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Alex Cooke
Cleveland, OH

Articles written by Alex Cooke

Why Breaking Into Photography Is Harder Than Ever

Photography is harder to break into than ever. The cost of living is up, gear is expensive, and opportunities often go to those with connections. If you’ve struggled to get a foothold in the industry, you’re not alone. Many talented creatives find themselves stuck, not because they lack skill or dedication, but because the system favors those with financial backing.

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.

The Rare Canon Lens You’ve Never Heard Of

Canon has released many legendary lenses over the years, but some models remain obscure. One of the rarest is the EF 50-200mm f/3.5-4.5 L, an autofocus L-series lens from 1988. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone. It’s so rare that even finding information on it can be difficult, but that makes testing one all the more interesting.

Six Lessons That Will Change How You Shoot

Buying a new camera won’t make you a better photographer. Improvement comes from consistent practice, not from having the latest gear. If you want to capture great photos, you need to put in the time to understand how light, composition, and timing work together.

A Smarter Way to Edit Landscape Photos in Lightroom

Editing landscape photos can feel overwhelming with all the tools available, but you don’t need to use most of them. The key is knowing which adjustments actually make a difference. A few simple changes can turn a flat raw file into something that reflects the scene as you remember it.

Fujifilm’s New 16-55mm Lens: Lighter, Faster, Better?

Fujifilm’s XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II lens updates one of the most popular zoom lenses in the X-mount lineup. With its versatile focal range, constant f/2.8 aperture, and improved design, it’s built for those who need flexibility without sacrificing image quality. The big question: is it worth upgrading if you already own the original?

Turning a Kid’s Camera Into a Unique Shooting Experience

A tiny digital camera made for kids has unexpectedly become a hit with adults who want a simple, screen-free shooting experience. But what if it could be more than just a toy? One creator decided to take this little camera and push it to its limits, transforming it into something completely different—and way more fun.

A Simple Photoshop Trick for Better Light and Atmosphere

Sometimes, a small edit can bring a photo to life. Adjusting light, enhancing atmosphere, and directing attention can make a huge difference, especially when working with images that feel flat or lack impact.

Canon RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM: Worth the Price?

Canon’s RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM lens is an intriguing option for anyone invested in the RF system, especially those who shoot both photos and video. It brings some unique features, a high-quality build, and Canon’s latest autofocus technology. But with a price tag of $1,500, it’s important to weigh its strengths and weaknesses before making a decision.

How This Budget 135mm Lens Stacks Up Against the Big Brands

The Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE lens is a budget-friendly telephoto prime that competes with much more expensive options from Sony, Canon, and Nikon. It’s part of Viltrox’s LAB series, which aims to push optical performance to new heights without costing a ton.

Is the Fuji GFX 100S the Best Medium Format Camera for the Price?

A camera’s real value isn’t just in specs—it’s in how it fits your work. High-resolution sensors, dynamic range, and autofocus systems matter, but usability, workflow, and price matter just as much. The best camera for you isn’t always the latest model; it’s the one that balances performance and practicality.

How the Camera You Choose Changes the Way You Shoot

A camera should work for you, not the other way around. The tools you choose shape how you shoot, how you move, and how much you think about settings versus composition. Some cameras get out of the way. Others force you to slow down. Understanding how different cameras affect your workflow can help you make better choices before you even press the shutter.

Inside a Professional Hotel Photography Shoot

Advertising photography isn’t just about taking nice pictures. Every shot needs to sell an experience, blending technical skill with storytelling. That’s why planning and execution are crucial.

Mastering Lightroom’s Most Overlooked Editing Tools

If you’re only making quick adjustments with auto settings or exposure sliders, you’re missing out on Lightroom’s most powerful tools. Understanding how to work with tone curves, masks, and color adjustments will push your images to the next level.

Why Generative Fill Isn’t Always Enough for Removing Distractions

Removing distractions from a photo has never been easier, but relying on one tool alone won’t always give you the best results. If you’ve used generative fill and noticed low-resolution patches in your edits, you’re not imagining things. The tool is great for quick fixes, but when you need high-quality results, there’s a better way.