Drew Gardner has joined the ever growing list of well known photographers to have produced a DVD. His location lighting DVD is due to be released at Focus on Imaging and sounds like a real bargain amidst a sea full of highly priced products, at only GBP 20.00. This is one DVD I can't wait to get my hands on as I quite like his quirky style.
There's a DVD trailer on Youtube. Once again, it illustrates the lengths that photographers, but particularly models, go to, in order to produce something a little different. I wonder how many models here would be prepared to be buried alive or stradle a water buffalo in the nude for the sake of a producing something visually stimulating?
You're entitled to your opinons, but they are very much in the minority and I can't help thinking that you've got something against Drew. The DVD is great and has been getting strong reviews from highly respected photographers, including this one by Zack Arias. I think he sums it up nicely when he states that "This DVD is NOT a down and dirty, nuts and bolts technical video. If you are new to lighting and photography in general then this one is going to go a bit over your head. This is best suited for those of you who are comfortable with lighting or at least you have the knowledge and understanding of f-stops and shutter speeds."
So if you're new to lighting and creative work and still finding your feet with photography, then this one isn't for you.
I would strongly disagree.
The issue here is not the DVD content, but your expectation of what it was to contain.
There are only 2 location shoots here, yes. But it's very detailed as to what went into the shoots, including the thought process leading up to the shots. I especially like that he covers the issues that happen in the shoot and how he dealt with them. The process of taking the shot is probably 5% of a shoot, with all the other factors in the creative process making up the rest.
I also think that your experience has been sullied by the postage costs, which is hardly the fault of Drew.
To me, this was £20 well spent, due to the mix of the inspirational material, as well as fueling ideas I wouldn't have had otherwise.
Great snippit... Tim, you bring the shovel and camera, I'll bring the cattle prod and raw steaks, see you at the lion enclosure...
