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?

The Insane Prices Some Photographers Command

Understanding the pricing landscape in photography can be a daunting task for both emerging and seasoned photographers. The vast range of prices, from a simple potato image fetching millions to a seasoned professional receiving a few hundred dollars for a day's work, can leave many scratching their heads.

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.

This Ultra-Affordable Lens Performs Much Better Than It Should

Finding affordable, high-quality lenses can be a challenge. Thankfully, companies like Viltrox are stepping up to offer compelling options. One such option is the Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Z lens for the Nikon Z mount, a prime lens that boasts impressive features at a remarkably low price point.

Finding Peace and Inspiration in Photographic Solitude

As photographers, we often grapple with the question of whether to pursue our craft alone or in the company of others. Both approaches offer unique benefits and challenges, and the ideal balance varies depending on individual preferences and creative goals. While collaboration can provide valuable support and inspiration, solitude can offer a space for quiet reflection, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Mastering Composition: Balancing Rules and Intuition

Composition is a fundamental aspect of photography, impacting how viewers perceive and connect with your images. It's the arrangement of elements within the frame, guiding the eye and creating a sense of balance, harmony, or dynamism. However, navigating composition can be challenging, often leading to frustration.

This Camera Makes Me a Better Photographer

As photographers, we are constantly told that our gear or camera does not matter. As someone who has pushed this narrative, it is finally time to admit I've been wrong this entire time.
Don't Overlook This Powerful Color Grading Secret in Lightroom

Mastering post-processing techniques is just as crucial as understanding camera settings and composition. While tools like exposure and contrast adjustments are commonly used, Lightroom offers a hidden gem that can elevate your color grading to a whole new level. This often-overlooked feature holds immense potential for refining colors and creating stunning visual effects.

The Fujifilm X100VI: Does the Lens Resolve 40 Megapixels?

The jump from 26 to 40 megapixels in the Fujifilm X100VI sparked debate about whether the lens could keep up. This video tackles that question head-on, comparing the X100V and X100VI lenses to see how well they resolve detail and handle the demands of a high-resolution sensor.

A Humorous Look at a Ridiculous Lens

Capturing stunning wildlife and street photographs requires specific equipment, particularly when it comes to lenses. The choice of lens significantly impacts image quality, versatility, and the overall photographic experience. Nonetheless, there's probably a limit. This lens might be past that limit.

Made For Travelling And Vlogging? A Preview of Sony FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G

Sony released a rather odd lens a few days ago. The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is neither a replacement for the GMaster nor the cheaper f/4. It is its own odd thing. What is its purpose? Where does it fit in the lineup? Does purchasing it make sense? For some, it most definitely might. Not for all, though.

Why Failure Is the Key to Success in Photography

As photographers, we often seek out advice and inspiration from those who have achieved success in the field. We devour tutorials, attend workshops, and follow the journeys of renowned photographers, hoping to glean insights that will propel us towards our own goals. However, it's crucial to remember that the path to success is rarely linear and is often paved with failures.

Fine Art Portraits With One Light

Fine art portraits often evoke a sense of emotion and tell a story through careful composition, lighting, and posing. While achieving this style might seem complex, it can be done with minimal equipment, even in a small home studio. Let's explore how you can create stunning fine art portraits using just a single light, a backdrop, and some basic modifiers.

Capturing Dramatic Landscape Photos in Uncertain Conditions 

Landscape photography often hinges on the ability to capture fleeting moments of dramatic weather. While planning for ideal conditions is important, embracing unpredictable elements can lead to truly unique and impactful images. Understanding how to anticipate and work with challenging weather conditions is a valuable skill for any landscape photographer.

Canon Introduces Another Wild Idea

Canon has recently filed a patent application that has caught the attention of a few eagle-eyed photographers, as it could radically transform the ways in which we can use any lens.

The Worst Advice You've Been Given as a Photographer

As a follow up to my article on the best advice in respect of turning pro, I thought it would be fun to dig into the worst advice we've ever received as photographers. As Oscar Wilde wrote, "one might consider always passing on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself." So, what's some of the worst photography advice you've ever received?

Unlocking the Secrets of Natural Light

Natural light is often touted as the photographer's best friend, yet many struggle to harness its full potential. This disconnect stems from the oversimplification of natural light usage and the expectation that it should automatically enhance photographs.

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?

Achieving the Film Look With Digital Tools

The desire to capture the unique aesthetic of film photography remains strong among photographers, even in our digital age. While the convenience and flexibility of digital cameras are undeniable, the distinct colors, grain, and overall feel of film hold a certain allure.

From Underexposed to Extraordinary: Saving a Photo in Lightroom

Capturing the perfect shot often involves meticulous planning, patience, and a bit of luck. Landscape photographers, especially those who chase specific celestial events or fleeting light conditions, understand this challenge all too well. Even with the best preparation, unforeseen circumstances like weather or equipment limitations can threaten to derail an entire shoot.

A Nostalgic Look at an Early Digital Camera

Early digital cameras, despite their limitations, were a marvel of their time, offering a glimpse into the future of image capture and paving the way for the advanced technology we enjoy today. This fun video takes a look back at one such camera.

Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places: A Look at Unique Photography Projects

As a photographer, you're constantly seeking inspiration and exploring new ways to express your vision. Sometimes, the most impactful projects come from unexpected sources, challenging conventional ideas about what makes a compelling subject. This fantastic video explores two such projects that showcase the power of photography to elevate the ordinary and shed light on often-overlooked aspects of our world.

Different Key Light Modifiers and How I Use Them for Portraits

Big softbox, little softbox, umbrella, or beauty dish? When choosing a key light modifier for your portraits, it can be daunting to decide which one is the best for the job. I've been working as a portrait photographer for 19 years, so in this article, I'll take you through the modifiers I grab most often for shoots and explain what each one does and the best scenarios to use them.

Lightroom Classic: Essential Tips for Efficient Editing

Lightroom Classic offers a robust platform for photographers to manage and edit their images. However, navigating its extensive features and optimizing your workflow can be challenging. This helpful video tutorial offers a range of tips that will make your life easier.

Tips and Techniques for Landscape Photography in Challenging Weather

Landscape photography often hinges on ideal weather conditions, but overcast skies and stormy forecasts shouldn't deter you from capturing stunning images. With careful planning and a positive attitude, challenging weather can present unique opportunities for compelling compositions.

Mastering Composition: Beyond the Rules

Composition is a cornerstone of photography, influencing the story, emotion, and impact of your images. While understanding compositional rules like the rule of thirds or the golden spiral is valuable, relying solely on them can stifle creativity and lead to formulaic results.

Foreground Photography: Adding Context and Storytelling to Your Images

Foreground elements in photography do more than just fill space. When used with intent, they can introduce context, enhance storytelling, provide frames that guide the viewer's attention, create balance, and elevate the visual appeal of the images. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, understanding how to effectively use foregrounds can enhance your photography. In this guide to foreground photography, we'll explain the effect of foregrounds and provide you with tips and inspiration for using them effectively in your portrait photography.

Five Essential Shots for Every Wedding Photographer

Navigating wedding ceremonies as a photographer involves more than just capturing the typical scenes. It’s essential to approach these events with a strategy that ensures you're ready to seize every moment with creativity and precision.

5 Tips to Improve Your Photos

It can be frustrating when you find yourself struggling to make good images. If you're currently in a rut, check out this awesome video tutorial that offers five tips sure to help you improve.

Exploring New Features in Photoshop

Recent updates to Adobe Photoshop, both in the beta version and the current release, offer exciting new tools and enhancements that empower users to push their creative boundaries even further.

The Coffee Shop Sessions With Kai Eason

Saturday mornings, for most people, are about errands or relaxation. But for photographer Kai Eason, Saturday mornings are spent at local coffee shops, photographing a film photography portrait series known as "The Coffee Shop Sessions."

Review of the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS

A 300mm lens with an aperture of f/2.8 is a wonderful lens. But it’s often large and heavy, or so it used to be. Although the diameter of the lens is unchanged, Sony managed to keep the weight within acceptable limits. It makes the FE 300mm GM OSS a great tool to work with.

Everything You Need to Know About Making Videos With the iPhone 15

Even if you're a professional videographer, the chances are that you utilize your phone from time to time. And if you're not a pro, your phone can be a valuable tool for anything from behind-the-scenes footage to part of your shoot. So, here is everything you need to know about making videos with the iPhone 15.
Sensor Size Showdown: How It Impacts Your Images

Depth of field, the range of distance within a photograph that appears acceptably sharp, is a fundamental aspect of photography. It influences the way viewers perceive images, directing their attention and creating a sense of depth and dimension. Understanding how sensor size impacts depth of field is crucial for photographers, allowing them to make informed decisions about the equipment they use and achieve their desired creative vision.

You Wish You Could Own This Lens

Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.

The Fujifilm X100VI: A Photographer's Perspective

The allure of a new camera often lies in its technical specifications and the promise of enhanced capabilities. However, the true measure of a camera's value rests in its ability to seamlessly integrate into a photographer's individual approach and empower their creative vision. This exploration of the Fujifilm X100VI offers valuable insights into this nuanced relationship between photographer and tool.

The Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: A Budget Zoom Lens for FullFrame Cameras

Full frame cameras offer exceptional image quality and versatility, but their lenses can often be bulky and expensive. For photographers seeking a compact and affordable zoom lens option, the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM provides a compelling solution. This lens is particularly well-suited for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting scenarios.

Transforming Bland Photos With Two Simple Steps

Capturing a stunning photograph often requires more than just pointing and shooting. Post-processing plays a crucial role in enhancing your images and bringing your creative vision to life.

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.

The Balancing Act: In-Camera Perfection vs. Post-Production Magic

Achieving the perfect shot is a constant pursuit for photographers, but the path to perfection isn't always clear-cut. The age-old debate of "get it right in camera" versus "fix it in post" is an important consideration, especially in the world of commercial photography, where time is money and budgets are tight.

Canon's Smart Move With Sigma and Tamron Shakes Up the APS-C Lens Market

The recent introduction of new lenses for Canon's RF-S mount by third-party manufacturers Sigma and Tamron is a significant development for the industry. These lenses, all designed for APS-C format cameras, are a significant development that reveals Canon's strategic approach to its mirrorless camera lineup.

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.

Can the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Do It All?

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR offers just about all the focal lengths a person could want in one package, making it an intriguing option for a wide range of users, particularly landscape and travel photographers. Can it deliver good results, though? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Natural Portrait Retouching in Photoshop

Achieving a polished yet natural look in portrait photography is a crucial skill for any photographer. Balancing skin tones, removing blemishes, and enhancing features without creating an artificial appearance requires a keen eye and the right techniques.