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Alex Cooke
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Articles written by Alex Cooke

Lightroom Masking: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lightroom’s masking tools can dramatically transform an image by targeting specific areas for enhancement. Here's a look at a powerful approach to editing using them.

Common Photography Portfolio Mistakes to Avoid

Whether you're looking to advance your career or simply improve your craft, the way you present your work speaks volumes. A polished portfolio distinguishes you from the amateurs, showing not only your technical skills but also your ability to curate. Understanding which shots to include—and more importantly, which to leave out—is a crucial step in this process.

Why the New Tamron 28-300mm Is a Great All-in-One Lens

The Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 lens might not seem like an obvious choice for professionals, but it’s a versatile option for a wide range of situations. Whether you're traveling, exploring the outdoors, or simply need an all-in-one solution, this lens offers a lot in a compact package.

Mastering Harsh Sunlight for Stunning Portraits

Shooting portraits in challenging light can be intimidating, but it’s also a great opportunity to explore creative possibilities. When you’re out in bright, harsh sunlight, knowing how to manage that light is key to producing compelling images that stand out.

Navigating Financial Challenges in Photography

The financial landscape for photographers has always been unpredictable. You might have a great year followed by months of little to no work. This ebb and flow can make it difficult to maintain a consistent income.

Monopods: When and Why to Use Them

Monopods are a versatile and often overlooked tool. They offer a unique blend of stability and mobility that can be crucial for certain types of photography.

Outdoor Family Portraits: Lighting and Location Essentials

Scouting locations for outdoor family portraits requires a thoughtful approach to lighting, composition, and finding the right environment to make your subjects shine. Whether you’re dealing with direct sunlight or working in shaded areas, understanding how light interacts with your surroundings is crucial.

Simple Tips to Instantly Improve Your Photography

Improving your photography skills doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re new to photography or just looking to refine your craft, there are some straightforward tips that can make a big difference in how you approach taking pictures.

Is the Fujifilm X-T50 Worth It? Key Features and Trade-offs

The Fujifilm X-T50 offers nearly all the advanced features of its pricier siblings but in a more compact and affordable package. With a 40-megapixel sensor and in-body stabilization, it’s designed to bridge the gap between high-end performance and portability.

Why Excuses Are Ruining Your Photography

The drive for success often meets a major roadblock: self-doubt. When you let it control you, it can freeze your progress, making you feel stuck and frustrated. If you’re finding it hard to pick up your camera because you’re overwhelmed by negative thoughts, you’re not alone.

Why Identifying Your Subject is Crucial in Photography

It might sound simple, but one of the most critical elements is identifying the subject within your frame. Without a clear subject, your viewer’s eye has nowhere to settle, leaving your photo feeling chaotic and unfinished.

Transform Your Photos with Simple Lightroom Adjustments

Creating magical light in your photos can turn a good image into something truly captivating. If you’ve ever struggled with making a bright, contrast-rich scene feel more dynamic and visually appealing, this tutorial might be exactly what you need.

Is the Pentax 17 Worth It? Pros and Cons Explored

When it comes to film cameras, the Pentax 17 has sparked quite a bit of interest. If you’re considering diving into film photography or are simply looking to add another camera to your collection, here's a good look at the Pentax 17.

Techniques for Turning Harsh Light into Photographic Art

Harsh light is often seen as a photographer's nemesis, washing out colors and flattening textures. But what if you could turn that challenging light into a creative advantage? That's exactly what this video explores.

How to Reignite Your Passion for Photography

Feeling stuck in your photography? It’s not uncommon to hit a creative wall where the joy of capturing images fades, leaving you unmotivated. If this sounds familiar, there's a photographer whose work might reignite your passion.

Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8: A Versatile Powerhouse

When you're faced with the question, "If you could only have one lens, what would it be?" it can be a tough one, especially if you're a gear enthusiast. But if you had to choose, the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD would be a good candidate.

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: A Budget-Friendly Lens With Big Potential

Nikon has just released the Z 35mm f/1.4 lens, and it's catching attention for its bright aperture and affordable price. This lens is a compelling option if you’re looking to capture stunning wide angle shots without breaking the bank.

Mastering Framing Techniques for Stunning Landscape Photos

Framing is one of the most powerful tools in photography. It’s not just about what’s in your shot, but how you use the environment to draw attention to your subject. The way you position elements within your frame can turn a simple scene into something extraordinary, guiding the viewer’s eye and adding layers of meaning to your image.