Fstoppers » Adam Ottke

Thoughts on Current Copyright Issues and the Future of “The New Prohibition”

Adam Ottke — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 21:14:31 +0000

We covered a story last year in which Andy Baio was sued for his use of a Miles Davis photograph as a reference for pixel art for a tribute album he created. Now, he’s spoken about copyright issues and what constitutes “fair use.” There are many opinions on this, but it’s a great video if you’re curious about the issue — which you should be if you’re any kind of artist or image-maker.

Should You Always Talk to Strangers Before You Take Their Photograph?

Adam Ottke — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 20:35:37 +0000

We can all be a little shy: it’s not the easiest thing to go up to a stranger and start taking pictures or strike up a conversation. Adam Marelli had an interesting post on his blog called, Can I Take Your Picture, How to Talk to Strangers, in which he discusses how most people are okay with being photographed if you just take the time to talk with them. He even argues that you should always talk to a stranger you’re about to photograph first. But are there exceptions? [more]

[Updated] Nikon Updates D600 and D800(E) Firmware

Adam Ottke — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:22:36 +0000

Finally, Nikon has released a firmware update to address some minor issues. Some major features include 100% viewfinder in HDMI-out (up from 95%) in the D600, improved AF-C tracking performance for the D800, and support in both cameras for that new 800mm f/5.6 that I know you all ordered recently… Update: Even more DSLR firmware updates added from Nikon, too! [more]

Review: The Fuji GX617 Panoramic Beast

Adam Ottke — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 23:23:48 +0000

What first drew me to the panoramic format was that it’s the way we naturally see. Sure, you can’t really compare a camera’s lens to the abilities of two (or even one) human eyes. But nevertheless, we are a horizontally-oriented species — we live, work, and see along a horizontal plane. And so, after a bit of research, I dove in to get the Fuji GX617. Why not Hasselblad’s XPAN? Why not the Linhof or Horseman variants? And how on Earth do you use these things? Let’s find out… [more]

More-Than-Awesome Leica X3 Concept by Vincent Säll

Adam Ottke — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 07:31:44 +0000

Sweden native Vincent Säll has created something truly magnificent. No, you can’t get it. But if Leica actually were to make this, it would be one beautiful and simple piece of recording equipment. Once you get through this concept, check out Vincent’s other work that’ll keep you intrigued if nothing else at VincentSäll.com. [more]

Nikon Coolpix A and D7100 Discounted Before Pre-Orders Hit Shelves

Adam Ottke — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 20:57:20 +0000

Even before the cameras ship, Best Buy looks like they’re discounting the D7100 DSLR and Coolpix A models, the latter of which has been the center of recent criticism for its high price in addition to that of compatible accessories. Save $200 on the Coolpix A and $100 on the D7100, officially beginning Thursday. [more]

The Nikon Coolpix A: Why It’s Way More Important Than You Think

Adam Ottke — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 21:06:43 +0000

I love Nikon, but for its professional line of cameras (anyone can make the little guys). But I’ve never been a fan of the Coolpix name. Maybe it reminds me of an era during which plastic boxes that could barely make a file for a 4×6 print were actually cool. So when I first saw the Coolpix A, I didn’t think anything of it. But when I really read about it, I realized it’s time for me to drop the silly baggage I have with the Coolpix name. This isn’t just cool. It’s red hot — for a number of reasons. [more]

PhaseOne Announces New IQ2 Medium Format Digital Backs

Adam Ottke — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 22:54:45 +0000

There are a few companies out there known for high-quality medium format digital solutions. But few are as highly regarded as PhaseOne, whose popular ‘won’t get crushed by an elephant‘ and various freezing and heating Youtube videos helped people see its products’ durability. Today, they’ve sent a round of emails announcing their revised IQ series, offering wireless capabilities, revamped sensors, and top-of-the-line 16-bit image production with 13 stops of dynamic range… [more]

Three Women on Modeling Sites Go Missing in Denver

Adam Ottke — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

ModelMayhem is to budding photographers and models everywhere what Craigslist is to…well…budding photographers and models (and then some) everywhere, though with a few more perks that let you have a profile complete with photos, model measurements and opportunities to network within the site. Unfortunately, just as anywhere else in the world, both have their share of creeps. And when three young women go missing in one area, we have to remind ourselves yet again: no matter the situation, be safe… [more]

Review: Olympus PEN E-PL5

Adam Ottke — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 21:12:41 +0000

In October, we had a huge month dedicated to all the great mirrorless cameras that are out there. While the Fuji X-Pro 1’s technology was promising, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 took away the best mirrorless camera award. While it’s all worth it, the OM-D E-M5 is a bit pricey, and therefore, not for everyone. So how do some of Olympus’ other cameras line up?
Today, we have the PEN E-PL5. [more]