Algae Posted May 26, 2008 Share Posted May 26, 2008 I have been pondering the idea of removing some specimens from my display and placing them inside a 20gal. that is outside to take images during an overcast day to minimize refection. The main purpose would be to eliminate flash and hit a good EV. (plus better glass). I am not asking for a reply to the logistics and the merit , but to address the feasibility. Also, has anyone seen any cheap 4X5 digital backs? Thank You Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
andy Posted May 26, 2008 Share Posted May 26, 2008 I'm gonna talk about merit; it's my reply after all I've thought about shooting corals in a special isolation tank, too. The main benefits I see are being able to get closer to the subject and control of light. Personally, I think you'd be better off with a couple of strobes in lightboxes or bounced off reflectors than you would be relying on ambient natural light. You'd have a lot more control over exposure, plus keeping the subject at a comfortable temperature would be a lot easier inside near electricity. If you can solve the temperature stability issue outside, I guess it's feasible -- I just don't think you buy yourself anything by shooting outside. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Algae Posted May 26, 2008 Author Share Posted May 26, 2008 What I am looking to gain is not having to use/buy strobes, wireless. I am going to shoot B&W primarily. (not sure if you were referring to color temp or tank temp. Tank temp change would be very brief) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Algae Posted May 26, 2008 Author Share Posted May 26, 2008 It was tank temp. Have to read more carefully, sorry. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
andy Posted May 26, 2008 Share Posted May 26, 2008 Yeah, I was thinking water temp. A small volume of water will change temp pretty quickly; it might be worth doing a couple of dry runs (so to speak) to see if there is a enough of a change to be harmful. You might also try having some white foamcore and/or crumpled-foil-covered foamcore available as DIY reflectors. Even on an overcast day I think you might have a hard time getting the light everywhere you want it, and they'd help. I do like the idea of shooting fish and coral in B&W; be sure to post up some of your shots, I'd really enjoy seeing 'em. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Algae Posted May 26, 2008 Author Share Posted May 26, 2008 While I've got you there. I've got a bowfront. If I ever get serious about shooting it, is there any special reflective qualities that I have to look out for with a bowfront that you are aware of? I do have the capability to use a remote strobe on my digital camera. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
andy Posted May 26, 2008 Share Posted May 26, 2008 I've never taken pictures in a bowfront; honestly, I can't even look into then too long, the slight distortion gives me vertigo. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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