Video Workbench: How to Photograph Scale Models

Video Workbench: How to Photograph Scale Models is an invaluable guide for hobbyists, model makers, and photographers alike. This educational DVD serves as a comprehensive tutorial, instructing viewers on how to perfectly capture scale models in photography. Set inside a professional studio environment, the host shares aptly demonstrated tips, tricks, and techniques that both amateurs and professionals can incorporate into their work.

Jason Gares and Chuck Davenport, both veterans in the field, come together in this thoroughly enjoyable and educational film. They use their vast experience and expertise in the craft to provide over an hour's worth of detailed instructions to viewers seeking to elevate their scale model photography skills. The film seamlessly combines their excellent rapport with the clarity of their instructions, making the learning process both pleasant and easy to understand.

Gares, known for his considerable experience in various creative crafts, including model making, painting, and videography, provides a wide range of practical information and insights. His calm and rational demeanor, coupled with his obvious passion for the craft, lends the tutorial an inviting and engaging atmosphere. He skilfully narrates each step, taking care to highlight the importance of both minor and major aspects that contribute to successful scale model photography.

Meanwhile, Davenport, a respected figure in world of model making, lends his remarkable expertise in miniature and scale model creation to the tutorial. The depth of his knowledge and his practical approach becomes evident as he delves into the intricacies of capturing well-lit and sharply focused images. From choosing the right equipment to setting up a shot and finding the perfect angles, Davenport presents invaluable insights that can enhance the quality of any scale model photograph.

The film introduces viewers to the essentials of good photography—composition, lighting, image clarity, and depth of field—demonstrating how these concepts specifically apply to photographing scale models. Detailed demonstrations cover a whole spectrum of topics - from the basics like setting up the camera and tripod, choosing the best background and light source, to more complicated techniques like macro photography and controlling reflections and shadows. Viewers are also treated to helpful tips about choosing the right camera settings and equipment, including the various lenses and lightboxes that could potentially elevate the quality of their images.

In addition to demonstrating how to capture static shots, Video Workbench: How to Photograph Scale Models also offers tips on how to create a sense of dynamic action in a photograph through strategic positioning of the models. It discusses how you can employ simple tricks to create the illusion of models being on the move or in action. There are also sections that educate the viewer on how to avoid common mistakes and on fixing any errors that might occur during the process of taking these intricate photographs.

Despite the complexity of the content, both Gares and Davenport succeed in breaking down these advanced concepts into digestible nuggets of information. Their lucid explanations and relatable anecdotes ensure that viewers aren't overwhelmed by technical jargon. This approach ensures that model makers of all levels can follow the tutorial with ease and come out equipped with new skills to enhance their hobby or profession.

A standout aspect of Video Workbench: How to Photograph Scale Models is the fact that it doesn’t just tell, it also shows. The detailed visuals assist in instilling a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Each scene is thoughtfully designed to provide the viewer with a real-time example of the strategies and maneuvers being discussed. This attention to practical demonstration makes the learning experience more engaging and effective.

The film is not merely an instructional document; it becomes a tangible manifestation of the two craftsmen’s passion and respect for the art of scale model photography. What sets the film apart is the hosts' obvious investment in the material and their authentic desire to share their wisdom with like-minded individuals - an aspect that truly speaks to the heart of every hobbyist, model maker, or photographer seeking to delve into this unique craft.

All in all, Video Workbench: How to Photograph Scale Models, starring Jason Gares and Chuck Davenport, is an enlightening journey into the intricate art of photographing scale models. It’s a resource that empowers viewers with knowledge, affirming that with the right tools and techniques, anyone can take breathtaking photos of their scale models - be they hobbyists or professional photographers.