The view from Midland Road finally contains more greens than brown hues, reflecting the fact that the trees and other plant life around Buena Vista are taking a stand that photosynthesis must happen. The air is now rich with sounds of songbirds, and the breeze takes on the scents of trees and shrubs waking up. The colorful landscape lends itself to be photographed. You begin seeing cars pulled off of the sides of roads, their occupants steadying cameras to record a scenic vista or a vibrant mixture of color. You may have even taken the old camera off the shelf, blown off the dust and realized that since you can now take photos without wearing winter gloves, headed out into the town or the wilderness armed with digital or traditional film.

One of my favorite online places to visit when I’m done taking photographs is Radiant Vista. Craig and Mark have done an incredible job compiling their collective knowledge into a comprehensive site with a large following of admirers who eagerly await each daily and weekly installment of video tutorials that talk about everything from photo composition to complex Photoshop techniques that will help enhance your artistic work. Check out their Daily Critique where they will talk about an image submitted by a fan, discussing color, composition, tone, and how your eye will move through that image. Then, once a week, check out the Photoshop Workbench where Mark has compiled hours upon hours of tutorials (once again based on images submitted by students) of wonderful information on digital darkroom effects and enhancements. The amazing thing is, all of this information is free. I have personally learned so much from this website and am really glad to have found it.

Last week the Buena Vista Photo Club had its monthly meeting in Grant Heilman’s studio. The theme was Show and Tell and I really enjoyed seeing images from other people. If you are a seasoned expert or a newbie looking for great tips, I highly encourage you to stop by for a meeting of the club (usually the second Wednesday of every month at 7:15pm). You can even show off your new techniques learned online!

Get out there and walk around town or go for a hike or drive into the mountains. Just don’t forget your camera!

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