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Alex Cooke
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Articles written by Alex Cooke

Is Photography a Viable Career in 2024? Insights and Realities

Photography's viability as a career in 2024 is a topic of considerable debate, casting light on the evolving landscape of the industry. It's a question that touches the heart of both seasoned professionals and aspiring photographers alike, challenging the traditional pathways to success within the field.

Transforming Overcast Days Into Photographic Masterpieces

Photography under overcast skies presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, often leading to the misconception that dull days equate to poor photography conditions. However, this scenario opens up avenues for capturing stunning images that embrace the subdued lighting, revealing textures and details that might otherwise be overlooked.

Embracing the Mist: Techniques for Fog Photography

Navigating through fog transforms familiar landscapes into realms of mystery and depth, providing a canvas for creativity that few other weather conditions can match. The allure of fog lies in its ability to simplify scenes, mute distractions, and introduce a sense of depth and mood that can elevate the most mundane subjects into captivating images.

The Art of Winter Photography: Techniques for Stunning Snowscapes

Exploring winter landscapes offers unique opportunities and challenges for photographers, particularly when it comes to capturing scenes transformed by snow. The stark, simplified beauty of snow-covered environments requires a distinct approach to composition and technique, underscoring the importance of preparation and adaptability in the field.

How to Eliminate Banding in Photoshop

Addressing and preventing banding in Photoshop is a critical skill for photographers who aim to achieve seamless gradients and transitions in their digital images. Banding can detract significantly from the quality of a photo, making it appear to lack depth and detail, particularly in areas with smooth transitions like skies or backgrounds.

A Review of the Yongnuo YN 50mm f/1.8 DA DSM PRO Lens

One of the original budget brands of the digital era, Yongnuo has long been known for creating very affordable speedlights. In more recent tears, the company has branched out into manufacturing lenses, such as the new YN 50mm f/1.8 DA DSM PRO for Fujifilm X Series cameras. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.

Where Are We in the Camera Wars?

The evolution of camera technology has reached a remarkable juncture where the once fierce competition among manufacturers seems to have plateaued to a degree, at least with regards to headline specs, making it an intriguing period for photography enthusiasts. This shift is crucial as it suggests a move towards a more nuanced approach to camera development, focusing on features that cater to the specific needs of photographers rather than engaging in specifications wars.

A Hidden Gem: The Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8

Viltrox has swiftly transitioned from an under-the-radar brand to a well-regarded lens maker, celebrated for its budget-friendly yet impressive performing lenses. The AF 20mm f/2.8, priced under $200, continues this trend. The question is, does it live up to the high expectations set by contemporary lenses? This detailed video review explores the lens' performance and the quality of images it produces.

The Financial and Artistic Advantages of Adapting Vintage Lenses

Adapting vintage lenses for use on modern mirrorless cameras offers an innovative way to explore different gear without breaking the bank. This technique not only promises a budget-friendly alternative to buying new lenses but also delivers unique image qualities that can significantly elevate the creative aspect of photography, making it a valuable avenue to consider.

What Features Is Lightroom Missing?

Lightroom has made some significant steps forward in recent years, but there is always room for improvement? What would you like to see?

A Review of the Sony a7R V Mirrorless Camera

The Sony a7R series of mirrorless cameras has consistently been celebrated for delivering among the highest resolution figures seen in full-frame cameras, complemented by a diverse array of functionalities catering to various photographic styles and uses. The a7R V stands as the latest and greatest in the series, and this detailed video review explores the camera, offering insights into the kind of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.

Essential Tips for Aspiring Street Photographers

The essence of street photography lies in capturing the fleeting moments and raw emotions of everyday life, making it an excellent way to practice for photographers aiming to tell compelling stories through their lenses. Understanding the nuances of this genre is fundamental, as it involves more than just pointing and shooting; it's about immersing oneself in the environment and connecting with the subject matter on a deeper level.

South Carolina State Representative Sues Instagram After Son's Suicide

A legislator from South Carolina is taking legal action against Instagram following the tragic suicide of his son. Roughly two weeks post the memorial service of his eldest child, State Representative Brandon Guffey was confronted with a private message on Instagram containing a mockery emoji.

A Nostalgic Look at the Canon EOS D60

The Canon EOS D60, released in 2002, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of consumer cameras, combining affordability with advanced features for its time.

A Review of the Versatile HP Spectre x360 Two-in-One Laptop

With a two-in-one design and a gorgeous OLED screen, the HP Spectre x360 looks like a fantastic option for demanding creatives on the go. How does it perform in practice? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.

How Good Is the Dynamic Range of the Sony a9 III?

The unveiling of the Sony a9 III, with its groundbreaking global sensor, has certainly turned heads in the photography community, sparking discussions about its potential drawbacks in terms of dynamic range and ISO capabilities. This comprehensive video analysis offers a peek into what users can anticipate from this sensor.

The Best Advice a Photographer Can Receive

The pursuit of growth and development in photography often hinges on the guidance and wisdom shared among photographers. This fantastic video offers some of the best advice a photographer has received in his journey.

A Review of the Sony a9 III Mirrorless Camera

The Sony a9 III is one of the most exciting and important cameras to come along in years, and while its headline feature is its full frame global shutter, it comes with a wide gamut of impressive capabilities. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and everything you can expect from it in use.

The Path to Authentic Photography

Navigating the creative landscape of photography presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding and maintaining a personal style and connection to one's work. For many photographers, the struggle isn't just about capturing images but creating photographs that resonate deeply on a personal level.