David Burke Photographers

Photo Tip - Lenses

2008-09-02T15:01:00.005-04:00

I often get asked "What Camera Should I Buy?". A better question is about "What Lenses?". The big issue here is budget. Buy the best you can afford. What if you only have $300? What if you have $5,000 to spend?

I put together a quick video to help shed some light for you.

A few things I want to make note of. If you own the Nikon D40(x) or D60 be careful on purchasing lenses. They must be Nikon AF-S lenses because the Nikon D40(x) or D60 lack a focus motor. This means that if you buy the Nikon 50 1.4 AF lens and put it on your Nikon D60, you will only be able to focus in Manual Mode. The D50, D70, D80, D90, D100, D200, D300, D700, etc... can use any lens. The good news is that you can pick up a used Nikon D70 on Ebay for around $250 - $300! Just because it is older does not mean it makes bad photos.

Also Prime lenses range from $100 to Thousands of $$. Obviously the more you spend, the better the lense. However, YOU can create great images with them all!

B&H Link to some options

Good Luck!

The New Nikon D90 and Chase Jarvis

2008-08-28T08:23:00.006-04:00

As you all know I am a loyal Nikonian and am always excited when Nikon brings out new products. Whether the product is Professional or Amateur, Large or Small, I honestly believe in and support Nikon. My Nikon products have served me very well over the years and I have no plans to ever leave them ;-)

That being said, Nikon just released the Nikon D90 which is geared towards the Advanced Amateur. This camera looks to be incredible! One stand out feature is that it does Video too! This camera may very well make its way into our arsenal and be my go to camera for all of our family and personal shooting. It sure is a lighter load than my Nikon D3! So if you are in the market for a killer Digital SLR for a reasonable price, look no further.

This brings me to Chase Jarvis. Chase Jarvis is a Commercial Advertising photographer that is just incredible. I have yet to meet him, but look forward to it someday. His work is so out of the box and extraordinary. He is highly regarded in the commercial industry and among photographers alike. I am an admitted blog stalker of his. His work is so inspiring as well as his personality and willingness to share.

Low and Behold Chase is a Nikon Shooter. He is big time. Nikon gave Chase and his crew pre release versions of the Nikon D90 so they could put them through the ringer. That they did and what they came up with is extraordinary. I encourage you to watch the Behind the Scenes video and then view the image gallery. After doing so you will be headed to B&H Photo to make your purchase. You can thank me later!

Enjoy!

My New Friend - Riz

2008-08-27T12:05:00.002-04:00

This morning I had the pleasure meeting Riz Crescini. Riz found me on Facebook, via our common connection to Kenny Kim. How cool is that? Riz has been living in Japan for the last 9 years with his wife and 2 daughters, educating students in the English Language. He also has a ministry and is looking to incorporate Photography into it.

I always love meeting new friends and especially when we have common interests ;-) We talked shop quite a bit and learned about each other. It is neat to discover how many things we had in common. I hope that I shed some useful light for him! Riz promised to keep in touch and let me know of his progress.

Riz it was awesome meeting you. Maybe someday we will get together with Kenny Kim too! God Bless Bro.

Here he is in his Cubs Glory (Cubs are in town beating the Pirates):

Look at Miss Avenue

2008-08-27T11:07:00.000-04:00

I had the recent pleasure of shooting this lovely young lady (Miss Avenue ;-) ) in an effort to create some headshots and full body shots. We did both studio and location work. I am so happy with these images and thought you all would enjoy too.

Check her out!

Silhouette on White Seamless

2008-08-26T10:37:00.002-04:00

I had an assignment to create a Silhouette at High Noon on a Sunny Day... I thought things through and decided to go for it in studio instead. We were Very Excited with the results! Here is the shot we chose. What do you think?

I used to think that I would not like Studio Photography. I feared being boxed in and forcing images into a cookie cutter shape. I am finding more and more, how wrong I was. I am loving the options I have. Actually shooting more studio images lately, has been a blessing for me. I am starting to see things entirely differently. This can only help my vision going forward, on all of my assignments. I am having too much fun!

Jill and Joe - The Wedding!

2008-08-25T15:29:00.008-04:00

OK, so right before we left for vacation, we had one more wedding to shoot! Jill and Joe's day finally arrived August 16 and it was totally worth the wait! God smiled down with his sunshine and puffy clouds. They were surrounded by their loving families and friends as well. Jill put sooo much thought and planning into this day. There were so many great details to capture!

Earlier this year, Jill and Joe had a great engagement session @ Schenley Park.

I knew the wedding would be amazing. I could not wait to be there for them. It was a very colorful day that went off perfectly! They are now enjoying two weeks in Hawaii! I begged to be the honeymoon photographer, but they wanted to be alone... Imagine that! LOL.

Here are a few images and the reception slideshow we ran. See you two soon! Enjoy.

This is one of my favorite bridal portraits ever! Jill was so happy to be marrying Joe!

The Dashingly Handsome Groom

Jill snagging a kiss from her neice

The Processional

A moment by the fountain on Duquesne University Campus

First Dance

Joe Cuttin it up

Reception Slideshow (Click on it to play)

Jennifer Palermo - Makeup Artist
Duquesne University Chapel - Ceremony
Pittsburgh Marriott North - Reception
Carrie Powell - Flowers
All Pro USA - Entertainment
Oakmont Bakery - Cake
David Burke Photographers Duquesne University Chapel Wedding - Pittsburgh Marriott North Wedding

Out of the Office :-)

2008-08-19T09:32:00.002-04:00

Just a quick FYI. I will be out of the office until Monday August 25. I have very limited email and phone access as well. I will return calls/emails as soon as I can. Thank you!

David

Shoot N Learn #3 Recap

2008-08-13T15:22:00.006-04:00

What a great time we had last night! I think we had 16 people here, which was awesome! We had a very productive evening discussing off camera lighting.

My inspiration for wanting to touch on this subject comes from none other than Zack Arias founder of OneLightWorkshop. Zack is an incredible human being that happens to be an incredible (and giving) photographer. I took his workshop in Atlanta last year and it blew me away. The best investment I have made in my career, as far as fundamental/practical knowledge. If you have not taken his workshop, DO IT. You will not be sorry. Incidentally, he also has released a DVD of his workshop! I am eagerly awaiting my copy. Thank you for the inspiration Zack!

So last night, I had the opportunity to share a few tidbits just to get people thinking differently and not fearing their flash so much. It was so much fun setting up the shots and seeing people say 'Ahh, that is sweet!'. I am hoping that everyone shares some images that they grabbed of Kristen, Beth and me.

Thank you to all that came out to have fun and learn! Hope to see you at the next one!
Here are a few of my own shots. (All shot using Nikon D3, Nikon SB-800 off camera, Pocket Wizards, 60" or 45" umbrella adjustments made in Lightroom Only and then sharpened for web)

Shannon and Peter - The Wedding!

2008-08-11T15:32:00.005-04:00

I traveled down to the Washington DC area this past weekend. I documented the wedding of Shannon and Peter! I traveled earlier this year for their engagement. When I met them, it was very obvious how important they are to each other. Their wedding was no different! They were both overjoyed to be marrying each other. It was so awesome ;-)

I had two of my friend and fellow photographers from the area assist and shoot with me. Peter Bang and Armin Defiesta are two fantastic people and photographers as well. I can't thank them enough for helping me out.

Coordinator: Breathe Events
Location: Whitehall Manor
Florist: Growing Wild Floral Company
Entertainment: Kirkabee DeeJays

Shannon, Peter and Family. Thank you so much for having us there and your hospitality! We cannot wait to show you all of the amazing images we captured throughout the day. Enjoy your honeymoon!

Here are a few quick picks:
Ceremony

A little moment on the swing

First Dance

Look at the cake pieces falling! Peter was into it. You should have seen the next image!

Shannon and her father

The sendoff complete with sparklers

Click here or push play (below) for the slideshow we ran at the reception.

David Burke Wedding Photographer - Whitehall Manor Wedding

Shoot and Learn #3 - Off Camera Lighting

2008-08-09T09:00:00.001-04:00

**Update - THIS SHOOT N LEARN IS FULL - Please check back for the next one**We are having our 3rd Shoot and Learn Next Tuesday August 12, 2008 @ 6:00 PM here at our studio. The topic of discussion will be:

"Off Camera Lighting" - You have more options!

I will do a mini-presentation covering the concepts followed by us moving to the alleyway for some shooting. All you need to bring is your beautiful self and a camera! I will have the light setup and Pocket Wizards for you all to share. Please email me and let me know if you will be attending with "Shoot N Learn" in the subject line.

I am really looking forward to this one and hope to see you all here!

Here is an example of Available Light vs. On Camera Flash vs. Off Camera Flash. Thanks to Beth for modeling ;-)

Fun Times with Lil J

2008-08-07T14:41:00.003-04:00

I have had the privilege of watching Lil J grow up for the past three years. It is always fun to be around him. We met last week and did a shoot for his 3rd year. He even brought his own camera to shoot me! God Love Him!!

Here he is with his big blue beautiful eyes!

Him shooting Me

Fast Track Photographer - Dane Sanders

2008-08-06T07:30:00.004-04:00

My friend Dane Sanders is a photographer/entrepreneur based out of Orange County, CA. He is a wonderful soul, husband and father of 4. Recently he released his first book entitled "Fast Track Photographer" that is aimed towards the budding photographer eager to take the leap into the profession of wedding photography. I can recommend this book to Pros as well. I have only gotten through Chapter 3 so far and can tell you that it is LOADED with nuggets that make you think (yes actually use your brain) about where you are and where you want to go. Dane talks about discovering who YOU are as a photographer. It is so easy to get caught up in the commodity we sell (prints, books, files) instead of the experience and being the best YOU possible.

Dane also has the Fast Track Photographer Founder Membership that comes with all kinds of perks. I am a member and have been blessed with many friendships through this experience. If you are looking to get the ball rolling I suggest jumping on board to jump start your success.

I can't say enough good things about Dane Sanders and what he stands for. He started Simple Photo Minute, which morfed into CutFrameTV.com. CFTV is an online video community, much like YouTube, but specifically for photographers. Individuals share tips, stories, fun clips, etc.. Check it out!

I love what I do and cannot imagine doing anything else. The relationships that I have made and continue to make are absolutely incredible. I have never been in an industry quite like it. We are all in it together, so lets continue to make it a wonderful place to be!

PS - We can only accomodate 3 more people for Next Weeks Shoot N Learn, so please let me know if you want to come ASAP. :-)

Newborn Twins Shoot

2008-07-30T07:15:00.003-04:00

Every time I have the opportunity to document a newborn, I am completely honored. New Life is so exciting and precious to me! This week I was blessed with capturing twin girls! My oh my are they adorable! Baby N and Baby A were absolute angels. We had a wonderful shoot and I cannot wait to share the images with Mom and Dad! Thank you for having me over and I look forward to seeing you soon! Here are a few for a sneak peek.

Charlotte and Ted's Wedding!

2008-07-29T07:01:00.005-04:00

I headed up to the Buhl Mansion on Saturday, for Charlotte and Ted's wedding. Once I stepped onto the property of the Mansion, I knew that it was a perfect fit for these two. Upon arriving I was greeted by the wonderful staff of the Buhl and led into see where Charlotte and her girls were getting ready. It was so exciting to walk into the room ;-) You could feel all of the positive energy swirling around, so it was impossible not to smile!

Once I was settled in, I took a tour of the Mansion to find some locations for portraits and detail shots. Opportunities were everywhere! Shortly, my friend Greg arrived and was off shooting some details of the venue.

Saturday turned out to be a gorgeous day for the most part. We were blessed with a teeny shower during the outdoor ceremony that was handled with grace and smiles. See the slideshow for some umbrella pics!

Charlotte and Ted are a beautiful couple and I am happy to have them as my friends. I love my job and am so grateful for all of my clients/friends that I get to share with. Enjoy your honeymoon!

In the meantime here are a few images and a slideshow that we ran at the reception.

Once again, Bethel Bakery sculpted a beautiful and tasty cake!

I will leave you with this photo. We decided to take a quick trip around the house and create some portraits. We couldn't resist having extra fun. This image really captures who Ted and Charlotte are! You guys rule!! LOL

CLICK HERE FOR SLIDESHOW

Buhl Mansion Wedding David Burke Photographers

You complete me...

2008-07-24T10:59:00.002-04:00

...says the Studio of David Burke Photographers (complete in the sense of the building at least! LOL).

Finally the signage is in. I would LOVE to paint the front of the studio, but that is not an option at this point. I am so happy that the Sign and window lettering is finally in!

Happy 1st Birthday!

2008-07-23T11:25:00.002-04:00

We had a lovely little lady (along with all of her brothers and sister) in the studio this morning for a very fun 1st birthday photoshoot! Mom brought a cake for "H" to make a mess with. Although she didn't tear it up as much as we would have liked, she still had a great time. We all did! What a great way for us to start the day. I can't wait to show the rest of the images to the family.

If you are interested in bringing in your 1st birthday girl or boy please give us a call :-)

Here is a sneak peek:

Two Engagement Sessions

2008-07-22T15:17:00.003-04:00

I have two recent engagement shoots that I wanted to post about.

The first is couple is Kerry and Gene:
Kerry and Gene are getting married this September and could not be happier. This was my first opportunity to meet Gene and he is hilarious! We met in South Park and had a blast. South Park has so many different backdrops for pictures. Especially in the early evening when the light is delicious!

Secondly is Kimberly and Jim:
This was also the first time I got to meet Jim (and I am so happy that I did). Kimberly and Jim are getting married this October. They also just bought their first home! So exciting!!! We met at our studio and shot around Mt. Lebanon. Mt. Lebanon is becoming my favorite place to shoot. There are so many options when shooting here! We also shot this session in the early evening and the lighting was fantastic!

Thank you all for having fun and I can't wait for the weddings!!

David Burke Wedding Photographer - Engagement Photos Southpark - Engagement Photos Mt. Lebanon

What is your favorite photograph?

2008-07-18T22:16:00.004-04:00

I have soooo many favorite photographs (mostly of my children)! However, stepping aside from family images...

What is your favorite photograph (that you didn't make)?

If I had to pick 1 image. It would be this image from the 1960 World Series featuring the Pittsburgh Pirates and the NY Yankees.

This image was captured as Bill Mazeroski hit a Game 7, 9th inning home run to win the World Series for Pittsburgh.

This image was created by photojournalist George Silk.

Here is what I love about the image:

Real - not contrived.

Timeless - this image never gets old.

Black and White - My favorite!

Excitement - you cannot see a face or the action, however you KNOW there is joy!

This image has been on my mind this week, so I thought I would post. Angela's (our bride from last weekend) father loves this image as well. He has it framed and signed by Bill Mazeroski in his study. When I saw the image I said, "That is my favorite photograph! He said "Me too!" The funny thing is that I am not even a huge sports buff. I enjoy sports, but cannot recite stats and names like most of my friends. LOL!

So I would love to know what some of your favorite photographs are.

My second favorite image (hands down) the National Geographic Afghan Girl (captured by Steve McCurry)

This image is widely recognized and beautiful. Real. Natural. No Photoshop. Gorgeous.
Love it.

Have a great weekend!

On the road in Georgia

2008-07-18T13:23:00.000-04:00

Shoot N Learn

2008-07-16T17:41:00.002-04:00

**Quick Update**
I was unable to schedule a Shoot N Learn for July, however we will be back in August Full Force! I am sending out an email to all on the list as well. I will put the new date and topic on here ASAP. Thanks all and I can't wait for the next one! We have some great ones lined up for the next few months.

David

Angela and TJ get married!!

2008-07-14T16:01:00.000-04:00

You may remember Angela and TJ from their Engagement Shoot Last Summer. Time goes by so quickly! It was so great to see them again.

They were blessed with a perfect day for their wedding. I had Beth and Jen with me for this event and I am so glad they were. There were approximately 500 guests! The day went by without a glitch and everyone had a wonderful time.

Angela and TJ are such a fun loving couple. It is so obvious why they are loved by so many! I want to thank Angela, TJ and their families for having us there and providing all of the hospitality.

The Wedding was held at the Immaculate Conception church in Washington, PA, which is a beautiful church. We then hit Mt. Washington for some photos and onto Sheraton Station Square.

Every detail was carefully planned and executed. The vendor choices were perfect!

Bethel Bakery provided the cake and goodies
The Buffet Man, Tom Watt provided the entertainment
The Grand Victorian provided all of the flowers and arrangements

Here area a few of my favorite shots as well as a link to the reception slideshow. Enjoy!

Beth saw this opportunity for a GREAT Portrait of Angela. I love this shot!

TJ and his boys plus BLING. The man on the left is Tyler Reed from Penn State and the Chicago Bears!

This is my personal favorite image that I captured... I love the moments right before the bride and her father walk down the aisle.

Jen followed up with this Killer processional shot!

Some Mt. Washington Fun.

This guy was having way too much fun, for me not to blog him. Thank you for this priceless moment!

David Burke Pittsburgh Wedding Photographer - Sheraton Station Square Wedding

Kids Shoot!

2008-07-14T08:50:00.004-04:00

Last week I had a fantastic kids shoot with 'E' and 'W'. We went to a local park in the morning and just played. We have so many great images from this shoot. I wanted to post this sneak peek for Mom and Dad to enjoy!

Our New Nephew!

2008-07-11T16:01:00.003-04:00

Our families have been blessed, yet again! My sister (Amy) and her husband (Steve) welcomed their second child to this world on June 30, 2008! Adia is now a big sister!

Meet Elijah Stone O'Toole. He is such a cutie. I also could not resist shooting some updated Adia pics too. :-)

We love you guys!

My best shot

2008-07-09T09:45:00.000-04:00

Closest I have been to a hole in 1!

Senior Shootin'

2008-07-08T21:47:00.003-04:00

Wanted to post a few images from another Great Senior Shoot this past week. Meet A. We met at the studio and started with some warm up shots and then headed out around the business district of Mt. Lebanon. I love shooting around town. Each time we can do something different! Thank you to A and her mom for being so much fun! We smiled and laughed all evening. A special thanks to KJ for assisting me as well!

I also want to mention that the Nikon D3 is an absolutely amazing piece of machinery. I have never LOVED a camera like this. haha So much fun. Nikon also announce the D700 that we will definitely pick up as a backup body.

Enjoy!

Obviously I am partial to Boxers! Roxy was AWESOME too. Such a cutie.

Hmm. Another Silhouette shot. I am lovin it!