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Alex Cooke
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Articles written by Alex Cooke

The Beauty of Large Format Photography

Long road trips through remote locations can offer unique photography opportunities, especially when you’re open to discovery along the way. The journey itself becomes part of the creative process, with unexpected stops and scenes presenting themselves. This kind of spontaneous exploration is what makes shooting on the road so rewarding, even if conditions aren't always ideal.

Overcoming Unpredictable Conditions in Landscape Photography

The unpredictability of weather is something you’re bound to face if you spend time doing landscape photography. Sometimes it works in your favor; other times, it’s a frustrating barrier to getting the shot you envisioned.

A NY Times Assignment Shot in One Day

Photojournalist Justin Mott recently took on a one-day assignment for The New York Times, documenting the journey of Freya, a transgender woman who moved to Vietnam with her partner due to safety concerns tied to the U.S. political climate. Mott's task was to capture moments of their life in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), including intimate portraits of the couple and shots that brought out the essence of their new environment. It's a delicate story that needed to be told visually with care, making it both personal and professional.

Creative Color Grading Techniques for Cinematic Portraits

When retouching your images, having a variety of techniques can make all the difference. Not every approach works for every photo, so learning multiple methods can help you adapt based on the image you’re working with. In this video, you’ll see a couple of ways to color grade your images, giving them mood, atmosphere, and even a cinematic touch.

Do You Really Need Expensive f/2.8 Lenses Anymore?

Professional lenses with a wide aperture, like f/2.8 lenses, have been a staple in photography for years. But with the advancements in software today, some might wonder: are these high-priced lenses still worth it, or can you rely on software to get the same results with cheaper gear? The question is valid, and photographers on a budget are increasingly exploring whether they can save money without sacrificing quality.

The Best Way to Respond to Clients Asking for Raw Photos

As a wedding photographer, you’ve likely had clients ask for raw files, thinking they’re getting more value by having access to every shot taken. But there are several reasons why raw files aren’t something you want to hand over, and your clients may not understand why. When this conversation comes up, it’s essential to explain the realities of raw files clearly and calmly, so they know what they’re really asking for.

Blackmagic Design Announces URSA Cine 17K 65 Large Format Digital Film Camera Pricing

At IBC 2024 in Amsterdam, Blackmagic Design announced the pricing and availability of the Blackmagic URSA Cine 17K 65, a new large format digital film camera. With a 65mm RGBW sensor and the ability to capture footage in resolutions up to 17K, the camera is aimed at high-end productions, promising exceptional image quality and workflow integration.

Leica Introduces M11-D: A Blend of Analog Experience with Digital Precision

Leica has announced the release of the M11-D, a digital camera designed to offer an analog-like experience while incorporating modern digital technology. With its minimalist approach, the M11-D eliminates distractions like the rear display and Leica’s signature red logo, focusing on the pure essence of photography. The camera's ISO dial is prominently featured on the back, adding to its streamlined design.

Canon Announces RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Lens and SELPHY QX20 Compact Photo Printer

Canon has unveiled two new products aimed at enhancing the creative capabilities of photographers and everyday users alike: the RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM lens and the SELPHY QX20 compact photo printer. Both are designed to offer versatility and ease of use for a range of photography and printing needs.

A Review of the Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens

The Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD is designed to be your go-to lens for almost any situation. For those looking for a single lens to cover a wide variety of shooting scenarios, it promises a lot of flexibility.

Mastering Simplicity: Tips for Better Landscape Photography

Simplicity in landscape photography is not as easy as it sounds. The natural world is filled with complexity, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the visual elements. However, simplifying a scene can help create more powerful, evocative images, making it easier for viewers to connect with your work.

How to Capture Perfect Family Photos in Challenging Lighting Conditions

Family portraits can be a challenge, especially when you're working with larger groups, such as grandparents with grandchildren. Capturing these moments in a way that feels natural yet beautifully lit can be tricky, but it’s important for creating memories that last a lifetime. Lighting becomes a key factor when you want to ensure everyone is evenly illuminated and the setting feels organic, not overly staged.

Practical Tips to Improve Your Landscape Photography

When you’re working on improving your landscape photography, you’re trying to capture more than just a scene—you’re telling a story. From the foreground to the background, everything in the frame plays a role.

Real-World Portraits With the New Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 Lens

The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 lens is an intriguing option for anyone considering adding a fast prime to their gear collection. It offers a mix of familiar features with some quirks that make it unique, all at a very reasonable price.

How to Add Contrast to Green Grass for Better Photos

Editing large expanses of green grass can transform an otherwise flat image into something much more dynamic. It’s not just about pushing the contrast slider up and hoping for the best. To make an image pop, especially when working with grass or other natural elements, you need to approach it with more precision.

How to Capture Authentic Street Moments

Street photography is unpredictable, fast, and often happens when you least expect it. Capturing those moments requires preparation and awareness, which is why understanding key principles can make a significant difference in your work.

How to Use Centralized Composition for Stronger Photos

Centralized composition might be an older technique, but it still offers one of the most powerful ways to create immediate impact in your images. If you’ve struggled with feeling like your subject gets lost in the frame or your composition seems unbalanced, this approach could be what you’re missing.

A Simple Workflow for Better Landscape Photo Edits

Many photographers find editing frustrating, especially if they’re more focused on capturing the shot than on enhancing it later. However, mastering a solid editing workflow can drastically elevate the quality of your work, giving your photos the polish they need to stand out.