How are you focusing when you have your camera directly on the ground?

9 years 1 month ago #432359 by Moossmann
I'm trying this online assignment where you take photos from a different perspective.  And todays assignment is down low.  Setting the camera on the ground and looking through the view finder to focus is a bit tough.  Anyone know a trick to this?  


thanks!


Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432361 by stuartsbarbie
If your camera has an LCD screen that can help.  I personally don't feel I get as much control using the screen, but sometimes we have to make due with what we have. 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432364 by Robert Chen
I want to say it's hoodman that has a 90 degree elbow for your view finder.  

Nikon D300 24-70mm f2.8
70-200mm f2.8
50mm f1.4 & 50mm f1.8
105mm f2.8
2 SB800

Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago - 9 years 1 month ago #432399 by garyrhook
I will either (a) lie on the ground in whatever way I need to, or (b) use the articulated screen on my D5100 (despite the fact that some view that feature as unprofessional) with Live View to frame and focus. I really like the idea of the hoodman, too.

Whatever it takes. What's a little dirt?


Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432522 by Joves
On my belly, head turned sideways. I will keep doing that until I either cannot get back up easily, or my neck gets too stiff.


,
9 years 1 month ago #432525 by Screamin Scott
Right angle finder if need be...

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago - 9 years 1 month ago #432704 by hghlndr6
You mean like this?  Just lie prone & get dirty.  It ain't difficult. ;)
That 90º finder is a good idea though.  Will have to check that out.

_DSC3994.jpg by hghlndr6 , on Flickr
,
9 years 1 month ago #432729 by Tim Entin
:agree:  +1 prone position on the ground with my head tilted to see through the viewfinder  


,
9 years 1 month ago #432849 by Tim Dordeck
Time to get down on the ground, and move your body into what ever position you need to in order to view.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432913 by Frost Photography
It's pricey, but these 90 degree elbows are a miracle when you don't want to lay down on the ground


www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home...&is=USA&Q=&A=details


"The quickest way to make money at photography is to sell your camera."
Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432932 by garyrhook
WOW. "Pricey" is right. I'd rather get dirty.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 1 month ago #432990 by Joves
:rofl:  :agree:
Yeah pretty much. I can wash my clothes till they are shot over paying that for convenience. I should try making one myself. I have a bunch of optical flats, and prisms I could play with.


,
9 years 1 month ago #433014 by Shadowfixer1
I place my camera on a monopod, turn it upside down, and place the top of the camera on my foot down low and control it via WIFI on my iPhone. You can make all adjustments for exposure and then touch the screen where you want the focus to be and it will focus on that spot and take the picture. That won't work for most people because of the camera they have. The same goes for a high vantage point. Extend the monopod and hold it up in the air and control with the iPhone.
,
9 years 1 month ago #433019 by Baydream
I use the articulated viewfinder and LiveView. Getting too old to get down there. Well, it's actually the getting up that's hard. 

Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork

Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

With these simple yet effective beginner photography tips, you can avoid some of the common mistakes beginners make and get improved results with your images.

May 06, 2024

Urban photography is a genre showcasing features in urban settings. You can photograph people, architecture, mass transit, and many other subjects. Learn how to do so in this guide!

Apr 30, 2024

The Nikon D850 might be an older DSLR, but it was ahead of its time when it debuted in 2017. That means it still has plenty of firepower to compete with today’s powerful mirrorless cameras.

Apr 30, 2024

The best beginner camera isn’t the same for everyone. That means having choice is of the utmost importance. In this guide, explore five excellent beginner camera options for 2024 and beyond.

Apr 25, 2024

Child portrait photography is a unique undertaking requiring special skills and talents to get the best results. Start mastering this photography niche with these essential tips!

Apr 25, 2024

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024