Event Focus Friday with Stavros Panopoulos

July 6th, 2012 by Elizabeth Beskin | Share Blog

On his way to becoming a filmmaker, Stavros Panopoulos was seduced by the beauty of still photography. After studying with some of NYC’s best photographers, he opened his own studio with an impressive client base of major corporations. With a dedication to planning, exactness and organization as his basenote, Stavros developed a signature style similar to a jazz musician’s—of precision and spontaneity. Every subject, whether a portrait, still life, wedding or landscape, is a visual improvisation, a chance to learn and express something new while keeping in tune with his clients’ vision. As Stavros says, “this is a job that is easy to love.” Stavros shares more of his ideas and inspirations with us.

What makes a great event photographer?

Preparation and flexibility are the foundations of successful and great event coverage. Being able to approach the job with a plan and be ready to let go of it and adapt to a more appropriate approach—this is what generates success and appreciation from the client. Read the rest of this entry »

How to Photograph Fireworks: Tips from a 5th Avenue Digital Professional

July 4th, 2012 by Beth Baynum | Share Blog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stavros Panopoulos is one of our most prized photographers, with great experience shooting fireworks for all types of corporate and social occasions. It’s not as easy as you think!  Here are Stavros’s tips for capturing the color and excitement of fireworks:

• For me an essential element is a tri-pod to capture the life of the pyrotechnic.
• Timing is key.  I set my camera for a low ISO and a long exposure to capture the rocket’s tail on the ascent and the multi-directional flaring streaks after the blast.
• If the fireworks are on the river, try to position yourself at the water’s edge to capture the firework’s mirrored reflections.

Thank you, Stavros.  Happy July 4th to all, and have fun photographing one of summer’s brightest pleasures!