Camelot Photography Outing

Camelot Photography Studio

October 16, 2008

Camelot Photography Studio

Photo by Mike Adkins

The camera club had our regular meeting on Thursday, October 16th, 2008 at Camelot Photography Studios in Huntington. There were eight members present. Jan Witter, the studio owner, was a perfect host and we were all appreciative of him taking his evening to give us a tour of his place.

Jan is by far one of the most talented and dedicated professional portrait photographers in the tri-state area. Jan is a member of the Ohio Professional Photographers Association and the West Virginia Professional Photographers Association. He has won numerous awards in photography and it easy to see why when you view his work hanging on the walls in his studio. It only takes a few minutes with Jan Witter to discover his wonderful and laid back personality.

Jan took the members through each part of his studio and took the time to fully explain his style and workflow. He answered each of the member’s questions as if he was conducting a class. This I believe comes from his previous profession as a teacher.

Our members were treated to what the inside operations of a professional studio consisted of and Jan's studio was a treasure chest of unique sets and props. Jan likes to refer to his studio area as Grandma's Attic since you could find just about anything you wanted to create that perfect set. As for working sets Jan may have 11 or 12 sets. He uses every square inch of space to give his client a wide variety of choices.

I think everyone in attendance learned something and enjoyed the evening. Members that could not attend missed a real treat and a very inspiring and educational program.

Jan has extended an offer to put together a photography training program for the club. More about that plan as it develops.

For some of you who did not get to attend and are interested in some of the equipment that he uses in his studio I have included a list below.
- Apple Computer - Post Processing.
- Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Jan states he is ready to purchase CS4 as soon as it is released.
- Lighting is all Photogenic 1250 Strobe Units. He stays with one brand of light and one model so that he can assure consistent color temperature.
- Soft boxes by Light Dome.
- Light Stands by Studio Titan and Norman.
- Camera is a Canon. Not sure which model. I think he said a 30d.

You can view Camelot Photography at their web site www.camelotphotography.net.