Innovative Cutting-Edge Techniques In Horticultural Photography

Compared to film photography, digital photography equipment and software change at much faster rate. With these innovations come new techniques which can be used to advantage in horticultural photography. Among the techniques discussed are: multi-shot; high dynamic range; increased resolution; extended depth of field; and panoramics. These techniques can extend the capabilities of many cameras. Many types of photography including photomicroscopy, close-ups and field shots can be improved. Supplemental equipment can help simplify or automate the process of producing multi-shot images. Gigapan robots automate the capture of over 200 shots which can be stitched into one high resolution image. This allows the use of a point and shoot camera to produce a higher resolution image. Other useful tools discussed will be wireless flashes, diffusers and reflectors, and white balance calibrators that are portable and can be used in the field. Image processing software and plugins for Photoshop will be discussed. Participants will be able see which innovations may be useful for their photographic needs.