Category: photography

An experienced academic nursing administrator, Devon Berry most recently served as executive associate dean at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing. He has also held executive positions at institutions such as Wright State University, University of Cincinnati, and Cedarville University. Devon Berry currently resides in Happy Valley, Oregon with his family and in his spare time likes to practice photography. 

Most photographers prefer shooting in the natural light of day, however there is something special about capturing the character of a place once the sun goes down. Places that can seem mundane during daylight hours—a bridge, highway, or stadium,–can light up at night and take on a new energy. And thanks to digital photography, it’s easier than ever to take photos at night—with improved low light performance and digital previews that let you see your work in real-time. Below are three tips for better night photography.

Utilize a Slow Shutter Speed

A slow shutter speed (from 2-10 seconds) allows for proper exposure. It can also lead to cool effects like light trails and motion blur. Consider using a tripod as well, as images are more likely to turn out blurry when the shutter takes longer.

Use RAW File Format

JPEGs are an efficient use of your camera’s memory card as they take up little space, but they compress your images and leave you with less to work with in the post-editing process. By shooting in RAW file format, you are able to have greater control in the editing process, which makes the high contrasts that appear in night photos easier to manage.

Pack Accordingly

In many climates, temperatures drop at night and sometimes have drastic changes in precipitation. Dress in layers so you can add and subtract as needed and bring gloves with pull-back fingertips for better dexterity. Also bring a rain shell for your camera and an extra battery pack, as using a long exposure can drain its power.

Most recently serving as executive associate dean at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing, Devon Berry, PhD, RN, has over 20 years of academic leadership experience. He has also worked in the Midwest, holding executive positions at Wright State University, University of Cincinnati, and Cedarville University. Devon Berry currently lives in Happy Valley, Oregon with his family and in his spare time, enjoys taking photos.

The indoors are a great place to practice photography because it can be done year-round and doesn’t require a big budget. However, shooting inside comes with its own set of challenges, as photographers have to deal with a mix of natural and artificial light, and light reflecting off windows and walls. Read on for three ways to take better indoor photos.

Avoid Flash

The camera’s flash will often give your subject a washed-out look indoors. If you’re looking to add more light, move closer to the natural light coming in from a window or set up lamps just around the frame of your shot.

Adjust White Balance

As most indoor settings have mixed lighting, with disproportionate natural and artificial light, it is likely your camera’s auto white balance preset won’t yield ideal photos. Play around with the other presets, such as “cloudy” when the image is too blue and “daylight/sunny” when the image is too warm.

Maximize the Location

While shooting indoors may seem boring, every room can provide interest if you’re looking for it. A bare room with neutral walls can be used for portraits or still life. A busy room can reflect your subject’s personality, or be the subject itself. Don’t ignore hallways or doorways either—both can provide interesting settings for your photos.

Devon Berry spent four years as executive associate dean at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing, where he oversaw strategy implementation and provided leadership for the school’s six Advanced Practice Nurse Registration programs. He recently received his MBA from Western Governors University and resides in Happy Valley, Oregon with his family. In his free time, Devon Berry likes to practice photography.

There are few things more satisfying for photography enthusiasts than sharing their photos with others. While many opt for sending online albums these days, there is still value in the tangible photo print. After getting a photo developed, packaging it property to ensure it doesn’t get bent or damaged in transit is a process that can prove difficult depending on size, quantity and type. Below are effective tips for how to mail a photo print:

Step 1: Place in a plastic sleeve

Package a print flat if you can, as bending it can cause cracks on the finished coating of the paper. The exception is large prints like posters around 16×20, when packing it flat can be impractical and mailing in a cardboard or PVC tube will suffice. When working with photos sized 11×14 and under, put your print in a clear plastic sleeve and tape it shut, that way it is easier to handle and you don’t get your fingerprints on it.

Step 2: Secure between board

Use two sheets of sturdy surface slightly larger than the photo such as mat board or mounting board. Tape the plastic sleeve directly to one of the boards so the print is sitting in the middle, and cover with the other board, taping the edges together so you have one unified piece. Tape around all four edges again so you have one finished package ready for the mail.

Step 3: Add security

While it’s technically out of your hands how the package gets treated once it’s in the mail, you can add caution by writing phrases like “do not bend” and “fragile, photo enclosed” on the front. Or if the package is extra-precious, opt for signature required upon delivery or insurance in case something happens to it.