January Meetings

The Photography Basics User’s Group will be meeting January 7, at 6:30 p.m. There is social time to start. Photography as Art (abstract, reflections, still life, or whatever you choose) was suggested as a subject to shoot and share at this meeting. Bring any photos you want help with for the January open assignment. As always questions and comments from the group are encouraged.

fStops Monthly Meeting and critique will be January 14, at 6:30 p.m. Our judge will be Kelvin Egott and the assignment is open. The assignment for February has not yet been determined.

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting January 21, at 6:30 p.m. The basic agenda includes social time to start and then we can work on whatever we want. Please bring your questions and tips to the meeting and share.


I wish you all a healthy and safe 2021,  Lloyd Delaney

December Meeting

Christopher Broughton was our December judge with Black and White as the assignment. We had 34 excellent submissions. Here are Christopher’s comments after selecting the top three images:
“As always it was my pleasure and you have a nice group. Thanks for the invite and always keep me in mind if I can ever help out with all your photography pursuits.  This is not fair because they are all 1st place in my mind, just different categories.  But if I must...”

1st is “Walking with my Dog” by Linda Pagter
2nd is “Underwater, a Reflection” by Dan Katz
3rd is “Sparrow Silhouette” by Bill Debley

We had Tom Raymondson, as a guest from the Ukiah Photo Club. He is visiting other clubs to get ideas for his group. Here are his comments after our meeting:
Thanks so much for letting me join your meeting last night. Great photographs! I’m not sure if it was intended, but I saw a pandemic theme - funeral, empty hallway and Ferris wheel, communicating on a cell phone, walking alone down a road - with a glimpse of the other side - the crowd around the cyclists and (my favorite) the live concert. I was impressed by the level of detail in Christopher’s critiques as well as his obvious love of photography. I especially appreciate his observation about the photographer’s responsibility to frame the shot after considering various POVs (that wasn’t previously in my vocabulary but I guess it is now). When our club does critiques one of my most frequent observations has been that the camera needed to be moved slightly left or right or up or down.
Other impressions that might translate well to our club (much smaller, typically around 10 participants at a meeting):

• Your designated social time. Our meetings usually start like that and eventually drift into the content.
• I’ll have to ask our DSLR shooters and mirrorless shooters about the difference in noticing lens flare and whether that has been an issue.
• Some photos look better small? I hadn’t thought about that.
• Switching eyes for composing? I’ll have to try that.
• Critiquing our Worst Image. Brilliant!

Thanks again for inviting me. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and that you can soon get out to take pictures as well as meet in-person.

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting December 17, at 6:30 p.m. The basic agenda includes social time to start and then we can work on whatever we want. Please bring your questions and tips to the meeting and share.

Time: Dec 17, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

I wish you all a healthy and safe Holiday Season,  Lloyd Delaney

Fellow Photographers
The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting November 19, at 6:30 p.m.  The basic agenda includes social time to start and then we can work on black and white conversions.  As always questions and comments from the group are encouraged.  
Topic: Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User Group
Time: Nov 19, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time 

The November meeting was judged by Christopher Broughton.  He did a short presentation on Black and White photography, our assignment for December.  The meeting was recorded and is available on our website.  First place was taken by Norm Spiegler, second by Terry Mercer and Dan Katz came in third.  Here is the link:
http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/2020-november-submissions.html
Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

User Group Updates

The Photography Basics user group will meet next on December 3 at 6:30 p.m.  The starting topic will be frames and their use as a composition tool.  Go through your images and have two samples of how you have used frames in your pictures.  This is a  great place to share your work.  Here is the link:
Topic: Photographic Basic user group 
Time: Dec 3, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) 
Join Zoom Meeting 

Fellow Photographers
Our monthly meeting will be be judged by Christopher Broughton.  He will do a short presentation on Black and White photography, our assignment for December.  Here is the link for the meeting:

Time: Nov 12, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting

Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

User Group Updates

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop user group will meet Thursday, November 19 at 6:30 p.m.  Here is the link:
Topic: Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User Group 
Time: Nov 19, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) 
Join Zoom Meeting 

The Photography Basics user group will meet next on December 3 at 6:30 p.m.  The starting topic will be frames and their use as a composition tool.  Go through your images and have two samples of how you have used frames in your pictures.  This is a  great place to share your work.  Here is the link:
Topic: Photographic Basic user group 
Time: Dec 3, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) 
Join Zoom Meeting 

Fellow Photographers
The first virtual meeting of fStops Photography Basics Group will be held Thursday night November 5 at 7:00 pm.  This is a new option focused on the basic principles of photography and encouraging members to share their images and feedback.  Check it out!
Time: Nov 5, 2020 07:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84386607840?pwd=RDJFQnpuNUdxaTltb3JuQUNpSDlBdz09
Meeting ID: 843 8660 7840    Passcode: 517080
Terry Mendelson and Sharon Sega will be co hosting the meeting.  The subject for discussion will be leading lines, one of the basics of composition.  Anyone interested in participation can present images on this topic.  You may also share other images that do not meet the topic if you wish.  There is no need to just stick to the topic.  Any submission is fine.  There will be no judge but peer review will be encouraged.  As this is geared to the beginner and inclusive to all, we would the review be of a positive nature of each image, rather than picking it apart.  We also encourage discussing how the image can be improved from your perspective.  In that way we can encourage participation by some members who may have been reluctant to participate in the regular fStops meeting before a critical professional judge.  We look forward to your participation.  There are some images that serve as examples attached to this email. Thank you

Monthly Meeting November 12
Christopher Broughton is returning as our judge.  The assignment for December will be announced during the meeting.  For November, he will be judging whatever you decide to submit. Be sure to send in your submissions by Monday evening, November 9.   I look forward to seeing you and your images there.

Topic: fStops Monthly Zoom Meeting
Time: Nov 12, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89750968064?pwd=aUpFVUlOVC9tbU51ZlpEQVZlVnNGUT09

Meeting ID: 897 5096 8064
Passcode: 912642
Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

Fellow Photographers
The first virtual meeting of fStops Photography Basics Group will be held Thursday night November 5 at 6:30 pm.  This is a new option focused on the basic principles of photography and encouraging members to share their images and feedback.  Check it out!

Time: Nov 5, 2020 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84386607840?pwd=RDJFQnpuNUdxaTltb3JuQUNpSDlBdz09
Meeting ID: 843 8660 7840    Passcode: 517080

Terry Mendelson and Sharon Sega will be co hosting the meeting.  The subject for discussion will be leading lines, one of the basics of composition.  Anyone interested in participation can present images on this topic.  You may also share other images that do not meet the topic if you wish.  There is no need to just stick to the topic.  Any submission is fine.  There will be no judge but peer review will be encouraged.  As this is geared to the beginner and inclusive to all, we would the review be of a positive nature of each image, rather than picking it apart.  We also encourage discussing how the image can be improved from your perspective.  In that way we can encourage participation by some members who may have been reluctant to participate in the regular fStops meeting before a critical professional judge.  We look forward to your participation.  There are some images that serve as examples attached to this email. Thank you

Other Announcements

Lisa Langell is providing a free webinar on High Key Photography.  The presentation is scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  You must register using this link to attend the event: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/photograph-nature-in-high-key-style-fstops-camera-club-tickets-116170720753   
Here is a link to her website: https://www.langellphotography.com/
​
Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

Fellow Photographers
Lesley Krane did another great job judging the high and low key photography assignment at our October meeting.  There were many great images to see.  Below are the award winners.  Go to the assignment page on our website to see all the photos.  The video of the meeting was recorded and can be found there as well.

Photo Pills Webinar with Tim Grey
Here is the link to the webinar that was held last Monday evening featuring Tim Grey going through some of the features of the PhotoPills app.  
https://youtu.be/TN-3Jh-yoz0
Tim runs a website: http://www.timgreyphoto.com   It includes photographic information and learning opportunities.  Ask Tim Grey is a place where he answers a question about photography every day.  He also has a lecture series called
 Grey Learning. Feel free to share the link to the recording with any other photographers who you think might enjoy the presentation.

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting October 15, at 6:30 p.m.  The basic agenda includes social time to start, a demonstration of techniques, and addressing questions from the group.   A link will sent to user group members prior to the meeting.  If you would like to join this group, send an email using the comment section at the bottom of any of the fStop website pages.

Lisa Langell will provide a free webinar on High Key Photography.  The presentation is scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  You must register using this link to attend the event: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/photograph-nature-in-high-key-style-fstops-camera-club-tickets-116170720753   
Here is a link to her website: https://www.langellphotography.com/
​
Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

​Fellow Photographers
Lesley Krane will be judging high and low key photography at our meeting this week.  You may submit up to two images by Monday October, 5.  8 p.m. is the cutoff time.
Here is the information to log onto this Thursday’s Zoom Meeting.  You will need to use the passcode shown below to join the meeting.  The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. for informal sharing.  Judging will begin after announcements after 7:00 p.m. 

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting October 15, at 6:30 p.m.  The basic agenda includes social time to start, a demonstration of techniques, and addressing questions from the group.   A link will sent to user group members prior to the meeting.  If you would like to join this group, send an email using the comment section at the bottom of any of the fStop website pages.

Lisa Langell will provide a free webinar on High Key Photography.  The presentation is scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  You must register using this link to attend the event: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/photograph-nature-in-high-key-style-fstops-camera-club-tickets-116170720753   
Here is a link to her website: https://www.langellphotography.com/

Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Here is the link to the contest:  http://ipc-photocontest.com

​Looking into the future
The board put together a steering committee to plan for the coming year.  Here is their report below:

Steering Committee Meeting Report
Attended by Sharon Sega, Lloyd Delaney, Ron Goodman, Terry Mercer , Glyn Sun and Dan Katz
How are we going to meet our goals in the next 12 months?  The goals are to promote socialization, inspiration, education, recognition, and enjoyment.
It was agreed that we need to have two plans because of the pandemic. 
​
Without ability to meet in person as a large group indoors.

• Until we are able to meet in person, we continue to use zoom for our monthly meetings and for the Adobe User Group.  Based on the survey results from our members, the current format is working and is improving as we gain experience with online meetings.
• fStops will pay for a basic Zoom package (~$15/month).  This way we can have several hosts and expand our User Group options.  This is about the same cost as our annual rent for the Village.
• Create a private Facebook Group for the membership.
  • Participation requires that members have created a Facebook page.  Some people may not want to do this.  We need to see how this progresses.
  • Members can post their images and receive feedback from their peers.
  • Members can state their intention to go for a shoot and see who would like to meet them there.  They can work out the time, date, and other details.
  • We need to explore how this platform can work for us.

When we are able to meet as a large group indoors.

• Find a new location for meeting.
  • The Encino Community Center is an option.  I have made contact and there is a chance that it will be both available and rent free
  • Ron is checking on another option for a possible meeting site.
• A majority of people responding to the survey said they would like to continue having about half of our meetings online.  They go faster, there is no need to drive/park.  However, they want to be able to be together in person as well.
• Offer events that include mini workshops on techniques and places to shoot for assignments.

What Else?

• Dues primarily cover the cost of the judges and our few operating costs.  Keep them at $40 and if need be ask members for more if location expense is an issue.
• People are really pleased with the low cost classes offered by Natasha Calzatti.  Many people have taken the classes because they are inexpensive and have benefited from them.
• Webinars are an option.  We have now had one with Kah-Wai Lin and the attendance was over 30 and included people from VPC.  There is another scheduled for October.
• Keep the Adobe Users Group meeting on line and work to improve how it works for the members.
• There is a feature using Zoom where people who can watch a video together and then have a discussion.  It seems worth pursuing.
• It was suggested that we have a forum for members to present a limited portfolio of their images and provide a commentary.  There could be a sign up and then do a meeting devoted to this.  One member said another group does this with up to 12 images on a topic chosen by the presenter and they are able to do several portfolios in an hour.
• Until we can have in person meetings the printed image is going to have to be on “hold”.  The logistics of getting prints to a judge and back again is too difficult.
• I have added our current roster of judges to the MailChimp mailing list.  It is good to keep them informed and engaged with us.

Survey Response 
20/40 members responded to the first mailing and an additional 10 to the second mailing.

• 70% have attended at least one zoom meeting.  Those not attending mostly said they were busy doing other things.
• 80% of those attending rated the meeting with a 7 or higher on a 10 point scale.  What they liked best was the quality of the judging and the insights, the convenience of meeting online and being able to see friends during the pandemic.  Their suggestions  for improvement included better coordination with the judge, eliminate scoring because the comments are enough, and offer time for social interaction.
• What format should the meetings be in when the pandemic ends?  44% said in person only.  1 person online only and 52% said half online and half in person.  There were a couple of suggestions to have the meetings in person with an online option.
• Other feedback included thank you for the classes with Natasha, don’t lose the printed presentation, and thank to the board for what we are doing.

Take Care,
Lloyd Delaney

Fellow Photographers
Tim Grey ~ Photo Planning with PhotoPills
October 5th @ 5:00 pm PDT
A 45-minute presentation followed by a 15 minute Q & A
As long as you sign up you will have access to the recording to view at a later time, even if you somehow could not make the presentation.

This is a free lecture by Tim Grey Monday night recommended by Terry Mendelson.  Terry says, “I have known him for more than 20 years.  He worked for the famous photographer, George Lepp and was his print master and jack of all trades. He taught numerous classes on Photoshop and Lightroom.  His lectures are clear and concise, and easily understood.  I highly recommend attending this event.”
Here is the link to sign up for the webinar:  https://www.meetup.com/Nature-Photography-Group-of-the-Central-Coast-of-CA/events/273320364/

Tim runs a website: http://www.timgreyphoto.com   It includes a lot of photographic information and learning opportunities.  Ask Tim Grey is a place where he answers a question about photography every day.  He also has a lecture series called Grey learning. 
Happy viewing!

Fellow Photographers
​
Lesley Krane will be our judge for the next two meetings .  The assignment for September is open.  The meeting will be Thursday September 10 starting at 6:30 for members to have an open chat and the formal meeting will begin at 7 p.m.  Lesley will be presenting her thoughts on high and low key photography, our assignment for October.  Then she will judge the open images.
Be sure to check your email from fStops Announcments for ZOOM ID#
​
Numeric Scoring Guide:
Below is our updated scoring guide, which goes into effect with this week’s meeting.  It has changed to provide greater clarity for both judges and our members.
10
  An outstanding image that is technically flawless and makes an impact that captivates the viewer.

9
 A superb image with a minor distraction that nearly meets the criteria for a “10”

8
An image exhibiting a very high skill level and impact that can be improved in one or more ways

7
A solid image that is technically sound and clearly makes an impact, but needs some improvement

6
An image that has several opportunities for improvement.
Disqualified means that the image does not meet the assignment.  It cannot be considered for an award.  The judge can still provide a critique for the image.

​Dr. Kah-Wai Lin, a professional landscape photographer, presented a great webinar on landscape photography for our club.  Kah-Wai has graciously provided a link to the webinar:  https://youtu.be/MpqvGIPSr3g
His slide show is available on our website:  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/events/the-art-of-landscape-photography.

fStops now has a private Facebook Group, fStops Camera Club Group.  When you have a Facebook page and are a member of our club, you can join the group.  This is another way for members to share their images with each other and give feedback.  In addition, it will be a way where you can set up photo shoot meetups with other members.  Check it out!
The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting September 17, at 6:30 p.m.  The basic agenda includes social time to start, a demonstration of techniques, and either time to work on your Images or a demonstration of how a member worked through an image.   A link will sent to user group members prior to the meeting.  If you would like to join this group, send an email using the comment section at the bottom of any of the fStop website pages.

Lisa Langell will provide a free webinar on High Key Photography.  The presentation is scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  You must register using this link to attend the event: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/photograph-nature-in-high-key-style-fstops-camera-club-tickets-116170720753   
Here is a link to her website: https://www.langellphotography.com/

​Inglewood Park and Cemetery is hosting a photo contest this fall, “The Angels of Los Angeles”.  There are many statues at the park, so make plans to go for a shooting session soon.  There is plenty of space there for keeping distant from others.  Details will follow.  


Lloyd Delaney

Fellow Photographers
​
Nancy Kaye was our judge at the August meeting.  The assignment was to submit a portrait or a still life using only window light.  First Place went to Glyn Sun for a portrait of his Jack Russell, second place went to Michael Gollum for a smoky portrait of a small statue, third place went to Lloyd Delaney for his still life of a seed pod, and an honorable mention to Norm Spieler for a classic still life.  Here is the link to all the submissions:​
http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/assignment-gallery/archives/08-2020

fStops members have more opportunities to learn with Natasha Calzatti.  She recently completed  a series of classes for us featuring Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.  The classes are taught online and are excellent.  Classes are filling up quickly, so sign up now.  Here is the link to what is available.  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/workshop-series.html

The Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop User’s Group will be meeting August 27, at 7 p.m.  A link will sent to user group members.  If you would like to join this group, send an email using the comment section at the bottom of any fStop website pages.

Dr. Kah-Wai Lin, a professional landscape photographer, will present a free webinar on landscape photography.  The presentation is scheduled for September 3rd at 7 p.m.  A link to the webinar will be sent to members  prior to the meeting.  Here is a link to his website:  https://kahwailin.com/

Lisa Langell will provide a free webinar on High Key Photography.  The presentation is scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  You must register using this link to attend the event: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/photograph-nature-in-high-key-style-fstops-camera-club-tickets-116170720753   
Here is a link to her website: https://www.langellphotography.com/

​Lloyd Delaney

Fellow Photographers

I hope that this message finds you well and at your creative best.  Be safe.​
Nancy Kaye will be our judge at the meeting on Thursday, August 13, 7 p.m.  The assignment is a portraits or a still life using window light.  Submissions are due Monday by 8 p.m.
 
Other News.
​
The Adobe Lightroom/Photoshop users group met online and it generally went well.  However it was suggested that there be a bit more structure.  We will have a demonstration of one technique to start the meeting.  We will also try providing a image to edit during the meeting and have attendees send in their work for review.  The following meeting some of the stronger edits can be demonstrated by the editor who did the work.

The Photographic Society of America (PSA) offers annual membership at the cost of $45.  I joined recently and have found that there are many resources and opportunities to learn and share. It is well worth taking a look at their website:  http://psadigital.org/

Kah-Wai, a wonderful landscape photographer, has agreed to give us a Landscape Webinar on September 3, 7 p.m.  A link to the webinar will be sent closer to the meeting.  Here is a link to his website.  https://kahwailin.com/

Lisa Langell, full time photographer and educator, has offered to provide a webinar “Photographing in High Key” scheduled for October 29, 2020 at 6:30 pm.  A link to the webinar will be sent closer to the meeting.  Here is a link to her website.https://www.langellphotography.com/


VPC Valley Photography Club is a new group organized by Jay Ross.   Their mission statement: “Our goal is to broaden our knowledge of photography, nurture friendships old and new and to have fun!”  The club meets the 4th  Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm via Zoom.  At the last meeting there was a Peer to Peer Photo Sharing and Critique session.  The  format will continue to evolve.  fStops has invited VPC members  to join us for the two upcoming webinars.  If you are interested in VPC membership, send an email to   VPCValleyPhotoClub+Info@gmail.com to request further information.

Lloyd Delaney

Fellow Photographers
I hope that this message finds you well and at your creative best.  Be safe.


​Monthly Meeting Results
Nancy Kaye, our judge, selected “ Water Dancer” taken by Dan Katz as first, with “Couples”, by Norm Spieler second, and a landscape by John Fitzpatrick took third.  There were a total of 31 images submitted.  All of the images are available to view on the assignment page of our website.  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/assignment-gallery.  In addition, there is a video of the announcements, the explanation by Nancy of the next assignment as well as Nancy‘s critique of the images. It is located at the bottom of the July assigned page. The assignment for August is “Window Light for Portrait or Still Life” and will be judged by Nancy Kaye at the monthly Zoom meeting.


Editing Challenge
We are offering you another opportunity to build on your “darkroom” editing skills.  Three images will be posted on our website.  You will be able to download and edit them as you see fit. Here is the link:   http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/july-editing-challenge.html
Challenge yourself to see the picture in your mind before you start the editing process.  Feel free to edit any or all of the images and then send them back by the evening of July 27.


The Lightroom Classic/Photoshop User’s Group
The next meeting will be July 23 at 7:00 p.m.  Members are welcome and are able to participate by asking/answering questions.  We can use the Editing Challenge as a starting point.  The agenda is simple:  Come, share ideas, answer questions and learn.  Oh yes, and have fun.  Bring either your best tip or your toughest question to each meeting.  Lloyd Delaney and Terry Mendelson are moderating the group.  Please send an email via the fStops website contact form to let us know of your interest.  You will receive a Zoom invitation prior to the meeting.

Fellow Photographers
I hope that this message finds you well and at your creative best.  Be safe.

​Meeting Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m. via Zoom
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83665584282.  Meeting ID: 836 6558 4282
Nancy Kaye will be our judge for the Open Submission.  Please submit up to two images by Monday, July 6 at 8:00 p.m. to fstopsentries@gmail.com.  Nancy will present ideas for the August Assignment of “Window Light for Portrait or Still Life” at the start of the meeting.  I look forward to seeing you all there.

Editing Challenge
We are offering you another opportunity to build on your “darkroom” editing skills.  Three   images will be posted on our website.  You will be able to download and edit them as you see fit. Here is the link:   http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/july-editing-challenge.html
Challenge yourself to see the picture in your mind before you start the editing process.  Feel free to edit any or all of the images and then send them back by the evening of July 27.

​The Lightroom Classic/Photoshop User’s Group
The group had a couple of good meetings before the pandemic.  It is time for a Zoom restart.  The next meeting will be July 23 at 7:00 p.m.  Members are welcome and are able to participate by asking/answering questions.  We can use the Editing Challenge as a starting point.  The agenda is simple:  Come, share ideas, answer questions and learn.  Oh yes, and have fun.  Bring either your best tip or your toughest question to each meeting.  Lloyd Delaney and Terry Mendelson are moderating the group.  Please send an email via the fStops website contact form to let us know of your interest.  You will receive a Zoom invitation prior to the meeting.
Group Events
Group events are suspended at the moment, but there are lots of safe opportunities to shoot.  Here are some examples:  Descanso Gardens, Sepulveda Basin, Vasquez Rocks, CSUN, street photography from your car, canyon trails, at your home...  We are looking into safe options for small group outings.

Fellow Photographers
I hope that this message finds you well and at your creative best.  Be safe.
June 11 at 7 p.m.
This will be our first general COVID-safe Zoom meeting.  Photographer Nancy Lerner will be judging the Self-Portraits assignment. Dan Katz will host the meeting for us (admin will show “LA ads,” Dan’s company).
You may use your webcams, but all microphones will be muted except for the hosts and judge. The moderator will unmute for anyone with questions or comments at the appropriate time. Also, a comment window will be arranged. Please sign on a few minutes early. 
And, in advance, forgive the glitches. This is the first time we're doing this!
Don’t forget to use the password below.
 
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84540885063?pwd=RE1obzM1SWJxRHZZbFpWVVdISGo4Zz09
 
Meeting ID: 845 4088 5063
Password: 292408
 
Audio and video on your computer, tablet or smartphone
 
Meeting ID: 845 4088 5063

​Fellow Photographers
I hope that this message finds you well and at your creative best.  Be safe.

June Assignment
“Self-Portrait” is our topic for June.  You can submit up to two images.  Please submit your images by Monday June 8, 8 p.m.  A trio of members will judge the images and provide a brief critique.

“Quarantined” Images
May’s submissions are posted on our website.  Click on any image and you will see the judge’s critique. Please take the time to check out what your peers are doing.  Congratulations to Terry Mercer (first), Bill Debley (Second), and Ron Goodman and Mike Gollum (Third).  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/assignment-gallery

Opportunities 
Being outdoors and wearing your mask is one of the safest places to be. It’s also good for you. Take some time to have a walk with your camera and enjoy nature. By the way, Descanso Gardens is now open to the public. It’s a wonderful place to be. If you were a member you can just go. If not you will have to go to their website and buy your ticket and select a time.
Another location that has very few people is the campus at CSUN. You can park on campus. Again, wear your mask and stay apart from others.

​-Lloyd

Due to the Corona Virus The Village Has Cancelled Our March 12 Meeting.
I am sorry to have to give you this news with such late notice.  However; I just found out.  Your Board and I will look for alternatives and will get back to you soon.

Lightroom Users Group March 19
​I am also looking for an alternate location for the Lightroom Users Group.  I will keep you updated on that by early next week. 
​
Vasquez Rocks Photo Event Sunday, March 22
This event is still on.  Join fellow club members for a shoot at Vasquez Rocks.  We will meet at the information center at 8 a.m.  Bring your own picnic fare to enjoy later in the morning.  It should be a good opportunity to get some high key images for the April assignment.  Sign up at http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/events.html

Membership Renewal
It is time to renew your membership for the year.  It is the best value for your $40.  You can renew via our website using PayPal or at our next meeting, March 12.

March/April
Lesley Krane will be our judge. In March she will judge Open Images and provide insights for our April assignment of "Low Key/High Key Images". Here is the link to her website: http://lesleykrane.com

Lightroom Users Group March 19
Members are invited to attend a Lightroom user's group.  It is an open session where members bring their laptops and work on photos together.  We meet in our usual location at The Village at 6:30 p.m.  People can bring their laptops and questions and together we can find answers and learn more about how to use the  program.  

Vasquez Rocks Photo Event Sunday, March 22
Join fellow club members for a shoot at Vasquez Rocks.  We will meet at the information center at 8 a.m.  Bring your own picnic fare to enjoy later in the morning.  It should be a good opportunity to get some high key images for the April assignment.  Sign up at http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/events.html

San Fernando Valley Art and Cultural Center Presents 
“See It, Feel It: People’s Intuitive Reactions to Famous Art”
The SFVACC is pleased to present a special guest lecture & book signing with Dan Hill on Sunday, April 5, 2020 from 2 to 4 pm.  Here is the link for more information about this event https://sanfernandovalleyartsandculturalcenter.wildapricot.org/event-3772973



I look forward to seeing you all soon,
Lloyd Delaney

Membership Renewal
It is time to renew your membership for the year.  It is the best value for your $40.  You can renew via our website using PayPal or at our next meeting. 

Photo Event Sunday, March 1 at 10 a.m. Sharp
Join other club members for a docent-led tour of Union Station.  The tour will take us to some areas not generally available to the public.  Arrive early because the tour takes off right at 10 a.m.  Please sign up on our website, so we know who is coming.  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/events

February’ Assignment Shadows and Reflections
Robert Fields judged nearly 50 entries last Thursday.  He did a fabulous job of providing insights on what made each image work and how it could be improved.  Here is the link to Mr. Field’s website: https://www.robertfields.com.

Lightroom Users Group February 20
Members are invited to attend a Lightroom user's group.  It is an open session where members bring their laptops and work on photos together.  We meet in our usual location at The Village at 6:30 p.m.  People can bring their laptops and questions and together we can find answers and learn more about how to use the  program.  

March/April
Lesley Krane will be our judge. In March she will judge Open Images and provide insights for our April assignment of "Low Key/High Key Images". Here is the link to her website: http://lesleykrane.com
I look forward to seeing you all soon,

​-Lloyd Delaney

Lightroom User’s Group
Hello fellow Lightroom Classic users.  Our first meeting was a success!  Eight people attended and we worked in small groups to solve problems and learn more about the program.
The next meeting will be on February 20 at The Village at 630 p.m.
This is a hands on learning opportunity.  Bring your laptops and we can work together.  You can also come to observe and share.
I hope to see you all at our next meeting.
Below you will find my lightroom workflow from November's workshop.  I hope it helps.
- Lloyd 
​

Lloyd’s Lightroom Workflow

What is Lightroom?
Lightroom is a program that supports your work in organizing, editing, adjusting and printing or publishing your work. The Lightroom catalog is where everything you do is stored as a database. Each adjustment that you make is recorded. The actual image stored on your hard drive remains unchanged.  This is what differentiates Lightroom from other editing programs.


When do I use Photoshop?
I use Photoshop when the editing I need to do is more difficult in Lightroom. Generally it involves the use of layers, extending the sides of the image, cloning or major repair.

1. Shoot your images in raw format, if you can.  This gives you complete control of the image in Lightroom.  Do not delete images using the camera, as it can cause your card to go bad.  Spend your time being in the moment with your camera and your subject.  Gather images.
2. Remove the memory card from the camera and place it in your computer’s card reader.  It is likely that your software will try to download the pictures for you.  Don’t let it. 
3. Copy the files to your “working” hard drive.  I have a laptop computer and I like to use an external hard drive for my photos.  This leaves the internal drive free for applications.  I have a folder called Photos.  Within Photos there is a folder for each year (for example, 2018).  Within the folder for the year, create a new folder.  Name it using yyyymmdd format.  This system will keep your folders in date order within the year.  Copy all the images into this folder.  Chronological is the most basic level of organizing images.
4. Open Lightroom and import your images into the Lightroom catalog.  Use the import button and select the folder where you have placed your images.  Click the import button.  Lightroom will add these image locations to its catalog and place a small image there.
5. Flag images that do not meet your quality standards.  Be sure you are in the library module of Lightroom.  I like to use the single image view and see one image at a time.  You can flag you images as “Flagged”, “Not Flagged”, or “Rejected”.  Any image that is out of focus, has weak composition, poor exposure, or just does not work is “Rejected”.   Any image the really impresses, is “Flagged” (maybe 20%).  Images that are technically correct are not marked.  Work from the first shot to the last.  Be brutal, the more “Flagged” images you have the less time you have to spend on any one of them.  Save yourself for only the best ones.  I usually keep about 20% between “Flagged” and “Not Flagged”.
6. Delete the rejected images.  The last option on the Photo Menu is Delete Rejected.  I select the Delete from Disk option.  These images will be removed from Lightroom and from the hard drive. 
7. Backup your folder onto a separate hard drive.  Use your computer’s file management program for this task.
8. Use Keywords to identify the location where the images were taken.  Select the images that were from the same location and give them that name.  I have a keyword called Place.  Within that keyword, I have created other keywords to be more specific.  For instance, Place, California, Coastal South, Ventura.  When I select Ventura the program will automatically apply the keywords to the levels above.
9. Next, give the images keywords to identify the subject.  For example, a sparrow, could have the following keywords, Animals, Birds, Sparrow.  The more specific the keywords, the easier it is to later find them. You may want to use other keywords for the type of photo, painterly, street, black and white, travel, etc.
10. Move to the Develop module.   Generally, I work from top to bottom with the tools on the right side of the screen starting with the color balance.  Shooting in raw allows complete control over the color balance.  Next adjust the exposure so the histogram and the image look right.  Then use the white and black sliders to be sure the full range of light is available.  Then adjust the highlight and shadows sliders.  Move down to the Textur, Clarity, Dehaze, Vibrance and Saturation sliders.  Use them to further improve the image.  At this point, I may crop the image.  Then do any smaller adjustments like, cloning or healing spot, applying a gradient, or dodging or burning part of the image.
11. Let the image rest.  Move on to another and do the above process.
12. A day or week later review your work and see how you feel about it.  Continue to refine the very best ones by sharpening, or removing noise.  you may wish to add a vignette to darken the edges of the frame which can bring more attention to the subject.
13. If need be, do further editing in Photoshop... 
14. Publish your best using the export function in the File menu to make a file that can go onto the internet or print you image.  Work the dialogue box from top to bottom.  You can control where the image is saved, what it is called, how big the file will be and it’s quality, how it is sharpened or made ready to print, and so on.  I use a 6x4 inch jpg file at 240 pixels for internet posts, sharpened for the screen.  When sending images to Costco, I export to the desired size of the image, like 18x12 inch and have it sharpened for printing.  If using Costco, let them know that you do not want them to auto adjust your image.
15. Print your own images from within Lightroom.  I like to do test print before doing a large print. I make two additional duplicates and give them a slightly different exposures.  I use an letter size paper and set it to make 3 or 4 small prints.   It gives me options to get the right exposure.  Once I have that, I can make my print at the larger size.

Hello fellow Lightroom Classic users.  This will be our first meeting.  The agenda is simple:  Share ideas, answers and learn.  Oh yes, have fun.
Bring your laptops and we can work together.
I would like to meet on the the third Thursday each month, but I was out of town last week.  However, I am open to what the group may want.  Terry Mendelson has volunteered to work with me to hep lead this group.  I would like at least one other person to help coordinate as well.
I hope to see you all this Thursday.

Next Meeting is an Open Assignment on January 9
Robert Fields will both judge the open assignment images and provide information about our February assignment "Shadows and Reflections.  Please submit your images by 8 p.m. on Monday January 6.

Membership Renewal
It is membership renewal time. Last year we added more photo events and learning opportunities for our members.  We expect to continue to provide learning, inspiration, recognition and friendship.  The fee is $40 and can be paid in cash or check at the  meeting. You may also renew on line via PayPal.  Here is the link: http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/membership.html

Lightroom Users Group
A group of our members went to an Adobe Lightroom workshop in December.   It was very helpful.  Afterward, I asked if there is an interest in having a Lightroom user's group.  It would be an open session where members could bring their laptops and work on photos together.  We are going to give it a go.  I hope to have the first meeting at The Village on Thursday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m.  People can bring their questions and together we can find answers and learn more about how to use the  program.  There will be a signup on our events page.  I would like to have a couple of people to act as organizers as we get started.  Please let me know if you are interested. 

Photo Event:  Ventura Harbor on January 24 at 2:30 p.m. 
We will look for ways to capture images for the February assignment of Shadows and Reflections in Ventura.   The harbor is right off the beach where there could be a great sunset.  The marina offers lots of reflections on the water and in the windows of the storefronts.  We are going in the early afternoon to catch the good light in the evening and to miss some of the traffic.  There are several good restaurants where those who want to have dinner can do so.  Look at fStops' event page to the sign up.

February 13 Assignment: Shadows and Reflections
Robert Fields will be back to judge your images . Here is the link to his website: https://www.robertfields.com.

March/April
Lesley Krane will be our judge. In March she will judge Open Images and provide insights for our April assignment of "Low Key/High Key Images". Here is the link to her website: http://lesleykrane.com
​
I look forward to seeing you all soon,
Lloyd Delaney

An Opportunity to Help a Former Member in the Wake of the Saddleback Fire

Monica Silver is past president of F-stops camera club. Elected in 2010 as the first female club President, Monica’s influence quickly breathed new life into the F-Stops operation. Her focus on marketing the clubs presence and capabilities, quickly expanded the clubs membership. Monica devoted herself to arranging regular photoshoots for the members and consistently encouraged members to get out and shoot. More recently Monica has continued as a creative force in photography by starting her own photographic business venture. 
We are so saddened to learn that Monica and husband Drew have lost their family home to fire. Many of us realize just how close we might be and how fortunate we are to be spared from such devastation. We hope that our contribution will help Monica and her family in some small way as they struggle to regain what fragments of their home may be recovered.  As Monica and Drew rebuild what will be a brighter future together, it is their love, their lifetime of memories, and the promise for a better tomorrow for their children and themselves, that will become the building blocks for their new home. 
Here is the link to donate:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/saddleridge-fire-victims-lost-home
Please note that you are an fStops member.

Fellow fStoppers

​Submit Open Images
The meeting is Thursday, November 14.  Christopher Broughton has agreed to be our judge.  Here is your opportunity to share your most interesting images.   His work can be seen at:  https://www.christopherbroughton.com/. 
Images should be submitted by 8 a.m. next Monday to be included in the judging.  Matted or images on poster board will be accepted for judging at the meeting.

November 21 Mini-Workshop:  Lloyd’s Lightroom Workflow
Lloyd Delaney will share how he has incorporated Lightroom into his post-processing workflow.  He will take you from placing your files onto your computer to exporting an image and maybe a bit further.  The workshop is designed to show you what can done be using this program and is not intended to make you an instant user.  Many photographers do most of their cataloging, image editing, and printing all within Lightroom.  Come, take a look.

A full Lightroom workshop is being done for our group in December by Natasha Calzatti, a post-production guru. 
See the link for details:  http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/events/lightroom-cc-basic-workflow-workshop.  This workshop is limited to twelve member, so sign up soon.

Holiday PartyOur annual holiday party will be held at The Village on December 12.  Please save the date.  It will be a pot luck and you bring your own beverages.  Beer and wine are ok along with your non-alcoholic favorites.  The events committee will be organizing the event, so look for more details.  Spouses and significant others are welcome.

San Fernando valley art and cultural center  Photography Exhibit 
The gallery exhibit for the month of January will be all photographs. We have the opportunity to submit images for this event. If you’ve never had your work displayed before here is your big opportunity!  This is a judged event and there are prizes. Additionally, you may sell your work.  Here is the link to details:  http://www.sfvacc.org/event-3565832.
Give it your best shot... 

Another Original Member Gone
We recently found out that another original F/Stops member died recently. Hal Endlich was a member for more than forty years. The family is have a private service and will have a memorial service for everyone in December. His address is 17025 Calahan St. Northridge, CA 91325 for those who wish to send a condolence card to his family.

Hart of the West Powwow
Experience a slice of Native American culture at the 26th Annual Hart of the West Powwow. Come and enjoy the dancers, drummers and the numerous displays of arts and crafts.
Great opportunity to shoot for assigned
​“Using Slow Shutter Speed to Create Painterly Effect”
website: ​https://friendsofhartpark.com/Event_Pages/powwow.html
Our fStops board member Linda Pagter will be attending Sunday Oct 6. If you would like to join her, meet her at the picnic tables near the dance circle from 11:00 -11:15. Please RSVP on our website to let her know you are coming.
Memorial for Mike Gaasch
1st Pres. Church of Granada Hills, Ca.
October 6, 2pm
Mike Gaasch, an original member of F Stops past away on August 2,2019 .
​There will be a Memorial Service on Sunday, October 6th at 2pm at the 1st Pres. Church of Granada Hills in Granada Hills,Ca. Any questions regarding Memorial service for Mike Gaasch please contact Mrs Arleen Gaasch at jazzilady88@yahoo.com

Fellow fStoppersSubmit Painterly Images
Using Slow Shutter Speeds to Create Painterly Images is our next assignment, and they will be judged Thursday, October 10 by Calvin Alagot.  Check out the video prepared by Gerard Burkhart and Dan Katz: http://www.fstopscameraclub.com/slow-shutter-speed-to-8203create-painterly-effect.html.   Images should be submitted by 8 a.m. next Monday to be included in the judging.  Matted or images on poster board will be accepted for judging at the meeting.