Unlocking New Creative Potential: AI Meets Photoshop in 

Terri Butler’s  Workshop

Terri Butler's photography workshop, “Leveraging AI Tools in a Compositing Workflow”, using Photoshop to composite images with the help of AI was incredibly informative and insightful. She began by discussing the importance of gathering high-quality assets for composite work, focusing on both stock images and AI-generated elements. She introduced us to sources for stock images, emphasizing the importance of using royalty-free platforms.  (I never knew we had access to free images with an Adobe subscription!). For those looking to create their own unique elements, Terri suggested utilizing an AI tool such as MidJourney, which allows for creative, customizable image generation based on text prompts. The flexibility of these tools provided an exciting opportunity to break creative boundaries.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the demonstration on how to leverage ChatGPT for ideation and refinement of prompts when using text-to-image AI. Terri showed how ChatGPT can help craft precise, imaginative prompts to generate specific visual elements that complement the theme of a project. She even guided us through her creative process to come up with conceptual themes, generate detailed prompts, and then feed them into an AI platform to create base elements for compositing. This integration of AI tools enhanced our creative control over the final visual outcome and allowed us to explore ideas we might not have thought of on our own.

The workflow for creating a composite image was well-structured and easy to follow. Terri walked us through the entire process in Photoshop, from layering the AI-generated elements and stock images to blending them seamlessly. She emphasized the importance of paying attention to lighting, color matching, and perspective to make the final composition cohesive. She shared many new “tips and tricks” that streamline the compositing process, many of which she created herself! 

Terri’s step-by-step approach to layering, masking, adjusting shadows, and fine-tuning the details helped demystify the process of making a complex composite look natural. By the end of the workshop, we all left with a deeper understanding of how to creatively blend the power of AI with traditional Photoshop techniques, opening up a whole new realm of possibilities for image creation.

Probably the best, and most enjoyable part of the workshop was Terri herself.  She is funny, passionate, knowledgeable, down to earth, and completely relatable!  These qualities in her instruction kept all her participants very attentive and engaged.  She taught her students, not just the subject, and that left the attendees all wanting more!  If you want more, Terri has an online educational learning center, “Pixel Mixer Art”, and it is a treasure trove of  recorded lessons that are available for all, and some are even free! Please visit her sight and begin, or continue,  your magical journey into composite images!

Basic Lightroom & Photoshop Skills for Photographers

Presented by Brenda Kieso

I recently attended a photography workshop presented by Brenda Kieso that focused on the essentials of Lightroom and Photoshop for beginners, and it was a fantastic experience. The workshop was expertly structured, making it accessible and valuable for those new to these powerful tools.

The Lightroom portion of the workshop was particularly well-organized. We started with the basics of importing images, which was great for building a solid foundation. The instructor walked us through the import process, including how to organize files and set up a workflow that minimizes clutter and maximizes efficiency.

Sorting images was another key topic, and I appreciated the detailed explanation of using ratings, to manage photos effectively.  The “Develop” module in Lightroom was covered in depth and the instructor did a great job explaining how to enhance photos with adjustments.   The session on tools covered essential features like cropping, straightening, and adjusting exposure. The mask and masking tools were highlighted as well, which was incredibly useful for targeting specific areas of an image without affecting the whole picture.

The real-time demonstrations and practice exercises allowed us to see the immediate impact of different settings, which helped reinforce the learning.  Brenda made sure that each attendee fully understood the processes so they could put these in practice after the workshop.  Her individual attention was appreciated by all of us.

Moving on to Photoshop, we dove into some exciting techniques starting with an explanation of the photoshop tools.  The head-swapping exercise was a standout for me. The instructor provided clear, step-by-step guidance on selecting and blending different elements, which made a complex task much more manageable. Similarly, the sky replacement tutorial was fascinating. We learned how to replace dull or overcast skies with more dramatic ones, enhancing the overall look of our images.

One of the most impressive aspects of the workshop was the personal attention given to each participant. The instructor made sure that everyone’s questions were addressed and provided individual support as needed. This hands-on approach ensured that no one was left behind and allowed us to tailor our learning experience to our specific needs.

Overall, this workshop was an excellent introduction to Lightroom and Photoshop. The combination of clear instruction, practical exercises, and personalized support made it a highly effective and enjoyable learning experience. Whether you're looking to improve your photo editing skills or just getting started, this workshop is a great investment in your photography journey.

 

 

 Creating Historical Photos Workshop Review

by Sonia Ahmad

I had the chance to attend a creative photography workshop with Michael Crawley last Saturday morning. The workshop was intriguingly titled 'Creating Historical Photos,' with good reason. Michael's work is known for its stunning historical accuracy, with subjects posed as characters from the past. Some of his photos are so authentic; they seem to have been taken in the 1800s. For instance, his portrait of reenactor President Abraham Lincoln could easily be mistaken for one of Mathew Brady's originals.

This workshop was tailored for history enthusiasts or anyone eager to create photographs with a historical impact. It was divided into three fascinating segments.

The first part of the workshop was all about research. Michael explained how to find reliable historical reference images and shared some reputable sources for accurate information. He also revealed where to source period clothing and other essential props to enhance the authenticity of a scene. Michael aims to create artwork that transports the viewer to a different time, immersing them in the period. He emphasized the importance of accuracy in his work, drawing inspiration from his carefully preserved family photographs, including those of his great-grandfather, grandfather, mother, and father. These images tell a story, capturing who they were and what they cherished. He also gave tips on finding reenactment events in Texas and coordinating with reenactors for photo shoots.

In the second segment, Michael showcased his collection of historical replicas—items like powder shotguns and monoculars that are faithful to the originals. His commitment to historical accuracy is evident in every detail. He even demonstrated how to pose to reflect the period's style.

The final part of the workshop focused on post-processing. Michael walked us through the process of adding tints to photographs to achieve that vintage look. He covered color adjustments, hue and saturation tweaks, and the use of textures—all of which can make a massive difference in the final image. He introduced us to the Nik Collection, a powerful software suite for creating and replicating historical images.

As a portrait artist, I always seek new techniques to enhance my work. Michael's workshop was a goldmine of information, opening up new creative avenues for me. I had a blast experimenting with what I learned and created a series of photographs I'm proud of.

Sonia Ahmad, Photographic Craftsman, CPP

Etmportraits.com

Michael Reiland Drone Photography

by Shelly England

It was a great rainy Saturday to spend the day learning about drone photography and operating a drone with Michael Reiland.  Most students in the class were there out of curiosity and one was an experienced drone operator.  

Eager to learn, we went over the regulations of flying a drone and the importance of obtaining a license if you are going to do paid or commercial work.  We learned about airspace ratings and flight height restrictions.  We also learned what not to do - taking unnecessary risks.

We had intended to fly the drone after lunch, but the weather did not cooperate.  So, we went back to the classroom and Michael launched his drone off the meeting table to show us how it works.  The weather finally did clear up for a bit and we were able to fly the drone outside the studio which is located in a really cool place for flying along the 249 freeway interchanges.  Several were able to fly or land the drone if they chose to do so.   When it started raining again, we went back inside and reviewed the footage we had shot outside and Michael showed us how he stitches the frames together and edits the footage.

If you are curious about drone photography at all, I highly recommend this class to learn all about it and the correct ways to go about getting a license.

Picture Perfect Start: Basic Lightroom &

Photoshop Skills for Photographers

Review by Shelly England

There was no better way to spend a Saturday than by attending “Picture Perfect Start: Basic.  Lightroom and Photoshop Skills for Photographers”. This workshop was designed to cater to photographers of varying skill levels, from those who have never opened the software to those with a basic understanding looking to deepen their knowledge. The workshop began with an introduction to the interfaces of both Photoshop and Lightroom, highlighting their basic features and capabilities. Participants were guided through the fundamental tools and functions, ensuring everyone felt comfortable navigating the software.

One of the key strengths of the workshop was the hands-on approach. Participants brought their laptops and Brenda went step by step as participants followed along as she went through the tools and the basic functions. This interactive component allowed attendees to apply the concepts they learned in real-time, making the learning experience both engaging and practical.

In Lightroom, we learned basic organizing of imports, and a primary understanding of the development module. We touched on basic adjustments like exposure, contrast, and color correction. Brenda provided personalized instruction, helping each participant to feel more comfortable with the program.

In Photoshop, the workshop introduced essential tools such as layers, masks, and selections, We learned masking, head swapping and sky replacement, utilizing time to practice each as Brenda monitored and reinforced the learning. Using these tools allowed the participants to, begin basic retouching, as well as practicing applying layers and masks. The hands-on approach in both Lightroom and Photoshop was used to build confidence and competence, allowing participants to experiment with different editing styles and approaches.

The last portion of the workshop allowed participants to work on their own images to practice what they had learned while having Brenda there to answer questions or remind them of steps in the editing process.

Overall, this workshop gave a comprehensive introduction to these powerful editing tools. The combination of step by step instruction, along with time and support in practice, gave participants confidence to apply these skills to their own work. This made the workshop an invaluable experience for budding photographers or anyone looking to begin their journey in enhancing their post-processing abilities and I highly recommend this class if you need basic instruction in either LR or PS, or motivation to kickstart you!

Illuminate and Elevate: Lighting and Photoshop Mastery

A Workshop Experience Review by Sonia Ahmad

Attending a photography workshop led by Tony Chicas was an excellent experience that enhanced my understanding of the technical and creative aspects of photography when shooting on location. The workshop, divided into two comprehensive sessions, covered a wide array of topics, ranging from on-location lighting techniques to advanced post-processing skills.

The workshop kicked off with Tony Chicas providing an insightful introduction to lighting. He began with the basics, explaining the exposure triangle—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—and how these elements work together to achieve the perfect exposure without relying on a light meter. This foundational knowledge is crucial for photographers seeking more control over their shots.

Tony also shared his preferred gear and demonstrated how to interpret the camera sensor and read the histogram on the camera's LCD screen. This session was beneficial as it bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing us to see firsthand how adjustments in camera settings can affect the final image.

One of the workshop's highlights was Tony's detailed explanation of creative lighting setups and strategies. He emphasized the importance of composition, especially when shooting on location. Tony provided valuable tips on improving composition by effectively utilizing available light and understanding its impact on the scene. He guided us on where to look for light, how to compose a shot with the light in mind, next adding supplemental light, and how these elements contribute to creating compelling photographs.

The second half of the workshop was a hands-on session where we could apply the techniques Tony had discussed. This interactive segment was invaluable as it allowed us to practice taking photographs with enthusiast models who volunteered their time. Tony reiterated the importance of carefully searching for great light and composing the scene. He also shared insights on selecting the right lens for different scenarios and the appropriate times to use reflectors to enhance lighting.

 

The workshop concluded with a session on post-processing using Photoshop. Tony demonstrated how a few minor adjustments could transform a good photograph into a great one. His step-by-step approach made the editing process accessible and easy to follow, even for those new to Photoshop.

Final Thoughts

Tony Chicas' workshop blended theory and practice, making it a perfect learning opportunity for photographers at all levels. His clear explanations, combined with practical demonstrations, provided a well-rounded understanding of photography's technical and creative sides. If you're a photographer who values efficiency and quality, Tony Chicas' workshop is an experience you shouldn't miss. Watch for his future sessions—they will be as informative and inspiring as this one.

Create Award Winning Landscape Images

presented by

Michael Reiland

How to get started taking a landscape photo?  How to get ready for a photo trip?  Michael Reiland began his workshop discussing the planning that should come before the day you arrive to capture the landscape.  It is important to start with the end in mind.  This will take some research on place, time of year, time of day etc.  Time of day will be important in capturing the golden/blue hour magic.   Michael uses a vision board for inspiration & creates a folder for each trip when he plans to take photos.  

He discussed the choices of lens, aperture and shutter speed to achieve the image you choose to capture.  It is not always necessary to use a tripod but it is necessary to steady your camera whether by balancing your body when hand holding or placing on a rock etc. 

Michael discussed the 12 Elements of a Merit Image, using landscape images as examples of each element.  I found this analysis to be very helpful.  It is important to understand the composition of a landscape image before you press the shutter.   Do not get stuck in one place but move around to get different views.  Landscape photography takes patience and persistence.  When you have taken a large number of landscape  images, you will see a personal style developing. 

Next Michael discussed HDR photography both settings in the camera and post processing.  He then discussed the techniques to take panoramic images and how to stitch them together in Lightroom.  Michael discussed the different types of media that he uses for his landscape images.

Most of all Michael recommends we step out of our comfort zone and go some place we would not normally choose.  Stay positive, keep smiling and don’t forget to look up and behind you for the magic. 

Merit Image Review: Crack the Code   

                                                     May 19. 2024

Workshop presented by Karen Butts

Attending Karen Butts’s  recent PPGH workshop, Merit Image Review: Crack the Code,  was an enlightening experience that provided a deep dive into the essential elements of crafting a Merit Image. Karen emphasized the importance of color harmony, ensuring that all hues within the photograph complemented each other to create a visually pleasing and cohesive image. She demonstrated how value, or the range of light and dark in a photo, can dramatically influence the mood and depth, making certain elements pop. We even went upstairs to her studio, and did a hands-on activity on color harmony. It was a fantastic way to keep our interest, and to give us an opportunity to process what we were learning.

Technical aspects like hue and value were meticulously covered. We learned how different hues can evoke various emotions and how manipulating value can add dramatic effect. For instance, a high-contrast image might create a sense of urgency or intensity, while a photo with subtle variations in value can convey tranquility or mystery.  Composition was another area of instruction, where we learned to arrange elements within the frame to guide the viewer's eye and maintain balance. Each photo we reviewed showed the power of a well-thought-out composition in enhancing the overall narrative of the image.Impact and storytelling were also covered.

We had an opportunity to go upstairs again, and Karen showed us her one light set up in her camera room, as well as where she photographs her natural light newborns.

In the last part of the workshop.  Karen offered each participant suggestions on some of their images on how to improve them for Merit Image Review. She also showed us how to create a presentation that not only enhanced the image, but made the image stand out while meeting the high standards expected by judges and viewers alike.

This was one of the most engaging and informative workshops I have attended.  Karen’s knowledge, expertise, and kind heart are unsurpassed.

Brenda Kieso, CPP of Kieso Keepsakes, hosted a few photographers in her home studio for her “Here Comes Santa Claus!” workshop. I was immediately greeted with smells of peppermint and Christmas decor all throughout her house. I was definitely feeling the Christmas spirit! 

 

Brenda walked us through her experience over the years of offering these types of sessions. She used one Santa (Santa Darrell) for most of the years, but unfortunately he passed away a couple years ago. It was very obvious he was more than just someone she hired to play Santa for some photos. Her “new” Santa (Santa Gary) used to work for Santa Darrell and was a delight to meet and work with during the workshop. She had worked with one or two other Santa’s between Santa Darrell and Santa Gary, and based on her experience it is very evident how important it is to find a good Santa. You need to find someone that is good with kids, knows how to handle babies and knows how to respond to the kids' requests. 

 

Before lunch, we got to help set up Santa’s Mailroom in her living room, which was so helpful because we got to see how simple it could be. A couple backdrops, some faux wrapped gifts, a couple Christmas trees, a good chair for Santa, a “Nice” list, some small gifts for the kids and you are ready to offer something special for your clients.

 

After lunch we had a 3 month old little boy come by the studio to model with Santa (got to see how he is with babies), and then my two nieces came by who are 3 years old and 10 months old. Then we got to see how to photograph individual shots of the first child, add in a sibling, and then photograph the second child individually. My 10 month old niece was not loving Santa, which kind of worked in our favor because we had to work through the process of getting her to be okay with Santa near her or distract her enough for him to sneak into the photo! 

One of the key takeaways from this workshop for me was to start talking about these sessions early with your existing clients. You want to make them aware of them and to plan for them. Build the excitement and post on social media regularly leading up to the session dates!

 

I was blown away when Brenda told us that she photographed 46 Santa Experiences over 3 days last year. She has been doing these Santa sessions since 2014, and it was nice to see her growth and “the experience” evolve through the years. As someone that has been considering offering these sessions to their clients, it was helpful to see her process from start to finish. I can now better understand what to offer my clients the first time I offer this experience. 

Websites That Sell

Workshop Review by Cari McFarlane

The workshop “Websites That Sell” was presented by Megan Murray, CPP on Thursday, February 29th, 2024 at Megan Murray’s photography studio located on Sabine Street in Houston, TX. Attended by eight professional photographers with different genres and years of experience allowed for a wonderful opportunity for critique, questions and feedback from all participants in a respectful and educational manner.

The workshop consisted of a thorough discussion of the building blocks needed for any website, components that attract or repel visitors, ways to use your website as a marketing machine, and how to analyze the traffic it receives.

Prior to the workshop, the registered attendees were requested to provide the URL address for their own existing website so Megan could look at and prepare feedback to be given to each attendee during the workshop. Incorporating a visit to the various websites into her presentation allowed attendees to analyze and discuss how best to implement the techniques being discussed on a personal level.

Attendees received information with detailed explanations as to what makes a good website and followed up by visiting various websites to examine each one using the checklists presented. Various ideas were discussed to enhance and improve different aspects of the websites. Megan involved the attendees by collaborating with them on different ways of communicating the desired information to make each website more impactful.

Discussing the purpose and clarity of message was analyzed on every website
page. Key elements of each page were reviewed to strengthen and attract more visitors to the website. This workshop covered both designing the perfect
website and how to use your website to help with marketing, scheduling, and
booking more clients. This workshop was conducted in a relaxed yet very organized manner allowing the group to collaborate and become closer together by encouraging friendly critiques and ideas to implement for each other’s websites.

Pictured from left to right:
Front row: Linda Susman, Maryanne Keeling, Theresa Campbell, Patty Okelberry Back row: Tony Chicas, Duane Blocker, Fred Rogers, Megan Murray
Pictures taken by: Cari McFarlane