This past week, I've been looking closely at one photographer, and I've discovered a chameleon of sorts. He does everything well, and matches his style and skills to the subject being photographed. He is also very clear in his photographs, both of his communication and visually. I'm sure many of you are somewhat familiar with Magnetic9999.
In any photo class or workshop, we are constantly reminded that photography is all about light, and Mag has a real knack for using it. In this image, he both lights the penny and sets a mood with the simplest of techniques: he merely shows us a single tiny spotlight on the coin. This adds both drama and interest.
In this shot, he uses light to set mood once again, and once again, the direction of the light makes the subject look very special. He is somehow able to have a harsh light not look harsh here.
Out of the studio, Mag the chameleon is able to do wonders in the wild. Here, he is able to show us how to properly use depth of field, balance and negative space, and sharp focus. He captures a friendly pose from this small animal that is immediately endearing. My favorite squirrel shot of Mag's shows us how a strong point of view can help a photograph.
He also shows us how to properly use motion blur with this masterful shot. And while we're in the subway, we can see his strengths as a photojournalist.
I'll stop myself before I show you ALL of Kollin the Chameleon's photos, each of which shows other skills depending on the requirements of the subject. It just goes to show that it pays to be adaptable and to develop skills in many areas as he has, so when a subject demands a certain technique, we can pull it off.
I'd be interested to know of photos that you like of his, and what skill you think he demonstrates.
Im SO glad Mag has recieved this recognition. He has always been sort of a mentor to me. Answering all my questions, from detailed to stupid. I admire all his work. We should all aspire to shoot as well.
Thanks for everything Mag. Keep up the great work.
//www.dpchallenge.com/image.php?IMAGE_ID=19569 I really like this shot of mags' I love the lighting, subject and composition.
David you always do so well at pointing out these 'gems' amongst us.
I love Kollin' work! Not only is he an outstanding photographer but he is a great friend. I will have to go find my most favorite of his photos and come back later.
Actually Mag did that long before Setz even got a manikin!
I think Kollin has proven that he can do stock photography as well as the next person, and has the ribbons to prove it! But he's also an artist who is able to create a unique glimpse into his world. And his fashion photography isnt bad either :P although must be awful to have to work with all those beautiful models!
I don't know Kollin personally, but he seems to be an all around really nice guy. I'm always looking for his latest entries, because they are kinda quirky, fun to look at. And you can't go wrong with a musician:)
My favourites (at this time) of his is the Vampire Girl shot, but I don't know why. I just like it.
I met Zenboy in person - and I must say that he's about my favorite PERSON here. Mag is laid back, fun, and quite humorous as well. Mag is someone I would hang out with whenever I could. :)
As far as his photography, I have already copied his Transparency picture. I have plans to copy a few more. ;) His best work is always interesting, colorful (or "colorful") and emotive.
Like Mav said - photography aside, the guy's a gem of a human. Take a look at his stats:
Comments:
Made: 2539
Helpful: 801
Received: 2505
Forum Posts: 3147
Selected by other users:
Photographer: 141 (view)
Photographs: 339 times
always willing to lend a hand and share an opinion, and one of the most welcoming people on the site - a great ambassador for the site and for photography.
Never met the guy in the flesh, but I'd happily call him a friend.
I like all of Mag's shots but this one stands out to me. He's someone to emulate, for sure, and he really is a nice guy. I too consider him a friend, plus he's a music techie which I think is very cool!
Not only do I get to admire his work on an ongoing, daily basis, I have him around to answer my questions about photography as they crop up... even if I've asked the same question 8 times before. He's a patient, effective tutor.
Being married to the Mag is a pretty interesting experience. It's exciting to see all of the behind-the-scenes sweat and effort that goes into his work, including his agonized decisions about which photos to submit for challenges. I'm awed again and again.
It's wonderful to see this public praise for his work. Thanks, everyone, for noticing his talent!
I've been out of town and i came back and saw this thread and all i can say is thanks a ton for the encouragement, folks! i'm just a guy messing around with my camera, and there's tons of people that deserve recognition more than I do :) ...
But it's been a blast taking all the shots for dpc, interacting with all the interesting people on the site, learning from all of the talented people, helping where possible, and more. sometimes there have been times of discouragement and frustration but there have been many more times that have been worth it!
Not to mention all the dpc'ers i've met in person -- i'm guessing it's about 15 so far .. dpc has been a great source of fine friends for me and i hope that continues ...
Thanks again for the recognition and encouragement, david. it speaks volumes that you take the time out of your busy life to provides these critiques.
btw, my "tip" to anyone who wants to get the most out of this site is: don't take it personally, take what you can get from the comments and critiques and community, but don't let it be the be-all end-all of your photographic growth. shoot for dpc -- but also shoot for yourself.
Read everything you can, on the net and in books and magazines. Look at pictures you like and try to analyze what's great about them. Really try to think about light. Really try to be tight with your technique, especially focus and camera shake -- use a tripod. I guarantee you'll get good results.
P.S. Jon Lucas -- I did that shot you mentioned before, I believe, Setzler even joined DPC.
John is my friend, and I would never take any kind of a malicious dig at him.
Just wanted to clear that up :) ..
Absolutely no offence intended whatsoever - I was just messing! It must be that tone of voice problem again - in which case I'd better revisit my comment on your excellent squirrel shot!! ; )
I haven't been here 2 months yet but it didn't take long for magnetic to stand out from the crowd. The heron shot that Patzt picked out above (third place in the recent Life challenge) was the first one I put on my favorites list. I suspect our paths may cross someday and I'm looking forward to it.
