Let the Series 4 Photos Begin!

One of the things I always look forward to when a new Collectible Minifig series or play theme launches, is how the various LEGO photographers will use them in new compositions. Chris McVeigh (powerpig) gives us this outbreak of the solanum virus in what appears to be Wall Street (why else would all those zombies be in identical suits?)

If the radiation symbol was a 'biological hazard' icon this shot would be perfect!

I think it's safe to say that The Hazmat Guy will be appearing in many more shots in the coming weeks. I'm hoping to also see some creative use of the 'B-team' of collectible minifigures. There's one custom minifig I'm really holding out hope for. I've even decided on a title for the post when I see it. I'll give you a hint...'Happy Trees'.

You can see more of Chris' work on Flickr. As always, Chris also sells his work via RedBubble.

UPDATE: Chris has posted a lighting 'how-to' on his Set-Ups page for this very shot. Very informative for those budding toy photographers!

How to Create Very Tiny Glasses by Powerpig

So last week I posted Chris McVeigh's (Powerpig) scene titled 'These Aren't the Droids You're Looking For' - A very humorous depiction of a classic Star Wars scene. One of the more amazing aspects of the shot were the tiny 'Groucho glasses' that appeared on 3PO and R2.

Chris has pulled back the curtain once again, this time in video form, to show how the shot was achieved. I can't embed the video here but you can view the 'how-to' on Chris' Flickr stream. This just further reinforces my belief that a little technical know-how and ABS figures can result in some amazing photography!

These Aren't the Droids You're Looking For

Chris McVeigh (Powerpig) brings one of his original t-shirt designs to life in this hilarious scene. What's even more amazing is how detailed the 'Groucho glasses' are given such a small scale! I'm really hoping there will be a set-up shot for this down the line.

If you hurry, you can see and purchase the t-shirt that inspired this work on Qwertee. Hurry, however, as it only on sale for another 6 hours!

(Via Chris McVeigh's Flickr stream)

LEGO Star Wars Technology at Its Finest

There may be a new trend afoot...showing pictures of LEGO Star Wars technology gone wrong. Chris McVeigh (Powerpig) kicked it off with his depiction of what can happen to a lightsaber in the cold climate of Hoth.

Then Pedro Vezini showed what could have happened to Han if the carbonite freezing process had taken a turn for the worse.

Only time will tell if we see other gadgets from a galaxy far, far away falling on their collective faces.

You can see more on Powerpig and Pedro's Flickr streams. Chris included his set up for the lightsaber shot on his set-up page.

I Find Your Lack of Bananas Disturbing

Chris McVeigh (Powerpig) has another hilarious send up playing on the fact that the Series 3 Gorilla Mask kinda looks like Vader from behind. It's sort of like Gorilla Grodd as a Sith Lord...frightening.

I was looking at Redbubble, where Powerpig has a store, and there are some outstanding minifg themed t-shirts for sale - including several best sellers from Chris. Do take a look at his Redbubble store and check out all the cool LEGO minifig t-shirts on sale now.

As for the rest of Chris' pics, you find those (for free) on his Flickr stream.

Powerpig Reveals All!

...about lighting day 23 of his 2010 Advent calendar series, that is. I'm a big fan of lighting and presentation, and if you've ever seen Chris McVeigh's (AKA Powerpig) toy photography it doesn't disappoint.

Using a combination of shots and digital wizardry, Chris has used a 'masking' technique to blend elements together. The end result is a fantastically lit piece worthy of your yearly holiday cards. You can see the full description here.

Chris has a separate Flickr stream where he shares his photography set ups. You can also view his main Flickr page and buy stuff from his RedBubble store.

If you've ever considered trying your hand at digital photo manipulation, but have been turned off by the high price of expensive software packages, may I recommend looking into GIMP. Although the name evokes images of the movie 'Pulp Fiction' (as in 'bring out the...'), GIMP is a free, open-source software package that allows you to perform many of the same techniques as Photoshop provides. A quick download and a library card (for a how-to book) can get you on your way. Check out the GIMP website when you get a chance.