Help Us Keep You In The Loop

We use email for most of our communications to Eastman Camera Club members.   Sometimes people change their email and we lose contact with them.   This happens most often when people retire from Eastman and their eastman.com address is no longer valid.

If your email address is changing please send a note to Richard Siggins with your new email address. You can also enter your new email address in on the club blog page to get blog updates automatically emailed to you.

Assignment for January 21 Camera Club Meeting

Editing photos. We all do it to some degree.  Even if you don't edit on a computer, you edit your photos in-camera using the camera settings.   Some of us are just learning to edit and others are advanced in the digital darkroom techniques.  During the January 21 meeting we are all going to learn editing techniques and ideas from each other.

Editing photos is not new.   Film shooters have been doing it for years in the darkroom.   Today it is faster, easier, and less dangerous.

Ali - with notes by master darkroom printer Pablo Inirio of Magnum, showing how the final print was produced.

Here's your assignment.   Download one or more photos from this website, edit them and share the results with the rest of the club at the January 21 meeting.   We've done this before and everyone from beginner to expert learned something from how others edit the same photo.

There are no rules, but here are some helpful guidelines

1. The files are available for download from this website.  https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B-R3WA1SvCZGOTRHOVJldlFTLUk&usp=sharing
2. There are unprocessed JPEG and RAW (DNG) file version of each photo.  You can start from either one, but the RAW version will allow you to do more with tonality and white balance. The RAW version is in Adobe DNG format.  Most all photo editing tools can read this format.
3. To download a file click on the thumbnail to display it full screen then click the download button above the photo.   Do not right click and save DNG files.  You will get a compressed JPEG version.
4. You can edit any of the photos.  There is a variety of photos to choose from.  Some are OK right out of the camera.  Others may challenge you.
5. You can use any software you want.  
6. There are no limits on edits you can make.  Be creative.  Be adventurous.  Have fun!   Be prepared to share with others how you edited and what software you used.
7. Save your file as a JPEG with the original file name and your name as part of the file name.  For example EditIt-3-Siggins.jpg
8. Email your favorite three edited photos to rcsiggins@gmail.com by January 19.   Procrastinators (you know who you are) can bring the files to the meeting on a USB thumb drive.  It is much easier if I get the files before the meeting.

Have a question?  Send an email to rcsiggins@gmail.com.  

Because we will be spending most of our time reviewing edited photos, we won't have a theme photo assignment this month.

Share Your Three Favorite Photos of 2015

During the December 17 Camera Club meeting, we will be sharing members favorite photos of the year.  Go through your photos, pick three, save them in JPEG format and send to

Richard Siggins - rcsiggins@gmail.com

You can also bring them to the meeting on a USB thumb drive, but it is better to send them in advance.  I'll collect those and display on the screen during the meeting.


Important Notice - we will be at the Eastman Bays Mountain Lodge, not the Employee Center.

Time: 6:30 PM, December 17

Room A1, Eastman Lodge

Eastman Camera Club Looking For Volunteers

The Eastman Camera club is a completely volunteer organization.   Not the UT kind, but one run by people with an interest in photography who are willing to help.   Some of our 2015 officers are rotating off the Board and we are looking for people who are willing to step up and help keep the club running.

Officer duties are shared among all the members of the Board.  They include

• Planning the annual travelogues
• Determining how to spend the club budget
• Organizing and/or leading outings
• Organizing and/or leading programs during the monthly meeting
• Doing communication (this blog and facebook)

You don't have to be an expert photographer, just willing to pitch in and help.   In fact, we would like new photographers to make sure the needs of others who are new to photography are represented.

The commitment is for one year, but you can always stay on for longer.   It's not a lot of work, but it does take a team so no one person is over burdened.

Interested?  What to know more?  Contact Richard Siggins (rsiggins@eastman.com) to talk about how you can help.

November Outing - Photographing Longboard Skaters

Try your hand at capturing speed demons on wheels at a nearby park in Johnson City.

Saturday, November 21 at 3 pm. 

Meet at 2:45 in the parking lot of YeeHaw Brewing Restaurant 126 Buffalo St. JC Beautiful downtown park right next door. Be ready for fast moves!

Winter Photography Weekend at Pine Mountain State Resort Park

Here's an opportunity to get out during those blah winter months and attend a regional photography workshop at Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Pineville, KY.

From Beth Byrnes - 

Ken Jenkins will be the guest professional and presenter of photography programs this year. He is an absolutely wonderful photographer. His work can be seen on his website: http://www.kenjenkins.com/ .  We have also added a couple of extra things this year including an intermediate competition category, a beginners class on Friday night, and also a critique session on Friday night. Payment and package reservations can be made through the front desk, but please also contact me to register for the competition. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by phone or email.

Beth Byrnes

Parks Program Services Supervisor

Pine Mountain State Resort Park

1050 State Park Road

Pineville, KY 40977-0610

606-337-3066

beth.byrnes@ky.gov

Reminder - Eastman Camera Club Meeting Nov. 19

Don't forget the meeting this Thursday night at  6:30 in the Eastman Employee Center.   

The photo challenge is to bring your favorite 2 or 3 photos from the Kingsport Keys Pianos

http://eastmancameraclub.blogspot.com/2015/10/more-info-on-monthly-photo-challenge.html

Email your photos to Richard Siggins by Wednesday evening - rcsiggins@gmail.com

You can also bring them on a thumb drive the night of the meeting but things are going to be hectic with so much going on.  Best if you send them before hand.

The program for Thursday is

A Macro Photography Mini-Workshop

We will have a short teaching on making close up or macro photos followed by hands on time.  The club will provide some props to photograph.   You provide your camera and your creativity.  Bring a tripod (highly recommended), macro lens, shutter release cable,  and polarizing filter if you have them (not required).

Eastman Camera Club Meeting November 19 - Macro Mini-Workshop

The program for the Eastman Camera Club on Thursday November 19 is a hands on mini-workshop on macro photography.   Everyone is encouraged to bring their camera with a macro lens or a lens that can focus as close as possible and a tripod.  Other gadgets you should bring if you have them include a cable release, small LED flashlight, diffuser, and polarizing filter.

We will try our hand at these kinds of shots

We will be in Room 225 of the Eastman Employee Center starting at 6:30.

If you want to learn more about Macro photography before the meeting try Googling "macro photography how to".  There are many free online tutorials and articles.

Don't forget to send two or three of your Kingsport Keys piano photos to Richard Siggins before the meeting.  We will do a quick review/critique of these images.

More info on monthly photo challenge for the November 19 meeting.

Monthly Photo Challenge
We will be restarting the monthly photo challenge.   The purpose of the challenge is to encourage us to get out of our photographic comfort zone and try new things.   By sharing our photos we all learn from each other.  It's not a competition but you can expect the rewards of constructive feedback.

The challenge for the November meeting is to photograph some of the many pianos that are outside in downtown Kingsport.   Have fun and get creative in your composition.  

Please plan on bringing your favorite 3 piano photos to the November 19 meeting.

Eastman Camera Club Program for Oct. 15

Eastman Camera Club Meeting
October 15, 2015
6:30 PM
Room 219 Eastman Employee Center

Richard Siggins will review some of the newest features of Adobe Lightroom CC, discuss the pros/cons of Adobe CC (software rental), and demonstrate some favorite photo editing techniques.   This is not an in-depth Lightroom class.  That would take about 8 hours.   This will help Lightroom users understand the new features and give non-Lightroom users a glimpse into the most popular photo editing tool.

Outing Saturday
Don't forget the outing to Exchange Place at 2:00 this Saturday.  Please register online to let me know if you will be coming.  That way I can contact you if there are any changes in plans.
http://eastmancameraclub.blogspot.com/2015/10/photo-outing-exchange-place-in-fall.html

Monthly Photo Challenge
We will be restarting the monthly photo challenge.   The challenge for the November meeting is to photograph the many pianos that are outside in downtown Kingsport.   Have fun and get creative in your composition.   It will be interesting to see how different our photos will be.   I hope to have a guide to the piano locations soon.

Please plan on bringing your favorite 3 piano photos to the November 19 meeting.

Photo Outing - Exchange Place In The Fall

Exchange Place is a great place for photography and the Fall is about the best time of year.  We will spend a couple hours photographing the old buildings, grounds, animals, each other, and anything or anyone else that doesn't object.

When: October 17, 2:00 - 4:00

Where: Exchange Place 4812 Orebank Rd, Kingsport, TN 37664 (map).  Just meet there.

Contact:  Richard Siggins email

Please go to this website and sign up.  That will give me a way to easily contact everyone in case there are any changes of plans (rain, snow, floods, plague....)

www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0A48ADAA29AAFB6-exchange 

Feel free to invite others who might enjoy this outing.   I hope to see you there!

Don't Miss The Lunar Eclipse This Sunday!

This Sunday the moon will become immersed in the Earth's shadow, resulting in a total lunar eclipse. The lunar eclipse will also feature the "biggest" full moon (in apparent size) of 2015, since the moon will also be at perigee on the very same day ─ its closest point to the Earth.

As long as the skies are clear the eclipse will be visible in our area.

The eclipse will actually begin when the moon enters the faint outer portion, or penumbra, of the Earth's shadow. The penumbra, however, is all but invisible to the eye until the moon becomes deeply immersed in it.  During the partial eclipse, the penumbra should be readily visible as a dusky border to the dark umbral shadow.

The moon will enter Earth’s much darker umbral shadow at  9:07 p.m. on Sept. 27 in the Eastern time zone.  The moon will be free of the umbra by  12:27 a.m. (Sept. 28) Eastern time.  

You'll want to set up at a place that will have an unobstructed view.  At 9:07 PM the moon will be at 105 degrees or East-Southeast.  At 12:27 AM it will be at 156 degrees or South-Southeast.   If you have a clear view from East to South you should not have a problem.


Here's a couple websites with a ton of information on photographing a lunar eclipse -
http://www.mreclipse.com/LEphoto/LEphoto.html
https://iso.500px.com/planning-a-lunar-eclipse-shoot-a-step-by-step-guide/

Make your plans to get out there Sunday night and "Shoot The Moon".

8th Annual Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowallk

Each year Scott Kelby of Photoshop World fame sponsors a worldwide photowalk.   A photowalk is an informal gathering of photographers to take photos together, learn from each other, and have a good time.  Walkers  meet up at a pre-designated location – downtown areas, zoos, business parks, you name it! – to spend a few hours socializing, capturing images and sharing with like-minded people. At the end of the photo walk, most groups convene at local restaurants or taverns to share their images and experiences over food.  The Kelby photowalk is actually thousands of photowalks that happen around the world on the same day.

I have led these for the past few years but will not be able to this year.   Never fear, there is a walk in Abingdon VA.   I encourage you to go online, sign up, and go to the photowalk on October 3.

Website to register - http://kelbyone.com/photowalk/walk/abingdon-va-united-states-downtown-abingdon/

Cost - FREE

Prizes - Yes!  One person from each walk will win a copy of Photoshop Lightroom CC book for Digital Photographers by Scott Kelby

Please pass the word along to others who might be interested.  You don't have to be an expert of have an expensive camera.  The best photo from last year was made with a smart phone!

Eastman Camera Club Events for September

Don't forget the events for September.

Fireworks Outing 2nd Time Around!

September 12.

Join the Eastman Camera Club at the Bristol Motor Speedway Dragway.
National Fireworks Association is having a fireworks competition held at the BMS Dragway.  This should be the biggest and best in the nation.  You'll see fireworks displays never seen before!

Meet at 7 PM Saturday the 12th at Food City at 1921 Highway 384 in Blountville to car pool  to the Bristol Dragway.   There is a $10/car entrance fee.  On November 8, 2009, seventeen people crammed into a 1971 Volkswagen Beetle and entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the most people in an old-style Volkswagen Beetle (Bug).   How many can we get in one car for $10?

Last minute opportunity for African Photo Safari.

The following is from Richie Hayward.

Men

We may have a last minute opening for our September 12-25 Africa Photo Safari.
One of the women is thinking she won't make it.  Cost for 11 nights, including one in JBurg and all expenses except gratuity and airfare, is about $1800.  Is $3900 you'll never beat this price
I'm thinking that you might get Jennifer down a few bucks as she could loose the safari because she does not have insurance.  This isn't etched in stone yet I'll know in a day.

Chris Duncan, who has done several Travelogues for us,  is also going.

If you're interested I give details on travel and the Safari.
Most of you know what it was like last time and this promises to be better with a trip down South


If interested contact me ASAP
305-216-6666

Trip of a lifetime for a very reasonable amount

Richie Hayward

Steele Creek Amateur Photography Contest

Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park (FSCNCP) will again be sponsoring an amateur photography contest and show. The event will be held in conjunction with the annual Wildlife Weekend celebration at Steele Creek Park. Amateur photographers of all ages, including children and teens, are encouraged to participate. Eligible photographs must be taken at Steele Creek Park in Bristol, Tennessee and be focused on the natural aspects of the park. Prizes will be awarded, based on the general interest, creativity, and technical merits of the photographs. Professional photographers from the Bristol area will serve on the panel of judges. All entries will be displayed at the Wildlife Weekend celebration, scheduled for October 9 - 10 at Steele Creek Park.

The Wildlife Weekend Photography Contest and Show is always a popular part of Wildlife Weekend. This is a great opportunity for us to promote the beauty and diversity of the Park though photography. Most importantly, it’s an opportunity for park-goers of all ages to have fun through the creativity of photography and the wonder of nature.

Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park is an annual event featuring a variety of children’s activities, speakers, and interpretive walks, all relating to the natural history of the park and the region. This year’s theme, “Focus on Nature Photography”, should be of particular interest to photographers of all ages and experience.

FSCNCP is a nonprofit, volunteer organization whose primary purposes are to assist the Nature Center staff in educational, recreational, and research activities, to assist with the development and maintenance of park trails, gardens and facilities, and to preserve and protect the natural areas of Steele Creek Park.

The deadline for submitting photographs is 4:00 pm on Friday, September 25, 2015. Rules and application forms are available at the Steele Creek Park Nature Center, the Bristol Tennessee Department of Parks and Recreation at the Slater Center on McDowell St., and Mountain Sports Ltd. on Commonwealth Avenue. Application forms may also be downloaded from the Friends website at http://www.friendsofsteelecreek.org/?p=1829, or may be requested by e-mail from mail@friendsofsteelecreek.org.


Contact: Robin Feierabend
Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park
423-764-3336
mail@friendsofsteelecreek.org

Eastman Camera Club August Program is a Double Header

We have two programs in one on Thursday, August 20

Videography 

Drone Photography

Ron Zucker will be introducing videography. We will be discussing: the similarities in video versus still photography; camera selection; how to shoot video with a camcorder and a DSLR; useful accessories; and video editing tips, including transitions, layering, and music.

Richie Hayward will talk about the history/definition of drones, types, and application's.  He will wrap up with the future and legal concerns.

Here's a little project Ron and Richie did together that shows both videography and drones.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nbBQT3xMEk#action=share

As with all our programs, the meeting will be at 6:30 in Room 219 of the Eastman Employee Center on Wilcox Drive.  Invite others who might be interested.  We're always open to new members.

Digital Camera Sensor Cleaning

Do your photos have spots like the one below?   If so, the sensor inside your camera may have dust and need to be cleaned.   If you have what looks like smudges then your lens may have dust on the rear element.  While you can buy a kit and clean the sensor yourself, it is a risky process.  If you do it wrong your camera can become a very expensive door stop.

Unfortunately, there is no one in the Tri-Cities that offers sensor cleaning services.   The closest is Camera Castle in Morristown.   They offer an in-store camera and sensor cleaning service.  It normally takes about 30 min. - 1 hour depending on how dirty the equipment is and how many cameras and lenses to be cleaned. If you are pushed for time and need it ASAP (while you wait) please call ahead (423-587-2874) to let them know so they can arrange to be ready when you get there. Equipment can also be left for cleaning and picked up another day if that is more convenient.

The sensor cleaning cost $20.00 per camera body and includes an entire cleaning of the camera, sensor, and up to 5 lenses.

The camera will need a full charge to not delay the cleaning.

Planning to Retire? Don't forget the Eastman Camera Club.

Planning to retire soon?   We don't want to lose you.  Eastman retirees become lifetime members of the Camera Club, exempt from dues and continue to have all the rights of active membership.     If you want to continue to be listed in our roles and receive communications about club events, please send an email to rsiggins@eastman.com.

Eastman Camera Club August Outing

First Saturday in August we are going to South Holston Dam to attempt some nighttime, light painting photography of our own.  

South Holston Dam is a perfect location to attempt this. We will paint with flashlights....the water, the bridge and perhaps the wier dams.

Saturday, August 1
Meet at South Holston Dam parking lot
Time 8 pm
Bring several flashlights, shoes that can get wet, tripod

Anyone wanting to carpool from Kingsport should meet at the Ingles parking lot in Colonial Heights at 6:30 PM Saturday.

Google Map to South Holston Dam
https://www.google.com/…/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88507055ad16f327…

Tutorial for light painting
http://digital-photography-school.com/light-painting-part-…/

See this website for neat images of light painting water and trees.

http://kevinadams.photoshelter.com/…/Wate…/G0000UKx8sTLkND8/

See you all there!

Slides Available For Program on Real Estate Photography

Kent Ervin did a fantastic job explaining the equipment, photography and practical business matters that go into doing Real Estate Photography.  Topics included:

• Business Plan
• Marketing Plan
• Capital - camera, lenses, computer, software, etc.
• Photography
• Computer
• Flexibility
• Perseverance 

He has given us a copy of his slides and those are now available on the Eastman Recreation Camera Club website under Resources

http://recreation.eastman.com/Tennessee/Clubs/Camera/Pages/Resources.aspx

Unfortunately, the video camera failed and we didn't get a video of the program.

Regional Photography Event

6th Annual Western North Carolina Foto Fest

September 10 - 13, 2015 Asheville, NC

Bill Lea and Kevin Adams have organized what has become the MUST-ATTEND photography event for North Carolina and the Southeast. With experience gained from a combined 66 years of photographing and teaching, Bill and Kevin started from the ground up in creating this extraordinary festival. They’ve combined the best features from other photography events with their own ideas for an exciting and rewarding learning experience.

Highlights of the 6th Annual Western North Carolina Foto Fest

• Wide variety of new programs by our guest speakers
• “Macro Boot Camp” photo shoots with Mike Moats
• Thursday evening light painting workshop with Troy Paiva and Kevin Adams
• Thursday evening photo shoot with Bill Lea in Cataloochee
• Vendors provide hands-on experience, showcasing photo gear and services
• Friday morning photo shoot at Chimney Rock State Park with Kevin Adams
• Friday morning sunrise shoot on the Blue Parkway with Bill Lea
• “Meet Your Neighbours" field workshops with Clay Bolt
• Creative Portrait Photography workshops with Jon Holloway
• DSLR video workshop with Doug Gardner
• Great door prizes
• Complimentary wine bar
• Birds of Prey Photo Shoots with Michael Skinner
• Photo contest winners published in Foto Fest booklet
• Professional digital camera sensor cleaning available
• Relaxed atmosphere of fun and learning
• Terrific photography locations within easy driving distance from venue

Check out the website and register today.
http://www.wncfotofest.com/index.html

Note - many of the off-site sessions limit the number of participants and are already full.  No worries, there is still a full three and a half days of photography!

Eastman Camera Club Program for July 16

Join us July 16  for a program by Kent Ervin on Real Estate Photography.  Here's what Kent had to say about it.

I have been asked several questions by different people about Real Estate Photography. Some were equipment related, how to start, how you process and any number of others.

I am planning on sharing a presentation on Real Estate Photography from a business perspective Thursday July 16th at 6:30 PM to Eastman Camera Club at Eastman Employee Center ·400 S Wilcox Dr, Kingsport, TN 37660, room 219.

I hope to answer some of your questions and share my process approach. Everyone is welcome, might consider joining the Eastman Camera Club if you are not a member.

If you want to learn how to take exceptional real estate photos and the business of real estate photography you don't want to miss this program.

July Camera Outing

Join us on Saturday July 4th for fireworks photography at Watauga Lake.

The fireworks will go off from a boat positioned in the lake in front of the Captains Table restaurant. Meet at Food City parking lot in Elizabethton off Hwy 19E at 7:15 pm.

Trip to Roan Mountain Saturday June 20 is CANCELED

The weather forecast for Saturday afternoon and night indicates being on the top of the balds on Roan Mountain will not be a good place to be. Might get some photos of lightning, but not stars.

The trip this Saturday is canceled.

Stay tuned for other opportunities to make photos of stars and light painting.

Eastman Camera Club Events for June

Monthly Club Meeting - 6:30 PM, June 18, Eastman Employee Center
Topic: Light Painting by Chris Duncan
Never heard of Light Painting?  Here's a good tutorial - http://digital-photography-school.com/light-painting-part-one-the-photography/
We might talk Chris into doing a short Q&A on Astro Photography

Monthly Club Outing - Afternoon- Night of June 20, Roan Mountain
Afternoon - photographing Rhododendrons, Flame Azaleas on the balds and the Rhododendron Gardens.
Night - practice light painting and astro photography after dark.   You will need to stay pretty late to get the dark skies needed for astrophotography.  Some club members are going to bring tents and stay all night on the balds, depending on the weather.  

Anyone interested in the outing should meet at the Carvers Gap parking lot at 5:00 PM.   This is 54 miles from Colonial Heights or just over an hour drive.    Drive to the town of Roan Mountain, TN and turn on highway 143 towards the Roan Mountain State Park.  Drive past the park to the TN/NC state line at Carvers Gap.  If the parking lots are full you may have to drive a little way into NC to find a spot to park.  Meet in the parking lot near the trail head.

https://www.google.com/maps/dir//36.1065047,-82.1105014/@36.1191321,-82.1377198,13z/data=!4m2!4m1!3e0

This will be the weekend of the annual Rhododendron Festival, which has been held each June since 1947. In celebration of the incredibly beautiful rhododendron blooms, the festival features handmade crafts, food, and a variety of traditional music, plus an array of old-time folkway demonstrations.  There might be opportunities to photograph around the festival before heading up to the balds.   Be aware, it might be a bit crowded during the daytime.

May 21st Eastman Camera Club Meeting

Come join us at 6:30 on Thursday 5/21 in the Eastman Employee Center for our monthly program.  This month's program will be on the Basics of Portrait Photography presented by Belinda Bridwell.  She will cover:

• Equipment
• Lighting
• Posing
• Expression
• Post Processing

This will provide you with a good foundation for the Portrait Photography Workshop on Saturday May 30th.

Be sure to go online and sign up for the workshop on the 30th.

The photo theme for the May 21 meeting is Macros.  Bring 2 - 3 of your favorite macro or close up shots or some you want help with on a USB thumb drive.

Basic Photography Class June 2, 4, 9, 11, 13 and 16

Want to learn how to take better pictures with a

35mm film or Digital SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera?

The Eastman Recreation Camera Club is offering a camera class to help you learn more about the art of picture taking. The class will be held in the

Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center

The Dates & Times of classes will be:

June 2, 4, 9, 11 and 16 – 6:00pm-9:00pm

A field trip will be taken on June 13

The cost for the class is $25 for ERC Camera Club members. Limited to the first 15 people that sign-up.

Please sign-up at the Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center (229-3771)

The instructor is CLAUDE KELLY

Contact him at 247-3010 for more information

Eastman Camera Club Sponsored Portrait Workshop

If you want to learn more about taking portraits, posing, lighting, etc. this is the workshop for you!   Jim Rigsby will be leading a 3-hour workshop on Saturday May 30th from 11:00 - 2:00.   We will have 3 professional models from Knoxville and Chattanooga to work with us.  Two gorgeous ladies and a good looking guy for the lady photographers.  They’re comfortable in front of the camera and can pose and work the angles.   You’re going to feel like you just walked into a NY photo shoot!!!

Jim will cover and provide instruction for studio lighting, natural lighting, and photographing women and men.   There will be three different stations set up with the three models.

The workshop will be in the former Hibbert Davis Coffee shop at 240 E Main Street in Kingsport.   It’s across the street from the Train station and beside the old bus depot.   We have a lot to cover in 3 hours so please come ready to start at 11:00.

The cost is only $15 per person for members of the Eastman Camera Club.  Non-member price is $25.   The class is limited to 30.

We are asking people to sign up online via this link - http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0a48adaa29aafb6-portrait

We need you to go by the Eastman Employee Center Recreation Office to pay the fee in advance.  This will hold your spot in the class and allow the club to rent the facility and commit to the models.

IMPORTANT - Porter's Creek Outing Rained Out

Over the last few days, I’ve been watching the forecast for Saturday.  Rain has been consistently forecast for Saturday and Sunday.  The latest is for 100% chance of rain and thunderstorms, with a few severe storms possible.  Rain is predicted to start about the time we would get there and last the rest of the weekend.  Rain totals are predicted to be about ½ inch in Saturday morning and another ½ inch in the afternoon.  Not good.

I know I said this is a rain or shine event, but we’re going to have to call it off.  If it was only rain showers I would go, but with 100% chance of thunderstorms I don’t think we’re going to have fun or get many great shots.  

If you know of someone who was also planning to take the trip, please let them know.

April 25 Photo Outing - Porter's Creek in Smoky Mountains

Want to photograph wildflowers, creeks, cascades, old cabins, old graveyards, and a waterfall?  You can find all of these on the Porter's Creek trail in the Smokies.  The Eastman Camera Club is sponsoring an outing to Porter's Creek Saturday April 25.  Here are some specifics

We have two meeting places to car pool from:

1. Ingles parking lot in Colonial Heights between McDonalds and the Bank at 7:00 AM.  Plan to arrive early as we will leave at seven to meet others at
2. McDonalds on Highway 11E at I-81 at 7:30 AM

We will carpool to the trailhead.  Parking will be limited so we want to have as few cars as possible. We will be driving about 3.5 miles on a dirt road to get to the trail.  Be aware the spring rains may have made this road unsuitable for low clearance cars. We will arrive at the trailhead around 9:00 AM.

There are two sections to the Porter's Creek Trail

1. First mile is on an old gravel road and is an easy walk along the creek.   There are wildflowers and an old graveyard along the way.  This takes us to an old home site with barns and cabins.
2. Second mile is on a dirt footpath through an area that has been carpeted with wildflowers in the past.  This takes us to Fern Branch Falls.  The falls are not very photogenic but the hike is.

You are welcome to hike as little or as much as you want.  When we finish our hike we will stop for lunch at a picnic area on the dirt road.  Bring your own lunch and drinks.

I suggest you bring some water and maybe some snacks for the hike.  No need to go thirsty or hungry.  

You will want to bring a tripod, and a camera/lens capable of taking close-up shots of the flowers.   A moderate zoom (24-105mm range) and maybe something wider will be good for landscapes.   If you have a pop-out diffuser/shade you may want to bring it.

This is a rain or shine event.  A little rain and fog will make for nice photos.  Come appropriately prepared for the weather.

If you plan on going, please send your name, email address, cell phone number and where you plan on meeting us to Richard Siggins at r.siggins@charter.net.  That way I can let you know if there are any last minute changes of plans.  Richard's cell phone is 423-416-1258.

It's a Small Photographic World

Spring is here!   We are blessed to live in an area where there is wide variety of wildflowers that bloom in April.   This month the Eastman Camera Club is focused on macro photography and photographing wildflowers and small critters.

The April meeting is Thursday, April 16 at 6:30 in the Eastman Employee Center.  The program for this month is Macro Photography.   

We will follow up the meeting with a trip to the Smoky Mountains on Saturday, April 25 where we can practice taking macro photos of wildflowers in the Porters Creek area of the park.

April 25 Camera Club Trip to Porters Creek in Smoky Mountains

Did you guess where the April photo outing is?   On Saturday April 25 we will be taking a day trip to one of the best places in East Tennessee for wildflowers, water, and beautiful scenery - Porters Creek in the Smoky Mountains.

Lady Slippers

Here's some info on the hike -  http://www.hikinginthesmokys.com/porters.htm

It is listed as a 4 mile round trip hike, but you can enjoy the creek, wildflowers, and old buildings in an easy two mile round trip. Anyone who wants to can continue on another mile to Fern Branch Falls.  The falls are not the most photogenic but the trail leading to them should be covered with wildflowers.

The trail is a gradual incline.   The first mile is a wide gravel road making the hike more of a stroll.   The second mile is on a dirt footpath, but there are few steep sections.  It is nothing like the White Oak Sinks hike.

All of these photos were taken on the Porter Creek Trail around the 25th of April in the past.

Porters Creek

Painted Trillium

Showy Orchis

Trail to Fern Branch Falls

Some History

If you're interested in taking this day trip or have questions send an email to Richard Siggins at r.siggins@charter.net  More details will be available closer to the trip.

Don't miss the final travelogue of 2015 -- California. March 26

Join us at 7:00 PM March 26 for our fourth Travelogue to California.

7:00 PM at Eastman Lodge on Bays Mountain.

Free and open to the public

We will take a tour through one of the most beautiful states in the nation – California. From the massive trees and rainforest of the North, to the majestic Sierras of the central, to the striking arid Southern region, California has the greatest diversity of scenery of any state in the US. Of course we will also be sharing photographs from all regions of California to give you a feel of how it looks and perhaps give you ideas of where and when you would like to visit California. A common question that I often get asked is how to get the most of a trip to a destination, so we will cover how to plan to maximize what you get to see on a given trip. such as how to pack for trips, transportation tips, and other travel advice will also be part of the discussion. I look forward to seeing you there.

Following his passion for photography, Chris has traveled all 7 continents, 50 states, 40 countries and over 47 National Parks—always with his camera nearby.

 www.chrisduncanphotography.com       

March 21 Outing is Canceled

The planned outing to Saltville and the Clinch Mountain/Big Tumbling Creek area on March 21 has been canceled.   The road up the mountain is currently closed due to snow.

Please,  pass the word to others who may be planning on going.

Where is the Eastman Camera Club Going on Saturday April 25?

We will be taking a day trip to one of the best places in East Tennessee for wildflowers, water, and beautiful scenery.  Hint - it's not Laurel Run Park.

Lady Slippers

It's not a difficult hike.

There are creeks, waterfalls, historic graveyards, old cabins, and a riot of wildflowers.

All of these photos were taken at our destination around the 25th of April in the past.

Creek

Painted Trillium

Showy Orchis

Hike Between The Wildflowers

Some History

Have we got your interest?  Check back on this blog in the next week or so for more information.   Better yet, subscribe using the form on the right side of this page so you get an automatic email notification.

Don't Forget - Travelogue on the Four Corner States March 12 at 7:00 PM

The temperature should be in the 60s and there is no chance of precipitation this Thursday night so hopefully the weather is not going to impact the Camera Club Travelogue scheduled for 7:00 PM this Thursday in the Eastman Lodge on Bays Mountain.

Saddle up as we travel to the American Southwest! If you like natural beauty, this is the place to go. National Parks from A to Z (Arches, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Great Sand Dunes, Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, and Zion) offer stunning scenery that is a photographer's dream. The colors will startle you, the variety of scenery will amaze you. We will be visiting National Parks, National Monuments, and a few state parks on our journey across this little-known area of the country.

Ron likes all things photographic. He started with a Canon AE1-P in the early 80s,  switched to videoography, and is now doing both videoography (Canon XHA1S) and digital photography (Nikon D7100). He loves to travel and his favorite subject is natural beauty.

www.youtube.com/user/rjzucker

Eastman Camera Club Meeting - March 19

You’ll want to come to the Eastman Camera Club meeting Thursday, March 19 for a program on how to improve your landscape photos.  The program is designed to prepare for the outing on March 21 to Clinch Mountain WMA.

The first half of the program will be the following instructional video by Moose Peterson from Kelby One

Landscape Photography – Ground Work

We will follow that with some further pointers by Richard Siggins, discussions, and Q&A.  This should give you some ideas to try out on the 21st or your next photo outing.

 This month we are starting something that we used to do a few years ago.  Each month there will be a photographic theme.   We want you to bring your one or two favorite photos for that theme and share at the meeting.  We will show each one and discuss as a group.  It's a great way to get feedback from your peers.

The theme for the March 19 meeting is Winter images - snow, ice, cold, etc.

You can bring your images in JPEG or TIFF format on a USB thumb drive.   To save time, you can send your images to Richie Hayward before the meeting using dropbox, transferbigfiles, or other online tools for sending large files.   Richie's email address is alba1320@embarqmail.com

Kingsport Spring Spectacular Photography Contest and Exhibition

Announcement from Ann Fortney, Kingsport Spring Spectacular Photography Contest and Exhibition

     Hi, it is that time of year!!!!  The Kingsport Spring Spectacular Photography Contest and Exhibition is gearing up.  I hope everyone has been out taking lots of photos and are ready to show off your talents again this year.  If you are a Facebooker and have not "liked" the Kingsport Spring Spectacular Photography page...please do.  I try to post once a week to show off photos and keep everyone updated.  If you don't Facebook, no worries.  That is why I have your e-mails; to keep you up to date about when the dates, articles, and etc are out.  

     The dates have been set for this year's event and I have them listed below.  For those that haven't heard yet....The Carrie Penley Special Theme for this year is:  "NURSERY RHYMES."  This is a photo depicting a nursery rhyme for example...Little boy blue may be a child in blue with a horn.  Use your imagination and most of all HAVE FUN!!!!

     

THE DATES OF INTEREST

1) Applications will be out by the END OF MARCH in photo labs (Walmart, CVS, Walgreen's, family labs, and etc), matting/framing stores (Carriage House, Up Against the Wall and etc), hobby/craft stores (HobbyLobby, Michael's and etc), some Gift and Specialty Stores (Rainbow's End Floral and Gift Shop, etc), Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Cultural Arts Office in the Kingsport Renaissance Center, Area Libraries, etc

2) Entries dates are: April 20-May 2 at Rainbow's End Floral and Gift Shop 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. on Saturdays.  Deadline is May 2 at 3 p.m.

3) Judging is May 9th from 10 a.m. till finished.  It is open to the public so come and enjoy.

4) The Exhibition will open May 31st at 2 p.m. and will close June 24th at 5 p.m.  It is open during the Kingsport Renaissance Centers regular business hours.

5) The Awards/Reception will be May 31st from 2 p.m. till 4 p.m.  Join us. Enjoy refreshments as we present and recognize this years winners.  

6)  People's Choice award voting will begin May 31st and end June 20 at 3 p.m. Winner will be announced at the Kingsport Renaissance Center at 3:30 p.m. and on Facebook soon after that.

     I look forward, as I always do, to seeing you and what you have taken.  Happy photo shooting, take care and have a great week.  Thank you for your support of me and the Kingpsort Spring Spectacular Photography Contest and Exhibition all these years.

Thank you,

Ann Fortney

Kingsport Spring Spectacular 

Photography Contest and Exhibition

Creator/Organizer

423-914-5453

anniepenjacc2@aol.com 

Travelogue Snowed Out

Mother Nature has thrown up a beautiful roadblock overnight.  The snow looks great, but it's going to keep a lot of people from being able to attend the Travelogue planned for 2/26.   We will reschedule to a new date soon.

Stay warm, stay dry, but get out and take some snow pictures!

**CANCELED** March Eastman Camera Club Field Trip – Clinch Mountain WMA, Saltville, VA Saturday March 21, 2015

This outing is canceled due to the road still being snow covered and closed.

It will be great to get out and photograph after hibernating the long winter.  Everyone is encouraged to attend the March outing to the scenic Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area near Saltville, VA.   The WMA is open Tuesday-Saturday: 9 AM - 5:30 PM.  The state area is the most biologically diverse, due in large part to the vast differences in elevation on the area (1,600 feet to 4,700 feet) covering 25,477-acres) spread across Virginia's southwest highlands.  There are excellent views of the Holston River and Clinch River watersheds. (Click for Map)

Big Falls

Things to Photograph:

• Wildlife photography - deer, bear, turkey, grouse, squirrel, rabbit, beaver, waterfowl, wood duck and bald eagle (sightings at Hidden Valley Lake and at Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Laurel Bed, and South Holston lakes).
• Hiking
• Nature photography
• Wildflowers  (hopefully some will be out)
• Laurel Bed Lake (330-acres)
• Scenic Vistas
• Big Tumbling Creek cascades and large, deep rocky pools along the 7-miles of the creek
• Big Tumbling Creek Falls
• Upper Tumbling Creek Falls
• Twin Hollow Falls
• Big Falls (see above photo)

Big Tumbling Creek

Claire Salvail will be leading this trip.  This will be a full day; Clinch Mountain WMA in the morning and Big Tumbling Creek in the afternoon.  You will need to bring your lunch and beverages, as there is no food available in the WMA.  Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hat, hiking gear in addition to your camera gear.

Meet at the Colonial Heights Ingles parking lot between McDonalds and the Bank at 7:30 AM on Saturday March 21.  It's about a 1-hour drive from Kingsport to Saltville and then additional time to get up Clinch Mountain, so you'll want to carpool as much as possible.   If you plan on driving, make sure that you have gassed your vehicle and eaten/picked up breakfast before you arrive at the pickup point. We will be leaving promptly at 7:30 and will only be stopping for a restroom break near Saltville.

Claire’s contact info is cjs849@outlook.com and her cell phone is 423-557-1306.  Please RSVP if you plan on going on this trip.