Everything is bigger in Texas
Well... not really. But I can report that I major BIG TIME wanted to pinch myself every.single.minute. while I was in Austin.
I don't even know how I came across Stephen Karlisch's workshops but I am 100% happy with my decision to invest in my business and skill up. I attended a 3 day workshop focused on lighting interiors - something I feel I've struggled with ever since I started shooting so many branding and lifestyle sessions. As much scouting as I do, I never truly know what the light is going to be like at our shooting location on shoot day until I get my gear out and can evaluate the conditions. As location photographers, we need to solve all sorts of problems - balancing color temperature from interior lamps and ambient light, skin tones, and matching the lighting to the mood of every shot. This is something that can take years to master -
Lucky for me, then, that I was able to be one of twelve students at this intensive learning experience.
I drove, as I had all my gear with me, 13 hours to Austin. It was a great opportunity for me to just be alone. With myself. Reflect on how amazing my year has been and take the time to dream about what I would like 2025 and beyond to look like.
In Austin, I rented a room from a sweet hippie massage therapist, Samantha, (with an awesome cat -- I regret not snapping a pic of her sweet soul) who just lived 2 miles from the beautiful home we shot all week in. Seriously... this home is my DREAM HOME. I mean, listen..... a kitchen with a green fridge with glass doors?! Obsessed.
We started Day 1 with intros - including a modifier demo (super helpful and practical). Then we watched the master at work, migrating around to the different rooms. I was pleasantly surprised to see how simple Stephen's method is. By the end of the day we were ready to meet for drinks but I made it an early night to rest up for the next day.
Day 2 we continued to shoot in the house and did breakout sessions in the afternoon. It's amazing how exhausting those were... I felt like I had done a full day shoot (partly because we had!) but also, my brain was just trying to absorb it all.
Day 3 we geeked out over gear and editing software and then did image review all afternoon. I definitely have already noticed myself paying closer attention to the light in a room more than I ever have before. We wrapped up early and headed out for drinks - we loved sitting outside everyplace. The weather was just perfect - 80 and sunny.
On my way home, I decided to stay in Oklahoma City (which is where I find myself right now... sitting on the most marvelous King size bed, typing, in the most charming and colorful historic hotel, The Bradford House.) No Holiday Inn Express for me. I'm counting this as my Stacy Ideus Photography Christmas party. haha
Did I mention I got a massage this morning, as well?
But as I sit here waiting for my 6 o'clock dinner reservation, I'm just still pinching myself. How incredibly blessed am I to A. have the love and support of my family for doing a job that I am completely in love with B. be successful in my business that I can afford opportunities such as this and C. have a thirsty mind
Creativity is POURING out of me and I simply cannot wait to put my new expertise to use.
