Leap summer issue

LEAP

MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2024

VISIT TO THE NEW YORK

BRONX ZOO

Table of Content

BRONX ZOO

03

Join us, as we take a tour of the Bronx Zoo with cameras

MOODY SHOTS

12

Understanding how to work in low key photography

RULES OF THIRDS

20

COVER SHOT

29

Understanding the technique of incorporating the rules of thirds in photography

How to make an incredible cover.

Editor's thoughts One hot Summer.

Although it was extremely hot summer due to nature, circumstance, our students happen to create some amazing photos. All photos in this magazine are from students except for one.

This year the students had to work on mastering the laws of thirds. Understanding low-key shooting, figuring out how to make the perfect portrait. Put together an amazing cover for this magazine and last but not least take photos of the birds from the Bronx zoo. The work in this magazine has been brought to you by 6th, 7th and eighth graders. it is my proud duty to bring you their amazing achievements in photography. they gave blood and more than that. They gave sweat upon sweat upon sweat due to the fact of the heat in order to give you the images you see

the bronx zoo In the heart of the Bronx, where the city’s pulse meets the whispers of nature, lies a haven for the feathered spirits of the world—the Bronx Zoo. Here, among the lush greenery and carefully crafted habitats, birds from every corner of the globe find refuge and enchant the souls of those who venture to witness their splendor. This is not merely a zoo; it is a symphony of wings, a ballet of beaks, a tapestry of avian wonder woven into the fabric of urban life.

The Noble Eagle High above, where the trees reach for the sky, the eagle soars, a symbol of freedom and power. The Bald Eagle, with its white head and majestic wingspan, commands the air with a presence that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Its keen eyes scan the world below, a master of the hunt and guardian of the skies. The eagle’s flight, a ballet of strength and grace, is a testament to the wild, untamed spirit that dwells within the heart of nature.

The Scarlet Macaw As the sun ascends, the vibrant colors of the Scarlet Macaw burst forth like fireworks in a verdant sky. These flamboyant birds, with their feathers painted in the richest reds, yellows, and blues, bring the spirit of the tropical rainforests to the Bronx.

They chatter and squawk, their voices a cacophony of joy and mischief, reminding visitors of the wild, untamed beauty of their native lands. Their beaks, strong and curved, are tools of survival, yet they handle the world with a curious gentleness, peeling fruits and preening each other’s feathers with affectionate care.

Photographing the King Vulture at the Bronx Zoo is a captivating experience. This majestic bird, with its striking white plumage and vividly colored head, offers a dramatic subject for any photographer. The vulture's keen eyes and imposing presence are best captured in the soft morning light, which highlights its unique features and regal demeanor. Patience is essential, as waiting for the bird to spread its impressive wings or fix its intense gaze on the lens can yield stunning results. The Bronx Zoo's carefully designed habitats provide a naturalistic backdrop, allowing photographers to capture the King Vulture in a setting that mirrors its wild environment.

The Exotic Hornbill Amidst the dense foliage of the zoo’s tropical section, the hornbill stands out with its impressive casque and striking plumage. The Rhinoceros Hornbill, with its bold black and white feathers and vivid orange casque, commands attention. Its calls, a series of loud, echoing honks, add a unique rhythm to the symphony of the forest. This bird, with its distinctive appearance and powerful presence, is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that thrives in the world’s rainforests.

Butterfly Garden at the Bronx Zoo is a mesmerizing experience. Amidst a lush, vibrant setting, countless butterflies flit and flutter, their delicate wings painted with a spectrum of dazzling colors. Capturing these moments requires patience and an eye for detail. Morning light bathes the garden in a soft glow, perfect for highlighting the intricate patterns on each butterfly's wings. Focus on flowers where butterflies often land, and use a macro lens to capture their fragile beauty up close. The garden's tranquil ambiance enhances the experience, making each photograph a testament to nature’s exquisite artistry.

The Graceful Crane Beside the tranquil waters of the zoo’s lakes, the cranes make their stately appearance. The Red-crowned Crane, a symbol of longevity and happiness in many cultures, moves with a dignified elegance, its snowy white feathers contrasting with the deep red of its crown. As they engage in their courtship dances, a ritual of bows and calls, they weave a story of love and devotion that transcends the boundaries of species and speaks to the universal language of the heart.

LOW KEY PORTRAIT

MOODY

SHOTS

Hey there! So, to take a low key portrait, you gotta start by finding a dark background and dimming the lights.

It's all about creating contrast, you know?

Hey there! So, to take a low key portrait, you gotta start by finding a dark background and dimming the lights. It's all about creating contrast, you know? Then, position the subject close to a single light source, like a lamp or a flashlight. Make sure there's just enough light to highlight the face and maybe a little bit of the body.

Play with shadows and angles to add drama. Oh, and use a tripod or steady your camera on something to avoid shaking. It might take a few tries, but it's fun experimenting. Low key portraits are all about mystery and mood, so get creative and have fun!

Moody photos are super cool!

They make you feel something, like a story or a feeling. It's like magic in a picture! Moody photos help express emotions and set a mood. They're not just pretty, they're powerful.

They make you stop and think.

It's fun to try and capture different moods in photos.

They're awesome!

RULES OF

THIRDS

PERFECT NUMBER 3

How to

The rule of thirds is a simple way to make photos look more interesting and balanced. Imagine your photo divided into nine equal parts by two vertical and two horizontal lines. This creates a grid with four intersection points. These lines and points help you place the important parts of your photo in a way that makes it more engaging.

First, let’s talk about the lines.

Instead of putting your subject right in the middle, try placing it along one of the lines. This could be a tree, a person, or even the horizon. For example, if you’re taking a picture of a beautiful sunset, place the horizon along the top or bottom horizontal line, not in the center.

This makes your photo look more dynamic.

Now, about the intersection points. These are where the lines cross each other. These points are like magic spots in your photo. Placing important parts of your picture, like someone’s eyes or a colorful flower, at one of these points draws people’s attention right to them. This technique can make your photo much more interesting.

Imagine you’re taking a picture of your friend holding a balloon. Instead of putting your friend in the center, move your camera so your friend stands along one of the vertical lines, and the balloon is near an intersection point. This way, your friend and the balloon will stand out more and make the picture look better.

Practicing the rule of thirds can be fun. Try moving around and looking at things from different angles. Use the grid on your camera if it has one, or imagine it in your head. Soon, you’ll start to see how using the rule of thirds makes your photos more exciting. It’s like a secret trick that helps you become a better photographer!

COVER SHOT CREATING A THOUGHT PROVOKING COVER

WHAT MAKES a great magazine cover

A great magazine cover captivates attention instantly. It features a striking, high-quality image that resonates with the magazine's theme and audience, often using bold, vivid colors or a compelling composition. The cover lines should be concise, engaging, and strategically placed to complement the visual without cluttering it. Typography is crucial: a clean, readable font that aligns with the magazine's brand identity enhances the cover’s appeal.

The masthead, or title, should be prominent and easily recognizable, maintaining brand consistency. Additionally, the cover should evoke curiosity, inviting readers to explore the content inside. Seasonal or topical relevance can add to its impact, making it timely and relatable. Balancing these elements with a touch of creativity ensures the cover not only stands out on the shelf but also effectively communicates the magazine's essence and entices potential readers.

CREATIVE WITH STILL LIFE

Creativity in shooting still life objects thrives on imagination and experimentation. Begin by selecting intriguing objects with varying textures, colors, and shapes to create visual interest.

Play with lighting—natural light can offer a soft, organic feel, while artificial lighting allows for dramatic shadows and highlights. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find unique compositions. Incorporate elements like reflections, shadows, and negative space to add depth and dimension. Props and backgrounds can transform the narrative, giving life to inanimate objects. Consider thematic arrangements or storytelling setups to evoke emotions or concepts.

Lastly, don’t shy away from postprocessing; adjusting colors, contrast, and sharpness can enhance the mood and artistic impact of your still life photography.

LEAP MAGAZINE SUMMER OF 2024 EDITION THANK YOU FOR READING