Fstoppers Originals

Exclusive articles and expert opinions written by Fstoppers’ talented team of creative professionals. Here we cover everything from the latest photographic techniques to advice on running a successful photography business, to first hand accounts of working in the photography industry.

The Top Images from GuruShots "Traveling the World" Challenge

Our friends over at GuruShots, hosts of "The World’s Greatest Photo Game,” recently offered a challenge where particpants submitted their best images "Traveling the World." There were thousands of entries and over 27 million votes throughout the contest but the top winners have been chosen. Check out the winner and the the 60 top rated images below.

Here’s How I Failed at Full-Time Photography

Here's how I failed at becoming a full-time photographer. 

In 2021, I quit my job, moved out of my apartment, and embarked on a 13-month full-time travel and photography journey. I had hoped to prolong this time by increasing my photography income, but after 13 months, the savings I had dedicated to this adventure had run out.

Photography May Adversely Affect Your Memory and AI Is Making Things Worse

Photography can help improve people's mental health. It’s a mindful activity that brings moderate exercise outdoors, which can help our mood. However, with every advantage in photography, there is always a disadvantage, and the damage photography does to our brains is exacerbated by AI. 

The Death of Candid Photography in the Smartphone Era

Maria noticed it first during her daughter's birthday party. She'd positioned herself discreetly across the room with her camera, hoping to capture genuine moments of joy and surprise. But something felt wrong. The children weren't behaving naturally—they kept glancing toward phones, adjusting their positions slightly when they sensed potential photo opportunities.

Why Persistence Matters in Landscape Photography

As landscape photographers, we have all been there—tried to get a shot on many occasions and failed for one reason or another. The most frequent reason is that the weather didn't play by the rules we had in mind; however, sometimes it does, and when it does, it makes it all worthwhile. This is my story about persistence and sticking to my guns to get the dream shot. 

When Is a Photograph Truly Finished?

Photographers make photographs, right? It’s obvious. And we all regularly share and view images, even as the technology underpinning the craft has changed. But what makes a photograph a “finished” product that we can put out into the world? 

Essential Tips for Air Travel with Your Camera Gear

Air travel can be filled with uncertainty, and more so with camera gear. I've traveled domestically in the United States and internationally as well, learning a few strategies along the way. I'll share some of these tips to help you fly with photography equipment a little easier. 

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Why Some People Hate Being Photographed (And How to Help Them)

Jennifer's heart rate spiked the moment she saw the camera. Her shoulders tensed, her smile became forced, and her natural warmth disappeared behind a mask of visible discomfort. The photographer, confused by her sudden transformation, kept shooting while Jennifer grew increasingly rigid and self-conscious.

Come With Me to the BILD Photo Expo in NYC

New York City recently hosted an excellent, two‑day photo expo aimed at photographers, content creators, and filmmakers. Presented by BH Photo, the oddly named BILD Expo hosted presentations and panels featuring photographers from a variety of genres and eras as well as a packed showroom floor with vendors of every level. 

Zoner Studio: A Powerful RAW Editor with a Major New Update and New Name

Zoner Studio’s Spring 2025 update introduces a smarter, faster way to edit photos, built around a powerful new AI-driven Local Adjustments tool. Formerly known as Zoner Photo Studio X, the software has been renamed to reflect its evolution—but everything familiar is still here, just with more power under the hood. 

Combining the New Viltrox Z1 Flash With an ND Filter Unlocks a Tiny Beast

As a professional photographer, I'm always on the lookout for tools that punch above their weight, especially when it comes to lighting. When I first got my hands on the Viltrox Vintage Z1, I'll admit, its retro aesthetic did scratch an itch for me, being an insufferable vintage aficionado.

Red Flags Clients Should Watch Out for in Photographers

Sarah thought she'd found the perfect wedding photographer. The portfolio looked stunning, the price seemed reasonable, and the photographer's enthusiasm during their initial consultation convinced her they were the right choice. She signed the contract and paid the deposit immediately, excited about the beautiful photos she'd receive. 

When Is it Okay to Use AI-Generated Images for Your Photography?

I can already see it. Many of you are clenching your fists and saying, "Never!" Certainly, there are many cases in which it's not acceptable to use AI-generated images for your photography. First, I'm going to discuss several instances of when it might be okay to use AI-generated images for photography. Then we'll examine the not-so-great applications. 

3 Reasons Why Expensive Cameras Are Actually Worse for Beginners

The photography industry has convinced beginners that better equipment equals better photographs. Photography forums buzz with gear recommendations that prioritize technical specifications over learning fundamentals. But this advice, however well-intentioned, is fundamentally wrong. 

Why It's Impossible To Manufacture In America

Destin at Smarter Every Day recently released a brutally honest video about attempting and failing to make a simple product in the USA after 4 years. Most people don't understand why it's so hard, and what's wrong with our manufacturing. Let's take a deeper look.  

Camera Features We Take for Granted That Were Once Revolutionary

Every photographer today carries in their camera bag technologies that would have seemed like science fiction to previous generations. Features we consider basic—automatic exposure, instant image review, face detection—represent decades of engineering breakthroughs that fundamentally transformed how photography works.

The Individual and Social Paradox of Photography

Photography is an artistic pursuit, and yet shares similarities with sports. While fundamentally an individual activity, there is a necessary social component that enhances the experience. How do these two strains interact in our photographic journey? 

The Loss of Photography Store Culture

The bell above the door hadn't stopped ringing for twenty minutes. It was a Saturday afternoon in March 1985, and Harrison Camera on 47th Street was packed with its usual crowd: wedding photographers arguing about lens choices, art students pawing through used equipment bins, tourists asking endless questions about film types, and the regulars who came not to buy anything but simply to bel