Trending Photography News and Reviews

How to Fix This Issue With Photoshop's Generative Fill Feature

Photoshop's new Generative Fill feature has taken the industry by storm in the last week, with its remarkable capabilities capturing the attention of many for its potential to invigorate creative tasks and streamline workflows. It is not perfect, though, and it has one issue that you should be aware of should you plan to use it for professional work. This helpful video tutorial will show you the issue and a quick and effective workflow to ensure you get high-quality results.

Want to Start Getting Paid for Your Photography? Follow This Formula

Aspiring photographers often hit a wall when trying to transition from hobbyist to professional work. It's one thing to take nice photos for fun, but landing those first paid gigs requires a strategic approach and understanding of what a client needs, not just what you like to shoot. The fantastic video tutorial boils down a simple yet effective formula any beginner can follow to start photographing local small businesses and getting paid.

Building a Photography Business: Essential First Steps

Establishing a successful photography business requires more than just taking beautiful pictures. It demands careful planning, organization, and efficient workflows to attract clients, deliver exceptional service, and ultimately, thrive in a competitive market.

Hiking With One Lens for Landscape Photography

Landscape photographers often find themselves hiking longer distances or on routes with significant elevation changes. Decisions about what camera gear to carry can influence the hike's success, both in reaching the destination and photography results. Is there a one lens solution for these hikes?

Is This the Best Budget Full Frame Mirrorless Camera?

The Canon EOS R8 full frame mirrorless camera is on the cheap side of such cameras, and yet, it offers a nice feature set sure to please professionals and advanced hobbyists alike. Does it offer the right combination of cost and performance for you? This excellent video review will help you decide.

5 Items a Portrait Photographer Brings to Every Shoot

James Quantz Jr is one of the best portrait photographers out there, with his innovative lighting and dramatic concepts making for eye-catching images. While every portrait photographer knows the importance of things like lights, there are some other items that we think about less often, but that can be tremendously useful on a shoot. This fantastic video essay features Quantz Jr discussing five items he brings along on every shoot.

Is This Photography Trend Overrated?

The shutter drag/slow shutter trend has found its way into any niche in photography but particularly amongst wedding photography. But is the trend a clever use of camera techniques to add a different feeling or is it overrated?

A Beginner's Guide to Editing Landscape Photos

When it comes to landscape photography, rarely is the photo finished the moment you press the shutter; most landscape images require some degree of processing in order to produce a polished product. If you are new to the genre and ready to improve your images, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you the ins and outs of how to edit your first photos.

A Look Back at the Birth of Modern Sports Photography

Capturing the essence of athleticism and the thrill of competition has always been a driving force for sports photographers. But the landscape of this genre has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, evolving from isolated photo shoots to comprehensive media days involving entire teams and extensive production crews.

The Biggest Tool Photographers Aren’t Using in Their Creative Work

Have you been taking the same images with slight variations over the last few years? Have you seen new technologies shake up the photography world, yet largely kept your distance from them? Today, the esteemed Kristina Sherk from Shark Pixel shares with us one such tool that can revamp the work you've been putting out. Following her tutorial written for us below, I decided to try it out myself. I encourage you to break out of your comfort zone, give it a try, and share your photos with us in the comments.

What Camera Gear to Pack When You Visit The Polar Regions

It's a trip of a lifetime, after all. You'll to want to make sure you have the right gear with you when the bears start sparring or the leopard seals give chase to an unsuspecting penguin chick out for its first swim. I asked two experts in the field to provide their recommendations: Marius Coetzee, with Oryx Photo Tours, which operates in both northern and southern polar regions and Paul Zizka who runs his own photography workshops as well as working with OFFBEAT, running photo tours in the northern polar regions. I also guide with GAdventures, exploring Antarctica, and Frontiers North Adventures, leading adventures in Canada's sub-Arctic.

We Review Profoto Clic 2.7' Softbox – Not for Everyone

Reviewing good light modifiers is one of my favorite types of reviews to write. As I highly value light, I aim to cover light-shaping tools more than anything else. When this softbox was released, my thoughts were split in half. On one hand, I see how it is useful, but on the other, it is simply not for the majority. Read on to find out why.

Your Moment of Film Photography Zen: Wandering the Mojave Desert With a Leica M6

Whether you’re shooting for fun or for work, in the rush of modern life it can be all too easy to lose sight of the joy of photography. In this short, meditative interlude with no words, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found in just watching another photographer enjoying their own photography.

We Review the Hobolite Micro: The Cute Little Light That Could

In the world of LED lights, Hobolite has once again pushed the envelope, revealing the “Micro” to their lineup. At first glance, its compactness is enchanting, promising both convenience and functionality. The real question, however, is: does it deliver?

Create Captivating Portraits With an LED Light Wand

Over the past few years, LEDs have become a popular choice for still photographers, and with good reason. Although LED light sources do have limitations, there are many clear benefits to using constant light for portrait photographers. In this article, I will detail five ways I use an LED light wand to create captivating portraits, both in and out of my studio.

A Review of the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Lens

At just $1299, the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 looks like a remarkable deal if it can offer the performance and image quality to match those impressively versatile specifications. So, how does it hold up in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at what you can expect.

How to Transform Your Landscape Images in Lightroom

Capturing the perfect landscape shot often requires a lot of careful and intentional work. A truly impactful image involves understanding how to manipulate perspective and draw the viewer's eye to the most compelling elements of the scene. This is where post-processing tools can help.

We Review the Lume Cube XL Tube Light

Tube lights are all the rage. So, when a new one comes on the market, it better have some type of stand-out feature to differentiate it from the pack.

Flying High: We Review the Sigma 100-400 f/5-6.3 for Fuji X Mount

Over the years Sigma has established itself as a reliable manufacturer of high-quality lenses, known for their performance, quality, and affordability, and this new lens for the Fuji X-mount is no different. With this telephoto addition, the current Sigma lineup consists of 4 prime lenses, and a zoom, giving us 6 lenses in total with a rumored 7th in the very near future.

The Sony a7R V: Top Image Quality in a World of Speed Demons 

Choosing a new camera can be a daunting task, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the wide range of options available. For photographers who prioritize image quality and advanced features, the Sony a7R V has remained a popular choice since its release. But is it still worth considering in 2024, with newer models on the horizon?

Three Useful Gift Ideas for Photographers for Under $100

If you're looking for a gift for your photographer friends, spare them the lens mugs that they probably already have five of. Instead, here's a list of three useful but reasonably priced accessories that will make life a little easier for the shooter in your life.

The Weather Is So Unpredictable! Or Is It?

As a landscape photographer, I have often packed up my bag, jumped in the car, and headed off into the preferable sunset. My bag is packed with high hopes and expectations for an amazing shoot and for the shots I am going to get. The ever-present challenge is whether the weather is going to play ball. Of course, I have checked all of the apps and made my decision based on what they were telling me. However, I often find that while it might be right to some extent, it is rarely right for exactly what I am looking for. High clouds, fog, mist, or even clear skies are needed for those banger shots.

Here's Why AI Headshots Are Great for Photographers

Since the introduction of AI-generated headshots, many have been lamenting the inevitable end of our industry, forecasting doom and gloom across every online forum almost on a daily basis. But one photographer isn’t afraid, and in fact, he believes that AI technology is actually good for headshot photographers and ultimately will strengthen our industry.

The Drawback of Film Photography

Film photography has enjoyed a notable resurgence in the last few years, and while it can offer an enjoyable and different experience over digital, it is not without its drawbacks. The cost is the most commonly cited con to the format, but there is something arguably more crucial to consider. This excellent video essay discusses the issue and what you should consider before you pick up your film camera.

Random People Guess iPhone 15 Pro or $5,000 Camera Using Large Prints

Every year, I compare the newest iPhone to my daily professional camera and always receive feedback that after compression and scaling, you lose too much detail to be able to tell the difference. So, this year, I've taken the next step by having the images professionally printed on metal and asking random strangers if they can guess which photo was taken with a phone.

Spherical Versus Anamorphic Lenses: Which Is Better?

You may be familiar with the term anamorphic lens, but what is the difference between them and spherical lenses? Which is better for videography? Here is a comprehensive comparison of a wide array of both!
The Power of Photography to Cultivate Empathy and Create Shared Humanity

In an increasingly polarized world, one of photography’s most profound strengths is its ability to cultivate empathy and compassion across cultures. At its best, photography can transport us into unfamiliar environments, activities, and viewpoints. It reveals the humanity in people whose lives and backgrounds differ vastly from our own. Photography has a transcendent way of building understanding and sympathy by showing us new perspectives.

Are Super-Wide-Aperture Lenses Worth It?

Lenses with wide maximum apertures are extremely popular both for working in conditions with low light and for creating images with very narrow depth of field. In recent years, we have seen an explosion of lenses that push well past traditional thresholds like f/1.4 and into extreme apertures like f/1.0 or even f/0.95 and f/0.85. Are these insanely wide lenses worth it? This insightful video discusses the issue.

Are f/2.8 Lenses Needed for Landscape Photography?

Photographers are always looking for the best gear to practice their craft. Many seek out the faster f/2.8 lenses, but are they the right choice for landscape photographers? This video talks about why one landscape photographer stopped using their f/2.8 lenses.

The Difference Between Mechanical and Electronic Shutters

One of the nicest features of mirrorless cameras is the electronic shutter, which allows you to shoot in total silence, a fantastic option for situations where being discreet is key. That does not mean electronic shutters are without faults, however. Knowing when to use an electronic shutter and when to use a mechanical is important, and this great video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.

Easy Tips to Keep Your Camera Gear Clean

I'm a bit of a neat freak when it comes to my gear. Anyone who has bought any of my used gear has usually told me it looks like new, save for maybe by the tripod mount, which I usually attach a plate to while I'm camped out by lighthouses.

How Good Is the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM Lens?

The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is one of the craziest lenses to come along in quite some time, offering an unheard-of zoom range and aperture combination for a full frame lens, making it a unique option for photographers. Nonetheless, it is neither cheap nor small. Is it worth the price and size? This excellent video review takes a look at if its performance and image quality can stand up to two demanding sensors.

6 Common Mistakes Landscape Photographers Make When Editing Skies

Editing the sky in a landscape image is a critical skill for creating a compelling final product. However, many photographers, especially beginners, struggle with over-processing the sky, making it appear unnatural and detracting from the overall image. This helpful video tutorial will show you six common mistakes and how to improve your sky edits.

A Year With Medium Format: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

In the last few years, medium format has seen itself reinvented from a niche, prohibitively expensive option to an alternative to full frame for those who want access to some of the best image quality that money can buy. It is not without drawbacks, though. So, is it right for you? This great video features a photographer discussing their experience after using medium format for a year.

Adding Depth and Drama to Landscape Photos: A Lightroom Tutorial

Landscape photography often aims to capture the vastness and beauty of natural scenes. However, achieving depth and dimension in these photos can be challenging, especially when dealing with flat lighting or a lack of contrast. Fortunately, post-processing tools like Lightroom offer powerful techniques to enhance your landscape images and bring them to life.

We Review theRocknRoller Cart R12T: Every Photographer Needs One!

There is something innately annoying about having to carry stuff. I can't decide if it’s shoulder pain, back pain, or just a general need to do physical activity. If you are a photographer who has to bring out more gear than a camera bag’s worth, this is a product for you. Don’t think so? Then read on!

A Camera You Can't Buy Today: Fujifilm X100V

We've written about it numerous times, including my recent review called "The Unattainable." And even though the rumors of its successor are spreading rapidly, the Fujifilm X100V is still on many photographers' wish lists. Yet, the availability leaves many who do not want to buy aggressively priced used units just wishing for it, with low chances of getting one anytime soon.
Photography, CGI, and AI: Can You Tell the Difference? An Interview With Steve Hansen

Which image in the banner is a photograph, and which is computer generated? Can you even tell anymore? With the addition of computer generated imagery (CGI) and artificial intelligence, the process of creating images has provided commercial photographers more tools than ever. I sat down with award-winning food photographer Steve Hansen to discuss this topic and to delve into the question: "Is it enough to just be a photographer these days?"

Key Light Placement: The Secret to Better Portraits

The importance of the positioning of the key light in portrait photography cannot be overstated, with its placement being crucial to defining the subject's features and the overall mood of the photograph. For portrait photographers, mastering key light placement is foundational, affecting everything from the sharpness of shadows to the subtleties of facial contours.

A Portrait Shoot With a $35 Rebel XT

We've all heard that equipment doesn't make the photographer, and that a great photographer can create great images with whatever camera they have. But, how does that actually translate? How different do images look when taken with an early DSLR, compared to a modern mirrorless?
Dispelling Common Misconceptions for New Photographers

Transitioning from a novice to a seasoned photographer involves more than just mastering technical skills. It also requires shedding misconceptions that can hinder your growth and creativity. These misconceptions often stem from outdated advice, gear obsession, and a misunderstanding of what truly makes a great photograph.

A Review of the Impressive Viltrox 27mm f/1.2 Lens

In recent years, Viltrox has earned considerable acclaim for producing high-quality lenses that are more affordable than similar options on the market. A notable example is the PRO Series AF 27mm f/1.2 Pro lens. Offering a 40mm equivalent focal length and an impressively wide aperture, this lens has become a compelling choice for a diverse range of creative professionals and uses. The detailed video review delves into the lens's performance and the quality of images it produces in real-world scenarios.

Photoshop's Secret Weapon for Color Correction

Achieving the perfect color balance and contrast in your photos is crucial for creating impactful and visually appealing images. While many photographers rely on basic adjustments or presets, there's a powerful tool hidden within Photoshop that can revolutionize your color correction workflow.

Is the Canon R8 the Best Entry Level Full Frame Camera?

The Canon R8 is an affordable $1,500 full frame camera that is packed full of features. Is this currently the best entry-level full frame camera on the market for the price and how does it perform in wildlife photography? In this video, Simon d'Entremont covers the pros and cons in more detail.

Portrait Shoot With the Diana Instant Square Camera

I was challenged to photograph a portrait shoot on another random camera, but this one was really not what I was expecting. How do you take artistic portraits using an instant camera?