Have you ever seen those amazing water drop images and wondered how they were created? If so then you will be interested in what Susan Candelario has to say. I would consider her to be one of the best if not
the best at executing these very difficult and time consuming images. The pay-off is huge however and Susan will be able to tell you first hand of the adrenaline rush you get when you capture a unique look with the water drop collisions.
Susan Candelario is an accomplished photographer living in New Jersey with her husband Anthony. She is a very driven woman and her technical ability is astonishing. I first spoke with Susan on line on BPN (Bird Photographers Network) where I am a moderator in the OOTB (Out Of The Box) Forum. She had posted a water drop collision and it took my breath away. We exchanged e-mails from time to time but it wasn’t until Roman Kurywczak (a fellow BPN moderator) brought us together for my first water drop lesson.
Roman and I arrived at Susan’s house in Secaucus New Jersey early in the day. Anxious to try this for myself I could hardly wait till she opened the door. She was much friendlier than I had expected. Her warm welcome with open arms made me feel as though we had been friends for life. Susan didn’t hold back from sharing any of her many tips that are crucial for a successful water drop image. The day ended with three photographers completely happy with the results of the days’ shoot. I know I couldn’t wait to get home to post an image to show everyone what we had done.
Susan is now offering how-to workshops. She has received a bunch of e-mails from eager clients asking for her instruction
along with a lot of prodding from Roman and me.
Susan can you tell us how you got interested in creating these water drop images?
I have always been very interested in High Speed Photography, but it was not until 8 years ago that I decided to give it a try. Ever since that day my interest became a fascination. It’s amazing to be able to capture a moment in time that is not otherwise visible to the human eye. Aside from that, the vast variety of shapes that can be created is amazing. I love being able to combine art with chemistry in my photography.
Where did you first learn how to do them?
When I first started doing the High Speed Water Drop Photography, I basically learned by trial and error. I started by using a regular eyedropper as well as an IV drip and a cable release for my camera. It took an enormous amount of patience, coordination and hundreds of shots. A couple of years later I started using a electronic trigger machine. My success rate significantly increased.
If you were just getting started with water drop collisions what equipment would you need?
Any camera will do, but the instant feedback from a digital SLR makes the learning curve a bit quicker in my opinion. I use a 100 mm or 180 mm Macro Lens. I have used a 70 -200 mm as well but prefer using either one of my Macro Lenses. A single flash will do as long as you have the ability to control the output. A collision usually last between 3-4 ms (millionth of a second) so the flash output and duration is what will capture the event. I use anywhere from 2 – 4 flash units depending on the type of lighting I am looking to achieve.
I know that your dedication and determination are the keys to your success and that practice really does make perfect when it comes to getting a great result. Is there any bit of advice or any tips that you would suggest to anyone trying to get started with these water drops?
The number one piece of advice that I can offer is to try to have fun. I would start out with an eyedropper or a drip from a modified plastic bottle and try to see the chain of events that occur. Other than that you simply have to have a bit of patience, knowing that with practice and time you will be able to create some good images.
When and where will your workshop be?
I have been working with Roman Kurywczak from Roamin’ with Roman Photo Tours lately. Aside from being a good friend he is an award winning photographer. We will be holding a workshop together on Saturday, October 23, 2010 in Secaucus New Jersey. I am also available for “One on One Sessions”.
What will be the cost of your workshop?
The four hour workshop will cost $150.00.
What will the participants need to bring with them to the workshop?
We encourage them to bring their camera and a flash if they have one. That way the participants can go over what we will be covering during the workshop with their own equipment. Aside from that they will need to bring a flash card to record the images of the water drops that we will be creating. A tripod will be supplied.
I heard rumor about a CD with your step by step instructions. Can you tell us if that is true and if so do you know when it will be available?
Not only are you very creative & talented D but I see you pay attention as well.:) I expect to have it completed in a couple of months.
Susan Candelario Photography
WORKSHOP INFORMATION HERE
