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 Black and White Advantage

There’s nothing quite like the solitude of my darkroom at dawn, the hum of my enlarger in the background, and the image slowly appearing on paper in my hands. For me, photography is more than capturing a moment—it’s a meditative journey into light, shadow, and form. 

10 Controversial Camera Brand Opinions (And Why I'm Right)

These opinions might ruffle feathers, but they're rooted in years of shooting, testing, and loving cameras of all shapes and sizes. From color science to craftsmanship, lens lore to mirrorless revolutions – nothing is off-limits. Disagree? Good. Fight me. 

Why Won’t Sony, Nikon or Canon Make This Camera?

Given that finding a Fuji X100VI is ultra rare and the Leica Q3 is reserved only for those with very deep pockets, surely there’s a gap in the market. None of the big three manufacturers seems interested, but why not? 

The Greatest Force That Is Ignored by Photographers

There is a hidden force that can elevate your photography massively. I know about it because, after 35 years in photography, I stumbled upon it accidentally. And I get goosebumps just thinking about it. 

It’s Better to Be an Amateur Photographer Than a Pro

After 38 years of making a living in photography—either behind the camera or directing other photographers—I’ve come to the conclusion that, for many, it might be best to keep photography as a hobby. It’s something I’ve been thinking about of late because photography in recent years has been elevated to such a glamorous career choice.

A Photographer's Guide to Maximizing Each Season's Opportunities

As a landscape photographer based in Ireland, I've come to realize that capturing a compelling image is about more than just pointing a camera at a beautiful scene. It's about understanding the subtle nuances of light, atmosphere, and the rhythms of our natural world. It’s about feeling the crispness of the air in autumn or the gentle warmth of a summer evening. 

FOMO Warning: Imaging USA 2025 Was Tremendous

“What made you come to Imaging USA?” the videographer asked me on the bustling expo floor, with the mic placed on my lapel. I raced back in my mind to a few months ago when I declined Imaging USA’s invitation. I’m just so swamped; I don’t have time. I fast-forwarded under pressure to what made me change my decision. I realized that I didn’t have time not to come to Imaging USA.

The Change That Could Transform Your Photography

There are many opinions and pieces of guidance imparted to new photographers. Many show up regularly, like how you should “make” photos rather than “take” them. Some of this advice is helpful, while other pieces might crush your creativity. Following the advice to avoid one common technique may unintentionally stunt your growth without you even realizing it. 

What Is The Artist's Responsibility In Times Of Struggle?

As my hometown of Los Angeles continues to combat historic fires, my thoughts have once again been drawn to the age-old question posed by artists throughout time: What is the role of artists in times of strife? 

Discovering Mexico Beyond the Tourist Lens: A Photographer's Journey to Hidden Gems

Picture this: rays of sunlight streaming through the pristine waters of an ancient cenote, forming a mesmerizing light display found nowhere else on Earth. Or a golden-hued petrified waterfall at sunrise, untouched by crowds. This is a side of Mexico rarely seen—far removed from the iconic shots of Chichén Itzá or the bustling shores of Cancún. 

12 Things You Must Photograph in Japan

Japan is one of the hottest travel destinations right now, with visitor numbers exploding since borders reopened in late 2022 following the pandemic.  

As a five-time visitor, I often get asked why I keep going back. The answer is simple: there's so much to see and do in Japan, and best of all, there's an extraordinary range of opportunities for photographers. 

How a Pot of Coffee Started an Imaging Revolution

Before baby monitors and viral livestreams, a glitchy black-and-white camera pointed at an empty coffee pot ignited an internet revolution. This is the surprising tale of how a thirst for caffeine birthed the world’s very first webcam. 

The Known, The Unknown, and the Transcendent

A few years ago, a friend of mine, a symphony maestro, was walking with me through my studio/gallery and remarked that I should compose a book, the title of which would be “The Known, the Unknown, and the Transcendent.” Tom was a true intellectual, a visionary who never allowed a conversation to descend into petty differences and discussions about equipment, etc.

Nine Steps To Build Your Photography and Filmmaking Gear Collection Without Wasting Money

Just starting your photography or filmmaking journey and unsure how to spend your limited funds on limitless gear options? Today, I’ll offer eight simple steps to hopefully help you get the best bang for your buck. 

This week, I was doing my usual renewal on my gear insurance policy, and I, once again, had a familiar refrain: Sweet Mary, I’ve spent a small fortune on gear.

How You Can Become an Even More Fabulous Photographer

If you are reading articles on Fstoppers, it’s a sure sign that you want to improve your photography. You have the potential to become fabulous, and there are proven steps you can take to help you on that journey. 

5 Essential Techniques for Advanced Landscape Photography

When starting with photography, you'll find many tips and techniques to understand, from the basics of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to composition and lighting. However, today, we will focus on five techniques worth checking out when you embark on your first landscape photography trip. 

10 Tips and Ideas for Creative Wedding Photojournalism

Under the umbrella of wedding photography stands an approach to documenting weddings known as wedding photojournalism. While part of the wedding genre, wedding photojournalism leans more into its photojournalism roots, offering a more "hands-off" approach to capturing the moments of the wedding day. 

Don’t Let Poor Weather Stop You

We have all been there as landscape photographers: the alarm goes off, we hear rain or wind blowing against our windows, we glance at the clock, and go back to bed. But by doing so, you may miss out on unique photography opportunities! Don’t let poor weather keep you inside. 

Why Photographers Should Take Heed of the Mere Exposure Effect

The Mere Exposure Effect is a principle first proposed back in the 1960s. It’s an important consideration for any photographer who wants to produce either popular images or push the boundaries and appeal to a smaller, more discerning audience. Your stylistic choice will impact the broadness of your photos’ appeal.