The easiest way to edit photos | Stoke-Ness
A 30 year project to preserve what made America special
This month
I’m sharing a “why” you don’t need to buy photo presets, a song for the winter weather and two videos you need to see.
Be stoked,
Isaac
New Photo Set
Last Spring I had the chance to photograph and direct a film for a wine brand called Terazzas De Los Andes. They are known for being the first to plant vineyards in the high Andean foothills near Mendoza, Argentina. I went there with my friend/filmmaker RJ Bruni, and FPV Pilot Jonny Andrew to create a new branding campaign for them. I am excited to share the images and video with you.
Terazzas De Los Andes
Watch the film here
Photographer & Director: @isaacsjohnston
DOP: @rjbruni
FPV pilot: @_blastr
Creative Director: @paulgruber
Client: @terrazas_andes
Agency @mazarinegroup
Production @emilius.gm
Gear and Tools
Lowepro Whistler 450 camera backpack
A few years back I was given a used Lowepro Whistler 450 camera backpack. It was well used and beat up, but I needed a bag that could carry my full camera kit + outdoor gear in the mountains and anywhere I traveled. I have since traveled the world with it and can confidently say it is the most capable camera bag I have used. It’s tough as nails, holds the gear I need to be outside in extreme conditions + is infinitely adjustable to make sure whatever camera kit I carry is protected.
I was going to recommended here, but it is an astronomical price of $549. Instead, I think getting used backpack like I did is the best choice. Like a Toyota, it won’t matter if it’s used or new, it will work perfect either way. I found this one on eBay for $200.
Photo/Video Technique
Compare reference photo edit and Make your own presets
There is one technique I use that has progressed my ability to edit more than any other. It is using a reference photo and then doing my best to match the edit. I’ll move sliders and curves to tweak every aspect of my target photo while having an inspiration photo right next to it.
The inspriration photo can be your own film photo, an image from a photogrpaher you love, or an image of a painting with colors you love.
It works best when you match the lighting type on your inspiration photo to the image you are editing.
Change to “reference view” in Lightroom to display your image and your reference image back to back, then start tweaking to see what looks similar. With a little patience and experimentation you will have a close match. Then save your edit as a User Preset. Now you have your own preset that looks like a preset you would have had to pay for. As a bonus you will learn how to achieve a look without reference photos in the future. It is a win/win.
Give it a try on your next edit session.
Who I am Following
Annual Unfollow
It is time for an end of year cleanse. Do you really want to follow that pants brand you did once for a coupon? Is your sister’s friend’s brother you met at a bbq making your feed annoying? I know there is a social pressure to not unfollow because people might notice and feel bad, but mostly they don’t.
Curate your space. It’s like a Marie Kando for your digital space. Make sure it sparks joy.
Listen
Northern Attitude by Noah Kahan
I have This song with Hozier. It’s just the right amount of hopeful and nostalgic catchiness for this season.
Videos, Movies, and TV
This month I have two recommendations:
A video I made for my friend Alex Strohl’s channel.
A film about Gore-Tex by FortNine.
I always wondered how much better it was, I swore it was. But, it sounds like it was just a placebo.
Reads
Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher
My friend Benji recommended this book to me and it was spot on. The story of Legendary early 1900’s photographer and his 30 year mission to preserve the history of North American Indian tribes. It is a monumental story that makes me inspired.
Or listen on Audible
Parting Thought:
It’s worth seeking closure. Often we don’t see the progress we want in our lives because mentally and emotionally we get in our own way. Pursue growth through therapy, books and conversations with friends you trust. It will be your biggest source of fulfillment. As the year ends it is a great time to start.
Be stoked and have a great month,
Isaac
This newsletter, my photography and my videos are all free, but not cheap. If you want to help me continue to make things you can buy my all new Pitch Deck Kit HERE or buy me virtual coffee.
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