Capturing the Essence of Venice: My Bespoke Photography Workshops and Masterclass

Venice, the floating city of unparalleled beauty, has captured the hearts of countless artists, writers, and dreamers throughout history. As a passionate professional photographer, I have always yearned to explore its winding canals, enchanting alleyways, and iconic landmarks through the lens of my camera. Determined to share my love for this mesmerizing city with fellow photography enthusiasts, I embarked on a journey to create bespoke Venice Photography workshops and masterclasses.

Welcome to msecchi.com, where the art of capturing Venice comes to life.

Unveiling the Charm of Venice:

In my workshops, I strive to reveal the true essence of Venice beyond the clichéd postcard images. Venice is a city that thrives on its unique blend of architecture, history, and vibrant culture, and my goal is to empower photographers to capture its hidden gems and authentic moments. Each workshop is meticulously crafted to cater to beginners and advanced photographers, ensuring an enriching experience.

Tailored Experiences:

At msecchi.com, personalization is vital. I understand that every photographer has their style, preferences, and goals. That's why I offer bespoke workshops that can be customized according to individual needs and interests. Whether you're passionate about landscape photography, street photography, or want to experiment with night-time shots, I am here to guide you and help you refine your skills.

The Venice Masterclass:

For those seeking a more immersive experience, I offer exclusive Venice Masterclasses. All my workshops are private, so this intensive program delves deeper into the art of photography, encouraging participants to push their boundaries and unleash their creativity. With a strong emphasis on composition, lighting, and storytelling, the Venice Masterclass takes you on a transformative journey, capturing the soul of Venice in every frame.

Exploring Hidden Corners:

As we wander through the maze-like streets of Venice, I will take you off the beaten path to discover the city's best-kept secrets. From secluded canals adorned with blooming flowers to tucked-away squares brimming with locals' daily life, we will uncover the lesser-known treasures of Venice. Through my guidance, you will learn how to observe, compose, and capture these intimate moments, allowing your photographs to narrate the untold stories of this magical city.

Creating Lasting Memories:

Photography is not just about clicking the shutter; it's about crafting images that evoke emotions and stand the test of time. During our workshops and masterclass, we will focus on technical aspects and developing your artistic vision. I will share my insights, techniques, and post-processing tips to help you elevate your photography to new heights. Together, we will create a collection of images that will become cherished memories of your time in Venice.

Conclusion:

Join me at msecchi.com as we embark on a photographic adventure through Venice's enchanting streets and canals. Whether you're a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced photographer looking to refine your skills, my bespoke workshops and masterclass are designed to offer an unforgettable experience. Let's capture the essence of Venice and bring its timeless beauty to life through our lenses.

Fujifilm Monochrome simulation "Paul Ickovic"

I dedicated a Fujifilm Monochrome simulation to my good friend and colleague Paul Ickovic who passed away while in Prague on May 23rd 2023. https://www.paulickovic.photography/

Thanks, Paul, for all the kind words, good laughs, friendly advice, life lessons, and fabulous tips. I will miss you. ! R.I.P.

What I like about this Monochrome film simulation recipe is that it has a tremendous film-like quality to it. This recipe pairs exceptionally well with vintage lenses.

Here are the settings:

• Acros+R or Monochrome +R

• Dynamic Range: DR100

• Highlight: +3

• Shadow: -2

• Noise Reduction: -3

• Sharpening: +1

• Grain Effect: Strong

• Colour Chrome Effect: Off

• Toning: 0

• White Balance: AWB, 0 Red & +8 Blue

Saying Farewell to Fujifilm: My Journey of Departure and Exploration

Reflecting on the past decade of my photographic journey, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and nostalgia.

Today, I am at a pivotal moment as I bid farewell to Fujifilm. This brand has been integral to my professional life since my first encounter with the iconic X100 over ten years ago. With mixed emotions, I take this opportunity to express my appreciation to Fujifilm for its incredible and transformative journey. However, the time has come to explore new avenues, as recent experiences have left me yearning for a fresh perspective.

Throughout the last 10 years, Fujifilm has played a significant role in shaping my artistic vision, allowing me to capture moments of beauty and emotion with unrivalled precision. I started with the X100 then the X-Pro and XT1 passing through the XH-1. finally, the XT-4, among other models, accompanied me through countless assignments and personal projects, each lens capturing a unique facet of the world around me. I often owned 4 Fujifilm cameras at any given time and at least ten lenses from 10mm to 400mm. Together, we created what I hope is a lovely body of work; I am forever grateful.

However, as an artist, I believe it is vital to listen to the inner voice that propels us forward, urging us to explore new territories. Despite my deep-rooted appreciation for Fujifilm's commitment to excellence and innovation, I have found myself increasingly dissatisfied with the latest offerings from the brand.

The creative fire that once burned brightly within me began to flicker, prompting me to seek inspiration elsewhere.

It is essential to acknowledge that this decision was not made lightly. The process of bidding farewell to a brand that has been integral to my professional and creative journey is bittersweet. The memories we have shared, the images we have crafted together, and the growth I have experienced through these incredible tools will forever remain cherished.

Yet, as I embark on this new chapter, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. The world of photography is vast and ever-evolving, with numerous brands and technologies awaiting exploration. I look forward to discovering new tools that will invigorate my passion, challenge my skills, and enable me to capture moments in ways I have yet to imagine.

In bidding farewell to Fujifilm, I thank the brand for over a decade of support, partnership, and relentless pursuit of photographic excellence. Through this profound journey, I have grown as an artist and honed my craft. As I navigate uncharted waters, I embrace the opportunity to expand my artistic horizons, confident that this departure will begin a new chapter in my photographic narrative.

The path ahead may be uncertain, but one thing remains constant—I am ready to seize the future and continue my pursuit of capturing the world's beauty through a fresh lens.

PS. I have decided for the time being not to make public the brands I have adopted to avoid comparisons and sterile discussions.

Embracing the Monochrome Challenge on the Vibrant Island of Burano

As a photojournalist and fine art photographer who conducts workshops across picturesque European cities like Venice, Ljubljana, and Croatia, I constantly seek new ways to challenge my perspective and inspire the students who attend my sessions. One such challenge I recently undertook with Terry, a fantastic guest and a great photographer, was a black and white photography workshop in the heart of Burano, Italy's most colourful island.

At first glance, it may seem like a counterintuitive idea to focus on black and white photography in a place that is bursting with colour. However, the experience proved enlightening, allowing me and my students to delve deeper into the nuances of composition, texture, and contrast that are so critical to black-and-white photography.

During the workshop, we explored the island's quaint streets and canals, searching for scenes and subjects that would translate well into monochromatic images. Without the distraction of colour, we were forced to think beyond the obvious and consider how elements like light, shadows, and shapes could create a compelling photograph.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this challenge was the opportunity to understand what works and what doesn't in terms of black and white photography. We discovered that certain subjects lent themselves perfectly to a monochromatic treatment, while others lost their impact without the vibrancy of colour. This realization made us all more discerning photographers capable of making thoughtful decisions about when to use black and white versus color.

The vibrant houses of Burano, for example, seemed to lose their charm in grayscale. However, the intricate lacework the island is famous for took on a new life when captured in black and white. The play of light and shadow on the delicate patterns created a sense of depth and intricacy that may have been lost in a colour image.

Ultimately, the black and white workshop challenge in Burano proved to be an enriching experience for all of us. It pushed us to think more critically about our photographic choices and helped us better understand the art of monochrome photography. While it may have seemed like a crazy idea initially, the results were nothing short of fantastic. I encourage every photographer to consider taking on a similar challenge to expand their horizons and hone their skills!

The Art of AI: How Technology is Changing the Future of Photography

In the age of artificial intelligence, traditional art forms are being challenged and transformed. Photography, in particular, is experiencing a wave of innovation and experimentation thanks to the power of machine learning algorithms. While some worry about the impact of AI on the art form, I see it as an opportunity to push the boundaries of what is possible and explore new possibilities.

All Images by JULIE WIELAND - Midjourney v5

PORTRAIT OF AN OLDER MAN SAT IN A COFFEE SHOP, SHOT THROUGH A WINDOW. THIS IMAGE IS STRAIGHT OUT OF MIDJOURNEY V5 | JULIE WIELAND

Today, when machines are learning to see and interpret the world around us, it may seem as though the space for traditional photography is shrinking. However, by analysing AI, we can (re)discover a concrete future for the art form.

With the recent launch of Midjourney V5, a cutting-edge AI model developed by leading tech company OpenAI, the capabilities of machine learning in the realm of visual arts have taken a giant leap forward. Midjourney V5 has been specifically designed to enhance the quality of images and videos by applying advanced algorithms that can automatically adjust and optimise colours, brightness, and contrast, among other things.

While this technological breakthrough undoubtedly has many advantages, some photographers have expressed concern about the impact it may have on the art form. They worry that AI-enhanced images could lead to a homogenisation of visual aesthetics, making it difficult for individual artists to stand out and be recognised for their unique vision.

ONE OF THE IMAGES I CREATED WITH MIDJOURNEY V5

However, others argue that AI could be a tool for artists to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of traditional photography. By understanding how machine learning algorithms work and how they can be applied to images, photographers can create works that are both technically advanced and visually striking.

Moreover, the use of AI in photography can help democratise the art form by making it more accessible to a wider audience. With tools like Midjourney V5, amateur photographers can improve the quality of their images and create professional-looking work without needing years of training and experience.

While the use of AI in photography may impact the industry as a whole, it is unlikely to lead to professional photographers losing their jobs. AI technology can be seen as a tool that can help photographers improve their workflow and enhance the quality of their work.

Professional photographers have a level of skill and expertise that cannot be easily replicated by AI technology. While AI may be able to automate certain aspects of the editing process, it cannot replicate the creative eye and unique perspective that a human photographer brings to the table.

Furthermore, professional photographers often work in areas that require a high level of technical expertise and specialised knowledge, such as commercial photography or photojournalism. In these areas, capturing specific moments or telling a story through images is essential, and AI technology is unlikely to replicate these skills fully.

That being said, the use of AI technology may lead to changes in the industry and how photographers approach their work. For example, photographers may need to adapt their skills and expertise to incorporate AI tools into their workflow, or they may need to find new niches where they can offer unique value beyond what AI can provide.

Overall, while the use of AI technology may bring changes to the industry, it is unlikely to lead to professional photographers losing their jobs. Instead, it may offer opportunities for photographers to enhance their skills and bring new ideas and approaches to their work.

REVOLUTIONIZING THE ART WORLD: VERSION 5 OF THE MIDJOURNEY AI ART GENERATOR

At the same time, AI can also help us understand the world around us in new and exciting ways. By training machines to recognise patterns and interpret images, we can gain insights into how we see and understand the world. For example, machine learning algorithms can identify and track environmental changes over time, helping us better understand issues like climate change and urbanisation.

In short, the rise of artificial intelligence may seem daunting for traditional photographers, but it also presents exciting opportunities for innovation and experimentation. By embracing AI and using it to enhance our artistic vision, we can create technically advanced and visually stunning works while gaining new insights into the world.

STRAIGHT OUT OF MIDJOURNEY V5

For a professional photographer, there are several steps they can take to stay ahead of the curve and not fall behind with the use of AI in photography:

1. Embrace new technologies: Professional photographers should be open to learning about and adopting new technologies, including AI-powered tools. By staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry, they can continue to offer high-quality services to their clients.

2. Develop a unique style and aesthetic: While AI can be used to enhance images, it cannot replicate the creative eye and unique perspective that a human photographer brings to the table. By developing a signature style and aesthetic, professional photographers can differentiate themselves from competitors and offer a unique value proposition to their clients.

3. Focus on specialisation: Professional photographers can also differentiate themselves by focusing on a specific niche or area of expertise, such as commercial photography or photojournalism. By becoming experts in a particular area, they can offer a unique value to clients beyond what AI can provide.

4. Collaborate with AI: Professional photographers can also incorporate AI-powered tools into their workflow to streamline and enhance their work. By using AI to automate certain aspects of the editing process, for example, they can free up time to focus on other aspects of their work, such as composition and lighting.

5. Stay connected with the industry: Finally, professional photographers should stay connected with the industry by attending workshops, conferences, and networking events. This can help them stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry and connect with other professionals who may offer new opportunities and collaborations.

Overall, by staying open to new technologies, developing a unique style and aesthetic, focusing on specialisation, collaborating with AI, and staying connected with the industry, professional photographers can continue to thrive and stay ahead of the curve in the age of AI.

images by JULIE WIELAND

Tips for Building Successful Partnerships on Social Media

Over time I have established interesting partnerships with important companies like Ikea, Range Rover, Tesla, Relais & Chateaux, several five-star hotels and top restaurants to mention some, and I am often asked what my “secret” is ….. so I decided to write a short post!.

As social media becomes an increasingly vital aspect of modern business, many companies are seeking partnerships with social media influencers and agencies to help them promote their brand and reach new audiences. If you want to secure interesting partnerships and contracts representing successful companies on social media, consider the following advice:

Define Your Market Position and Brand

Before attracting partnerships and contracts with thriving businesses, you must have a firm grasp of your niche and brand identity. What distinguishes you from other social media influencers and firms? Which subjects or industries are you most enthusiastic about? What values do you want to associate with your brand? By defining your niche and brand identity, you can generate a compelling value proposition to attract social media partner-seeking businesses.

Develop a Powerful Social Media Presence

You must have a robust social media presence to attract partnerships and contracts with prosperous businesses. This involves building a following on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn and producing content that resonates with your target audience. Be consistent with your social media posts, interact with your followers, and demonstrate your expertise and personality. A strong social media presence will increase your appeal to businesses seeking social media partners.

Investigate and Identify Possible Partners

Once you have a solid social media presence and a clear understanding of your niche and brand identity, you can begin researching and identifying potential partners. Consider companies that share your values and interests and a similar target market. Introduce yourself and your company to them via email, social media, or a shared connection. Be sure to emphasise what you can offer and how you can help them achieve their marketing objectives.

Create a Compelling Proposal

When pitching your services to potential partners, it is essential to create a persuasive proposal that demonstrates your expertise and value. This should include information regarding your audience's demographics, engagement rates, and previous partnerships and campaigns. Be specific about how you can assist the organisation in achieving its marketing objectives, and provide examples of how you have done so in the past. A well-written proposal can help you differentiate yourself from other social media partners and increase your chances of securing a contract.

Develop Solid Relationships

In order to secure lucrative partnerships and contracts representing successful companies on social media, developing strong relationships with your partners is essential. This includes being responsive to their needs, delivering on your promises, and communicating openly and transparently. Consider your alliances long-term relationships, and focus on establishing trust and adding value over time. Thus, you can establish yourself as a valuable social media partner and attract future opportunities that are even more exciting.

In conclusion, securing interesting partnerships and contracts on social media while representing successful businesses requires a combination of strategic planning, strong execution, and relationship-building skills. You can increase your chances of success and attract even more exciting opportunities by defining your niche and brand identity, establishing a solid social media presence, researching and identifying potential partners, developing a compelling proposal, and fostering strong relationships with your partners.

The Timeless Appeal of Photographs: Exploring Their Lifespan and Preservation

I was chatting and joking with an Italian friend and colleague today when he said. “Le fotografie non hanno data di scadenza!” (Photographs do not have an expiry date)….. and it made me think…so here is my take!

Photographs are often considered to be timeless, as they capture a moment in time that can be preserved and viewed for many years to come. However, photos do have a shelf life, and their longevity can depend on a variety of factors.

The lifespan of a photograph can be influenced by the quality of the materials used to produce it. Photos printed on low-quality paper, for example, may deteriorate over time and become discolored or faded. Similarly, photos printed with inkjet printers may not last as long as those printed with traditional photographic processes like silver halide printing.

Environmental factors can also impact the lifespan of a photograph. Exposure to light, heat, and humidity can cause photographs to degrade over time. For example, storing photographs in a damp basement or attic can lead to mold growth and damage to the image. Similarly, displaying photographs in direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration.

Finally, the format in which a photograph is stored can also impact its longevity. Digital photos can be easily backed up and stored in multiple locations, which can help ensure their preservation. However, digital storage formats can become outdated over time, making it difficult to access older photos. In contrast, printed photographs can be physically damaged or lost, but they can also be more easily accessed and enjoyed.

In conclusion, while photographs may be considered timeless in the sense that they capture a moment in time that can be preserved for generations, their longevity is not guaranteed. The quality of the materials used to produce them, environmental factors, and the storage format can all impact the lifespan of a photograph. Therefore, it is important to take steps to properly store and protect photographs to ensure their preservation for years to come.

Vero True Social: The Good..The Bad and the Ugly!

For the past six months I dedicated most of my Social Media Time to Vero True Social. I have been on this platform since 2018 but never spent much time on it and decided I had to concentrate and give it a real try!

I love the design; I think it has excellent vibes; I think the owner/ founder is great and I like is philosophy…..so I really wanted to make it work for me.

I really needed a new social media home!

Certainly, as a journalist, I found that Vero True Social had some unique features, such as the ability to sort posts into different categories and the "collections" feature which allowed me to group together related content. These features made it easier to organize my content and showcase my work in a more visually appealing way.

However, I also found that the platform had a high turnover rate of accounts opening and closing. This was frustrating because it made it difficult to establish a stable network of followers. As soon as I started to gain traction and gain followers, some of them would close their accounts, which meant that I would have to start from scratch again.

In addition, I found that the rate of followers and engagements on Vero True Social was relatively low compared to other social media platforms. This made gaining visibility for my content and attracting a large audience difficult.

Finally, the lack of analytics on the platform was a significant drawback for me. I rely heavily on data to inform my work, and the absence of this feature made it difficult to understand my audience and measure the success of my content. Without analytics, I could not know which posts were performing well and which were not, making it difficult to optimize my content and reach a wider audience.

While Vero True Social had some unique features, the high turnover rate of accounts, low engagement rates, and absence of analytics ultimately made it an unsustainable platform for me. As such, I've decided to focus my efforts on other social media platforms that provide a more stable and engaging environment for me to connect with my audience and share my work.

Prešeren Day 8th February

France Prešeren (1800-1849) was a Slovenian poet, considered the greatest poet and a cultural icon of Slovenian identity. He is widely regarded as the father of Slovenian poetry and a symbol of Slovenian cultural and national revival.

Born in the small town of Vrba, Prešeren showed a talent for language and poetry from an early age. He studied law in Vienna and later worked as a lawyer in Ljubljana. Despite his successful career, Prešeren devoted much of his time to writing poetry. His work reflects a deep appreciation for nature, a passion for freedom and a love of country.

Prešeren's most famous work is a collection of sonnets called "The Trilogy of Love," which includes the poems "A Toast," "The Tears of the Prodigal," and "The Matches." These poems express the poet's love for a woman named Julija, and his disappointment and heartbreak when she marries another man. Despite this, Prešeren continued to write beautiful and powerful poems that capture the essence of love and human emotion.

In addition to his love poetry, Prešeren also wrote political poems that reflected the Slovenian people's desire for independence and freedom. He strongly supported the idea of a unified Slovenia, and his poems inspired the Slovenian people to fight for their rights and their country.

Prešeren's legacy continues to live on in Slovenia, and he is celebrated every year on the 8th of February as "Prešeren Day," a national holiday in Slovenia. His poems have been translated into numerous languages and his impact on Slovenian literature and culture cannot be overstated. He remains an important figure in Slovenian history and a source of national pride for the Slovenian people.

In conclusion, France Prešeren was a visionary poet whose works captured the essence of love, freedom, and national identity. He remains an inspiration to all Slovenians and a symbol of their cultural heritage.

In Ljubljana there's the Preseren Monument with Preseren statue looking across the square towards his girlfriend's balcony. Sitting on the monument gives you a perfect view!

Ljubljana in Monochrome Exhibition

Ljubljana in Monochrome Exhibition. opening in Krizevniska, Ljubljana

December 23rd at 6pm

My Photozine is for sale here https://www.msecchi.com/photo-zines/ljubljana-in-monochrome

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Visit Venice

The magical city of canals and bridges will come to life at nighttime with the illumination of the bridges and boats all dressed up in colourful lights & lanterns. At this time of year, you can also enjoy a romantic stroll along the banks of the canal as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Canal.

There are fewer tourists at this time of year as the summer crowds have left, and the restaurants and shops are less crowded.

You will get a much more authentic experience of the city, especially if you're planning on visiting one of the museums and sights, as they generally have fewer visitors during the winter months. It is also cheaper and more convenient to find accommodation as it is off-season and many hotels are much cheaper during this time.

The city becomes even more romantic at night with live music from the cafes and small bars.

The weather during winter in Venice will be a bit cold (average temperature of 38°F (3°C) in January and 41°F in February), but visiting Venice in winter is quite enjoyable. Always keep yourself warm and dry during your stay in Venice.

Winter in Venice is generally between December to February, but months such as November and March can feel wintery in Venice as well. Winter in Venice means Christmas decorations and Carnival, a foggy fairy-tale world, and the occurrence of snow and lesser crowds to fight. The skies are clearer, which means you can see beautiful sunsets over the canal.

Venice is also beautifully decorated in winter, with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations throughout the city. Some many shops and cafés are open year-round, where you can relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

A visit to Venice during the winter can be very relaxing and enjoyable as you don't get as many tourists, and it can be very easy to escape the tourist areas and explore parts of the city that are usually closed to the public in summer

Quitting Amazon KDP

I recently published a book on Amazon KDP that is now blocked for copyright. The photozine is a collection of aprox 30 images of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Images that I have taken during the years.

This is although I am the sole photographer of all the images and of course, I do own the copyright. Worst service ever! I am just about to give up on this project because I don't want to go through this hell again and waste all my time on this madness.

I never had a problem with any of the pictures before on Amazon KDP. I have sold several books of my work on Amazon. No one had ever complained about the pictures in those books either.

What happened? I have no idea. I have made several requests to explain the reasoning of the decision, but no one from Amazon has responded. I have sent to them all the info they may need showing them that these are my images, I have sent the cuts from newspapers and websites where they show I was the photographer.

The score is that the book is not available on Amazon anymore but you can buy a much better quality on my website and is here or on Etsy and is here

During the next few weeks, I will remove all my books from Amazon and sell them only on my website and Etsy

Concentrating on Flipboard and Vero

Social Media

A few months ago, I made a major change to my social media strategy. I stopped actively using Instagram and Facebook, automatically posting only and concentrating on Flipboard and Vero.

I initially decided to abandon Instagram and Facebook because I felt like their platforms were too saturated. Many of the people I followed were posting content that didn't appeal to me, and hadn't posted in weeks or even months. As a result, I wasn't getting much value from the platform. So, I decided to try out some new platforms and focus on the ones I thought would better fit my brand and audience.

I'm pretty happy with my decision to switch things up. My engagement on these platforms has increased substantially, and my follower count has also grown. Now I feel like my social media strategy is more focused on what I want to achieve as a business, resulting in more meaningful connections with my followers and increased revenue for my business.

I used to post many photos on Instagram and Facebook, but my posts got lost in the shuffle. I spent more time creating engaging and exciting posts than growing my business and connecting with my customers.

The Instagram algorithm made it challenging to follow friends' content unless you paid for it or followed many accounts, which meant that many people weren't seeing my updates or following me on the platform. At first, this was a bit of a disappointment for me. But over time, I realized that I could focus my attention and energy elsewhere - like on other platforms where I knew people would see my content and give me valuable feedback.

I found Flipboard a great app to promote my blog and posts, curate exciting content, and reach a wider audience. The app is easy to use and free, which made it appealing to me as a small business owner with a limited marketing budget. I got excellent results when I used the platform to grow my brand.

Vero the Social Video Platform, was created by Ayman Hariri, and is a no spam no algorithm one so hopefully at least at present no “Instagram risk”

Engagement is more than counting your views or followers. It's about measuring the interactions that your audience makes with your content!

You can follow me on

FLIPBOARD https://flipboard.com/@msecchi

VERO https://vero.co/marcosecchi

Elizabeth

The Queen is one of the world's most iconic and well-known figures. She has been the monarch of England for over sixty years, and during that time, she has seen many changes.

These are my favourite images of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,

Colour Photozine on Amazon with 90gr Paper

You can find it now on our website here: Elizabeth or ETSY. both 150gr Paper

`

Queen Elizabeth II - Portraits

Few of my portraits of HM Queen Elizabeth II

Photographing Fall Foliage

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year and photographing it can be a joy. There are so many different types of fall foliage to photograph, and the best place to find it is often just around the corner. Here are just a few ideas to get you started on your autumn photography journey.

Where is the best place to photograph fall foliage?

The best places to photograph fall foliage are always nearby (usually only a few miles) from where you live. The further you travel to get to a park or scenic location, the less likely you are to get great shots – especially if you're on a family vacation or other vacation.

A popular place to photograph fall foliage is The Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, England. It contains plenty of woodlands and has views of the surrounding hills. Another good option is Joppa Flats in Maryland, which is surrounded by picturesque woodlands and farms. Try visiting these locations during golden hour for the best light conditions.

Brown also suggests visiting nearby small towns that have more scenic overlooks and are less crowded. Some of my favorites are Stone Mountain in Georgia and Pawtuckaway State Park in New Hampshire. Stone Mountain has a large, rocky outcropping covered in trees that gives a great view of the surrounding area. Pawtuckaway State Park has lots of open fields for fall foliage photos.

Another great idea for photographing fall foliage is to get off the beaten path and visit an out of the way park or local hiking trail. These places often have better views than popular spots like parks and trails in cities and other tourist destinations. Brown also suggests getting low and close to your foreground subjects. This can give your pictures a unique perspective and create a stronger composition. Make sure you watch out for distracting elements in the background when shooting. For example, if your subject is a tree, make sure there aren't other trees behind it taking up space in the frame.

"Show the subject in its environment."

Many photographers make the mistake of composing their shots in such a way that nothing interesting appears in the photo except the subject itself. A good example of this is the classic portrait of a person sitting in front of a beautiful mountain scene. When looking at this photo, all you can see are the person and the mountain, with nothing particularly interesting in the foreground. Brown suggests pointing the camera down slightly so that the subject is framed by the environment. This can make your photos more interesting and help draw attention to the subject.

Best camera setting to capture autumn foliage is Aperture Priority mode on a DSLR camera. This allows you to set your camera's aperture based on the type of shot you want to create and the lighting conditions in your scene. For example, Anne McKinnell suggests setting your camera to Aperture Priority mode, selecting an aperture of f/8 and a shutter speed of 1/500th second in bright lighting situations. This combination allows you to blur out the background and create an image with strong contrast between the subject and its background.

References

1. 10 Tips for Shooting Autumn Foliage (https://www.nikonusa.com/en/learn-and-explore/a/tips-and-techniques/10-tips-for-shooting-autumn-foliage.html)

2. Photographing Fall Foliage: Prediction Maps, Locations, & Tips (https://enviragallery.com/photograph-fall-foliage/)

3. The 20 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States (https://www.marthastewart.com/2123839/best-destinations-fall-foliage-united-states)

4. Stone Mountain Park (https://discoveratlanta.com/things-to-do/outdoors/stone-mountain-park/)

5. 15 Tips for Photographing Fall Colors (https://www.maxfosterphotography.com/gallery/tips-for-photographing-fall-colors/)

6. How To Take Better Vacation Photos: 15 Composition Tips (https://www.travelawaits.com/2687170/how-to-take-better-vacation-pictures/)

7. Get Low and Aim High – How to Use Low-Angle Photography to Great Effect (https://digital-photography-school.com/get-low-and-aim-high-how-to-use-low-angle-photography-to-great-effect/)

8. Photographing Fall Foliage (https://digital-photography-school.com/photographing-fall-foliage/)

Reasons why I left Instagram for Flipboard and Vero

Instagram has been a huge part of my life for the past 10 or more years. I've been using it to capture moments and connect with friends and family. But recently, their changes have made it difficult for me to use the app how I want. So I decided to move over to another app called Vero, which offers more control and privacy than Instagram. It's also much more aesthetically pleasing. Plus, I like the fact that it now allows me to have multiple "stories" per day instead of just one. Now I can post photos, videos, articles, and even music! I also enjoy the fact that I can follow other accounts on Vero as well. Finally, I found an app that lets me share the things I'm passionate about without feeling like it's taking over my life!

When I signed up for an Instagram a long. I never thought it would one day become my main source of entertainment and information. It has allowed me to connect with others who share similar interests, but it's also introduced me to many new things that I would have never known about otherwise. It has allowed me to see the world through someone else's eyes, which is something I've never been able to do before.

But all of that is changing now thanks to recent changes to Instagram's policies. These have made it difficult for me to express my opinions and connect with people how I want to.

Endless algorithm updates, favouring short form over long-form content, constant changes to the interface, and increasing pressure to lean into short-form video content -
Long story short is I’m TIRED of it.

And now that I've discovered another app that allows me to post what I want without censoring my content, it feels like a breath of fresh air. I'm much happier now that I'm using Vero instead of Instagram!

You can find me here https://vero.co/marcosecchi

I am also dedicating more time to Flipboard that I have been using for quite a few years and that I love and find brilliant

Flipboard is a unique social networking app that allows users to combine content from various sources into personalised magazines. The app is incredibly user-friendly and offers a variety of features that make it an ideal platform for staying up to-date on current events and staying informed on topics of interest. Here are four reasons why I love using Flipboard (in no particular order):

1. Access content from a wide variety of sources - Flipboard has partnerships with thousands of publishers and news organizations, allowing its users to access articles from virtually any source they choose. This includes traditional media outlets such as the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, Fox News, etc., as well as popular blogs and websites such as ESPN, the Huffington Post, BuzzFeed, and Reddit. And because the app is cloud-based, you can access your content from virtually anywhere at any time.

2. Easily access the content you care about - In addition to accessing content from a wide variety of sources, Flipboard allows you to organize your articles based on various categories. This way, you can quickly access all of the articles that interest you without browsing through many irrelevant articles and ads. This allows you to tailor your experience to suit your specific needs and interests.

3. Follow interesting people and read their content - Because you can follow interesting people and subscribe to their publications, Flipboard makes it easy to stay up to date on their favourite topics and posts. You can scan your newsfeed for headlines that pique your interest and click through to read the full article when you find something you like. This saves you time and effort compared to reading countless news articles to find something that catches your eye.

4. Share your reading experience with your community - Flipboard has a social component that allows you to share your reading experiences with other community members. For example, you can post links to your favourite articles and share them with your friends and family on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Similarly, you can comment on other people's posts and share your thoughts on topics that interest you. This provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other like-minded people and share your opinions with others who are interested in the same issues as you are. This enables you to expand your social circle and engage with other members of the community who share the same interests as you.

You can find me here https://flipboard.com/@msecchi

Where to get unique Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a genus of thorny ornamental vines, bushes, and trees with flower-like spring leaves near its flowers. Different authors accept between four and 18 species in the genus. The name comes from Louis Antoine de Bougainville, an admiral who discovered the plant in Brazil in 1768.

Due to their ease of care and propagation, as well as their tolerance for drought, bougainvillaea are a very popular landscaping plant in subtropical and tropical climates but will survive brief drops below freezing. For example, Locarno in Switzerland has displayed two large specimens outside the Villa Mairea (Alvar Aalto) since 1950. They are now about 25 m high and have been pollarded to form a tree.

The plants are relatively pest free, have no major disease problems, and tolerate light frost with little damage to the plant. Their high salt tolerance makes them ideal for planting around coastal areas. In the landscape, it makes an excellent hot season plant, and its drought tolerance makes it ideal for warm climates year-

I fell in love with this plant a few years back but I noticed it is not easy to find unique varieties, finally I found a fantastic place that stocks some unique variety and they are very good in shipping in Europe

Lots of photos and nice descriptions of the flowers

My favourite bougainvillaea is white, but they have also other colours.

www.bougainvilleawebshop.com

“This is NOT a sponsored blog post, and all opinions are my own”:

How to spot fake photos online

Sometimes the internet is full of so much information that it can be hard to know what is real and what isn’t.

This is particularly true in delicate times like the present days.

When it comes to news stories, sometimes they are just not true. However, sometimes photos can be used manipulated to make it look as though a story is real, even when it isn’t. Today we are going to look at some tips you can use to spot fake photos online in seconds.

A picture that is currently widely shared and that made me write this post is the following one

As photojournalist, I have quite few brave colleagues at the moment in Ukraine documenting the war, when I saw this image so many things did not feel right. so the result is that

it was not taken in these recent days. This picture was part of a photoshoot for the Ukrainian army celebrating 27 years.

It is probably a real picture but staged and edited.

The photographer Dmitry Muravsky was dismissed by the Ukraine Defence Minister in 2016 over staged photographs.

It is being shared as a current photo on Twitter and other Social Media outlets.

---

This is another image went viral in these hype times.

• The picture is nearly 2 years old

• The gun is a toy (see label)

• Image was staged

How to spot fake photos online

You can spot fake photos online in seconds if you know what to look for. The majority of the time, fake photos are used for a comedic effect. However, sometimes people will use fake photos to prove a point that is not true and make it appear as though it is true.

The first thing you should always do when you come across a photo that looks suspicious is doing a reverse Google image search. This allows you to see where the image has been used before and will often show you if it is real or fake. If you manage check for the Metatada.

• Google : https://www.google.com/imghp?hl=en

• Yandex : https://yandex.com/images/

While it is easy for people to create fake images today, there are also ways you can spot them. Here are some tips you can use to spot fake photos on the internet:

1. The first thing you are going to want to do is to look at the image itself. Images that have a resolution that looks too high, or too low can be a sign of a fake photo.

2. The next thing you are going to want to look at is the background. If it looks too ‘perfect’, this could be a sign that something is wrong with the photo.

3. Now we are going to look at the foreground of the image. Look for things that might not look right or objects that might have been copied and pasted into the image in order to make it seem more interesting.

4. Now we are going to look at any text in the image, do they look like they were added by a human or was there some sort of text generator used? If it looks like the text was added in an unprofessional way, then this is most likely a sign that the image has been faked.

5. If you see an image that has things such as lens flare or other special effects in them, see if they seem too perfect or not real enough to be true, sometimes these effects can be manipulated online using software, so if it doesn’t look quite right, then it’s probably fake!

6. Look for shadows and reflections, do the match? Is there continuity??

Finally think from a photojournalistic and news point of view. If is to perfect and it looks staged it is probably staged.

Ljubljana: Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!

Ljubljana is tonight going to sleep covered in a soft mantel of snow!

You can check the small gallery below, making it a full size and scrolling through the images with the side arrows.