Christmas time - Shue Photos style

Here at Shue Photos we have several projects open right now. I'm not typically at ease and able to shoot stuff for myself until all customer's jobs are done. But yesterday was a rare exception.

I've seen some pictures around the internet that have some interesting qualities to them. The bokeh on some of these images has been shaped differently than what the aperture blades would otherwise make on their own. I've seen everything from trees to hearts to snowmen and I decided that I wanted to give it a shot. I had tried something like this in the past, but I wasn't 100% happy with the results. Though I think I've gotten it almost where I need for it to be, I think I could make it a little bit better, and more versatile, using different materials.

I think something like this will add an interesting quality to not only Christmas photos, but also other types of photography that Shue Photos does. A perfect example would be heart shaped bokeh for boudoir, engagement or wedding photography. Snowflakes would have also worked on this shot of our son, Rolen:



So now that I know what needs to be done, I think I have a fairly good idea on how to make this into something that will not only be quicker to use but will achieve nicer results as well! Perhaps once I get the materials I need make this better, I will take pictures along the way and post those images along with instructions on how to get this same effect in a future blog entry.

K9 Training in Frankfort

A little over a week ago a friend of mine, Joey, told me that they would be doing some K9 training in Frankfort. Joey is a deputy and a K9 handler for the Sheriff's Office in Clinton County. I had been wanting to take some pictures during one of their training sessions and he agreed to let me come take some shots. With this being the first time for a session such as this, I didn't really know what to expect. Luckily I was armed with my trusty Canon and the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS lens. It was a perfect fit for this type of photography. Then again, what can't that lens do?


Deputy Mitchell's partner, Rizzo, giving the "stare" indicating drugs are nearby.

This training session was open to multiple agencies from around Clinton County. One of those agencies was the Boone County Sheriff's Office. Deputy Ron Mahoy and his partner, Ben were in attendance. Here is a picture of Ben with one of his favorite items - a tennis ball.


Deputy Mahoy with his partner, Ben.

Clinton County is lucky enough to have two K9 handlers, Deputy Joey Mitchell and Deputy Ryan Ashlock. Here is a photo of Deputy Ashlock and his partner, Dyzio, as they check the boxes for illegal substances.


Deputy Ashlock with his partner, Dyzio.

A vital part of the training is the bonding that takes place between a K9 and his handler. Here is an image of Deputy Mitchell whispering sweet nothings into his partner's ear...


Deputy Mitchell with his partner, Rizzo.

Apparently Rizzo approved of whatever it was Deputy Mitchell said...


Rizzo approves.