Mastering Off-Camera Flash: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Learning to shoot with off-camera flash brings a whole new level of control and creativity to photography. But along with the endless possibilities comes ample room for slip-ups. This fantastic video tutorial outlines the five most common mistakes people make when first stepping into off-camera lighting, along with fixes to set you up for success.
Wildlife
For our December photography contest, the theme is wildlife or animals of any kind.
More Vital Lessons From Wedding Photography: When the Hard Work Begins
In part one, I looked at the preparation up to and including the wedding day itself. But much of the work happens after the event in front of a computer.
Choosing the Ideal Lens for Portrait Photography
Selecting the right lens for portrait photography is a pivotal decision for photographers of all levels. This comprehensive video offers valuable insights into the intricate world of portrait lenses with in-depth exploration of various lens types, from prime lenses to zooms, wide angles to telephotos, making it an invaluable resource for photographers seeking to refine their portrait photography skills.
Six Months With the Nikon Z8 as a Landscape Photographer
The Nikon Z8 has been out for over six months now. The camera has many promising new features, but is it the best camera for landscape photography? This is a look at the Z8 after six months of usage by a landscape photographer.
Why Your Zoom Lens Is More Useful Than You Think
When it comes to telephoto lenses, most people think the main use is to take photos in situations where you can't get close to the subject, things like being stuck at the back of the chapel during a wedding ceremony. And while this reason is valid, there are more uses than just that.
AI Masking That Beats Lightroom
With the latest Capture One, you get an incredible level of control over your images. I’ve already been a fan of the layers and masks in Capture One for a while, but with the new update, the software can create those for you. This, and so much more, is why you should try out the new Capture One.
Streamer's Sci-Fi Spectacle Up In Smoke: Netflix's $62M Gamble Gone Wrong
Alert for Photographers: Package Theft Soars to Record Levels
As the holiday season approaches, the Better Business Bureau has issued a warning to photographers, revealing that package theft is currently "at an all-time high." This troubling trend is a cause for concern, especially as we anticipate an increase in package deliveries during this busy holiday season.
"Help! My Photos Are Still Not Sharp." Advanced Methods of Avoiding Blurry Images.
In this second article about image sharpness, we will look at some more reasons why your photos may not be as sharp as you would wish.
The Power of a Single Light in Portrait Photography
Uncover the remarkable versatility of a single light source as we venture behind the scenes of an engagement photoshoot in this helpful video tutorial.
Why Aperture Priority Is One of the Most Important Camera Modes
In the world of photography, creativity often hinges on the control of light and focus. One powerful tool that grants photographers the ability to manipulate these elements is "Aperture Priority" mode. This enlightening video delves into the realm of Aperture Priority mode, unlocking its potential to enhance your photographic journey and show why it's such an important tool.
Not Just Another Kit Lens: We Review the Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens
When it comes to versatility and performance, the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens is an excellent choice. Available as part of a kit or sold individually, this lens performs exceedingly well. Although there are other lenses with a similar focal range for the X-mount system, and great ones at that, this lens should not be dismissed as merely a kit lens, as it produces some great results.
Intriguing Canon Patent Reveals More Boundary-Pushing Lenses
Hold on to your seats, because Canon may be gearing up to release more ridiculous lenses, as a new patent application details.
What's the Future of the Big iMac?
I have been a longtime user of the iMac, indoctrinated into the Bondi Blue clan since late high school. I've owned a 27" 2009 model, and a 27" 2013 one. But there's no longer a clear, linear upgrade path for longtime users of the big iMac.
5 Tips for Creating Realistic Drop Shadows in Photoshop
Have you ever cut out an object in Photoshop, put it on a new background, added a “drop shadow” effect, and sat in front of your monitor thinking, “This just looks so Photoshopped”? I’m here to help! Here are five easy steps to creating realistic drop shadows in Photoshop.
Are You Savoring the Photographic Experience?
There can be a lot of pressure on photographers to get the shot, move on, and get the next one. It's important to remember to enjoy the craft, though. This great video tutorial reminds you to savor the moment.
You Can Learn Photography Without a Camera
While a camera may be indispensable for producing photographs, there are manifold ways to learn the art of photography without one. Besides technical proficiency, great photographers like Dorothea Lange relied on less tangible traits like emotional intelligence and inspiration, and we can learn from them.
Practical Use of the Interval Timer on a Camera
I've been using both standard and programmable shutter release cables for ages. With the built-in interval option in modern cameras, these remote cables have become almost obsolete. Just remember one setting when using the interval option: the length of the exposure.
A Review of the New Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens
Tamron has gained popularity among photographers for their practical and budget-friendly lenses, as well as their innovative designs. The 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 is a prime example, being a staple, yet cost-effective option. Can it compete in a marketplace crowded with extremely capable 70-200mm f/2.8 options? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
Harman Phoenix 200: Brand New Color Film Made in the UK
There hasn’t been a huge amount of good news on the film photography scene this year. Every “new” film announcement either seems to be rebadged cinema film, rebadged Kodak film, or rebadged ORWO / Wolfen film.
We Review Amazon’s Cheapest Super-Zoom Lens: JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3-16
Most superzoom lenses ranging up to 800mm will cost you the close to the cost of a new car, but this definitely isn’t that. This is the Jintu 420-800mm f/8.3-16mm superzoom lens.
A Review of This Rare Third-Party Canon Lens
Canon has been infamously restrictive over the RF mount, disallowing most third-party lenses, which is what makes the Voigtlander Nokton 50mm f/1.0 Aspherical a rare find. And that isn't even considering its useful focal length and extremely wide aperture. What sort of performance and image quality can you expect from this unique lens? This excellent video review takes a look.
Unleashing Exquisite Detail and Vibrant Color: We Review the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 for Fuji X Mount
Sigma is constantly increasing their range of contemporary lenses for various mounts. The quality of these lenses is constant in terms of build and sharpness, and with each new lens, we already know that the high quality we expect is there.
Why Artistry Is Harder Than Technique
In this important and insightful video, a professional photographer tackles the complex balance between the technical and artistic aspects of photography. He contends that while the mechanics of operating a camera can be readily taught, cultivating an artistic eye is far more nebulous. As a consequence, many amateur photographers overly fixate on technical perfection in critiquing photos, rather than considering the photographer’s intent, and it's to their detriment.
Just How Good Is the New Sony a9 III Mirrorless Camera?
The Sony a9 III is undoubtedly one of the most important cameras to come along in quite some time, offering the world's first consumer full frame global shutter in tandem with plenty of other remarkable features. How does it hold up in practice? This in-depth video review takes a look.
Freezing Night Fashion Photography Done Right
This is one of my most favourite test shoots I’ve done to this date, not only based on how we got the shot but also how they turned out. Here’s how we shot it, how it was lit, and everything that came together to make this shot happen.
How to Fix Dark Circles Under Eyes in Photoshop
Under-eye bags are some of the most common things clients will want you to retouch, and as such, it is important to know how to take care of them efficiently and convincingly. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to do exactly this.
Fstoppers Photographer of the Month (November 2023): Kareem Quow
The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
How Does the EOS R6 Stack Up Against Its Newer Mark II Counterpart?
As the holiday season approaches, you're going to see some fire-sale prices on previous gen hardware. One of these that's probably on the mind of a lot of Canon shooters is the EOS R6, as it's going to be a lot cheaper than its newer sibling, the EOS R6 Mark II. Is it worth saving the money?
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Versus Leica Sofort 2: Which Is The Best Instant Camera?
Instant photography has long held a special place in the hearts of photo enthusiasts, offering the unique charm of instant, tangible memories. In this modern era where digital photography predominates, the allure of instant film cameras persists, blending nostalgia with contemporary technology.
Vital Photography Lessons I've Learned from Shooting Weddings
For some very good reasons, I have decided to stop photographing weddings. There are many lessons I learned from the challenges of weddings that may be useful to all photographers.
A Review of the Super-Affordable Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens
Few manufacturers can compete with Viltrox when it comes to price, but of course, cheap does not mean much if you can't back it up with performance and image quality that can satisfy the needs of discerning users. The AF 75mm f/1.2 XF is a great example of one such lens, and yet, it offers impressively competitive results, even against much more expensive options. Is it the lens for you? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
What's Your Favorite Lens?
A rich and engaging discussion about favorite lenses unfolds in this video, blending technical insights with personal experiences. Touching on a huge range of lenses from the most pragmatic tools for the job to some of the most extreme designs available today, there is something for everyone.
We Review the Godox SL60D II: The First Really Good Budget Video Light?
If you’ve followed my work for any time now, you might be familiar with my obsession with lighting. Lights are perhaps some of my favorite things to review. This time around, I decided to give budget lights a try, more notably Godox. It shocked me, somewhat. Read on to find out why.
Avoid These Composition Mistakes
In landscape photography, good composition is as important as the right light. A photo with amazing light won't necessarily be great unless the elements within the frame are properly composed. William Patino offers tips on effective composition and what to avoid.
The Dangers of Using the Wrong USB Cable on Your Various Electronics
USB cables are not all made equal. In the most extreme cases, cheap cables can fry your electronics or even lead to fire. Here's what you need to know before you pick up another USB cable.
Perfect Power Solution for Photographers on the Road
A few weeks ago, I reviewed the Bluetti AC60 compact power station. This device was already great on its own. But, I had a critique about its capacity of only 403Wh. Today, I show how to extend the AC60 to become the perfect power solution for the road and the office.
The Photographer's Comprehensive Safety Guide to Navigating Deals, Discounts, and Used Offerings This Season
The frenetic final months of the year tempt photographers with screaming deals on cameras, lenses, software, supports, accessories, and more. However, the most tempting bargains also invite increased perils around online fraud, box damage, counterfeit risks, and problematic used gear. As eager shoppers hungry for savings paired with prudent consumers, here is how to diligently navigate both established retailers along with secondary marketplaces to avoid financial headaches and make well-informed purchases.
What Was the Best Lens of 2023?
2023 has been one of wildest and most exciting years in recent memory when it comes to lenses. If you missed out on some of it, check out this awesome video that discusses the best releases of the year.
Student Photography Awards Do Not Cater for All Photography Students
The Sony World Photography Awards, a recognized platform for emerging talents, has come under scrutiny for its age limit policies within its Student award category. There's a growing concern about the fairness of age limits that exclude mature students, with questions raised about imposing an upper age limit of 30 years for participants in the student category.
Selfie-Related Deaths Are Now a 'Public Health Problem'
A sobering new global report sheds light on the rising death toll of people pursuing risky selfies in popular outdoor destinations across continents. Over 300 casualties occurred in barely a decade - cementing the practice as a legitimate public safety crisis requiring urgent solutions.
How Good Is the Affordable Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8 Lens?
Viltrox has quickly grown from a relatively unknown company to a highly respected manufacturer known for creating some of the most affordable lenses out there — lenses that still offer very good performance a lot of the time. At less than $200, the AF 20mm f/2.8 continues that tradition. But can it deliver the results expected of a modern lens? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
SEO for Photographers: 7 Tips to Boost Your Website
Here's the thing, they don't really teach SEO in school, do they? You can read about SEO until you're blue in the face, but the real learning? That happens when you're actually in the trenches, optimizing websites, figuring out what clicks and what flops.
Mistakes You Are Making With Your Woodland Landscape Photography
One of the more difficult landscape scenes to photograph are woodland environments. Many landscape photographers find these locations challenging to photograph, myself included. This video has several tips on how to improve your woodland landscape photography.
The Ultimate Portable Set Up for Photographers
Having a completely portable office with multiple screens will revolutionize how you shoot on location. The good news is that this particular set-up is easy and it doesn't have to break the bank.
Profoto Desktop App Review: Controlling $100,000 Lights from Your Laptop: An Old Classic Reviewed
Connectivity is something that can't be overlooked in professional photography. A lot of the work that photographers do relies on one form or another of connectivity, whether it's capturing an image tethered or controlling a 6-light setup from your remote. Now there is a better way to control your lights: the Profoto Desktop App.
Last Chance To Enter Our Portrait Photography Contest (It's Free)
Terry Richardson Named in Another Sexual Assault Lawsuit
As New York's landmark Adult Survivors Act nears expiration, former model and actress Caron Bernstein has stepped forward to accuse celebrity photographer Terry Richardson of sexual assault. Filed before the Thanksgiving deadline, Bernstein's lawsuit alleges Richardson exploited a 2003 photo shoot proposal to coerce her into unwanted oral sex acts.