Fine Art Photography

Fine art photography asks different questions than commercial or editorial work — not 'what does the client need?' but 'what does the work mean?' This section explores photography as an artistic practice: conceptual approaches, exhibition and gallery work, limited edition printing, and the photographers whose images challenge, provoke, and expand what the medium can do.

Large Format Cameras in the Landscape

A question arises: Exactly why is it that you still use very large cameras and film when photographing the American landscape? Which is what I do. 

Explore Creativity in Triplicate, A Lens for Every Vision

Are you looking for a lens that’s as fun and versatile as your imagination? Meet the Lensbaby Trio 28—a creative powerhouse that lets you explore the world in triplicate. Three lenses, endless possibilities, and all the inspiration you need in one compact package! 

Creating Stunning Bodyscape Art With Minimal Gear

Bodyscape photography is a unique way to transform the human form into abstract, artistic expressions. By focusing on contours, lighting, and subtle details, you can create striking images that blend mystery and art with minimal equipment. 

Why Overcast Days Are a Hidden Gem for Photographers

Bright sunshine can be a gift to the photographer, creating deep shadows and contrast that accentuate shapes and forms and lend your images a vivid intensity. But the flat, gray light of an overcast day has its own special ambiance and mood that can be a better fit for more contemplative scenes. 

Eight Steps To Capture Motion Blur Seascapes

If you’re looking for a new, creative way to shoot landscapes, this may be the video for you. Tom Woods' video might inspire you to capture your own motion-blur seascapes or use this technique for another creative landscape scene. 

Is It Wrong to Edit Your Landscape Photos?

You crest the brow of a hill to behold a magnificent landscape, but as you’re framing it in your camera’s viewfinder, you realize that this stunning scene is intersected by ugly power lines. Is editing them out later in Photoshop an option you would consider, or one that feels somehow dishonest? 

Don't Let the Wrong ISO Ruin Your Photography

A common misconception in landscape photography is that using the lowest ISO setting always results in the highest quality images. I frequently encounter this question and concern in my YouTube comments. Therefore, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to share a video and article discussing the importance of ISO. 

7 Reasons to Embrace Dreary Melancholic Conditions

Why do artistic creative types love melancholy so much? 

I’ve been asking myself this recently.

Maybe it’s because I’ve spent my entire career seeking out bright, colorful, cheery photos for brands and tourism organizations, and in contrast to this, drab, dull, depressing images are quite appealing to my artistic side and rebellious nature.

Finding Unique Perspectives at The Most Photographed Bridge In The World

As a long-time resident of the Bay Area, I’ve had the privilege of photographing the Golden Gate Bridge for over ten years. Whether it’s capturing the low fog rolling in or watching the golden light of sunrise and sunset cast its warm glow over the bridge, this landmark never ceases to amaze me.

The Advice Film Director Stanley Kubrick Left to All Photographers

You may not have been aware that film director Stanley Kubrick was also a professional photographer, having shot assignments for magazines before he ever made any of his award-winning movies. So what did his photographer’s eye bring to his movies, and what can we learn from his creative process? 

Lessons for Photographers From the Career of Movie Director Quentin Tarantino

As one of the most iconic screenwriters and directors of the last three decades, Quentin Tarantino has forged a career as a unique voice in films. Although his medium as a storyteller is moving images, there’s a lot we can learn from his path as photographers looking to find our own creative voice. 

Creating Photos That Buyers Want To Buy

A buyer wants to be inspired by your work and envision it on their walls. There are many variables as to why someone is purchasing a piece of art, but these three suggestions may help you make a sale. 

The Parallel Visions of Mark Rothko and Hiroshi Sugimoto

Abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko and photographer and contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, though working in different mediums, exhibit strikingly similar artistic sensibilities. Both artists engage deeply with abstraction and the exploration of perception, creating works that transcend their physical forms and can evoke profound emotional and philosophical responses from viewers.

Movie Director Christopher Nolan Has Some Great Advice for Photographers

Whether you work with still or moving images, there’s an art to telling a story with pictures. As a movie director whose preferred medium is analog film, Christopher Nolan’s shared experience with the evolution of his own creative process is sure to resonate with photographers. 

Are You Making These Composition Mistakes in Your Own Photography?

Do you find yourself always leaning heavily on certain composition tricks that you learned as you were developing your photographic skills? Sure, they might make your more mediocre shots a little better, but casting off these creative crutches can be the first step towards making great photographs. 

The Painter Every Photographer Should Know

If you’re a photographer looking for inspiration, look no further. This article dives into the life and work of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and how his dramatic use of light and shadow can revolutionize your photography techniques. 

How Todd Hido Creates His Landscape Photographs

I recently was introduced to photographer Todd Hido in Jason Momoa’s docuseries on HBO. Momoa has a real affinity for Todd. I wish I had a fan like that; if you watch the show, you will see what I mean. 

If You're Shooting in Color, There's Something You Really Need to Know

If you are shooting in color but have no familiarity with color theory, you could be leaving a lot on the table when it comes to the quality and impact of your photography. Even an image with perfect exposure and artful composition can still be a dud if it lacks a compelling color palette. 

How To Find Direction, Subjects and Creative Ideas

I don't know about you, but I'm always looking for creative ideas for my next shoot. It's not always easy, and sometimes you just need to get to your location to find what you're looking for. 

Sleek and Modern: Here is why you Should Print your Images on Metal

Every photographer knows that moment when you realize you have created a special image.  Those images deserve to be printed, and there are times when paper and frames just won't do. Metal Prints take the art of printing to the next level. In this article, we discuss why you might want to invest in Metal Prints.

 

Unfold The Beauty of Layflat Photo Books

There are many options out there for printing and presenting your images. In this article, we look at the multitude of benefits of creating a Layflat Photo Book and shed light on why they are fast becoming a favorite amongst professional photographers looking for a budget-minded alternative to Flush Mount Albums.

 

Wow Your Clients With This Beautiful Fine Art Album

Have you ever wondered what could separate your photography business from the competition, especially in crowded markets like engagement, wedding, and newborn photography? The Fine Art Album from Zno could be your unique selling point to make your business stand out. 

Building Custom Photo Frames for a Gallery Show

Having a gallery show is a dream for most artists and photographers, and for my husband, David, and me, that dream finally became a reality. We had to figure out how to build professional looking custom frames for the show! 

The aspiration to have a gallery show had been a long-held dream for both David and me.

What Is Fine Art Photography ?

As I stood at the edge of the tranquil beach, a sense of both calm and disappointment washed over me. Having checked the weather forecasts closely, I was once again feeling let down as instead of crisp morning light, I instead had low clouds and very little light.  

The Perfect Frames for Your Photos

Finding the perfect print option for your images can be daunting. Figuring out which paper to use is just the first part of the task. At least equally important for a printed photo's visual appeal is the right frame choice. And in this article, I show you frames that can elevate your images. 

5 Documentaries Every Photographer and Creative Should Watch

I love all types of documentaries, and I think it's very important that artists and photographers educate themselves on the past greats and present ones working today. I watch documentaries on photography, fashion, art, and anything else I find interesting.

Cyanotype Printing: Is It Photography, and How Do You Do It?

Explore the Art of the Cyanotype.  In this article, we examine the step-by-step process of cyanotype printing and its place within the realm of photography. You can decide for yourself if you agree whether this is a photographic medium or not. 

Embracing the Challenge of Nude Photo Shoots

Nude photo shoots can be intimidating for both the model and the photographer. Here's how I embraced the challenge, overcame intimidation, and found my creative flow.  

The Worst Photographer Ever?

William Eggleston is best known for his color documentary photography, but the photos really just look like snapshots of the mundane. This is a great documentary to give you a little insight into his work. 

5 Secrets of Waterfall Photography

Prepare to dive headfirst into the world of waterfall photography! In this article, we'll uncover the five secrets that will make your waterfall shots as majestic as possible. So, grab your camera, put on your raincoat, and let's embark on this adventure. 

Photography Can Change the World: Farnaz Damnabi

Can photography change the world? Iranian artist and journalist Farnaz Damnabi's new exhibit, "UNVEILED," set to open at 29 ARTS IN PROGRESS, would seem to suggest yes, at least in part. I don't think it's a surprise to anyone that shifts in power structures can be turbulent. Even minor revisions in social identities can lead to conflict.

Understanding Fine Art Photography With Leigh Schneider

As photographers, we often find ourselves at exciting places such as concerts, parties, and sporting events. Many photographers spend hours of their day working with other people. It is common to see photographers interacting with people and asking the people they are photographing to move a bit to the left or to position their hands differently.