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Alex Cooke
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Articles written by Alex Cooke

A Beginner's Guide to Solving Common Photography Challenges

Photography can be tricky, especially when your images don't turn out as expected. Common problems like poor exposure, blurry details, or excessive noise can be frustrating. The good news is that many of these issues can be fixed with a straightforward approach.

Techniques for Beautiful Snowy Portraits

Photographing in snow presents unique challenges. The light is harsh, reflections are intense, and the cold can affect your equipment. But with the right techniques, you can transform a snowy scene into a beautifully lit portrait. This video focuses on using light direction, ambient light, and composition to elevate your snowy portraits, offering practical tips for handling these tricky conditions.

Breaking the Rules of Lighting for Stunning Results

Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping a portrait, and sometimes, it’s worth bending the rules to capture a unique shot. When you’re working in a stunning location, balancing ideal lighting techniques with the composition can push you to make creative decisions that break away from the norm.

Ultra-Performance Meets Innovation: A Review of Sony's New a1 II Flagship Camera

Sony's new a1 II mirrorless camera represents the pinnacle of hybrid shooting technology, combining exceptional resolution with blazing-fast performance. The a1 II builds upon its predecessor's foundation while introducing refined features that cater to professionals who demand versatility and reliability in every shooting scenario.

Focus Stacking Tips for Sharp Macro Photography

Focus stacking can take your macro photography to a new level by allowing you to capture every detail of a subject in perfect clarity, even when that subject has considerable depth. It’s especially helpful for macro shots, where your focus plane is often razor-thin. But capturing a sharp, focus-stacked image doesn’t end with taking hundreds of shots in the field; processing them correctly is equally crucial.

Sigma Announces Prices and Availability for Four New APS-C Primes for Canon RF Mount

Sigma has officially announced the pricing and availability of four APS-C format DC DN prime lenses for Canon's RF mount system. The lenses, part of Sigma’s Contemporary line, include the 16mm f/1.4, 23mm f/1.4, 30mm f/1.4, and 56mm f/1.4, and are designed for photographers and videographers seeking compact, high-performance lenses. These additions expand Sigma’s APS-C lens offerings to six for the RF mount.

Fujifilm Announces Development of GFX ETERNA: Its First Medium Format Filmmaking Camera

Fujifilm has unveiled the development of its first medium format filmmaking camera, the GFX ETERNA, which is scheduled for release in 2025. Featuring a medium format 102 MP sensor and advanced processing technology, the GFX ETERNA is designed to deliver high-quality, true-to-life visuals for filmmakers working in feature films, television, documentaries, and web streaming content.

Sony Launches a1 II: A Second-Generation Flagship Full Frame Camera

Sony Electronics has officially unveiled the a1 II, a follow-up to its 2021 flagship a1. Combining high resolution, speed, and advanced AI-powered features, the a1 II aims to serve professionals in fields like photojournalism, wildlife, sports, and commercial photography.

135mm f/1.8 Lenses Compared: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing the right 135mm f/1.8 lens for your Sony E-mount camera can be tricky, especially with options ranging from the high-end Sony FE 135mm f/1.8 GM to the budget-friendly Samyang AF 135mm f/1.8 FE. Each lens offers unique strengths, from image quality, to price, and more.

Three Tips to Instantly Improve Your Photos

Photography can feel saturated these days, with everyone snapping away on their smartphones or cameras. If you want your photos to stand out, mastering a few straightforward techniques can make a huge difference. These tips are easy to apply and will help you capture more captivating images.

A Hidden World of Images

Long exposures and intentional camera movement (ICM) open up a side of photography that’s impossible to capture with the naked eye. They create ghostly, dynamic images that capture the essence of movement, emotion, and atmosphere, transforming everyday scenes into ethereal, dreamlike compositions.

Tips for Using a Long Lens in Tight Spaces

Capturing compelling images in busy, chaotic spaces requires a mix of patience and creativity. With the right techniques, you can turn even the most overwhelming environments into opportunities for striking compositions.

When to Use Levels vs. Curves in Photoshop

Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color in an image can change everything about a photo’s mood and focus. Two key tools in Photoshop that allow you to manipulate these aspects precisely are the Levels and Curves adjustments. Each tool has its strengths and hidden features that provide control over light and color in ways that are unique to each method.

How to Achieve a Film Look Without Shooting Film

Digital film simulations have become a popular way to capture the look of classic film stocks without the hassle of processing and scanning. They’re practical for anyone who wants a specific aesthetic without spending time on extensive post-processing, and they give you the freedom to focus on composition and light.

Why the Olympus 60mm f/2.8 Macro Is Perfect for Compact Close-Ups

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro is a compact, versatile macro lens that excels in close-up photography. If you’re looking for an option that balances impressive magnification with portability at a competitive price, this lens offers a practical solution, making it a solid choice for capturing detail-rich images of insects, plants, and other small subjects.

How to Turn Your iPad into a Computer Display

Turning your iPad into a second display for your Mac can make your workflow more flexible, whether you're looking for a compact desk setup or a mobile option. The process can vary based on your needs and available accessories, so here’s a guide on two methods that allow you to connect your iPad to your Mac.

Tips for Creative Photography in Ordinary Locations

Taking photos in a small town can feel limiting if you’re used to seeing iconic cityscapes on social media. But with a few techniques, you can get dynamic, visually striking images right in your local area.