I am gearing up (literally) for a two day presentation at B&H Photo in NYC May 30-31.  This will be my fourth time to speak at B&H and I am really excited this time to talk more about being a creative artist.  With so many Youtube videos out there, anyone can learn the technical skills in photography.  But,  how often do you get inspired to find the creative artist inside?  Search for that on Youtube and see what comes up...

My unique approach to photography goes beyond the technical.  I use certain pieces of gear to create my style and I have a few secrets to make anyone your model.   There is a creative artist inside all of us and I help inspire others to bring out that artistry. 

After B&H I have a two day Lightenupandshoot Workshop in NYC June 1-2.  The cost is $600 and there are a few spots left.  You can sign up here or email me you like to reserve your spot.  What will be covered?  Watch the following video if you want a glimpse of what it might be like.  Or click here to sign up and read details.

I had the opportunity to do some work in Bogota and then I spent a few days in a 450 year old town called Villa de Leyva.  I really dig this place because of the history of Colombia, Spain and the race to the new world.   Inspired by the beauty of the area and old world character of Bogota I decided to shoot from the hip, loosey goosey style. 

Not worried about imperfections, under/over exposures or what people thought, I shot what inspired me and was fearless to ask for a photo when I needed it.  Putting this series together was an after thought;  imagine what would have happened if I knew I was going to go crazy taking photos for several days and then turn it into a story?   I used 500px "story" to put this series together,  what a beautiful way to share you story of photography.   

Click read more (below) to see PICS on 500px, info my B&H Presentation, and NYC Workshop June 1-2

To Learn How to Shoot the Lightenupandshoot Style,  BUY THE VBOOK  (100% Guarantee if you don't learn boat loads of techniques in a fun way).  It's also a great primer before the tag along/coaching or workshop.

NYC WORKSHOP AND EUROPEAN TAG ALONG

If you are serious about taking your photography to a whole other level email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to attend the two day workshop June 1 - 2 in New York City.  The cost is $600 and there are 3 spaces remaining.  Following the NYC workshop, Mikey will be having a 5 days adventure tag along/coaching June 6-10 in Budapest - Prague (5 days shooting with Mikey...this is an experience!)  You must talk to Mikey on Skype if at michael.orangetree if you are interested in a tag along/coaching to make sure it's a right fit.  Watch the video link for more info on tag alongs and CALL MIKEY!  There are only 2 spots left for Budapest/Prague.

Notes and break down of the technical/creative on the Lightenupandshoot style of shooting (examined in detail CLICK below):

* Creative - there's a lot that goes into creating an awesome image.  The Lightenupandshoot style of shooting gave me the chops needed to get the shot almost every time.  Understanding how to quickly manipulate light and use the technical in creative ways is the key.  Everyday I think of new ideas and ways to implement my vision. You can do it too!  The Vbook has all that knowledge of the technical and gear rolled into one big video/book series.

*Technical - I'm not a camera scientist or a pixel peeper.  I'm more concerned with how to use the technical creatively.  That's how I think.  For example:  a lot of people tell me they aren't sure where to start when it comes to getting an exposure.  I start with aperture.  Do I want to a shallow depth of field?  Then I build from there.  What about ambient?  I'm I concerned about motion blur?  These are the types of questions that go through my mind.  I'm thinking more about the shot than about the techy crap.

* Gear used for the photos in this series:  50mm 1.4, 12-14mm 4.0, 105mm 2.0, Alien Bee B1600, Nikon speedlight, Saberstrip Strip Light,  Westcott 28" Softbox, Photoflex 60" Umbrella

Pictures from this shoot and more notes CLICK BELOW:

A collection of images that span over the past three years.  Some images were taken with a point and shoot and others with a full-frame Nikon.  I now have clients around the world and try to schedule coaching adventures when I travel.  If you are interested in finding your creative voice consider attending one of my events.  Email mikey@lightenupandshoot if you are ready for an adventure that will change the way you view photography.  You can do it too!  Enjoy the video:

Hey everyone! It's been too long since I have had a photo challenge!!!  Get ready!!!  CLICK READ MORE FOR CHALLENGE

Some of you that follow this blog and my work know that I'm not afraid to experiment.  I started Lightenupandshoot so that I could document my photo journey.  I love pushing myself to be different and focus on my strenghts.  Enough ranting;  I want to see if you can get inspired and do something different.  Share you photos with me and have an opportunity to share with other followers of this site.

CLICK READ MORE FOR DETAILS