Rudy

Chris & LaRhonda

Chris & LaRhonda were destined for each other, he's shy, she's outgoing & their both sweet people. These two were definitely made for each other. We had a great time photographing their engagement at Zilker Botanical gardens. Look forward to your wedding you two.

Red Bud

*** Photographed w/ Polaroid 440 Land camera, 665 100 ISO Black & White film in late afternoon sunlight/shade. Image was scanned and worked on using PS, levels, contrast were slightly adjusted, sharpened, dodged and burned.***

Sepia Toned Conversion

A quick entry today to share with you all a really simple, but effective method of converting a digital image to sepia tone.

*Open an image in Photoshop
* Go to the menu bar and click on "Image," then "Adjustments," and then "Hue/Saturation."
*Click the box next to "colorize" and then adjust the Hue to 34, the Saturation to 13, and the Lightness to 0.

The result is a nice, rich sepia tone that will apply well to most any image.

*However, if you pull up "Hue/Saturation" again and subtract 50 points from the Saturation, you end up with what we call (Warm Sepia Tone), a warm desaturated sepia black & white tone.

Create an action and you'll have one more great tool!

My RAW Workflow - Use At Your Own Risk

RAW Workflow

RAW workflow is what’s in right now, and the key is minimizing the amount of time spent working on files and yet finishing with a quality product. Below is my workflow - a balance between speed and quality. The total working time involved is about 6-7 hours, and we are able to post the client's wedding on Pictage within days after the wedding. This is after shooting from 1600-2000 images.

It may seem like there are a large number of steps below, but keep in mind that the workflow is written out so that someone who isn't real familiar with the Bridge and a RAW workflow can easily follow directions!

RAW Workflow

1. Load images into Bridge (I do this overnight).

2. Set Bridge to filmstrip view for ease of viewing, and largest files possible (easier to check sharpness this way)

3. Scroll through files, red tagging keepers.

4. Go to Filtered (upper right hand corner)- and select "Show Red Label"

5. Batch correct color and exposure for these files.

6. While color correcting, 5 star images to be processed to B&W.

7. Go to Filtered- select "Show 5 stars"

8. Select all 5 starred images. Go to Tools, Photoshop, Image Processor.

9. Photoshop dialog box will open. Create folder for JPEGs. At bottom of page, click box to run action while batching. Select B&W action to use for batch process (we use an adapted Kevin Kubota action)

10. Go do something else while images batch, or hang out on OSP :)

11. Go to Filtered- Select "Show Unrated Items Only."

12. Select all unrated images. Go to Tools, Photoshop, Image Processor.

13. Photoshop dialog box will open. Select color pop action (for us, Soft Light) for batch process.

14. Go hang out for a little longer while these process...

15. Load all JPEGS into iView.

16. Time sort.

17. Select Favorites and move to folder called ****Favs

18. Open those in PS and play with them. Rename.

19. Load this folder back into iView.

20. Create folders for Pictage.

21. Upload!

Black and White Conversions

These are all created using Photoshop. Enjoy!!

*Image>Adjustments>Channel Mixer and check the monochrome box.

*Play with the top three sliders.

*Make them add up to 100%.

*Here's some film emulation suggested settings:

Agfa 200X: 18,41,41

Agfapan 25: 25,39,36

Agfapan 100: 21,40,39

Agfapan 400: 20,41,39

Ilford Delta 100: 21,42,37

Ilford Delta 400: 22,42,36

Ilford Delta 400 Pro: 31,36,33

& 3200

Ilford FP4: 28,41,31

Ilford HP5: 23,37,40

Ilford Pan F: 33,36,31

Ilford SFX: 36,31,33

Ilford XP2 Super: 21,42,37

Kodak Tmax 100: 24,37,39

Kodak Tmax 400: 27,36,37

Kodak Tri-X: 25,35,40

And these basic ones:

Normal Contrast: 43,33,30

High Contrast: 40,34,60

The 411 On Choosing A Wedding Photographer

It seems that with the new digital camera age everyone is now a photographer & this has brought about a very large number of newer & less educated & experienced people into the wedding photography market who are not only leaving a negative impact on the quality of work that is being produced but also leaving a sour taste in the mouth of many, many brides.

Many brides have found out the hard way, usually after receiving their images that they made an avoidable mistake. Brides make the common mistake thinking that all photography is the same & that what at first looks like a real bargain, in the end turns out to be much more expensive then they anticipated.

Currently we have in the wedding photography market what we call tons & I mean tons of weekend warriors offering bargain wedding photography services for $200, $250, $300, $500, $700 & even $800, their lugging around very expensive digital camera equipment as if this is what makes a photographer a professional. More often then not this is a WARNING SIGN that is screaming for your attention. These are usually first time wedding photographers just starting to make their way into the wedding market who are trying to get their feet in the door so to speak. You'll also find very desperate individuals offering to shoot your wedding for free as a way for them to gain experience. Don't let them practice on your wedding day because in the end you will be the one who finds themselves very disappointed.

Here are few important questions to ask when meeting with a photographer, In order of importance:

Q. What type of personality do you have?

A. I honestly think this is single most important question you can ask a photographer & whether you know it or not this will be the number one reason you hire your photographer. It’s hard to believe but it’s true, you will find many personalities during the interview process; before you know it, you will come away with a good idea of who you want to hire based on this alone. Learn to pick up clues during your interviews, what is your first impression, is he/she polite, is he/she well dressed, how does he/she carry themselves? The key thing to remember is that you must feel comfortable around the individual who will be capturing your memories; you both need to click in order for your images to be the best they can be. It’s all based on trust.

Q. What will it cost me to retain your services?

A. This is one of the most important factors when considering who to hire as your photographer, you will find rates from as low as a couple hundred dollars to well over a few thousand dollars. When it comes to cost the worst possible decision you can make will be one based on “saving money” this factor alone. Stay away from those seeking to practice on your wedding. Once you educate yourself on the different photographic personalities, styles, methods & work, and you separate the pros from the uneducated rookies you can than determine a good rule of thumb, figure to budget between $1,500 - $2,500 for a talented photographer.

Q. How many years of experience do you have photographing weddings?

A. More often then not a seasoned wedding photographer will have many years of experience assisting a pro or many years of actually photographing weddings, but do not automatically assume that just because they have many years of experience that they are the right photographer for you. I’ve known of photographer's with many years of experience with awesome work, I also know newer photographer's with less then 3 years of experience with outstanding work. Always ask to view their albums, examples of recent work & see if it fits what you’re looking for in a photographer.

Q. What is your wedding photography style?

A. With each photographer comes a different style of photography, seek one who fits your needs. You have some who only shoot documentary, other's who only offer traditional & yet you have those few daring individuals who will offer you both forms of coverage and really only bring you great results. Choose a photographer that has a style that meets your needs.

Thank you!!

Carlos Hernandez

512-828-6946

Main Site : http://carloshernandezphotography.com/
Wedding & Fine Art Blog : http://carloshernandezfoto.blogspot.com
Personal Photo Journal : http://carloshernandezphoto.wordpress.com
Personal Work - Flickr : http://flickr.com/photos/sophialove/

Last Cast of The Day

*** Photographed w/ Polaroid 440 Land camera, 665 100 ISO Black & White film in late afternoon sunlight,the sun was already setting. We probably had about 30 minutes of light left. Image was scanned and worked on using PS, levels, contrast were slightly adjusted, sharpened, dodged and burned.***

The Power of The Cross

*** Photographed w/ Polaroid 440 Land camera, 665 100 ISO Black & White film in early morning cloudy/ sunlight/shade. Image was scanned and worked on using PS, levels, contrast were slightly adjusted, sharpened, dodged and burned.***

The Color Purple

*** Photographed w/ Polaroid 440 Land camera, 665 100 ISO Black & White film in early morning sunlight. Image was scanned and worked on using PS, levels, contrast were slightly adjusted, sharpened, dodged and burned.***

Clarence & Corinne Engagement

These two are are just perfect for each other, they make a beautiful couple. They are young, good looking, energetic and outgoing. We had a great time earlier today photographing their engagement around Austin. It was a beautiful day for photographs the weather could not have been better. We wish you both the best & we look forward to photographing the two of you on your wedding day.

*** NEW *** 2007 Wedding Rate Details

Complete Wedding Collections start at $2,999 - $7,999
Contact us for full details or with any questions you may have.
Email: admin@carloshernandezphotography.com
Phone: 512-828-6946

Ceremony, formals & reception only: $1,699 - $1,999 I photograph your entire ceremony, formals, reception and you receive post produced CD with all your Black & White & Color images, your responsible for printing costs.

***Hourly Rate: $599 first hour, $399 each additional hour. You receive post produced CD with all your images, your responsible for printing costs. Ideal for small weddings or renewal ceremonies.***

Wedding Packages

**** Standard Coverage ****

$2,999

* Up to 6 hours of coverage time

* Photographer and assistant photographer

* Online proofing and print ordering

* Set of 4x6 prints, typically 400 images, but higher or lower depending on your event

* Extra coverage hours: $200/hour

**** Exclusive coverage ****

$3,499

* Up to 8 hours of coverage time

* Photographer and assistant photographer

* Online proofing and print ordering on request

* Full size images, aka "Digital negatives," on DVD

* Highlights montage " slide show" that will play on your TV

* Extra coverage hours: $200/hour

**** The Photo Essay ****

$3,999

* Up to 8 hours of coverage time

* Photographer and assistant photographer

* Online proofing and print ordering

* Set of 4"x6" prints, typically 600 images, but higher or lower depending on your event

* A leatherette bound Acid-Free Portfolio containing 48 custom 8"x10"s, hand selected by the photographer to provide a narrative of your day, printed in the photographer's own office on Ilford Gallerie paper.

* Extra coverage hours: $200/hour

**** Simply Exclusive ****

$6,999

* Everything that's included in the Standard and Digital packages above

* Unlimited shoot time on wedding day

* Photographer and assistant photographer

* Bridal and Engagement shoots

* Queensberry 10"x14" or 12"x12" custom album, 20 leaves (40 sides) in digital design, classic matted design, or mixed style with slip case.

* Two matching 7"x7" or 5"x7" clone albums for your parents

**** Black & White Gallery, with Color ****

$7,999

* Real Black & White film only! No digital negatives here.

* Enlarger printed on true B&W paper

* Up to 40 rolls of film shot

* Nothing digital touches the final B&W prints

* You choose a format for proofing B&W images: traditional contact sheet (very cool, but tiny images), 4"x6" proof prints, or scanned photographs on photo CD

* 100 hand-printed 5"x7" prints in an acid free box

* 20 signed 8"x10" exhibition prints on double weight fiber paper, gallery matted and mounted on archival board (your choice of 11"x14" or 16"x20"), in an acid free portfolio box (Option: Frame some or all for an additional fee.)

* Second photographer shoots color digital as supplement

* Online proofing and ordering of color images

* 500 4"x6" Color proofs

A la Carte

Vintage Fine Art Prints

Queensberry Albums

$Please Inquire

* There's a custom album for almost any budget. Rather than try and list all the possiblities here, please discuss your album preferences with us to get a custom quote. Example: A 12x12 or 14x10 Queensberry album in matted or digital design, or a mix, with 12 leaves (24 sides) is offered at $1,400. 20 sides offered at $2,000.

**** The Photo Essay ****

$699

* A leatherette bound Acid-Free Portfolio containing 48 custom 8"x10"s, hand selected by the photographer to provide a narrative of your day, printed in the photographer's own office on Ilford Gallerie paper.

**** Extra shoots - Bridal & Engagement ****

$399

* Each additional shoot, such as bridal portrait, engagement, or rehearsal dinner. These shoots include either digital negatives OR a complimentary print (8"x12" or 11"x14") with option of online proofing on request.

**** Digital Negatives ****

Color, Black & White $599

Vintage - $999

* A copy of original or Vintage JPEG images, aka "digital negatives"

* Licensed for personal non-commercial use only.

**** Polaroid Prints ****

$699

*Go nostalgic with Polaroid prints, using vintage Polaroid cameras from the 60's & 70's we will capture portraits of family & guests. A nice addition to any wedding package.

*70 - Black & White or Color unique one of a kind 3"1/4 x 4" 1/4 prints.

*Instant results, ready in seconds & yours to take with you on your honeymoon.

Please ask if you want something customized

God Bless,

Carlos & Roeana Hernandez

Phone: 512-828-6946

http://carloshernandezphotography.com

Wedding Documentary - Jeremy & Sherri

These two are hard core Aggie fans, they don't mess around when it comes to there allegiance. Their wedding day was a very special time, filled with family, friends, lots of love & happiness. We wish you the best and may your lives be filled with much joy & blessings.

Wedding Documentary - Joe & Jackie

A beautiful night filled with family, friends & laughter, Joe & Jackie have a deep love that was clearly evident as the night progressed. Best wishes to the both of you.

Wedding Documentary - David & Kim

Wedding Documentary - Don & Vickie

If your looking for the best images of your wedding day than look no further I am your photographer. I am a photographic artist like no other that has come before me, I have my own unique vision and photographic style but my creativity does not stop there, after I photograph your wedding my work has only begun. I then artistically create your work of art by using various techniques to return to you a finished product.

Contact us for pricing information, to check availability, for booking or to schedule a consultation.
Email: admin@carloshernandezphotography.com
Phone: 5128286946
God Bless!!

The Beauty of A Blossum

The beauty of delicate white blossoms growing in the middle of a wooded area is quite surprising, in that it is surrounded by nothing but brown barren, leafless and somewhat lifeless trees that have yet to awaken from their winter slumber. As I walked up a small clearing, I could smell the strong fragrance before I could actually see the trees themselves.

*** Photographed w/ Polaroid 440 Land camera, 665 100 ISO Black & White film in late afternoon sunlight/shade. Image was scanned and worked on using PS, levels, contrast were slightly adjusted, sharpened, dodged and burned.***

Polaroid Portraits - Session Details

If you are looking for something very artsy, unique and special than our one of a kind Polaroid portraits maybe worth considering. These Polaroid prints are unique in that unlike professional digital images where you have to wait a few days for a print, Polaroid prints are small and develop instantaneously and are ready within seconds. Their unique size of 3 1/4 by 4 1/4 sets them apart from other prints in that these prints are a true one of kind original, no copies here.

Polaroid Portraits
Session Fee - $250
Includes:
Consultation (online or over the phone)
Photographers time, expertise, artistic creativity & distinct photographic style.
Photo session on location (I can recommend a few places or we can consider your suggestions as well)
1 - 3 1/4 x 4 1/4 Unique one of a kind Polaroid Black & White or Color print, you decide.

We will Matte and frame your Polaroid at an additional cost $100