Camera-Hurlin' Mike Larson Tells All
Got this in overnight, and decided to post it rather than just moderate it into the comments. It's from the guy who throws his camera 20 feet up into the air to get the cool wedding group shots.
There's no off-camera flash involved. So bail right nere if you are one of those hardcore purists that do not enjoy a little O-T how-to post. But I couldn't resist having Mike tell us how he does these things.
I am busy right now working on the L102 Cooking Light assignment discussion, and will have it up a little later today.
Says Mike:
_________________
Hey, it's me Mike Larson, the guy who did the camera toss. I found this site through one of my mentors who was sharing with me where he saw it.
I use my Canon EOS Mark 2n or my Mark 1ds, and I use my 14mm. If I use the mark 2, I use an intervelometer. If I use the 1ds, (a full frame) it's easier to get it with one toss using the 2 second timer. Just throw it up 20 feet or so after holding for a second, with a little bit of rotation.
I use a 22.138 rotational degree axis 3mph spin. Just kidding.
On the photographer being part of the wedding scenery: This is something that must be reverent to the ceremony. Sometimes, you get a group of guys that beg for it. And you know, if you're shooting a dull portrait sessions where nobody wants to get into it, I have learned that it takes some crazy creativity to get the people into it.
Not for every wedding, but I can say that I have some high paying jobs where the groom is looking forward to it!
I Photoshop myself out of the shots sometimes. But you know, when you become friends with the bride and groom and develop a relationship, it's a different ballgame. So being in the photograph means you were part of their day. And I only keep myself in if the friendship I build means something to them.
Its new, different and out of the box. I am always trying new stuff. Its fun for me, and always relative to what the bride and groom want.
The camera throwing takes a little practice but it's an easy thing. I will be demo'ing this at during WPPI, where I'll be speaking and sharing more about having fun while shooting.
__________________
You can read more about Mike at his website/portfolio/blog at www.MikeLarson.com. You can see the camera-throwing video here.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving some details, Mike. We appreciate it very much.
-DH
There's no off-camera flash involved. So bail right nere if you are one of those hardcore purists that do not enjoy a little O-T how-to post. But I couldn't resist having Mike tell us how he does these things.
I am busy right now working on the L102 Cooking Light assignment discussion, and will have it up a little later today.
Says Mike:
_________________
Hey, it's me Mike Larson, the guy who did the camera toss. I found this site through one of my mentors who was sharing with me where he saw it.
I use my Canon EOS Mark 2n or my Mark 1ds, and I use my 14mm. If I use the mark 2, I use an intervelometer. If I use the 1ds, (a full frame) it's easier to get it with one toss using the 2 second timer. Just throw it up 20 feet or so after holding for a second, with a little bit of rotation.
I use a 22.138 rotational degree axis 3mph spin. Just kidding.
On the photographer being part of the wedding scenery: This is something that must be reverent to the ceremony. Sometimes, you get a group of guys that beg for it. And you know, if you're shooting a dull portrait sessions where nobody wants to get into it, I have learned that it takes some crazy creativity to get the people into it.
Not for every wedding, but I can say that I have some high paying jobs where the groom is looking forward to it!
I Photoshop myself out of the shots sometimes. But you know, when you become friends with the bride and groom and develop a relationship, it's a different ballgame. So being in the photograph means you were part of their day. And I only keep myself in if the friendship I build means something to them.
Its new, different and out of the box. I am always trying new stuff. Its fun for me, and always relative to what the bride and groom want.
The camera throwing takes a little practice but it's an easy thing. I will be demo'ing this at during WPPI, where I'll be speaking and sharing more about having fun while shooting.
__________________
You can read more about Mike at his website/portfolio/blog at www.MikeLarson.com. You can see the camera-throwing video here.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving some details, Mike. We appreciate it very much.
-DH
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by David, at 8:38 AM.
10 Comments:
I tried it last night.
I practiced with a Canon D60, 10 second timer (timing is a pain) and a (I think) 13mm Russian manual focus fisheye.
Basically, if I dropped it, then I'd cry, but not a lot.
I tried to get my son in the shot, but he walked away on the one that actually looked good. The dog's in it though.
Pic Here
I just did a small levels adjustment and some sharpening, but it's basically out of the camera.
That looks pretty fun... I may have to practice on my older digital rebel. I can see me losing it in the sun.
There is nooo way I'm trying this. I'll try some crazy things with my cams but this is not one of them. I was born with male strength to throw that camera nice and high, and female catching abilities to make sure I drop it. (Joke!)
I use a 22.138 rotational degree axis 3mph spin.
HAHAHA, almost spit water all over my monitor.
Remember lawn darts? (showing my age?) I can see the fins from a lawn dart attach to the camera! Could ensure the lens is pointed downwards on descent... (I think I just drove up the eBay price for used lawn darts!)
Two things:
backup cameras and five million dollar liability insurance.
I checked out Mike's website - very clean, very nice. One question though, what does it take to use popular songs on your website. Jack Johnson fits the mood of the site perfectly.
As for throwing a camera, I can see it really building a relationship with clients having more impact than the resulting image.
"what does it take to use popular songs on your website. Jack Johnson fits the mood of the site.."
Uhh that might be a copyright issue.
Imagine if someone said "what does it take to use a cool image on your website. An image by Bonner fits the mood of the site perfectly."
A copyright issue is exactly what Im asking. What does it take to get a license to use that type of music on a site. Just because it is copy written doesn't mean you can't use it - just means you have to ask permission by issuing a license or selling the rights.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bruceelliott/1069761175/
Everyone should smile at least once a day. Here's one on me.
Tried the cam toss.... cam intact, nerves frayed. Check out the eyes!
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