Win a $900 Into the Darkroom Hyperlyte Blog December 3rd, 2008

Posted in Contests, Photography & Photoshop News

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Do you need a blog?  Does your current blog have small photos or a poor layout?  Do you need a blog designed especially for photographers?

This is your opportunity to win the $900 Into the Darkroom Hyperlyte Blog.  This blog is well organized and perfect for showing off the “MCP Magic Blog It Boards” and large photos.

THE CONTEST:

To enter this contest, you need to do all of the following:

1 - Use a “Magic Blog It Board” with your photographs. You can use any of them from Set 1 or 2.  If you do not own these, you can grab the “Try Me” one from my website and use that.  These actions are compatible with Photoshop CS2 and higher.  If you have v7 or CS, you can download the free one, run until it stops.  Then manually insert photos using the clipping masks.  This takes away the “magic” but allows you to participate in the contest.

2 - Post the completed “Magic Blog It Board” on your current Blog, Website, Flickr, Facebook, or on a photography forum (if the forum rules allow).  This must be posted on or after the introduction of today’s announcement of the contest.

3 - Tag the posted “Magic Blog It Board” with “MCP Actions” and “www.mcpactions.com.”

4 - Link your “Magic Blog It Board” to http://www.mcpactions.com. You can write whatever you want to beyond that.

5 - Post in the comment section for this contest (do not email me directly), with a link to where you did all of the above steps.

HOW THE WINNER WILL BE SELECTED:

The winner will be selected on the evening of December 15th via random drawing.  The person selected must have completed steps 1-5 or I will select a different winner.

Good luck everyone - this is an amazing prize.


{click here to add a comment}

  1. Sarah Raanan wrote: you can find my board on flickr here http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahraanan/3080380522/ it is tagged and also linked via a note on the top left square. fingers crossed..... Sarah (12/03/08, 11:38 am)

  2. Jake Easley wrote: This is an amazing offer, Jodi! Thank you. What is the deadline for submissions? (12/03/08, 11:45 am)

  3. Melissa Brott wrote: http://melissabrottphotography.blogspot.com/2008/12/some-summer-fun-on-cold-december-day.html Here's my entry for the blog contest :) I wasn't sure how to tag things on my blog... anyone know? (12/03/08, 11:51 am)

  4. Erica wrote: I had been planning on using your blog it boards for this entry for a few days now, thanks for getting me to finally put it together :) http://www.ericalynnphotography.com/blog/2008/12/03/kennedy-space-center-via-iphone/ (12/03/08, 11:55 am)

  5. Evelyn Savage wrote: YAYYAYYAY!!!!! I'm drooling over ITDR blogs....and of course....love those blog it boards!!! I think I might even pray to win this!!! ;) (12/03/08, 11:56 am)

  6. jessica limeberry wrote: Thanks so much for the great contest! I posted mine on Facebook... you can get to the link here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2032220&id=22100633&saved#/photo.php?pid=31607500&id=22100633 (12/03/08, 11:57 am)

  7. Katie Slater wrote: I linked to two collages on Facebook and will also post on my blog... http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/photo.php?pid=30220322&id=1190136619&ref=mf http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/photo.php?pid=30220323&id=1190136619&ref=mf Thanks so much for such an awesome offer and fun contest!! :) (12/03/08, 12:09 pm)

  8. Sarah e. Evans wrote: What a fun contest! This is the first time i have used the actions and I LOVE THEM! I must get them! http://saraheevansphotography.com/blog/ (12/03/08, 12:15 pm)

  9. Crystal wrote: Thanks for the great contest Jodi! I did a Christmas Bokeh theme with my entry.. you can find it here.. http://flickr.com/photos/bmay33/3079638321/ and here http://www.handsandheartsphotography.com/blog/?p=107 (12/03/08, 12:20 pm)

  10. Erica Velasco wrote: I posted it on my blog: http://visionphotographs.com/blog/2008/12/03/im-back-phoenix-photographer/ I'm not sure you can see tags on my blog, but I did enter them in Wordpress when I published it. I can even send you a screen shot that shows it if I win =) Let me know! Fingers crossed! (12/03/08, 12:23 pm)

  11. Lindsay~Noel wrote: Can't wait to see who is the lucky winner! My partner and I love love love all of your wonderful actions...they are so much fun and super easy to work with! Thanks!!! You can view our Blog It Board entry @ http://foreverinthismoment.blogspot.com/ Thanks again! L~N (12/03/08, 12:28 pm)

  12. Heather Armstrong wrote: Great contest, girl! I posted mine on my blog...http://heatherarmstrongphotography.com/blog/?p=238!! Thanks girl! (12/03/08, 12:32 pm)

  13. Kelly Ridgell wrote: How fun! I posted mine here http://kellysproject365.blogspot.com/ Hope you can see the tags. (12/03/08, 12:54 pm)

  14. Jennifer Slot wrote: Jodi, What a great contest. That blog is exactly what I need! BTW, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, these magic blog it boards. They rock! (and so do you.) You can view my official entry here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jslot360/3080562248/ Jen Slot www.jenslotphotography.com www.jenslotphotography.blogspot.com (12/03/08, 1:03 pm)

  15. Angela Nebinger wrote: Awesome contest.. I need to win this I'm stuck with my own editing.. I'm loving your blog boards but so far my blog isn't set to maximize them with the correct size.. you can see my entry here.. http://www.angelanebingerphotography.com/blog/ Thanks for a great contest.. random generator pick me pick me.. Angie (12/03/08, 1:11 pm)

  16. Courtney DeLaura wrote: ok I posted it two places a scrapbook website i design for. http://www.scrapinstyletv.com/portfolio/view_layout.php?layout_id=143488 can't post links to product but I did put your website name in the post they will google it :) and also on my blog http://peachtreestudio.blogspot.com/2008/12/blog-it-boards-children-photographer.html oh and on facebook - I know I was on a roll LOL Courtney DeLaura on facebook good luck to everyone!!! (12/03/08, 1:12 pm)

  17. Cynthia Brown wrote: I've been dreaming of these ITDR Blogs for a while now. My current blog needs a face lift, but I do have fun with my "Blog It Boards"! Thanks! (12/03/08, 1:14 pm)

  18. Cynthia Brown wrote: Whoops, I forgot to link to my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=234534&l=233c7&id=1043919633 (12/03/08, 1:16 pm)

  19. Jennifer LaChance wrote: Thanks for the extra boost to try the Magic Blog It Board, Jodi!! I didn't think I could use it with PS7 but it so totally rocked (with your directions of course!)! LOVE what I was able to do!!! You are my PhotoShop Easy Button!!! THANKS!! And you can check out my board at www.photoartbyjenn.blogspot.com. (12/03/08, 1:34 pm)

  20. Leslie Roark wrote: You can find the completed steps at www.leslieroark.net (or in case I have new posts before you see it) http://www.leslieroark.net/2008/12/magic-blogit-boards.html. Thanks so much for this awesome contest! (12/03/08, 1:40 pm)

  21. Kara wrote: Oh the board is so nice!! you can see mine at http://karatography.wordpress.com/2008/12/03/some-boudoir-from-nicole (12/03/08, 1:47 pm)

  22. Marianne Wilson Photography wrote: What a fun idea! I posted one this morning! I think I might have to get a set! They're cute and funky. http://blogs.mariannewilson.net/ (12/03/08, 1:59 pm)

  23. Cayce Callaway wrote: Love your actions, Jodi! I use the retouch ones every day. I couldn't do what I do without them. You can find my post on FB as I don't have my blog happening yet. The link is: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1315365319&ref=name#/profile.php?id=1315365319&v=feed&viewas=1315365319 I wasn't sure how to tag the images in FB to your keywords. If I befriend you, will it work then? Also, I made a large one for my wall, but had to put the link directly above it, as it wouldn't let me link in the photo paragraph. If anyone knows how to do this, I'd be happy to change it. But your name and site are listed many times. (12/03/08, 2:10 pm)

  24. Kelly Ridgell wrote: I updated my blog post with a link to http://www.mcpactions.com/. I wasn't sure if we're supposed to but don't want to be eliminated from the contest. LOL. (12/03/08, 2:17 pm)

  25. Lindsay Silsby wrote: Oooo Jodi, I LOVE this blog it board! Totally wicked and sooooo easy! Thanks for sharing!!! I posted mine on my blog and my flickr here is the blog: http://www.piedpiperphoto.blogspot.com http://www.flickr.com/photos/piedpiper1/3079885721/ (12/03/08, 2:34 pm)

  26. Wendy Mayo wrote: Here is my board: http://wendymayophotographer.com/blog/?p=329 It's full of young, cool, hip, teenagers from this fall's shooting. Hope you like it! (12/03/08, 2:37 pm)

  27. Kathy wrote: You can find my board on my Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kjaustin/3080858990/ First time trying something like that & I loved it!! (12/03/08, 3:45 pm)

  28. Thea wrote: I love the sample one! This is a great contest and I can't wait for some payments for sessions to come in so I can get these actions:) I posted mine on my blog http://colorsonmymind.blogspot.com/2008/12/magic-blog-it-board-by-mcp-actions.html and on my flickr http://flickr.com/photos/theacoughlin/3080078995/ (12/03/08, 4:09 pm)

  29. Michelle Olson wrote: Thanks for being so generous with the giveaway! http://thistlecreekphotography.blogspot.com/2008/12/magic-blog-it-board.html (12/03/08, 4:51 pm)

  30. Rachel Tucker wrote: Done! I'm so excited! I love contests! Mine is at: http://www.rachelclarephoto.com/blog Thanks! (12/03/08, 4:53 pm)

  31. Candace Sheets wrote: Hi - I think I followed all the directions. My post is here http://littlebitofcandy.blogspot.com/ I loved the Blog It boards, seriously easy to use; thanks! (12/03/08, 4:55 pm)

  32. laureen wrote: okay...www.laureencarruthersphotography.blogspot.com - I'm in! (12/03/08, 6:01 pm)

  33. sarah s wrote: thanks - great contest!! love the magic boards! happy holidays!! so many talented people submitting entries! http://luckygalphotography.blogspot.com/2008/12/magic-blog-it-board-with-mcp-actions.html (12/03/08, 6:25 pm)

  34. Emily VanderMolen wrote: Thanks for the contest. My magic blog it board is posted at: http://emilyraephotography.blogspot.com/ (12/03/08, 6:38 pm)

  35. Kim wrote: I tried Jodi's magic blog freebie and was instantly sold. Went directly and bought the 1st set. It's so easy and fun and the results are very cool! Thanks Jodi for a cool new tool! -Kim- http://blipintime.blogspot.com/ (12/03/08, 6:52 pm)

  36. Rick Hannon wrote: Hi Jodi! Just bought Magic Blog It Board the other day and this is the first creation I made with it. Took less than three minutes. I've posted it on Facebook and you can see it there at, http://www.facebook.com/album.php?page=2&aid=3180&id=1321230519#/photo.php?pid=198937&id=1321230519&ref=mf It's also on my splash page of my website. (12/03/08, 8:51 pm)

  37. Rick Hannon wrote: Hey Jodi, I know you have a Facebook account but for those that might not, you can view my submission at, http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=198937&l=dabd2&id=1321230519 (12/03/08, 8:57 pm)

  38. Nicole wrote: My post is located at http://nicolesoaresphotography.shotblogs.com/. I'm pretty sure I followed all the directions. Thank you for this opportunity. Thanks! (12/03/08, 9:47 pm)

  39. Brandi wrote: Thanks for offering the contest! My blog post is here: http://www.ethanhead.com/2008/12/been-while.html (12/03/08, 9:51 pm)

  40. Teri Fitzgerald wrote: This was fun!!! Would love to have a fabulous blog! :) http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2012489&id=1300841424&saved#/photo.php?pid=30216286&id=1300841424 (12/03/08, 11:35 pm)

  41. Jake wrote: Thanks Jodi! This one made me think a bit and I had a blast. http://around395.blogspot.com/ (12/04/08, 2:04 am)

  42. Abbey wrote: Thank you so much for this contest! Here is the link to my post! Can't wait until the 15th! This is better than Christmas! http://bertolone.blogspot.com/2008/12/american-village-collage.html (12/04/08, 5:33 am)

  43. Cristina C wrote: Thanks so much for a chance for this! I am just starting blogging and this would be amazing. I can't tell you how much I use your actions, they are wonderful!! Now I'm off to put together a better board - just wanted to make sure I got my entry in!! http://cristinacoco.blogspot.com/ (12/04/08, 7:49 am)

  44. Laura wrote: YAY! Jodi, this is so much fun! I made mine and saved it to flickr...my blog wouldn't let me link the photo (ugh!) Here's the link http://www.flickr.com/photos/mylaura2001/3082504202/ (12/04/08, 9:09 am)

  45. Sarah Freel wrote: Thanks so much! http://www.beyondjustimages.com/forum/showpost.php?p=174743&postcount=5 (12/04/08, 10:57 am)

  46. kirsten wrote: WOW! This is an awesome contest, and rather smart I might add! :) Love your actions, makes life much easier. I posted in two different places, on my blog at: http://www.innatephoto.com/blog/index.php?month=12&year=2008&day=4 AND on my facebook at http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1585450&l=321cf&id=553881431! Happy holidays and good luck to everyone. (12/04/08, 12:48 pm)

  47. San Jose Photograohy wrote: Done! Thats a great oportunity, I’m so excited! Your actions are amazing by the way. Mine is at: http://san-jose-fotografia.blogspot.com/2008/12/promocion-navidea.html (12/04/08, 1:04 pm)

  48. Sarah D wrote: What a fabulous contest! I am so excited! Thanks for all you do, I love all of your tutorials, actions, boards etc! You are great! Check out my entry at www.diederichsdeepdish.blogspot.com Thanks again! (12/04/08, 1:19 pm)

  49. Tami Chrostowski wrote: My board is here on Flickr. I don't have a blog and would love a prize like this! Jodi, you never fail to amaze me with your wonderful contests!! http://www.flickr.com/photos/8746400@N02/3083396560/ (12/04/08, 5:27 pm)

  50. Kelda Adams wrote: My board is on www.camandkel.blogspot.com. What a great contest! (12/04/08, 5:52 pm)


Freebie - a Season’s Greetings Template from Diana Hall December 2nd, 2008

Posted in Free Actions

To go along with the “clipping mask tutorial” that I did yesterday, here is a contribution from Diana Hall Designs.  She has fabulous templates and cards and has generously donated this for my blog readers.

Download the Photoshop card template here.

Here is the sample of what it looks like.  You can add your own two photos my creating clipping masks.  And change the text too.  Enjoy!

Refer to the “clipping mask” tutorial that I did yesterday for specifics.  Here is what your layers palette will look like.  And you will want to add your images above “Image 1″ and clip for the left image and above “Image 2″ and clip for the right image.


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  1. janeth wrote: Thank you:)Diana and Jodi this template is adorable!! Thank you for sharing:o) (12/02/08, 8:09 pm)

  2. Ayesha wrote: Thanks so much for sharing Diana and Jodi. Will definitely be using this template. (12/02/08, 8:25 pm)

  3. Andie wrote: thanks for sharing. I have many Diana Hall templates and not only are they fabulous but they are SOOO easy to use! THANK YOU!!! (12/03/08, 2:12 am)

  4. Erin wrote: HELLO, AWESOME! Thank you so much, this is a way fun design! (12/03/08, 3:31 am)

  5. Adam wrote: Gracias (12/03/08, 10:16 am)

  6. Cindy Conner wrote: Thanks so much Jodi for everything you do. (12/03/08, 3:06 pm)

  7. Vanessa wrote: This is great! Thank you for sharing all these wonderful things! (12/04/08, 5:44 am)


How to use a “Clipping Mask” to insert photos into a template December 1st, 2008

Posted in Tips & Tutorials

This is a very basic tutorial on how to use clipping masks to insert photos into a template or card.

To start with, open your template.  For this example, I am using a very simple white template.  Openings shown in black.  The black represents the layer(s) in your templates that you need to clip to.  Depending on the designer they may be labeled “Photo Layer,” “Photo” or almost anything else.  What you are looking for to identify these layers is a shape (such as a rectangle) in your layers palette.

Once you find these, you need to bring the photo(s) into the template and place a photo above the layer.  So in this sample, there is a layer 2 and layer 3.  Whichever photo you place above layer 2 will be on the right and directly above layer 3 will be on the left.

To move a photo into your canvas, go WINDOW - ARRANGE - CASCADE so you can see things staggered.  Then use the MOVE tool to move the photo into the template or card.  Once your photo is inside, move it above the layer you need it to clip to, and position so that it is over that shape.

This is what your layers palette will look like with your photo placed above layer 2.

To resize a photo that is way too big, hold CTRL (or CMD) + “T” and this will bring up your transform handles.  Then hold down SHIFT KEY.  And move in one of the 4 corners to shrink.  If you do not hold SHIFT, your photo will distort.  Click the check mark at the top to accept the change.

Next you will be adding the clipping mask so that the photo clips just to the shape layer below. There are numerous ways to do this.  The easiest way is to go in your layers palette menu and select from the drop down “Create Clipping Mask.”  If you prefer short cut keys it is ALT + CTRL + G (OPT + CMD + G).

Once you do this you can move your photo around to taste and it will only be inside that shape below.

Next Step is to insert a photo above each other layer and clip it to the cooresponding layer as well.  Then you are ready to save.

As I said this is a basic clipping mask tutorial as related to templates and cards.  Clipping masks can be used for a variety of other applications as well.  I hope this helps you start understanding them.


{click here to add a comment}

  1. keri wrote: you are awesome! thanks jodi :) i never could figure that out! haha... (12/01/08, 1:07 pm)

  2. janeth wrote: Thank you Jodi. Great tutorial!!:o) (12/01/08, 4:22 pm)

  3. Niki from CA wrote: Thanks a ton!! Except I'm a little on the slow side today.... how do you get the black rectangles again? (12/01/08, 6:10 pm)

  4. Pam wrote: Thanks for this tutorial, Jodi. It's just what I was trying to figure out and here you make it look so darn simple! Also wanted to say how excited I am to see that you are now on PW's photo "staff". You sure started off with a bang showing one of your step by step tutorials! I think you are the best around! (12/02/08, 1:40 am)


How to Use Your Flash Effectively for Portraits (part 2 of 5) - by MCP Guest Blogger Matthew Kees November 30th, 2008

Posted in Photography & Photoshop News, Tips & Tutorials

Matthew Kees is a very talented photographer and teacher.  He is doing a 5 part series on the MCP Actions Blog on Using a Modern Flash for Portraits.  I am excited to share his knowledge and expertise with all of my readers. These tutorials will launch once every other week. On the alternate weeks, time permitting, Matthew will look through the ”comment section” and answer some of your questions.  So make sure to ask your questions directly in the comment section about this post.

This is Part 2 of 5.

by Matthew L Kees, guest to the MCP Actions Blog

Director of MLKstudios.com Online Photography Course [MOPC]

http://www.MLKstudios.com/MOPC/

 

Using TTL Flash Indoors (”freeze or i’ll shoot…”)

 

In TTL mode, a sensor inside the camera body controls the amount of light produced by the flash, so you get a perfect (or near perfect) flash exposure every time. To make your first flash experience as easy as possible set the flash to TTL.

 

When shooting indoors, since the flash is creating a majority of the light, it becomes the “key” light or main light in the exposure. A correct exposure is based on the key light and the flash/camera’s dedicated TTL ability is controlling that for you. You can pretty much ignore the camera’s built-in exposure meter.

 

To begin, set your ISO to 400, the f/stop to f/8 for close in work, or f/4 for distance or when bouncing the light, and a low shutter speed of around 1/30 for normal interior lighting.  If you have some window light, increase the shutter speed to 1/60.  For a lot of window light change the ISO to 200.

 

The slow shutter isn’t going to cause motion blur as the quickness of the flash light will freeze the subject. What it does, is add a little bit of room or ambient light to the exposure, to make the image less “flashy”.

 

Straight on, the flash will give a correctly exposed image but not a very flattering one. The best way to use flash indoors is to bounce the light off a wall or ceiling. When you do this, the TTL system might not give you enough exposure, so you compensate for this by increasing the EV setting of the flash.

 

With Nikon you simply hold down the flash pop-up button and turn the command dial till you see EV=+1.0 (one stop over).  The flash compensation can be set in one-third stop increments (EV=0.3) so you can fine tune the exposure to your liking.  Canon uses a scale for FEC from EV=-2.0 to EV=+2.0 (two stops under to two stops over) with short hash marks for the one-third stop settings.

 

You can also bounce the flash off a piece of foamcore to give you more control of the position of the key light.  A round reflector, often used as a fill outdoors, works too.  A second piece of foamcore will act as a fill for a very inexpensive “portrait lighting” set-up.

 

This is a quick start tutorial but hopefully will be enough to get you started making good indoor portraits using flash light.< >< ><–>


{click here to add a comment}

  1. Denise Olson wrote: Thanks Matthew, just what I was looking for this past week. Would love see some tidbits on the use of flash outdoors...:) Thanks for your wealth of information!! (11/30/08, 11:46 am)

  2. Laura wrote: Matthew, first I want to thank you so much for your generosity in all that you share with us. You are such a great guy. :-) My question is...when you say to set the flash to TTL, do you do that within the camera body menu or on the flash itself? I have the Nikon D80 and the SB800. Thanks! This flash stuff so confuses me, although I have managed to stumble on some good shots here and there using it both on and off camera bouncing it. (11/30/08, 4:40 pm)

  3. Lauri Hill wrote: Mathew, you are such a great teacher. After reading this, I think I can actually understand my flash. Before I put it to TTL and prayed. Sometimes I got a good shot, but could never figure out how to make it consistent. Of course I was bouncing all over the place but not changing EV. Now I am ready to go to work mastering this flash. After Christmas, when my time is freer, I want to check out your classes. Thanks again. (11/30/08, 8:28 pm)

  4. Stephanie wrote: This post was just in time for Christmas. Plus its getting cold and dark up in Michigan, so I'm stuck indoors with bad lighting. We put up our tree yesterday and after reading your post I decided to try out the settings with my kids. The pictures actually turned out pretty good. Good exposure, no motion blur. Now I'm excited to get the SB600 or 800. My Dad's flash from his old Minolta just happend to work with my D60 so I've been playing with that. But it doesn't rotate so I still end up with the dark black shadow on some photos. I would love to see some demo photos in the posts. I'm a DSLR newbie so visuals help. (12/01/08, 8:58 am)

  5. Jennie wrote: Thank you for this consice post about use of speedlights. You have a great ability to simplify the complicated! I've heard of using the foam core to bounce the light and I think I know how I would use the first piece, but you mentioned you could use a second piece. Can you provide an explaination or diagram of how to do this? Thanks so much. (12/01/08, 1:55 pm)


Just when I was being thankful… I get this call… November 27th, 2008

Posted in MCP Thoughts

Just when I was feeling thankful for all I have and how my life is, I get a call this AM from my mom.

My sister Rebecca had her 3rd child a week ago.  We have never been super close, and we have had our differences through the years. But she is still my sister and I still love her.

She was rushed to the hospital in the middle of the night as she was bleeding profusely. She ended up having an emergency hysterectomy.  And she is still at risk as they did not stitch her back up.  When she was a pre-teen, she had Ulcerative Colitis and had a pouch put inside her.  Well there are some complications with that.  And they are saying she needs another surgery.

So if all of you can please keep my sister and her children and husband in your thoughts and prayers, I would really appreciate it.  I cannot imagine when she wakes up and realizes her new baby and her other kids are at home and she is in the hospital having just had her uterus removed and will have to have another major surgery too.  How scary.  And how terrible for her kids and the new baby to be without their parents too.

Thank you! Jodi


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  1. cyndi wrote: Jodi, I'm so sorry about your sister having to have a hysterectomy!! Prayers or her!! This is a really nice place to find out info, I learned alot when I had to have one last year... http://www.hystersisters.com/ It's a big adjustment on your body :( (11/27/08, 7:22 pm)

  2. Michelle Garthe wrote: Jodi, your sister and her family are in my prayers. I pray she recovers quickly and her family can be strong through her recovery. Happy Thanksgiving, Michelle (11/27/08, 8:50 pm)

  3. Jenn wrote: I am so sorry to hear about your sister. I pray that she has a quick recovery. My thought and prayers are with her and her family! (11/27/08, 10:11 pm)

  4. Casey wrote: My heart and prayers go out to your family! Casey (11/27/08, 10:52 pm)

  5. Colette wrote: Hi Jodi, Prayers for your sister and your family, and your parents too. I'm guessing they aren't with her and are very worried. My brother went through 2 major surgeries for ulcerative colitis just this past year, and was lucky to come out of it alive, so I know how serious all of that can be. I'm thinking and praying for all of you and hope Rebecca has a successful surgery and smooth recovery. Love, C. (11/28/08, 8:37 am)

  6. Pam wrote: I will keep Rebecca and family in my prayers. I hope everything will be okay. I can imagine how heart breaking it is for her to be away from her new baby and family. I hope she has a speedy recovery. (11/28/08, 11:49 am)

  7. Tiffany wrote: Hope your sister recovers soon!! Our prayers are with your family! (11/28/08, 11:06 pm)

  8. Christina wrote: How awful! Your family is in my thoughts. (11/29/08, 5:51 pm)

  9. Laurie wrote: Jodi, I hope your sister is recovering and feeling better. How scary! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Laurie (11/30/08, 7:26 pm)

  10. Laura wrote: Oh my! I'm so sorry. I will definitely pray for her and her precious family. (12/01/08, 6:15 pm)


Happy Thanksgiving * What are you thankful for? November 27th, 2008

Posted in Just Sharing Photos

I have never been as into Thanksgiving as I am this year.  What changed?  My twins’ 1st grade class did a ton of projects around the Thanksgiving theme.  They were so excited to learn what it was like when the Pilgrims came over and what it was like to be a Native American as well.  Their school did a performance for all the parents and then had a feast.  It was so fun.

So for all of you who read my blog, whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving in the US today, or if you live in another country, I would love for you to take a moment to comment in the “comment box” on what you are thankful for.  If nothing else, it is helpful to reflect.  I would hope enough people post that it can be inspiring too.

I will go first.  I am thankful for my family, immediate and extended.  I am thankful that my father in law’s health has improved.  I am thankful that I have a career doing something I love (photoshop) and that I can do this and still be around to help my kids with homework and watch them at dance and gymnastics, and even volunteer at their school.  I am thankful that my kids and husband are healthy and happy.  I am thankful for all of this and so much more.  Thanks to all of you for your support this past year.


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  1. janeth wrote: Dear Jody: I will be praying for your sister. I know these are difficult times for you and your family, but God can work miracles even in times like this. You have been a blessing to many of us, I have learned so many things from you, and one of them is that to be successful in life your family has to be your priority. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your wonderful Family:) Janeth (11/27/08, 5:11 pm)

  2. Michelle Garthe wrote: I am thankful for my three children and my wonderful husband. I am thankful for finally figuring out what I want to be when I grow up and for all the support of everyone around me as I venture into my new business. Michelle (11/27/08, 8:52 pm)

  3. Jenn wrote: I am thankful that I have a family to spend the holiday with. I am thankful for all four of my beautiful children, my husband, the roof over my head and the food on my table. I know that in many parts of the world my life would look extravagant. I know that I have many blessings and I hope that I can share the blessings with those less fortunate. (11/27/08, 10:15 pm)

  4. Pam wrote: I am thankful for so many things, it's hard to list them. Most of all my husband and family. I am also thankful for the wonderful friendships I have. (11/28/08, 11:54 am)


Want to give or receive an MCP Actions Gift Certificate for the Holidays? November 26th, 2008

Posted in Announcements, Photoshop Actions

I have had numerous requests for Gift Certificates for the Holidays.  Some people are asking if they can buy them for someone, while others are wanting to add these to their wish list from Santa or Spouse.

You can purchase and then redeem a Gift Certificate for MCP Actions by emailing me at jodi@mcpactions.com.

Just send me an email with the amount you want for the Gift Certificate or which items you want to purchase.  You can say for example, “2 hours of one on one training,”  you can specify a certain action set, or even a dollar amount.  Let me know what you wish the greeting to say and the to and from.

Here is a sample certificate.  I will fill it in with all the appropriate info and log who has purchased these so that when they contact me they can redeem them.  So happy holidays!  And remember to pass this info on if you are wanting someone to buy you some MCP.


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Free Photography Magazines | Links to subscribe here November 25th, 2008

Posted in Announcements, Discounts & Deals

 Are you looking for some great Photography Magazines on a budget?  Or are you hoping to add a few free magazines to your collection?  If so, this MCP Blog post is for you.  Here are 3 great magazines you can get for free.  Professional Photographer Magazine is a free 6 month subscription.  AfterCapture Magazine and Rangefinder are Free. I have gotten them for years for free.  I occasionally need to resubscribe.  And it just keeps coming.

So check these magazines out today.  They have wonderful photography and photoshop tips, profiles and interviews of top photographers and much more.

professional-photographer.jpg

grph3.jpg

grph4.jpg


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  1. Kassia wrote: Wow. Thank-you so much! I've been a subscriber to Rangefinder which I LOVE LOVE... I can't wait to see the other two! I love your blog...always lots of VERY useful information! (11/25/08, 2:09 pm)

  2. Catie R wrote: Thanks Jodi for sharing these links! :) I subscribed to RangeFinder and AfterCapture! (11/25/08, 2:26 pm)

  3. Jenney wrote: Wow! Thanks, Jodi! (11/25/08, 3:17 pm)

  4. SandraC wrote: Thanks so much for the links! Don't know if they send international though.... (11/25/08, 5:06 pm)

  5. Lucia wrote: Cool! (11/25/08, 5:47 pm)

  6. Whitney wrote: Thanks so much for the FREE useful info - it's so nice to receive this in a world where some photogs are so secretive :) (11/25/08, 6:01 pm)

  7. tracy wrote: as always, thanks! (11/25/08, 9:12 pm)

  8. elaine Gates wrote: awesome post! Thanks for the links! (11/25/08, 9:58 pm)

  9. Kim wrote: Thank you so much for this information. I've subscribed and can't wait to receive them. (11/26/08, 9:27 am)

  10. LaRell wrote: Thanks! (11/26/08, 12:20 pm)

  11. Nicole wrote: Thanks so much for the links! I receive and LOVE Rangefinder and Aftercapture. I was just on Professional Photographer's site the other day and didn't see that link. So thanks! Here's a link to Studio Photography. Another free magazine for photographers. https://cygweb4.cygnuspub.com/Secure/Subscriptions/Sub_form.cfm?iPub_Code=902 Hope that works for people! Thanks again! (11/30/08, 10:29 am)

  12. Jovana wrote: THANKS!! Can't wait to receive them! (12/02/08, 2:20 pm)


Q & A: Questions about the difference between Magic Print It Boards and Tell a Storyboards November 24th, 2008

Posted in MCP Thoughts, Photoshop Actions

I get asked this question frequently:

Q: What is the difference between the “Tell a Storyboard Actions” and the “Magic Print It Board Actions?”

A: In the end, the appearance.  The “Tell a Storyboards” are designed with more space between them (you can add patterns and scrapbook paper or leave solid). Three of the sets are rectangle/square layouts and one set has rounded corners.  The “Print It Boards” are closer together, less design, more photo space.  They work differently in that the “Tell a Storyboard Actions” run and then you crop and insert the photos.  Both action sets save you tons of space on your hard drive, are easy to use, and fun to customize.  The “Magic Print It Board Actions” are truly *Magic* in that they build and insert your photos for you.  No hand cropping is necessary.  You can change the color but there is not enough room for adding a lot of texture and patterns.

* A customer of mine, Tricia Dunlap, just sent in these photos using the Magic Print It Boards.  Love the use of the boards here.  Thank you for sharing.


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Upgrade from Elements to Photoshop CS4 for $299 (through end of November) November 21st, 2008

Posted in Announcements, Discounts & Deals

I saw this link on a forum and wanted to pass it on to those of you who keep asking me to make actions for elements.  Some things can be made for elements, but most cannot.  So my advice, upgrade, especially when you see a deal like this.  Ask for an early holiday gift!

Think link appears to work fine and takes the discount off (since I have the program I have not taken it all the way to the credit card part).  This makes PS CS4 less than 1/2 its retail.

http://www.adobe.com/go/moveuptopscs4

No need to thank me :)  Just come back and buy some actions once you download and install CS4.

Seriously, I hope this helps someone!

Jodi


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  1. MsBunn.com wrote: Is this only an "upgrade" from Elements to CS4? Or, does it apply to a brand-new purchase, too? (11/21/08, 5:23 pm)

  2. admin wrote: upgrade - you must have elements in order to buy and use this. It tells you more when you click to their site. (11/21/08, 5:24 pm)

  3. Christina wrote: Ughh. I did this and I also bought a macbook pro to accompany CS4 (my elements was on a PC). We are having a VERY TOUGH time doing the platform switch for the software. If you have any tips for me to get this expedited, I'd appreciate it. We are thoroughly lost in customer service land. I was so excited to get the new software but now I'm doubting I'll ever get it!! (11/21/08, 11:07 pm)

  4. Laurie wrote: Thanks, Jodi!!! Maybe I can use my birthday money to upgrade. Do you find you like CS4? (11/22/08, 2:45 pm)

  5. LaRell wrote: Hi Jodi, I just saw your actions touted on pioneerwoman.com cool! I only follow about 3 web blogs and your and pioneer woman are two of them. :)Good job! (11/24/08, 11:39 am)

  6. admin wrote: Thanks LaRell - :) I saw that this AM and was pleasantly surprised too. Laurie - I like it but my computer seems a little more sluggish with it than CS3. Still trying to figure out that part. (11/24/08, 11:49 am)

  7. Nicole wrote: Jodi, I clicked the link and it doesn't seem to be working now. I did a search on the adobe site and couldn't find it. Ugh!! I needed that so bad! (11/25/08, 2:18 pm)

  8. Nicole wrote: Oh Jodi, you are an angel, third time was the charm, it worked! (11/25/08, 2:26 pm)

  9. LaurieF wrote: Thank you so much for the link! I think my husband is buying this for me for Christmas. I gave him a BIG hint, hint. Now if I can only get a new computer too.... :) (11/25/08, 7:49 pm)


Q & A - question from a customer: what actions do you use most? November 20th, 2008

Posted in Photoshop Actions, Tips & Tutorials

I get this question or similar questions all the time, so I decided I would write the answer here.

“Can you give me the 3-5 actions you use most?” “What are your favorite actions?”

Answer:

“My workflow is usually this - I would say 85% of the time it is one of these two for regular editing.  Sometimes I may play and do other special effects or convert to B&W, need to fix a color cast, etc…  If needed, I start with a plug in called Noiseware to elimate noise.  Then I use my MCP Actions as follows:

Color Burst (from the Complete Workflow Set), Peek-a-boo, Eye Doctor and then Magic Powder (if needed), Touch of Light/Touch of Darkness

- or -
Crackle, Under Exposure Fixer (if needed), Color Flair, Eye Doctor and then Magic Powder (if needed), Touch of Light/Touch of Darkness

After processing, if sharing on my site, blog, flickr, etc I either use a custom action that adds a frame and my logo or I use one of the “magic blog it board actions.”

I hope this answer helps you.  I will try and share more of these types of Q&As in future blog posts.


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  1. Susan wrote: It did me!! I've been wanting to get a few of your actions, and not sure which ones to get - this helps so much!! (11/20/08, 11:52 am)

  2. Melissa wrote: Do you use Imagenomic Noiseware? What's your estimate on the the % of images you use this on? Do you use the stand alone plug-in for PS and the professional version? Just trying to decide if I should purchase it. Thanks for your help. (11/20/08, 5:43 pm)

  3. admin wrote: Melissa - I use it on ones shot at high ISO (800 or above on my 40D). I have the one that is a plug in for PS. I do not use Portraiture since I have my own Skin Actions called MCP Magic Skin. Same type of results from what I have seen, but Imagenomic's is way pricier - 4x what mine is I believe. But there seems to be no truly effective way to reduce noise using actions - at least none that I have found acceptable. (11/20/08, 5:49 pm)

  4. Elaine wrote: I also have Noiseware. Is there a particular reason that you use it before you use any actions, rather than after? Is there a usual opacity % that you use on a Noiseware layer? (11/22/08, 9:20 pm)


Possibly the coolest piece of art ever! November 19th, 2008

Posted in Just Sharing Photos, Photography & Photoshop News, Photoshop Actions

This may be the coolest piece of art ever, at least to a photoshop trainer.  I saw this a few weeks ago but forgot to share.  When I came across it again last night, I wrote the artist and asked if I could share the piece on my blog.  And he said he would be delighted.

So…  here is the ultimate piece of art.  Click to see more detail.

Here is the info on the creators:

agency : Bates141 Jakarta
creative director : Hendra Lesmono
art director : Andreas Junus & Irawandhani Kamarga

And here are some shots of this work in progress.  Leave a comment in the “comment section” if you think this is as cool as I do.