Dodging and burning can transform an image, but traditional tools aren’t always the best route. Instead, using curves adjustment layers in Photoshop lets you refine highlights and shadows with control and flexibility, bringing out depth in your images. Here's how.
The megapixel race in digital cameras has been ongoing for years, with manufacturers constantly pushing for higher resolutions. However, this trend raises an important question: do you really need all those megapixels, or could a 12-megapixel camera suffice for most photography needs?
Selecting the ideal laptop for photography isn't just about choosing a portable computer; it's about finding a versatile tool that enhances your artistic and processing capabilities without becoming a financial burden. This excellent video review takes a look at the MacBook Air M3 for photographers.
Whether you're shooting landscapes, architecture, or vlogs, having the right lens can make all the difference. The Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary and Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM are two strong contenders for those looking to enhance their Canon APS-C mirrorless setup.
DxO grabbed the popular Nik Collection in 2018 after Google cut it loose. The company has continued to improve it and add features. A case in point is the new Nik Collection 7.
Choosing a laptop that strikes a balance between performance, portability, and screen quality can make or break your workflow. This video offers a clear breakdown of what you need to know about laptops specifically for creators, touching on practical details about performance and specific configurations that work best for different creative tasks.
The photography world was stunned on March 29 as we heard the news that Alyn Wallace, a popular and incredible astrophotographer, has sadly passed away. In this article, I want to pay tribute to Alyn.
The Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 is a compact and lightweight lens designed to be an ideal companion for smaller full frame mirrorless cameras. It pairs especially well with models like the Lumix S9, creating a portable setup that’s easy to carry around for travel, street, and everyday use.
Profoto just announced their new 500 Ws studio strobe, the D30. I've been playing with it for the last few weeks, and today I am finally able to share with you a full photoshoot using this powerful light.
This lens is apparently nothing like its predecessor. While it seems very similar to an old existing DSLR lens, this one seems to be the first of its kind, and it might impact your workflow significantly.
For years, I have heard good things about Davinci Resolve as a powerful industry-standard video editing software. Despite all the positive things I have heard, I was reluctant to make the shift from Adobe Premiere Pro, fearing the entire process of relearning new software from scratch. However, motivated by the frustration of frequent crashes, I have finally made the call for the long-needed switchover.
The use of chip-on-board (COB) LEDs has made it possible to produce small but strong light sources. Almost every light company offers one or more such lights. SmallRig has the RC 60B COB LED video light. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to carry with you. I took a closer look at this light.
It seems hardly any time has passed since I reviewed the Spyder X2 Ultra. The SpyderPro has now superseded that, an update extending its predecessor's functionality and ease of use.
Creativity is a topic that stirs up many questions, especially for those passionate about their craft. Whether you’re holding a camera or playing an instrument, the quest to unlock creativity is a journey that’s both challenging and deeply personal.
Color grading can transform your images. It's a straightforward process using Lightroom.
It's a trip of a lifetime, after all. You'll to want to make sure you have the right gear with you when the bears start sparring or the leopard seals give chase to an unsuspecting penguin chick out for its first swim. I asked two experts in the field to provide their recommendations: Marius Coetzee, with Oryx Photo Tours, which operates in both northern and southern polar regions and Paul Zizka who runs his own photography workshops as well as working with OFFBEAT, running photo tours in the northern polar regions. I also guide with GAdventures, exploring Antarctica, and Frontiers North Adventures, leading adventures in Canada's sub-Arctic.
Landscape photography often calls for highlighting details like clouds, rocks, and foliage to give your photos depth and character. With a few targeted adjustments, you can make those textures and contrasts stand out naturally.
For years, Canon held the distinction of offering the only f/2 standard zoom lens. Now, Sony has unveiled their answer with the FE 28-70mm f/2 GM, and it's poised to redefine expectations.
I first heard of 52Frames on Reddit and joined a few months later in December, 2022. I liked the concept, but for some reason I didn’t think I could commit to a long-term project. As the New Year approached, I asked myself “Hey, what if...”.
As photographers, we often go through many modifiers to find the right one, and this may just be my new go-to. With its low cost, portable form factor, and ease of setup, the Aputure Lantern could be right for you too.
For photographers seeking a compact and lightweight camera system, the Canon EOS R50 offers an affordable and portable entry into the company's mirrorless system.
I'll be the first to admit, I'm not entirely sure how the TikTok Shop works, but apparently, like Amazon, it is also now home to some of the world's most awful digital cameras for sale.
Whether you have been using Adobe Lightroom for years or are brand new to it, there are always little efficiency tricks or subtle features you can use to make your editing more efficient. As a long-time Lightroom user, I even found a few of these tricks new to me!
Color. Vivid green forests, melty brown chocolate, voluptuous red lips: color is the reason that compels so many of us to reach for our cameras. When I was approached about reviewing Datacolor's Spyder Checkr Photo, I was skeptical. Color is one of the most-often stated reasons clients approach me. Was this little device just another gimmick marketed to chroma junkies, or was it a tool that would fine tune my color-centric work? I gave it a try, and I’m here to share my findings with my fellow artists who love color as much as I do.
It’s not that I hate Godox or that I am paid by a different lighting brand to hate Godox every month. It is simply that when it comes to producing professional work, their lights are just not fit for the job. Here is why I will not use Godox for professional work.
Bad habits can stall your progress and hold back your creativity. Recognizing them is crucial if you want to grow and develop your unique voice.
The transition from DSLR to mirrorless cameras was a significant shift in the photography world. For many photographers, particularly those heavily invested in DSLR lenses, the transition raised concerns about compatibility and the potential need for expensive new gear. Canon users need not worry, though, as there is a useful and affordable accessory that will make your life much easier.
Taylor Swift is known for her music and cultural influence, but it turns out she’s also an Olympus camera fan.
Mirrorless camera gimbals have become some of the most popular filmmaking accessories. With smaller, lighter cameras becoming more capable than ever before, many creatives are now opting for lightweight setups. For this reason, we compared two gimbals from Zhiyun to determine which is the best.
With the introduction of iPhone 15 and USB-C connectivity, it’s now possible to record video footage directly onto an external SSD. To support this, DigiEra introduced a compact, lightweight SSD that is MagSafe compatible. DigiEra provided me with a black 1TB version for review.
Capturing the finer details in nature through macro photography requires a mix of creativity and technique. With the right approach, you can turn even the smallest subjects into visually compelling stories.
The new Panasonic Lumix S 28-200mm f/4-7.1 MACRO O.I.S. lens offers users the promise of tremendous focal length range suitable for a huge range of applications, making it an appealing option for many users. This excellent video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
135mm lenses are often near the top of the list of desirable portrait lenses. Two that stand out right now are the Samyang AF 135mm f/1.8 FE and the Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE. Both have a lot to offer at competitive prices, but there are some notable differences between them.
In this article, I show you an awesome Lightroom editing technique you can use to add atmosphere to your photos. If you take this method to the extreme, you can even turn a normal day into a foggy scene. It works well for woodland photos.
Capturing the essence of a landscape often hinges on timing and conditions. Understanding how to navigate unpredictable weather can make or break your results.
The MacBook Pro is generally thought of as the workhorse for creatives, but the Air series should not be overlooked, and you might be surprised what you can accomplish with one. This great video review takes a look at the new M3 MacBook Air and how it performs for photography-related tasks.
Sometimes, living in the shadow of a big city (New York, in my case) makes you forget how rich a photographic playground an urban environment can be.
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.
The new Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB lens shines, offering impressive capabilities for those looking to elevate their portrait work with a professional touch, and it does so at a remarkably affordable cost.
Full frame cameras offer exceptional image quality and versatility, but their lenses can often be bulky and expensive. For photographers seeking a compact and affordable zoom lens option, the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM provides a compelling solution. This lens is particularly well-suited for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting scenarios.
Cyanotype printing is one of the oldest known photographic techniques. Now, printing cyanotypes is easier and more accessible than ever. Let me show you how to make your own cyanotype prints the easy way.
Fujifilm Instax cameras are the most popular instant cameras, offering a range of sizes from mini to wide, providing plenty of options. My favorite format is the Instax square film, and with the release of the new Instax SQ40, we conducted a comparison against the SQ6 to determine the best square format instant camera.
Even a lot of the people who purchased the new Leica Q3 might not be aware of a feature this camera has that can greatly expand your creative possibilities for using flash. Within the Q3’s beautiful magnesium alloy body lies a secret hidden in plain sight.
Summer creates opportunities for striking images. Here are six great ideas and techniques to help you make the most of the season.
Choosing the right camera forwork on the go can be a daunting task, as you need a versatile tool that balances image quality, portability, and performance. The Sony a7C II is a strong contender, offering a compelling blend of features that cater to photographers on the move.
Understanding how to control your camera settings can make a big difference in portrait photography. The right combination of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture helps you capture well-exposed, sharp images.
Are you a photographer who prefers to shoot in the JPEG file format? In that case, you have to get everything right in the camera. Correcting a mistake afterward is limited. There are different in-camera tools available that allow you to get the best possible results.
Self-doubt and imposter syndrome can plague even skilled photographers, making it difficult to recognize genuine progress in your craft. Understanding the key indicators of photographic growth helps you acknowledge your achievements and maintain momentum in your creative journey.
