Recent Opinion Articles

Find Your Why and You Will Find Your Way

During what is likely the most tumultuous global period in our lifetime, it's easy to become jaded, frustrated, and feel as if you have lost your way. The question is, why that happens, how do you pull yourself out of that rut before it does real damage?

How To Survive Technological Changes as an Artist

With new technology being invented seemingly every day with the power to upend our profession, it’s easy to become despondent about the future of our art form. Luckily, there is one fundamental advantage we hold which cannot be engineered out of existence.

Rising Above the Noise: Why Ignoring Social Media Trolls Is the Best Strategy

In the ever-expanding landscape of social media, where voices echo and opinions clash, trolls have become an unfortunate reality. These internet provocateurs thrive on negative attention, seeking to disrupt, demean, and derail meaningful discussions. However, instead of getting caught in their web of negativity, there are compelling reasons why ignoring social media trolls is not only wise but also empowering. In this article, let's explore why rising above the noise and refusing to engage with trolls can lead to a healthier, more positive online experience.

Trolls Feed on...
The Truth About Following Your Dreams as a Career

Taking your passion and making a career out of it is the dream for many, but it stays an abstract dream for the majority. There are a lot of factors involved, but if you are in a position where you can and might take the leap, it's worth knowing what's on the table.

The Critical Necessity of Immediate Regulation and Labeling of AI-Generated Media

In the digital age, information flows at speeds and scales that are unprecedented in human history. Social media platforms, digital news outlets, and personal devices collectively serve as both mirrors and engines of cultural discourse. Within this vast ecosystem, a new frontier has emerged: synthetic media or AI-generated media. And with its advanced outpacing our ability to corral its impact, we are headed for trouble.

In a Year of Political Turmoil and Change, What Do Our Documentaries Say About Us?

On virtually every front, 2017 was a year of change, turmoil, and upheaval. A year comprised of moments that affected our every day lives in ways that societal and political movements haven’t in recent years past. The tension that has defined this year has found itself mirrored in the art that we create, and in more obvious ways in the documentary subjects captured by filmmakers across the globe.

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.

Have Photo Conferences Fully Recovered From COVID?

It’s no secret that COVID put a bit of a damper on anything in person, especially large group gatherings, like conferences and trade shows. But as time has moved on, has the photo conference world fully recovered?

It’s Time to (Judiciously) Embrace the ‘AI Age'

Cameras used to use glass plates and flash used to be controlled explosions. Thankfully, we've embraced the relative safety introduced to the photographic process with DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but can we say the same for AI?

I Interviewed AI About AI, and It Wants You to Know It Comes in Peace

Generative artificial intelligence like Chat GPT, Dall-e, Midjourney, etc., what we are all now collectively referring to as "AI," has all but dominated almost every aspect of popular public discourse over the last year. And for good reason: it's kind of a big deal, though I would argue a lot of the conversation around AI is overblown at best and outright unwarranted panic at worst. But that's not to say we shouldn't be paying close attention to the advancements in this new technology. Quite the opposite, we should be paying very close attention, and making every attempt to understand this tech to the extent we possibly can.

Three Essential Questions for Your Next Project Proposal

As a photographer who works primarily within an art context, I often find myself seeking opportunities to share my work. In saying that, I would imagine being able to convincingly write and communicate about your work is a skill all photographers might find useful.

Can AI Make Art?

AI is getting a ton of attention right now. Some of that is excitement, with photographers interested in the ways it can make their workflows more efficient and expand their creative range. Others are worried about the impact it will have on the industry and how it could potentially render some photographers irrelevant. Can AI actually create art, though? This interesting video essay discusses the topic.

Three Serious Lessons for Artists From a Film About Laughter

The best part about creating personal projects is the opportunity to grow in a pressure-free environment. I just finished shooting such a project with a couple of friends, and the lessons I learned at “play” turned out to be the kind I’ll be sure to use in my work.

Navigating the Future: AI's Role in Photography's Evolution

The rapid evolution of technology and its impact on photography has sparked widespread debate, with artificial intelligence at the forefront of discussions. This insightful video addresses this concern head-on, asserting that AI will not extinguish the essence of photography but rather augment its possibilities.

AI in Movies: Tool or Threat?

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the filmmaking landscape, prompting both optimism and significant concern. Its growing presence raises important questions about creativity, authenticity, and the future of filmmaking jobs.

When Do Catch Lights Actually Matter?

Despite their seemingly minor detail, catch lights stir controversy among photographers, sparking discussions around whether they genuinely impact the quality of portraits or merely distract from more important elements of lighting and composition.

68 Percent of Adults Edit Their Selfies Before Sharing Them With Anyone

Think we're in the middle of a Photoshopping epidemic? You don't even know how bad it is (well, now you do). According to a recent survey, 68 percent of adults take to some kind of photo editing before they share any photo with another person or online. As desktop and mobile editing tools become easier to use — with some even serving the specific purpose of being easy to use for the less technically inclined — Photoshopping images is the latest trend... and it's still growing.

Is the Sony a7R V Still Relevant?

The Sony a7R V was launched more than two years ago. And in terms of technology, that’s a very long time ago. But I don't think this camera should be overlooked.

Why I’m Not Going Back to Patagonia as a Photographer

Patagonia has long been a dream destination for photographers—dramatic peaks, vast landscapes, and the raw beauty of nature. I had high hopes of capturing my own version of this rugged terrain, expecting to find inspiration in the remote landscapes and the challenge of shooting in unpredictable weather. After finally making the journey, I left feeling uninspired, frustrated, and disappointed. And honestly? I have no desire to go back. Here’s why.

Intentional Photography: Fewer Shots, Better Results

Taking fewer, more intentional photographs is a powerful strategy that many photographers overlook. It's not about capturing fewer moments, but instead about being mindful with each press of the shutter.

Why Specs Are No Longer an Important Criteria in Choosing a Camera

In today's photography landscape, there is far too much emphasis on hardware and not enough thought about what it’s actually being used for. Discussions among the community often revolve around camera specifications rather than the philosophy and thoughts behind capturing images. Yet, we have long passed the point where more megapixels, higher dynamic range, and extreme ISO performance make a meaningful difference for most users.

Why Having a Faster Lens Isn’t Always Better

The recent launch of the Fujifilm GFX100RF has stirred quite a debate in the photography community. Many Fujifilm fans were frustrated by the decision to equip the camera with a fixed f/4 lens instead of a faster option like f/2.8 or even f/2. This backlash got me thinking: does a faster lens always make a camera better? And more importantly, does it help us produce a better image? The more I think about it, the more I realize that the obsession with wider apertures might not be that beneficial for visual output, but rather for bragging rights that often overlook crucial trade-offs.

Nintendo Brings Back Cameras (Sort Of)

Buried in Nintendo's Switch 2 announcement during Nintendo Direct earlier in the week was a quiet accessory that brings Nintendo back into the camera game. Sort of.

Transform Your Smartphone Into a Tool for Inner Peace

Mindfulness and photography can work together, creating an immersive experience that pulls you into the present moment. When you struggle with anxiety, depression, or simply feeling disconnected, this combination offers a powerful way to shift your perspective and find inner calm.