The Shutter Blog

Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

Embracing the Art & Craft of Manual Photography in the Age of A.I.

Don't trade your intellect and knowledge of your camera for shiny new A.I. tools. Instead, invest in learning your craft, shooting like a pro, and relishing the satisfaction that comes with creating art from the heart. Embrace the art and craft of manual photography – it's a journey worth taking.

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Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

Unveiling the Soul of Photography: The Art of Storytelling Through Your Lens

In the world of photography, two fundamental elements have always stood the test of time: passion and patience. However, as the years roll by and wisdom blossoms, there's another facet that demands our attention and devotion—the art of storytelling through our images. Imagine capturing a photograph that not only elicits gasps of awe but also moves you to tears as you recount the tale of its creation. This is the kind of photograph that etches itself into memory, touching the very core of people's souls and stirring their spirits.

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Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

Not all online Photography Courses are Created Equal-

The first thing I did was research what courses were out there and what I found was not good. The courses I found were poorly produced and in most cases the teacher talks about the camera but they don’t show you in detail where on the camera to access what they’re talking about. Others talk super-fast and assume the viewer knows what they are talking about. Other teachers jump right over basics on how to identify the Main Dial, Control Dial and Mode Dial. These dials are very important and most beginners do not understand the relationship they have with each other. If you’re a beginner photographer, then you need to begin with the very basics. You need the ABC of Manual Mode.

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Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

Tips for the Beginner Photographer on Shooting Landscapes

The reason why Landscapes are my favorite is that I love the outdoors and the peace and tranquility I receive when I am immersed in nature. In addition, I don’t have to work with anyone else to capture magic. It’s all up to me to locate and determine when and how to photograph the Landscape.

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Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

Shoot what you love!

Beginner photographers are always asking me how they can become better photographer and how they can begin charging money for their services. Well, I tell all my students starting out as new photographer, Shoot what you love!

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Chris Cassels Chris Cassels

How to leave the Auto and Program Modes and create better images

In the Manual Mode you’re able to dial in any setting within a couple of minutes by taking test shots of the set and subjects. By shooting RAW files and relying on the Histogram for your light meter, you can then control more of each image and the Depth of Field effect you want to create with so much more latitude than the AV Mode can provide.   

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