Wednesday, February 27, 2013

National Guard Youth Foundation Gala

Color Guard during rehearsal
February 26, 2013--Washington, DC--The National Guard Youth Foundation is an organization that promotes and provides second chance opportunities for at-risk students.  The Gala held in Washington, DC raises funds for scholarships.  Nearly a thousand people attend the event.
Representative Tammy Duckworth with participants


WWE superstar Kofi Kingston 
Senator Mary Landrieu is co-chair of the honorary board
Photo Notes:  There are a lot of activities going on simultaneously at the Gala.  Luckily, I am able to bring a second shooter.  As the primary shooter, I need to make sure all the requirements are done.  Everyone wants their photo with the celebrities, there are sponsors, signage, group shots, VIPs and attendees.  As like all of the galas I cover, the podium shots, presentations on stage and performances are needed photos.  It is my practice to get more than just one shot for each situation.  I want to provide the client with as many angles, and compositions for opportunity.   That is a delicate operation since presentations on stage are under time restraints.  Diplomacy,  quick adjustments and a smile help to make things go smoothly.

All photos copyright Laurence L. Levin 
www.LLLevin.com

Monday, February 11, 2013

The Optical Society

February 9, 2013--Washington, DC--The Optical Society's  Board of Directors.  OSA is one of my 'newer' clients.  The members are remarkable: scientists, educators, inventors and many Nobel Prize Winners.  It is an honor just to be in the same room with everyone. No doubt many of my camera's functions were from discoveries and inventions made by OSA members

Every year at their conference, the board gathers and a group shot is made.  Early Saturday morning, in between meetings, they walk to a pre-determined location and pose for their photo.  Since time is of the essence this photo takes some planning;  A location near their meeting room, lights set-up, and situation planned.  In the lobby of the Palomar Hotel, there are four steps, a good location to do a group shot.  There is 'layering' so we can see everyone's face.  The board congregates, they go to a spot on the steps, a quick check to make sure no one is blocking someone.   In one minute and 32 seconds, eight frames are made. And the 2013 OSA Board photo is done.

Copyright 2013 Laurence L. Levin
www.LLLevin.com

Sunday, February 10, 2013

GEICO's Money Man


To see "I Wish"
February 2013--California--It is a challenge and exciting to work on a film set.  There is always a constant creative activity for both the production team and the talent.  As the production still photographer you have to be nimble to document what it happening and most importantly be invisible to the filming.

As part of the DCP Production team, we work long days, sometimes it is hot, other times it is cold.  But the camaraderie makes the day go quickly.  And always, amazing to see the 'movie magic' that is done during each scene......
Camera attached to the motorcycle in  "I Wish" 
In Griffith Park, Los Angeles
See "Motorcycle Mountain Drive"  
See "Get Away"
                               
Scene from "Get Away"

Wonderful faces of the Extras
All photos copyright 2013 Laurence L. Levin and DCP Productions