and flowers.

Close Ups

2010-01-23T17:35:00.000-08:00

Or should I say no need to crop in this picture I used the macro focus and got up real close to the child. This allowed me to frame the picture as I wanted so that I could show the highlights that I wanted. Click on the picture to see a larger version and note the lovely eye lashes and the delicate skin and hair.

Next is the black and white version of the same photograph. It was converted using Silver Efex Pro. I am especially pleased with the soft silky quality of this rendition.

Here is another black and white conversion of my two grandsons hard at work at my computer desk.

The three and a half year old is already taking pictures with my old Pentax Optio 6.0 and has gotten some interesting images. If found a useful link to down load a free PDF document on taking pictures of and identifying wild flowers. Down load it here!

Different Moods

2010-01-15T17:37:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share a picture I took recently that has been converted to black and white in Silver Efex Pro. There are four versions showing how you can chance the mood of your pictures to suit your taste.

Soft tone and low contrast help soften the look.

This one has film grain and lighting effect added from the bottom of the photo.

This is more dramatic with higher contrast and structure.

Just the lighting effect was added to the already soft photo.

Some of these effects make a subtle change to your photo white others are more dramatic. By using control points in Silver Efex you can highlight specific areas of your photograph. Changing the lighting, structure and contrast of the area you have chosen. Take a chance and experiment with your photos.
If you are interested in learning how to use Silver Efex Pro here is a lesson by Steve Huff. It will take you through the process and show you how changes occur to your photo.

Landscapes

2010-01-09T07:23:00.000-08:00

I thought that I would share a coupe of landscape photos I took this week. They were processed in Adobe Lightroom 2.6 and Viveza 2.0. The first photo is of a trail taken on my daily walk. The lighting was cloudy with light rain which made for a interesting look to the picture.
The rest of the photos are of views looking back at the Santa Cruz mountains from trails that run behind the Portola Valley Ranch and Windy Hill. The conditions were similar to the trail photo.

Looking west towards Los Trancos Woods.

Looking north west towards the coastal mountains.

Windy Hill Pond.

I'm currently working on some more blended (color transitions to black and white) photos like this one of oak trees. The photo is comprised of several layers of color and black and white blended into one.

The black and white starts in the upper left corner and transitions back to full color at the bottom of the picture. The effect is subtle and was indicative of overcast lighting conditions.

Color Fade

2010-01-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and for this first blog of 2010 I'm sharing two pictures that I took on New Years Day. I processed them in Adobe Lightroom 2.6 and used Nik filters Silver Efex Pro and Viveza 2. The pictures were then blended together in Adobe Photo Shop Elements 8.0.
The effect in the first picture was a transition from color to black and white . I like the strong blue skies as they help accent the oak tree. The yellow double line is the demarcation from color to black and white.
The picture has a strong bias towards color and the light on the roadway gives the picture added depth.
Picture number two is just the opposite with black and white transitioning into color. The effect is some what like a cold wet or snowy scene. The colors are toned down and the effect is very interesting.

The light on the roadway is contrasting with the moisture and gives it a very real life appearance. The color on the hedges on the right side of the roadway help warm up the picture and accent the curves in the road.
I hope this gives you a few ideas on what interesting things you can do with your photographs.

Horse: color to black & white

2009-12-27T11:41:00.000-08:00

I'm still having fun taking color photographs and converting them to black and white. The process shows what a different statement the picture makes. Today I'm featuring a photo I took the other day of a horse that we visit regularly.
In the color version you see the interesting coat color with its interesting tones and subtle color changes. The photo was processed in Adobe Lightroom 3.0 Beta which is a free download from Adobe. You can try and use this version until the final version is released.

In the black and white version you are more drawn to the eye and the pattern of spots in his coat along with the soft black on his nose. The biggest difference so me is the strong contrast that make the spots in his coat jump out at you. Each of the photographs make their own statement and that is what has intrigued me with the process The photo was transformed to black and white using Silver Efex Pro.
I have a suggestion of another blog that I read regularly Steve Huff is a professional photographer who not only takes wonderful pictures but does testing on the latest Leica, Nikon, Cannon cameras and accessories. Take a look and you will go back on a regular basis to see whats new and how to use it.