What fun our group had making pictures on my free 2014 Unisphere Photo Walk.

My first challenge/assignment to the group was to get a shot like the one you see above on the left – an image that included a starburst and the awesome shadows in the foreground.

My advice to get the starburst effect:

1) Compose the scene so that the sun is just peeking out from behind part of the Unisphere.

2) Use a wide-angle lens. I used my Canon 17-40mm lens set at 17mm. My 17-40mm lens is my favorite lens for city scapes and landscapes. (I shot with my full-frame Canon 5D Mark III.)

4) Remove all filters to avoid a ghost image of the sun in your photograph.

4) Set your lens at f/22, and make sure your lens is very, very clean. A spot of dust on your lens can look like a big blog in your photograph.

To capture the entire dynamic range of the scene, I suggested shooting HDR, and processing the set of images in Photomatix. (Click here to get a discount on Photomatix.) Above are the four images that I used to create what I call my HDR negative. The image on the top right in the opening pair of images in this post is my HDR negative).

To add color and impact to the scene, I used the following plug-ins: Topaz Adjust/Spicify, Nik Detail Extractor and Tonal Contrast, and Nik Image Borders. (Click here to get a discount on Topaz Adjust.)

We found the best light by using my Photo Sundial app. In addition to many other features, the app shows an aerial view of your shooting location. Yes, that's the Unisphere you see on the screen in the above image on the right. Pretty, pretty cool, right?

Thanks to all those who participated in the event. We hope to see you again on one of my workshops. Attention snowbirds: I have several workshops scheduled for January in the Sunshine State.

A big thank you also goes to Adorama for sponsoring the event. Adorama is the place for great gear at a great price. Here is a look at all my gear.

Explore the light,
Rick

P.S. If you were on the walk and what to share your images, please post them here so other can see your fine (and fun) work.