Fstoppers: Recent Episodes
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With film prices ever increasing, budget-conscious photographers are always on the hunt for the best results at the lowest price. Of the cheapest mainstream offerings, which one delivers the best performance?
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A Caribbean tourist suffered devastating injuries after a shark attacked her while she attempted to take a selfie near the water’s edge.
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Lawyers in Wyoming have found themselves in hot water after court filings included references to eight legal cases that do not exist.
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SmallRig has recently unveiled the RC 220B Pro LED Video Light, marking a significant evolution in its COB lighting lineup. Promising professional-grade performance in a lightweight, compact package, the RC 220B Pro is positioned to be the go-to light for video creators of all levels. I’ve had the opportunity to put it through its paces in real-world production environments to see how it stacks up.
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Lightroom’s newest update introduces Adaptive Profiles, a tool that changes how you can approach editing. Instead of applying a standard profile, these profiles intelligently adjust to your image, giving you a different kind of automatic enhancement. If you rely on auto settings, this could be an alternative worth exploring.
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Not all standard zoom lenses are created equal, even when they cover similar focal ranges. Fuji has refreshed its lineup with two new lenses, while Sigma’s popular budget-friendly option remains in the mix. Whether you need the best sharpness, the fastest autofocus, or the most compact option, here's a good guide to what's best for your needs.
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Shooting film on the road presents unique challenges, from managing limited exposures to ensuring your gear and film stay in working condition. For a long trip, especially in remote areas, planning becomes essential.
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Mastering composition, light, and perspective can elevate your photography in ways that gear alone can’t. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, understanding these elements makes a difference.
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On February 14, 2025, YouTube celebrates its 20th anniversary—a milestone that invites deep reflection on how a single website, originally conceived as a platform for sharing simple video clips, evolved into a global cultural powerhouse. Over two tumultuous decades, YouTube has transformed media hierarchies, empowered ordinary individuals to become creators, and reshaped public discourse on a myriad of social, political, and cultural issues.
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There are a thousand and one different wireless microphone options on the market, and these two options from Godox aim to cater to a range of users. But since the brand is better known for lighting gear, are they any good?
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Tamron may be eyeing an ambitious new lens: a 200–800mm ultra-telephoto zoom for mirrorless cameras. A recently published patent in Japan reveals optical designs for a Tamron 200-800mm f/6.7 lens, as well as a companion 200-600mm f/5.6 design.
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In this video, Markus Albert describes three essential ingredients for appealing landscape photos.
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I'm not quite sure what the fascination is with young folks and 2000s-era point-and-shoot cameras, but it seems like everyone is snapping these up in droves.
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Social media has transformed photography—launching careers, shaping trends, and fueling creativity. The question must be asked: Are photographers shaping their vision, or is the algorithm shaping it for them?
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Media organizations and tech companies are increasingly adopting an open standard called Content Credentials to verify the authenticity of images and combat the spread of deepfakes. This standard, developed by a broad coalition, embeds provenance data and digital signatures into photos and videos, allowing anyone to check if and how a piece of media has been edited. Real-world implementations are already proving its value in news verification and helping restore trust in digital media.
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Fog transforms a landscape, softening edges and adding depth, but photographing it requires careful planning. Light, shutter speed, and composition all play a role in how the final image turns out.
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The Andoer 18-megapixel digital camera is one of the cheapest cameras you can buy on Amazon, but is it even worth the 23 bucks? If you've ever wondered just how bad a budget camera can get—or if there’s any way to make it work—you’re in for a ride.
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Heat haze ruins sharp images, and you might not even realize it’s happening. You can have the best lens, perfect settings, and great timing, but if you’re shooting through too much turbulent air, your images will come out soft. Wildlife photography is especially vulnerable to this problem, and if you’re shooting at long distances, the effect is even worse.
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Adobe has just launched some AI video features as part of Firefly and, despite being beta and producing some terrifying results, Adobe is charging money for it.
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Canon is looking into resin (plastic) lens elements as a way to make professional camera lenses lighter, according to a newly uncovered patent. The patent outlines designs for zoom lenses that use plastic optical elements to cut down on weight, potentially revolutionizing the build of heavy telephoto lenses.
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You’ve been a photographer for many years, and you’re curious about making videos. After all, your camera likely has some amazing video capabilities. But moving to video is daunting; there’s so much more involved than still photography. Here are a few thoughts to help you get started.
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In one of the most inhospitable regions of the world, where life exists on a knife’s edge, Ragnar Axelsson has spent four decades photographing the beauty of its frozen landscapes and, more recently, the impact of climate change on the lives of the hardy people who call this frozen wilderness home.
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If you have an idea or an outline for a photography event that you would like to organize, there’s a community photography initiative that would love to hear from you. With $1,000,000 available to fund hundreds of events this year, the time to apply is now![ Read More ]
Some cameras are built for power, others for portability. Micro Four Thirds cameras aim to balance both, offering a lightweight system without sacrificing performance. But with full frame cameras becoming more affordable and APS-C sensors improving, is Micro Four Thirds still worth it?
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Picking the right aperture is a balancing act. Too wide, and you risk losing sharpness in the background. Too narrow, and diffraction can soften your entire image. Knowing how to find the right setting for maximum clarity can make a huge difference in your landscape photography.
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If you thought that your relationship with your ex-wife was messy, you may not be the only one who feels like they’re in a game of relational chess. Elon Musk has thrown another curveball in his ongoing saga with OpenAI, offering to withdraw his jaw-dropping $97.4 billion bid. His one condition? OpenAI must abandon its pivot toward a for-profit model and return to its original nonprofit roots. (Audience cheers.) This latest maneuver adds yet another chapter to Musk’s very public clash with OpenAI’s leadership.
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Have you ever wanted to create a photo book showcasing your own photography? Turning your images into a professionally finished photo book can be an impactful way to contain and present your work. This article explores options to self-publish your photography in the format of a professional-quality photo book.
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The Nikon Zf has been gaining a lot of popularity with retro-loving photographers of all stripes. But how does it stack up against the king of retro camera design's top model, the Fujifilm X-T5?
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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.
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To fully understand how white balance affects our perception, we must first explore how color shapes our emotional response in photography. Since the dawn of time, we humans have become accustomed to associating certain colors with specific contexts. The ability of humans to read visual cues for signs of danger is likely an instinct as a survival mechanism. For example, brightly colored insects scream danger without having to look into the species.
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Turning your iPad into a second display for your Mac can make your workflow more flexible, whether you're looking for a compact desk setup or a mobile option. The process can vary based on your needs and available accessories, so here’s a guide on two methods that allow you to connect your iPad to your Mac.
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Taking photos in a small town can feel limiting if you’re used to seeing iconic cityscapes on social media. But with a few techniques, you can get dynamic, visually striking images right in your local area.
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One of the most difficult things to accomplish is achieving a great composition. There are many rules and guidelines—enough to make your head spin. Perhaps there’s a better way to create an attractive composition, and that’s by ignoring the rules at first and concentrating on what you want to show.
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Outdoor photography often presents lighting challenges that can either enhance or distract from your subject. Managing these conditions effectively requires both careful planning and a few practical tools.
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Lenses are differentiated by the obvious metrics like focal length and widest aperture, but seldom by the "tech" inside them. However, it seems as if Viltrox is looking to change that, and it's turning heads.[ Read More ]
I've been seeing spotlights used in shoots everywhere, so I wanted to jump on the trend and put my own twist on a spotlight shoot. Here’s how my creative partner, David, and I created a theatrical portrait session using a spotlight.
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Color contrast can completely transform a landscape photo, adding depth and drama that draw in the viewer. This tutorial explores how to use Lightroom to balance color tones for maximum effect in autumn shots, from the initial HDR merge to targeted adjustments that bring out the richness of each part of the image.
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Choosing the right flash setting can make or break a shot, especially in challenging lighting. TTL, or “through the lens” flash metering, is a powerful option for streamlining exposure in dynamic environments. This method lets your camera analyze light as it passes through the lens, using that data to adjust the flash automatically. For those who shoot in changing light conditions, like during events or outdoor sessions, TTL offers the advantage of quick adjustments without needing to dive into settings constantly.
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A few months ago, I explored a new photography challenge and invested in an infrared filter for landscape photography. I could've bought an already converted used camera, but after looking at what was available on the used market and specialist conversion services, investing in a filter seemed to be at a more appealing price point and the best of both worlds. After several trials and tribulations, I became hooked on this newly discovered world of infrared photography.
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It is a story brought to life by a father and photographer with Fuji’s GFX100S II and the GF 500mm f/5.6. He started a series about a traveler through existence with a project that explores childlike wonder.
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Woodland photography can be uniquely challenging because natural forests are chaotic by nature. Trees may tilt in various directions, branches and leaves create visual clutter, and composing a balanced shot is tricky. For those aiming to create cleaner, more harmonious forest scenes, certain editing techniques can make a real difference.
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I see a growing number of new lenses hitting the market that rely on lens correction. These lenses have some benefits, but are lens manufacturers taking shortcuts with these lens designs? Will we be seeing more and more lenses with this reliance on lens correction in the near future?
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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.
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Many photographers believe that upgrading their gear is essential for capturing great shots, but this notion may be more limiting than helpful. The obsession with the latest cameras and lenses often overshadows what actually makes an image successful.
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A camera brand/system’s most affordable camera can often be underestimated, but it serves a bigger purpose to an entry-level user that can highly impact their growth in the craft. This second iteration of Sony’s ZV-E10 definitely brings more to the table than most realize.
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There’s no shortage of advice on what you should and shouldn’t do in photography, but not all advice will serve you well. Misguided myths can actually hold you back from capturing the photos you envision.
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Capturing the raw beauty of landscapes often means venturing off the beaten path and braving the elements. Understanding how to work in diverse and challenging environments, while also learning to find compositions within these unpredictable settings, is invaluable.
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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.
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The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED aims to strike a balance between portability, power, and value, making it an option worth considering for creative work on the go. This laptop packs an Intel Core i9-13900H processor and a stunning OLED display, making it a versatile machine for tasks like photo editing, video work, and even some gaming.
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A well-placed light effect can turn an ordinary landscape photo into something vibrant and dynamic. By controlling light and shadows in Lightroom, you’ll achieve a realistic glow that brings out key elements, creating a sense of atmosphere that feels as true to life as being there.
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This week, Fujifilm announced the development of a new camera designed with filmmakers in mind, the Fujifilm GFX Eterna. The camera builds on Fuji’s GFX line of medium format still cameras but will be focused on video capture and is aimed at independent filmmakers and documentarians.
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Two years after its initial announcement for the Sony E-mount in September 2022, Tamron recently released the Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD for the Nikon Z mount. With a range from 50mm to 400mm, this is a substantial range for one lens. But can it hold up?
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Often, photographers get caught up in capturing reality, aiming to recreate what they see as accurately as possible. However, a more impactful approach might be to embrace creative expression, using your camera as a tool to convey mood and atmosphere rather than just the physical details. This shift in perspective opens up a wealth of artistic possibilities, helping you produce work that resonates on an emotional level.
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If you're looking at getting into filmmaking or just want to make your videos look cinematic, a lot may hinge on the lens choice, and that can be tricky to resolve. In this video, take a look at a range of lenses that could take your videos to the next level.[ Read More ]
A recent catastrophe led me to acquire a Peak Design Travel Tripod. In reviewing this for you I thought I would describe the process for choosing the best model to suit you.
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Creating a strong image is more than just pointing a camera—it’s a detailed process of planning, capturing, and finally, editing. The editing stage in particular is where you bring out the colors, light, and mood you intended, creating a finished piece that truly reflects the moment and story you envisioned.
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Using natural light effectively can make or break a shot, especially in outdoor portraiture where the light source and your subject’s position work together to create the image’s mood. Understanding how to position yourself and control lighting lets you create depth and definition without overwhelming your subject with artificial light.
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We know that the right memory card can make all the difference. Whether capturing fast-paced action or shooting in extreme conditions, having a reliable and high-performance card is essential. Enter the T-Create EXPERT UHS-II SDXC Card.
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The Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens is an updated, versatile option for Fujifilm users, designed to replace older kit lenses while handling the demands of higher-resolution sensors. This lens is lightweight, well-suited for everyday use, and provides good performance across a wide range of photography needs. It’s aimed at those who want reliable image quality without the bulk.
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Ensuring your images look the way you intend on any screen is a challenge you may not often think about, but it’s critical for presenting your work accurately. While you may put considerable effort into editing, adjusting colors, and fine-tuning contrast, the truth is, if your screen isn’t calibrated, your images may look entirely different to someone else.
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When it comes to lenses, photographers who hear "ultra-wide" and "fast apertures" are usually bracing for an equally impressive price tag. The Viltrox 16mm f/1.8, however, seeks to deliver excellent optical quality and unique lens features at a reasonable price—in this review, I’ll see if Viltrox can execute a truly great ultra-wide prime.
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Eyes are often the focal point of a portrait, and enhancing them can take your images to a new level. With a few creative Photoshop techniques, you can add captivating detail and depth to the eyes, making them stand out without looking overdone.
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The Fujifilm GF 110mm f/2 R LM WR lens is a premium portrait option with impressive specs designed for medium-format shooters looking to elevate their work. Known for its smooth bokeh and sharpness, it pairs well with Fujifilm’s GFX cameras, making it a popular choice among professionals who need quality and detail for large prints or high-end commercial work.
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As the season of goodwill, giving, and receiving rapidly approaches, what do you buy an established photographer if you want to spend more? Here are some big presents for those photographers nearest to us, or ideas your loved ones might consider for you.
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A telephoto lens might not be the first lens that comes to mind for photographing products, but this recent version of Sony’s 70-200mm offers it as an additional use case. Let’s see what it can actually do.
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Photography is filled with “rules” designed to help you capture better images. From the rule of thirds to leading lines, these guidelines shape how many of us approach a scene. However, there’s one core principle that can drive every photograph you take.
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Recently, I was flown out for the first time as a photographer, and this is everything I learned from the experience, as well as what I would change for next time.
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The upgraded model of the already popular Canon EOS R5 comes with several notable improvements that make it a compelling option for sports and event photography. With high-resolution capabilities and new autofocus features, the Canon EOS R5 Mark II promises to handle everything from action shots to detailed landscapes without missing a beat.
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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.
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Let’s walk through the top seven mistakes (because, let’s be honest, ten is too many, and five just feels lazy). Here’s the thing: your website is your storefront. It’s how people find you, decide if they like your work, and, ideally, hire you. But if it’s buried in search results, slow to load, or difficult to navigate, you might as well be taking those gorgeous photos and tossing them into the digital void. Whether you’re wondering why your site isn’t showing up on Google or why potential clients aren’t booking after visiting, this list will help you turn things around.
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The best thing about the internet is that there are so many sources of photography education out there. The worst thing about the internet is... that there are so many sources of photography education out there. So how do you sort facts from lies told so often that they’ve acquired the status of fact?
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While tools like Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo are great Swiss Army knives for photographers, sometimes a more specialized tool is called for. In this artificial intelligence-driven age, two new tools on the block, Aperty and Evoto, leverage this technology and aim it squarely at portrait photographers. Which one is better?
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The king of kit lenses is dead. Long live the Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS!
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Understanding how colors interact within an image can make a profound difference in how it’s perceived. Color adjustments can separate elements, guide the viewer’s focus, and even bring a certain “depth” to your photos.
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Separation in an image can significantly change how viewers experience the photo. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or intricate close-ups, using separation effectively can guide attention and set the mood.
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Being a professional photographer is about more than just the exposure triangle.
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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.
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A friend sent me an advertisement for AI-generated headshots recently, and I was surprised by how good the images looked. It got me thinking about the future of headshot photography.
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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.
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Several days ago, KEKS—a company you most likely know from their line of hot-shoe mounted light meters—announced their release of the new KEKS Rapid-Winder for classic Leica bodies. Designed to fit the M1, M2, M3, and classic MP, this accessory is a recreation of the original Leicavit MP and is designed around the same internal structure and materials.
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When it comes to cleaning up images in Photoshop, understanding the best tools for the job is essential. You might think AI tools are the obvious choice, but the classic Clone Stamp and Healing Brush tools can sometimes be more effective. These older methods are reliable, and knowing when to use each can save time and give you more control over your editing.
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Taking professional grade images takes time, but it's much easier when you have the right teachers and the right tools. For the next few days, there's an incredible photography deal offering incredible education and tools for 95% off.
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The Fall upgrade from Skylum will have users excited, as it contains new features that add a lot to the program's many capabilities, but users will also see some long-standing requests granted. The fall update is available for download or upgrade on October 10.
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Experimenting with different focal lengths can take your work in unexpected directions. If you’re used to a 35mm lens, switching to a wider angle might feel like a dramatic shift, but that’s where the creativity happens.
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Enter Your Best Landscape PhotosFor our next photography contest, we want to see the best Landscape photos you have ever taken!
Rules This contest is 100% free to join Each photographer may submit up to 3 images Each photograph must include a small description that includes details about how the photograph was taken, what post processing was done to it, where it was taken, and anything else useful for us to discuss Prizes Fstoppers is excited to be giving away some amazing photography related gear for each of these critique the community contests. For October's Landscape Photography critique we...
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Exposure is a key element in photography that greatly influences how we frame our shots. It determines the amount of light reaching the camera sensor, affecting the brightness and overall look of an image. Understanding and controlling exposure is vital for creating well-balanced photos and achieving the desired visual impact. In this article, we'll explore how exposure affects composition and why it's crucial to align your framing with the exposure settings.
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When shooting in harsh lighting conditions, it’s common to encounter issues like lens flares or blown-out highlights. This is particularly relevant if you're trying to capture outdoor scenes with direct sunlight in your frame. In such situations, managing the light effectively can make a huge difference in the quality of your final image.
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Tamron’s 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD offers an interesting option for those seeking a versatile zoom lens. It expands the standard range of 70-300mm telephoto lenses to start at 50mm, making it more flexible for a variety of shooting scenarios. Whether you’re capturing landscapes at wider angles or zooming in for distant details, this lens aims to cover it all.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this thorough video review dives into the features and performance of the...
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Achieving accurate color in your photos can be a challenge, especially when lighting and other variables keep changing. Getting consistent results across different shoots requires using the right tools to match what you see in person with what shows up in your images. That’s where a Color Checker Passport comes in.
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Knowing how to guide your subjects and adjust your light placement is essential for achieving the polished and professional look you’re aiming for.
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Compact, affordable, and surprisingly capable—pancake lenses are a popular choice for their lightweight design and versatility. The new Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 pancake lens is no exception. With its ultra-slim build, this lens is ideal for travel, street photography, and situations where you need to keep a low profile without sacrificing image quality.
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As a landscape photographer, my passion is usually capturing the natural beauty of the outdoors. However, having versatile and powerful lighting is crucial when working in controlled environments, like in my studio or during indoor shoots.
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Getting the perfect shot often comes down to lighting, but sometimes, natural light just doesn’t cooperate. Instead of relying solely on what’s available, you can take control and shape the light yourself.
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Every photographer has faced it—that sinking feeling of disappointment when things just don’t go as planned. Maybe it’s a matter of expectations, or perhaps a missed opportunity. But these moments are part of the process. Understanding how to handle these frustrations is crucial for anyone serious about photography.
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Color grading can take your landscape images from good to great. This video tutorial walks through how to use Photoshop's Color Balance feature to enhance highlights, midtones, and shadows, creating depth and contrast in a natural and subtle way.
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Macro photography often brings to mind extreme close-ups and tight compositions, but what happens when you pair it with a wide angle lens? This setup offers a new perspective, giving your images context by incorporating the surroundings. Understanding how and when to use a wide angle macro can help you capture more dynamic and story-driven shots.
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Connecting with nature can have a profound impact on your well-being. Whether you’re standing in front of a tranquil lake or hiking through a dense forest, these moments provide a sense of calm that can’t be replicated elsewhere. While many people see landscape photography as a way to capture beautiful scenes, it’s also a way to experience the healing power of nature firsthand.
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Improving your landscape photography isn’t just about finding a stunning scene—it’s about how you approach that scene with your camera. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, these three essential tips will elevate your work.
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Quite recently, Viltrox introduced the AF 40mm f/2.5 lens from the “Air” series at a very budget-friendly price, considering the quality of images the lens produces. Viltrox is known for their glass quality and as a budget-friendly third-party manufacturer, and again they haven’t disappointed with this lens for both.
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Every photographer, no matter how experienced, makes mistakes. This video outlines seven common mistakes in photography and provides practical tips to correct them.
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5DayDeal is back with a photography bundle that's better than ever. This year, Fstoppers is including our tutorial with Elia Locardi, "Photographing the World 2." The full bundle only costs $166 and is 95% off the total value of the bundle.
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Editing mistakes can lead to images that don’t look polished or professional. Editing is not just about pushing sliders around—it's about recognizing and correcting issues that might not be obvious at first glance. This video addresses some of the most common editing mistakes in Lightroom and how you can fix them.
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Black and white photography has a unique way of bringing out the essence of a scene. It’s not just about eliminating color—it’s about mastering light, contrast, and texture.
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Why is it so hard to move from a stable 9-to-5 job to a full-time photography career? Many people, especially those passionate about turning their creative skills into a living, struggle with this. If you've ever considered making the leap, you're likely familiar with the challenges. It’s a big move that takes more than just skill behind the camera—it requires time, energy, and a bit of financial risk.
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What happens when you combine just about every feature and size into a line of camera bags? You end up with a pretty great bag (and a long review)! In this review, I’ll be taking a look at PGYTECH’s 40L Flex bag from their new OnePro line.
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As a professional photographer, the issue of over-editing is a topic that holds significant importance in our work. In this case, the term over-editing refers to the excessive use of post-processing tools and techniques, often resulting in images that deviate from the natural and authentic representation of the subject. While we cannot deny that the process of editing is an essential aspect of photography, overprocessing images can sometimes compromise the integrity of the image and do more harm than necessary. Here are several reasons why one should refrain from over-editing their images.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2024, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Photographers tend to have passionate opinions about their craft, and some of those opinions can spark heated debates. Certain topics, though, repeatedly surface in the photography world, leading to complaints that can feel redundant.
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It’s one of the more popular vintage lenses: the Meyer-Optik Görlitz Trioplan 100mm f/2.8. It’s famous for its soap bubble bokeh. You either love the effect, or you hate it. I decided to buy one and used it on a Canon EOS R5. I want to tell you about my findings.
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If you're considering the Canon EOS R5, R5 Mark II, or R3, you’ve likely wondered which one fits your needs best. Each camera brings distinct advantages, from advanced video capabilities to top-tier autofocus. Here's which is best for you.
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Every photographer encounters issues like motion blur or exposure mishaps, and it’s not always possible to fix them in-camera. Fortunately, Photoshop offers powerful tools to correct these common problems.
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Foggy mornings offer an unparalleled opportunity to capture moments that feel otherworldly. The mist transforms everyday scenes into something more mysterious and peaceful, making it the perfect time to head out with your camera.
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Macro photography lets you dive deep into nature’s hidden details, capturing the beauty in things most people miss. Whether it's the delicate textures of mushrooms or the subtle play of light, getting the techniques right can make all the difference.
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DaVinci Resolve has introduced its latest product, the Micro Control Panel, designed to help you speed up your post-production workflow for film and video.
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New connection standards like USB4 offer photographers great opportunities to speed up their workflow. OWC has been one of the first to offer USB4 products to photographers and videographers, with products like their excellent Atlas Card Reader. Today, I’ll be taking a look at the storage side of their USB4 portfolio and reviewing the Express 1M2 portable NVMe SSD.
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Understanding how to fine-tune colors in your images can dramatically improve your final results.
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Understanding how to balance ambient light and flash can transform your photos. With so many types of flashes and varying methods of control, it's essential to grasp the basics and build from there.
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The 50mm focal length can feel tricky to use. It’s not wide enough to capture expansive scenes like a 35mm, but it’s also not telephoto enough to isolate subjects like an 85mm. This in-between nature can leave you feeling like it’s neither here nor there. However, with the right approach, the 50mm can produce clean, minimalist images that draw attention to your subject without overwhelming the frame.
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If you’ve been on the lookout for a low-cost portrait lens for your Sony or Nikon camera, the TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 could be worth your attention. With its f/2 aperture, it offers a combination of smooth background blur and sharp image quality, perfect for portraits.
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Sigma’s new 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art is the latest addition to the Art lens series. It's a wide angle to medium telephoto lens, making it an ideal choice for a variety of shooting styles and genres. Thanks to its constant f/2.8 aperture, you’ll get consistent brightness no matter how much you zoom, offering both flexibility and great image quality. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes, taking portraits with smooth background blur, or even shooting videos, this lens is built to perform.
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Balancing natural light with flash can be tricky, especially in outdoor settings. Bright sunlight often causes squinting, and shadows may not fall in the most flattering ways. Learning to use a mix of both light sources effectively can elevate your outdoor portraits, making the subject comfortable while still achieving the desired look.
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The calibration panel in Lightroom Classic is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for color control. If you want more precise control over the colors in your photos, this panel offers unique options that go beyond the typical adjustments like white balance or the hue/saturation/luminance (HSL) sliders.
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Portable SSDs can offer amazing speed for content creation applications like transferring photo libraries or editing 4K video, but many suffer from a slowdown after prolonged use when their faster cache is depleted or the drive heats up too much. ProGrade has announced a new line of portable SSDs designed to address both of these issues: the PG10 Pro SSD.
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Freelancing as a creative can be exhilarating, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One that frequently pops up is the battle between staying creatively active and managing a busy workload.
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If you shoot both photo and video, you’re probably used to having a different kind of tripod for each separate workflow. However, this new tripod from Tilta just might make things easier when you’re shooting on the go.
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Pastel color grading is a subtle yet powerful way to make your photos stand out, and you can achieve it easily with some simple tweaks in Lightroom. If you’ve ever wanted to experiment with color grading but felt overwhelmed, this method offers an approachable way to elevate your work.
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Balancing bright and dark areas in a single photo can be tricky. Understanding dynamic range—the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of an image—is key to handling this effectively.
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If you’re in the market for an affordable telephoto prime lens, the TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 might be worth considering. For those looking to expand their lens collection without breaking the bank, this option stands out due to its low price and impressive performance.
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Skylum, who made quite a splash in the image editing space with Luminar and then Luminar Neo, is setting out to conquer portrait photography editing with Aperty. The company says it's aimed at professionals and serious near-professionals, and it will be available on November 7.
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Finding time for photography can feel impossible when you're juggling work, family, and everything else. You might feel like you're always running out of time for your passion. The good news is, it's not about having more time, it's about using the time you already have better.
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Tamron announced its highly anticipated and newest lens for Nikon Z and Sony E mount, the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD, on October 24, 2024, at $699/$949 CAD. Tamron is celebrating the 45th anniversary of the 90mm macro and building on its performance legacy with cutting-edge technology, inviting you to explore the possibilities in this latest lens.
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In the 6 years that I have owned a DJI Spark drone, I have yet to create a photo or video clip that I have deemed worthy of sharing. I am a portrait photographer who loves the simplicity of capturing images with a Leica M. Using a drone to capture scenes has always appeared needlessly complicated. Sometimes, I can’t help but wonder, however, if there is an online course I might study to take my drone photography to new heights.
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The Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR is designed for those who need a versatile telephoto lens for wildlife, sports, and more. Its long focal range, coupled with its relatively light weight for a zoom of this size, makes it an attractive choice for anyone looking to capture detailed shots at a distance.
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If you want your photos to have that painterly, moody feel, editing is key. It’s possible to achieve stunning results with just a few thoughtful adjustments, even when nature doesn’t provide ideal conditions.
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Bringing the right gear to a wedding is crucial. It’s not just about your camera or lenses; it’s about having everything you need to get through the day smoothly. Forgetting even one item could create unnecessary stress when you’re on the job. If you’ve ever scrambled to make sure you packed everything, you’re not alone.
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Removing distractions like power lines and unwanted people from your images can make a huge difference in the final result. One of the latest features in Photoshop’s beta version is a tool that lets you remove wires, cables, and even people with just a few clicks.
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Capturing industrial landscapes can be challenging, but they often result in striking, high-contrast images. Rugged industry and natural beauty make a compelling setting for black-and-white photography.
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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.
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In the current world of virtual meetings and online content, having a "good enough" webcam is no longer good enough.
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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.
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The Yongnuo YN 50mm f/1.8 DA DSM PRO is a lens designed for Fujifilm X mount users who want sharp, premium images without breaking the bank. For less than $300, it combines a solid build with features that set it apart from other lenses in its price range.
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There are a lot of things you get told when starting out in photography. Some of it sounds like essential advice, but when you dig deeper into the industry, you find out that not all of it holds up.
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Leica has officially opened submissions for the sixth edition of the Leica Women Foto Project, an annual photography contest aimed at elevating the voices and work of women photographers. The 2025 theme, "Unity Through Diversity," encourages participants to explore and showcase the power of human connection. The project aligns with Leica's mission to push the boundaries of visual storytelling while supporting diversity and amplifying underrepresented voices.
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My favorite part about writing for Fstoppers is the chance to try out new and interesting camera gear. Recently, I got the opportunity to try the latest SD cards from SanDisk, the Outdoors series cards. Available in both SD and Micro SD, these are some of the latest tech for strong, durable memory cards. Let’s see how they performed in the field.
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Zoner has announced a significant update to their photo editing and management software, Zoner Photo Studio X. The fall 2024 release introduces several AI-powered features, improvements to output quality, and enhanced customization options.
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Composition is the backbone of any great image, and while instincts can take you far, truly understanding composition will make your work more intentional and consistent. You already know when something feels right in a photo, but what if you could control that feeling more effectively? This is where knowing how composition works becomes crucial.
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Visual tension is an often overlooked aspect of composition, but it's one you should be paying attention to. It’s about the spatial relationship between objects within a frame and how those objects relate to the edges of the frame. Ignoring this concept can lead to images that feel off-balance, while mastering it can elevate the quality of your work without extensive cropping or post-editing.
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Vlogging is often fraught with peril. Whether that's overcoming your own shyness, or overcoming people on the street uncomfortable with someone overcoming their shyness in a vlog, there are techniques and gear to help minimize issues.
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With Lightroom and Photoshop available on the iPad, you can easily switch between the two apps for a seamless mobile workflow. If you haven’t explored how to roundtrip your edits between Lightroom and Photoshop on your tablet, this video offers a clear guide.
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T-Create is a relatively young company producing some top-class equipment for photographers. I ran their card reader and its UHS-II U3 V90 SD card through extensive tests to see how they would perform. Here’s what I discovered about the card reader.
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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.
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Harsh light can ruin a landscape photo. It’s something you’ve probably faced when trying to capture the perfect scene, only to find that the sun has risen too high, casting harsh shadows and blowing out highlights. Knowing how to deal with this situation is crucial if you want to keep your photos looking their best, even when the lighting isn’t ideal.
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It's time to debunk some of the misconceptions that might be holding you back from exploring your full creative potential.
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What makes an image captivating? When you’re scrolling through your feed, what makes you pause?
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Improving your photography often requires a closer look at the fundamentals. When your images aren’t turning out as you hoped, it’s usually because one or more key elements are out of balance.
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Light is the cornerstone of photography. Without it, there are no images, and in landscape photography, the light's quality, direction, and intensity can make or break a shot. As a landscape photographer, understanding how light works is key to capturing the beauty and drama of nature. Over time, I’ve realized that mastering light is among the most crucial skills a landscape photographer can hone. Looking back, there are insights about light I wish I’d known earlier—knowledge that would have significantly boosted the quality of my early work.
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As a photographer, it's very easy to get mired in G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) until suddenly, you're taking a full frame camera and a full complement of f/2.8 lenses out on even the simplest of day trips. It's probably time to start thinking about purchasing an "everyday carry."
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If you're looking for a camera that balances speed, quality, and affordability, the Nikon Z6 Mark III might be what you need. Here's a look at what you can expect from the camera.
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When you're stuck in one place, it's easy to fall into a routine, revisiting the same spots and capturing similar scenes. This can lead to complacency, and before you know it, the familiar becomes dull. Yet, there's always more to discover, even in places you think you know inside out.
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Show Us Your Best Smartphone PhotosFor our next photography contest, we want to see the best photo you've ever taken with your smartphone.
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In tricky lighting conditions, knowing how to balance different light sources is crucial. When you get it right, your photos look natural and well-composed, without any harsh shadows or blown-out highlights.
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The way you process your photos can make or break them. It’s not just about the tools you use, but about the attention to detail and the feel you want to convey.
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Isn’t it time we returned to how we used to share photos? There’s little point in creating photographic art if people are not going to see it, and although it reaches a wide audience, there are good reasons to take a step back from social media and consider other options instead.
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There are many photography competitions out there to enter, regardless of your preferred genre. But will they help you improve your photography skills, or are they just for bragging rights? This video looks at photography competitions and what can help progress your photography.
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A recent YouTube video was filmed entirely on 35mm film. Currently, this might be the only YouTube video that has ever been shot predominantly on film, and the look it produces is definitely interesting.
A YouTube channel called Stand-up Maths recently uploaded a video that was shot on 35mm film. The video itself goes into great detail explaining the different film formats.
For many people who shot film, 35mm was probably the go-to format, especially if you were filming. This is mostly due to the fact that it was far more...
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You may need some inspiration or be ready for an adventure. Your first thought is to pack up your camera gear and head out on an adventure. Then, you start to research and decide it's too costly. I used to think that I would never be able to travel and explore. I was wrong after finding a little ingenuity. Here are six ways to travel without going bankrupt.
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Shooting with an 8x10 camera is a bit like entering an exclusive club—one that comes with high costs, steep learning curves, and some serious frustrations. But the rewards? They can be worth every bit of the hassle if you're up for the challenge.
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If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to create the perfect image in Photoshop, the new “Generate Image” feature might be what you need. Whether you're working on a blog, a newsletter, or just exploring new ideas, this feature could save you time and effort.
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Exposure bracketing is a technique that can significantly improve your landscape photography by helping you deal with difficult lighting situations. If you've ever struggled with blown-out skies or muddy, noisy shadows, bracketing might be the solution you're looking for.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2024, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Editing your landscape photos can be a tricky process, especially when you're just starting out. It's easy to get caught up in the desire to make every image look perfect, but this can lead to common mistakes that actually detract from the quality of your work.
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Taking interesting photographs in unremarkable places can be a challenge, but it's also an essential skill for anyone serious about photography. It's easy to find inspiration in bustling cities or picturesque landscapes, but what about when you're in a quiet village or a nondescript suburban area? The ability to see potential in these seemingly dull environments is what can set you apart as a photographer.
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Sometimes, there are images you want to create without knowing how you can create them. The imagination runs wild, while the technical abilities tell you no. One such image was created at Briese Studios with the new Briese Neos, a product of no limits and wild imagination.
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There's a lot of advice floating around that can seem helpful but might actually be hurting your photography career. Some of the most common suggestions, especially the ones circulating on YouTube, can mislead you and even stall your progress.
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Knowing what you can do in post-processing before you even take the shot is a powerful skill. It transforms how you approach photography, allowing you to capture scenes with the confidence that you can shape them later to fit your vision. In this example, you start with a rather dull image, lacking contrast and vibrant colors, and transform it into something stunning.
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Black and white photography isn’t just about removing color from an image. It’s about creating something new, something that perhaps existed only in your mind before. If you’ve ever wondered about the benefits of black and white photography or how it can unlock your creative potential, don't miss this video.
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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.
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Removing Adobe apps from your computer is a big decision, especially when you've been using them for years as a photographer or content creator. These tools are deeply ingrained in the creative process for many, but they also come with a significant financial burden. If you're looking to cut costs or avoid subscription fees, alternatives can be crucial for maintaining your workflow without breaking the bank.
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A BBC radio and TV series here in the UK is "Room 101." People argue to send things they dislike into the infamous room from Orwell’s book Nineteen Eighty-Four, where they will never be seen again. What would you send there from the world of photography?
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Using a zoom lens might seem straightforward, but there are a few strategies that can significantly improve your experience. This video covers essential tips that will help you get the most out of your zoom lens, turning it from a simple tool into a versatile extension of your creative vision.
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If you ask the youngest generations, you'll see one of the most common career desires isn't to be a doctor or lawyer, but rather, a YouTuber. Many will have a visceral reaction to that — and you might not be wrong to do so — but it's a desirable way of making a living and I can see the allure. So, here are some tips on how to grow your YouTube channel should you have one.[ Read More ]
To be fair, it is very hard not to find a camera that is great at both stills and video nowadays. But there are some that just excel one way or another. Let’s have a look at five different cameras, each from a different brand, to keep it nicely balanced.
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Setting goals might seem basic, but it's one of the most crucial steps in improving your photography.
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If you're in the market for a new, battery-powered strobe/flash, you've come to the right place. In this video/post we will compare the top 8 battery-powered monolights currently on the market.
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"Rear Window" remains a cinematic masterpiece, not just for its storytelling, but for the way Alfred Hitchcock used the camera to enhance suspense. Even 70 years after its release, this film captivates viewers with its meticulous use of perspective, creating an experience that's as thrilling now as it was when it first premiered.
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When I get a new gear, there is always excitement in discovering what it will do and how it will perform. After six months of using it, that novelty has worn off, and with a more objective eye, would I still choose this camera over the last?
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Tamron has announced its newest lens, the 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD ($1,299 USD / $1,749 CAD), the next level in the ultra-telephoto room for the Nikon Z mount. This lens is Tamron’s challenge to the 100-400mm lens currently on the market. This lens will be smaller and lighter with a wider angle of view, allowing for more versatility, coming in at a length of 7.3 inches and a light weight of 41.6 oz. It is equipped with Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) Linear motor, which allows for excellent quietness and responsiveness. It is paired with Tamron’s proprietary VC (vibration compensation). This lens will offer all photographers a unique choice and versatility for almost all shooting scenarios.
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Laowa has made some amazing lenses, ranging from ultra-wide angle to macro lenses. These are all manual focus without any way of communication with the camera. The 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D has changed that, being the first Laowa autofocus lens. It’s also the first 10mm lens with an f/2.8 aperture.
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Capturing a stunning landscape is as much about patience as it is about skill. Sometimes, you’re simply at the mercy of the elements, waiting to see if the light will cooperate. But when it does, the results can be magical.
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No, it’s not just a new color option for the bags. Here are some pretty notable facts about the new Coyote-colored Peak Design bags and an in-depth comparison of the travel backpack options.
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Lighting is the backbone of any great photograph. It’s not just about having enough light; it’s about mastering how light interacts with your subject and your scene.
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The pursuit of better image quality often dominates discussions about photography but that might not be the answer you’re looking for.
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I’m a victim of Instagram ads. They are responsible for an unsettling number of impulse purchases I’ve made, and the most recent is the Godox Lux Master Retro Camera Flash.
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With Fuji's X Series sensors now reaching 40 megapixels, having a kit lens that can handle the increased demand for sharpness and detail is crucial. The XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR makes that promise, but can it deliver?
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Capturing great photos in low light can be a serious challenge, but it’s a skill worth mastering.
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Before you gear up to become a landscape photographer, there are some crucial things that you should understand if you want to be well-prepared. Landscape photography gets better as you experience different shooting scenarios, but here are some tips to help you get started.
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Sorting through a mountain of unprocessed photos can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself with hundreds, even thousands, of images sitting on your hard drive, each one waiting for your attention. The challenge of finding the best shots in that mess is real.
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Photography is expensive, and there’s no way around your significant other eventually finding out. Instead of waiting around for that moment, I decided to just get it over with and record it in real-time.[ Read More ]
A few months back, I reviewed the new Peak Design Coyote Colorway straps. They have now released a raft of new gear in the same color but with some improvements to the build. Let me introduce you to the new Coyote Everyday Backpack.
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Lighting is one of the most critical aspects of portrait photography, significantly influencing the mood and impact of your images. Here are five useful and versatile setups.
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Photography doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, it’s the unplanned moments that yield the best results.
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As I write this article, I am sitting on the Hinomi X1 ergonomic chair, and I've never been more comfortable working in my office. I got this chair three weeks ago and have spent many hours testing it. In this review, I'll share my experience.
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Capturing a great landscape photograph involves more than just pressing the shutter. To truly elevate your work, you need to understand the entire process—from planning your shoot to perfecting the final image.
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High-end gear can be tempting, especially when it promises unmatched image quality. But is it always worth it?
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Choosing your own path in photography isn't always easy, especially when popular opinion often points in a different direction. This video is a thoughtful reflection on how your personal tastes can influence your photographic journey, even if those tastes aren't mainstream.
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Adobe has announced an integration of camera hardware and software that will be a game changer for news and event photographers. Beginning today as a beta implementation, photographers using a camera with C2C (camera-to-cloud) technology built in will be able to upload images from their camera into Frame.io, where images can be instantly edited using Adobe Lightroom. This workflow will allow a photographer to shoot an all-day event without stopping to download images onto a computer. Culling, editing, and delivery can be handled by an off-site editor anywhere.
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The Fujifilm X-H2S is a powerful option for photographers who need quick, reliable performance in high-pressure situations. For those who shoot large volumes, this camera could make a noticeable difference in your process.
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Creating a photography portfolio might seem like a task reserved for professionals, but it can be important even if you’re just an amateur. It’s not just about showcasing your work. It’s about growth, self-evaluation, and keeping your passion alive.
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After 10+ years, I’ve realized no single camera bag is perfect, but some get close. The Nanuk N-PVD 30L combines a high-quality bag with a useful storage system. In this review, I’ll go through what I loved and explain how it fits into Nanuk’s broader “N-CUBIK ecosystem.”
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You’ve probably experienced those moments when the weather changes unexpectedly or you find yourself on the wrong trail. These challenges are all part of the landscape photography journey, but how you handle them can make or break your shot. Preparation, persistence, and a little flexibility can lead to stunning results.
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Creating a glowing light spill effect can dramatically alter the mood and atmosphere of your landscape photos. Here's how to do it in Lightroom.
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When using Photoshop’s Generative Fill, you might assume it’s the perfect solution for removing unwanted objects. However, reality often tells a different story. Removing complex elements like fences can quickly turn into a frustrating task, especially when Generative Fill keeps replacing one fence with another. Here's how to get around those issues.
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If you’ve been contemplating a shift in your photography, especially if black-and-white imagery has intrigued you, you’re not alone. Sometimes, a new tool or a different approach is what it takes to reignite your creative spark.
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The evolution of camera technology has blurred the lines between photo and video gear, leaving you to navigate a mix of options. One key area where this confusion is most apparent is in the choice between photo lenses and cine lenses.
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As a passionate landscape photographer, I often emphasize that a phone will never fully replace a professional camera. However, in an age where social media dominates and more photos and videos are being captured on personal phones than ever before, it's important to acknowledge the innovations enabling phone users to capture incredible footage and photos. The Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI is one such innovation worth noting.
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When you first look through a telescope, something changes. You’re no longer just gazing at the night sky—you’re exploring it.
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it's one thing to have your camera bag stolen. But what if you could track it down?
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Adobe Lightroom has continued to improve as various tools inside the software have matured. One area in Lightroom that has made tremendous advances is masking, but are you maximizing the masking options in your photo editing to take advantage of these impressive features?
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The Canon RF mount has been limited in its lens options, particularly for APS-C users. If you've found yourself frustrated with the lack of fast, versatile lenses for Canon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras, you're not alone. However, there's good news. Canon is finally allowing third-party manufacturers to develop for the RF mount, and Sigma's 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens is a standout in this new lineup.
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Skin tones can be tricky, especially when using on-camera flash at events like weddings. The bright light often washes out the natural color, leaving skin looking pale or flat. However, there’s a quick and effective method in Lightroom to bring back those natural tones.
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With the plethora of new camera features that manufacturers have rolled out in recent years, it begs the question, “How much more do we actually need?"
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With its distinctive design and premium price, the Leica Q3 is an intriguing camera. Does it deliver enough to justify its steep cost?
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Backlighting is a powerful technique that can transform your portraits by adding depth, dimension, and a distinct visual impact. By positioning a light source behind your subject, you can create striking highlights that outline the contours of your subject’s hair and body, making them stand out against the background.
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Live music photography is an area that intrigues many, yet few really find a breakthrough. We recently spoke with Kevin Kerr, who swapped his Silicon Valley profession for a career in live music photography. Find out what is in his gear bag and what goes into a great live music photograph.
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Canon recently released two high-end cameras, the R1 and the R5 Mark II, both packed with features that make them standouts. Choosing between them depends on what you plan to shoot and how you shoot it.
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Color is essential in filmmaking, yet black and white has an enduring appeal that transcends time. Black and white films offer a unique visual experience, allowing viewers to focus on composition, contrast, and texture. This often leads to a more intense emotional connection with the story.
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Vivo has launched its latest V40 series of smartphones, featuring the V40 and V40 Pro. Co-engineered with ZEISS, these new models promise several key features that improve on the popular previous V30 series.
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It’s no secret that photographers from various genres are experiencing a decline in bookings. The ease of using a smartphone and the quality that anyone can get from those devices have reduced the need to hire a professional for small and even mid-level shoots. Wedding photography is a genre where people are accustomed to hiring professional photographers, and the smartphone has had a lesser impact here.
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When your photos don’t quite capture the scene as you remember it, quick fixes in Photoshop can make all the difference.
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In challenging environments like the mountains, versatility in your gear is key. A lens that can handle a wide range of focal lengths gives you the flexibility to capture diverse scenes, all without the hassle of constant lens changes.
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Retouching has long been a time-consuming process that not many of us photographers enjoy. Yet, it is inevitable to have to retouch your photos. Fortunately, PortraitPro 24 is introducing more advanced features and capabilities that have further cemented the software’s reputation as a must-have tool for portrait photographers. Read on to find out why.
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Skylum, the company that offers AI editor Luminar Neo, has some very desirable updates coming in October.
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Black and white photography isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past. It’s a powerful tool that strips away distractions, leaving only the essence of a moment.
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Photography serves as a gateway to more than just images; it opens doors to self-discovery and creative freedom. Finding your purpose in photography can change how you see both the world and yourself.
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Using a telephoto lens is one of the most powerful tools for capturing landscape photography. It enables you to explore perspectives far beyond what classic wide-angle shots can achieve, allowing for creative and compelling compositions. However, using a telephoto lens can be tricky, especially if you’re just getting started. In this article, I share my top seven mistakes to avoid when using a telephoto lens, along with some technical advice and creative tips to enhance your photography.
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As a professional photographer, you must face all sorts of obstacles. But the highest hurdles tend to be those you put in your own way.
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When it comes to photo editing software, the selection out there is not huge by any means. However, the programs that are available to us at least stand out from one another in interesting ways. Today we’re going to talk about Zoner Photo Studio X, more specifically the 2024 update.
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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.
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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.
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Phone cameras have reached a point where they are capable of taking professional quality images. Whether you're brand new to photography or trying to get the most out of your phone photos on your next vacation, there will be a few tips here for you.[ Read More ]
The debate between continuous light and flash is more relevant than ever as advancements in technology blur the lines between the two. Knowing when to use each lighting type can make all the difference.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Being an artist means keeping an open mind to all possibilities. But sometimes, limiting your scope can lead to a world of opportunities.
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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.
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Knowing how to adjust colors during photo editing can greatly improve your images. In this video, Albert Dros gives nine awesome tips on how to do it.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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There are seven common traps that many photographers fall into that rarely get spoken of. Does your work fall into any of these? Here’s how to spot them and escape their clutches.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Permanent lighting has come a long way over the last half-decade. Although intended primarily for video use, photographers are increasingly using permanent lighting. Neewer has significantly more than a toehold in the lighting market. But do these panel lights stand up to scrutiny?
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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.
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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.
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Every so often, I find a new piece of software I was unaware of but that gets me excited when I discover and use it. Recently, I stumbled upon PanoVolo, a new Windows/Mac app for creating panoramas with a minimum of fuss that still provides very high-quality output.
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Are your handheld landscape photography photos never quite sharp? Do you struggle with what camera settings to use once you start trying to handhold the camera for your photos? I have five tips to help maximize your success with handheld landscape photography.
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Light plays a crucial role in landscape photography. While many believe the best light comes during sunrise and sunset, you can find stunning light at any time of day. Understanding how to work with different lighting conditions can transform your photos.
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These Lightroom tricks can transform your photo editing workflow. Simple yet powerful, the techniques will help you make precise adjustments, add creative effects, and change background colors effortlessly.
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Photographers often overlook the potential hidden within their old raw files. Revisiting these images with modern editing tools can reveal stunning details and new perspectives.
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Photographing something beautiful yet complex can be a real challenge. Today, we'll explore how to capture the grandeur of giant fern trees, which are impressive but tricky to frame.
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Photographers often tie their self-worth to the prestige of their client list. This mindset can lead to unhealthy comparisons and undue stress. It's crucial to recognize your value beyond the logos on your portfolio and the big names you've worked with.
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After all of the premature declarations that film is dead, we find ourselves in the midst of an extraordinary renaissance in film photography. Dehancer’s plugins aim to give digital photographers the best of both worlds by bringing the evocative look of classic film stock to digital images.
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The new Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD offers a range and flexibility that's ideal for both photos and videos. It's compact and lightweight, making it a practical choice for various shooting scenarios.
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Street photography is an ever-evolving field with countless enthusiasts worldwide. With the abundance of styles and techniques available, finding a unique approach can be challenging.
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The OM System OM-1 Mark II offers a compact solution with powerful capabilities, perfect for your next adventure. Discover how this lightweight camera handles the stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon and why it might be the option you need.
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The smallest full-frame interchangeable lens camera currently available is the Sigma fp L. It has a 60-megapixel sensor, broad L-mount lens options, and excellent video capabilities, making it quite an intriguing option.
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Selections and masking are crucial techniques in photo editing. However, misconceptions and outdated methods can hinder your progress. Here's one of the best and most modern ways to approach the tasks.
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Haida introduced two brand-new UV filters: the Bluestone UV filter and the Premium Brass UV filter. These filters boast high light transmission, a multi-layered coating, and substantial protection thanks to the shock-proof Schott B270 glass. I was asked to review both filters.
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Does sensor speed matter? Each time a new camera is released, incremental upgrades often leave many of us wondering about their actual significance.
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In the heart of Ecuador's Chocó rainforest, a mission to save the critically endangered brown-headed spider monkey unfolds. Led by conservation photographer Jonas Paurell, this gripping documentary captures the raw beauty and challenges of rainforest conservation.
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Using Lightroom's masking tools, you can bring out details and create depth that makes objects look strikingly real. This tutorial will guide you through the process.
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Correcting your images in Lightroom can make a world of difference. Two essential tools are Lens Correction and Transform. These tools help ensure your photos look their best by fixing common issues like chromatic aberration and perspective distortion.
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Learning how to see hidden flaws in your photos can transform your editing process. Here's a great trick.
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Cameras these days are so customizable that sometimes it's hard to even know where to start. So, after a lot of time and effort, here is how I have my camera set up to photograph weddings.
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A while back, I tested Amazon's cheapest non-kid camera, a $20 piece of junk that was sold under various scammy names on the online retailer's site. Lowering the bar in ways I didn't think was possible, one filmmaker has decided to challenge himself by using the cheapest camera on the site to make a short film, and this time, it is actually a kids' camera.
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Following the success of the very popular Dwarf II Telescope, DwarfLabs has announced the brand-new and upgraded Dwarf 3 Smart Telescope. This compact and portable telescope is very exciting and is currently set to ship this September.
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Canon recently released the EOS R1, their flagship RF mount camera. This camera is particularly exciting for sports and wildlife photography. With the previous release of the R3, photographers may wonder how the R1 stacks up and which camera to choose for high-end, fast-moving subjects.
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For all things photography, documentaries offer a unique window into the lives and works of iconic photographers. They reveal the stories behind their most famous images and the people who shot them. Here's a list of seven compelling photography documentaries that every photographer should watch.
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Creating stunning wedding photos often involves more than just finding a beautiful location. Understanding what to avoid and what to emphasize can elevate an image from "pretty" to "amazing."
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I spent two weeks shooting with the new Fujifilm GFX 100S II, along with the GF 55mm f/1.7R WR and GF 45-100mm f/4 R LM OIS WR lenses. I used this configuration for a number of portrait shoots at my studio and on location, including a portrait shoot with jazz legend Ron Carter. The results were impressive. [ Read More ]
Shooting in harsh midday sunlight can be challenging, but it's a common scenario you might face. Properly managing this light can significantly improve your portraits.
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Achieving consistently sharp portraits can be challenging. This video breaks down a five-part formula to help you nail that perfect focus every time.
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For many photographers, the cost of such premium glass raises questions about its value and practicality. These concerns are addressed head-on in this review, sharing insights and experiences with this high-end lens.
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Finding the right lens for your wedding films or commercial videos can make all the difference in achieving the best quality. One new lens promises excellent low-light performance and internal zoom, making it ideal for gimbal work.
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Portrait photography requires the right tools and techniques. One lens stands out for its exceptional performance and versatility, making it a top choice for capturing stunning images.
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A dock for your computer can really level up your home workspace and make it even more efficient and productive. I look at the new Razer USB-C Dock and how it has performed under heavy usage for the past month. Can it improve your home workspace?
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Choosing the right camera can make a big difference in your photography, no matter your budget. Here are some of the best options.
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When it comes to portrait photography, the 85mm lens is a favorite, but it can be ludicrously expensive. Can this ultra-cheap option keep up?
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Extreme macro photography lets you explore a hidden world of minute details. This guide will help you capture these fascinating images with clarity and precision.
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Today, we'll explore a photojournalist's experience capturing life in Myanmar for the New York Times in 2011.
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AMD has released its latest CPUs, and they bring notable improvements to the x86 architecture. Here's what you can expect.
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There are many ways to make a photo appealing. Light, composition, and depth of field are the obvious ones. Post-processing is also part of this procedure, regardless of whether it's done in-camera or on a computer. Don’t forget cropping, which is an important part of the process.
A good-looking photo is the result of a relatively long process. It starts with choosing the right composition, focal length, and the use of light and shadow. It often doesn’t end there, especially if you are using the raw file format. Well-thought-out processing transforms the raw sensor data into an...
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Color grading can transform your images. It's a straightforward process using Lightroom.
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Many people are rediscovering the joy of film, from the anticipation of waiting for your prints to the unique look that only film can provide.
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The Voigtländer 75mm f/1.5 Nokton lens offers a unique blend of precision and quality. Here's a close look at how it performs.
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The Canon EOS R5 Mark II is here, it brings features like new built-in Digital IS stabilization, 8K 60 fps raw recording, in-camera VR preview, and advanced machine learning noise reduction. Here's how it performs in practice.
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There is an elusive giant cloud of space dust right around our North Star called the Polaris Flare. If it were bright enough to be seen with the naked eye, it would appear 100 times wider than the diameter of the full moon.
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The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is here, and it comes with a price increase, making it one of the most expensive phones on the market. With a price tag of $1,899, is it worth the investment?
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Packing cubes and camera inserts are pretty straightforward in terms of their purpose. But as an anxious packer who obsesses over making sure that everything is in place, using these packing tools revealed a hidden benefit.
At first, packing cubes and camera cubes seem to have only the benefits that they physically offer, which would be having dedicated compartments for different kinds of things. Camera cubes are there for objects that need a lot of padding and internal dividers, while packing cubes are there for personal items like clothes and other travel essentials. But as I...
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Combining flash with ambient light is an art. Achieving this balance is key to capturing sharp, vibrant photos in various settings.
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Photoshop's latest update brings a series of incremental yet impactful changes, designed to enhance your editing process.
Coming to you from Unmesh Dinda with PiXimperfect, this helpful video explores the new features in Photoshop version 25.11.19. The update introduces a selection brush tool that allows for more nuanced selections with adjustable opacity. This tool can fill selections with varying transparency, which can be particularly useful when working with generative fill. The video demonstrates how this tool can be used to...
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The bee photo is a summer rite of passage that any new (or old) photographer needs to take. It's not really officially summer until you get that photo, so here are some basic tips to get started photographing these colorful creatures.
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Ethical wildlife photography is crucial for preserving ecosystems and animal welfare.
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Enhancing your photos by targeting specific areas with masks can dramatically improve their quality. Here's an advanced technique that will help you take greater control.
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I hadn’t considered the possibility of using an external monitor with my camera, but when Neewer gave me the chance to try their touchscreen field monitor, I wondered whether it would meet a particular need of mine. Now that I have tried it, it is something I am adding to my kit bag. Here’s why.
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Shooting your first wedding can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Weddings are a big deal, and getting them right is crucial. Here are some key tips to help you navigate this important event.
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With full frame cameras becoming more affordable, many users are looking for lenses to match. Here's a rundown of some great options.
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When you think about controlling the depth of field, the aperture may instantly come to mind. In its simplest form, this would be correct. However, other factors are at play regarding depth of field. Knowing these different factors will help you understand and control your depth of field.
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Mastering contrast in your photos can make a significant difference in their impact. Lightroom's masking tools will help you target midtones is a powerful way to enhance overall contrast and make your images stand out.
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Deciding whether to stick with a scene or seek a new one is a crucial skill in photography. The five-minute rule offers a straightforward approach to making this choice with confidence.
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The recent resurrection of film and instant film cameras never really interested me until a few months ago. I love shooting digital, mostly because I can just keep going until my heart is content, but that was until I discovered this gem of an instant film camera.
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The Dolomites, in Italy, is a place like no other, with towering jagged peaks, unique rock colors and formations, and most of all, it seems to change a lot but very little at the same time. The light and weather are key components when it comes to creating banger shots in this UNESCO World Heritage location.
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Transforming your portraits from ordinary to extraordinary often comes down to how you manipulate lighting. Here's an effective and affordable approach.
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Capturing high-quality images without breaking the bank is a common goal for many photographers. Here's a budget treasure from Canon.
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Wondering if you should spend extra on the 35mm f/1.8 S prime lens over the new 35mm f/1.4? This helpful video breaks down their features and performance to see if the upgrade is worth it.
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Photography is a journey filled with learning and growth. Regrets are inevitable, but they can teach valuable lessons.
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In the never-ending struggle to get your work seen by the right people that can help advance your career, contests and competitions are one of the most accessible. But, after all is said and done, are they worth it?
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Medium format cameras were once gated behind enormous price tags, unjustifiable by most, but also unnecessary to most. Then, in the past decade or so, they have been made more accessible, in large part by Fujifilm. This is their latest addition to the GFX range.[ Read More ]
Photography can be daunting, especially if you're new to the field. Making a living from your camera is a dream for many, but it requires avoiding common mistakes that can hold you back.
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Lighting is crucial for any creator, and having the right tools can make a significant difference. Here's one of the most versatile modifiers you can own.
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Understanding lighting is crucial. One fundamental concept is the inverse square law.
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Lighting plays a crucial role in portrait work. This helpful video will introduce you to some effective lighting techniques, emphasizing simplicity and portability.
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Scouring your camera bag, you have all your most important gear: cameras, lenses, memory cards, and batteries. With the adoption of mirrorless cameras by many photographers, we have also adopted more batteries. When my primary camera was a Nikon D850, I could shoot roughly 1,800 photographs on a charge. I am using the Nikon Z7 II as my primary camera, and unfortunately, I get about 400 photos per battery. I am charging and purchasing batteries more than ever before. Enter the Hahnel Pro Cube 2 charger, a game changer in the battery charging game.
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Yes. There really are hidden secrets inside Adobe's photo processing software. Let me show you one of my absolute favorites that you can use to add easy borders to your photos. It's all hiding in plain sight inside Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, and Photoshop.
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Wide angled lenses can produce stunning images, but they come with challenges. They require skill to avoid common mistakes that many, especially beginners, often make.
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The 85mm lens is a favorite among portrait photographers for a good reason. It's versatile, provides excellent subject isolation, and offers natural-looking results even at close distances. In this video, you’ll learn why the 85mm should be part of your gear, regardless of whether you're a professional or an enthusiast.
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Choosing the right printer for your photography can be a daunting task, especially with so many options on the market. Here's the right one for you.
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The 645 film format is sometimes overlooked, but it offers a practical middle ground between 35mm and 6x7 medium format. You get more shots per roll of 120 film and maintain high resolution, making it ideal for various photography adventures.
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After about five years of using an Intel MacBook Pro, I made the jump to the M-Series. I bought the M3 Pro MacBook Pro 14” edition. While a downgrade in screen size, it was a huge upgrade pretty much everywhere else. In this article, we will review the new M3 MacBook Pro.
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The debate over whether gear matters in photography is common. You've likely heard that gear doesn't make you a better photographer, but it's not entirely true. Sometimes, the right gear can significantly impact your work.
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Does the universe have a plan for all of us? For Austrian-born photographer and artist Markus Hofstätter, the stars unexpectedly aligned for him to receive his Leica M2: a camera which seemingly transcended the depths of time and grief to find its way into his hands.
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The Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art lens is the first full frame mirrorless zoom lens with a constant f/1.8 aperture, offering photographers unique versatility and performance.
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When you think portraits, you likely don't think of using a wide-angle zoom lens, nor a lens as slow as f/4, but you should. In this video, go behind-the-scenes of a portrait shoot with exactly that lens and see just how strong the results can be.[ Read More ]
For several years, I traveled to weddings or other events with multiple lenses in my bag, much to the detriment of my back! No longer is this the case, as I finally purchased a lens that was top of my wish list, and the results have been amazing! Can you guess what it is yet?
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Creating fine art portraits in a small space can be challenging, but it’s achievable with the right tools and techniques. Using minimal equipment, such as a single speedlight and a versatile backdrop, you can produce stunning results. Here’s how you can do it.
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Fuji’s XF 90mm F2 R LM WR lens is a standout in their X lens lineup. This high-end portrait lens is known for its impressive image quality, and this excellent video review takes a look at just how good it is.
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Transferring colors from one photo to another in Photoshop is a fantastic way to achieve the look you want without extensive editing. Here's how to do it.
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The commitment to waking up before dawn to photograph familiar spots again and again is just one of the things that set apart those who love photography from those who live it.
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The new Pentax 17 camera offers a fresh experience for photographers who want to enjoy shooting without the stress of technical perfection. It's a semi-automatic, half-frame camera that balances fun and simplicity, making it a refreshing tool for both seasoned photographers and beginners alike.
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Ask any photographer what lens you should purchase for landscape photography, and the answer is almost always a wide angle. But let's challenge this conventional wisdom. Is there a strong case for using telephoto lenses in landscape photography?
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Photoshop’s generative AI can save you a lot of time and frustration. This tool, while powerful, can sometimes yield unexpected results. Knowing the best techniques to get the outcomes you desire is crucial.
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The Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is a lens that offers a lot for its price. It's in a competitive space, though, so can it keep up?
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There’s no question that photographs from this week's Republican National Convention, merely days after an assassination attempt on former president and current presidential candidate Donald Trump, are going to define the narrative of this tumultuous time in U.S. history. There’s also no question about who overwhelmingly seems to dominate the photojournalism field based on this photo that I've linked to below: white men.
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What if your creative pen tablet can now also be your primary monitor? This new creative editing and drawing tool from Huion offers to maximize your efficiency and comfort when editing your photos.
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Film photography has seen a resurgence in recent years, captivating many enthusiasts with its authenticity. Exploring this trend reveals the nuances of film versus digital and why both have their place in today's photography landscape.
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Stable and reliable video monitoring is essential to any film or video production. Today, DJI has introduced a new set of products aimed at keeping your production connected.
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Canon has had us all on pins and needles, enjoying the last few days of our padded savings account and anxiously waiting for their announcement of the new EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II. The anticipated specs have finally come, and we are here to tell you all about it.
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While it has no screen or grip, this strange camera is arguably one of the most interesting ever made.
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When visiting a new location, the excitement and expectation of capturing something epic are always at the forefront of a photographer’s mind. However, beyond the thrill of the shot lies a deeper responsibility—protecting the places we photograph.
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The new Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens is making waves in the photography community. This lens boasts the longest zoom range available at f/2.8, making it incredibly versatile for a variety of photography styles, from portraits to sports.
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Choosing between the Canon R8 and the Canon R6 Mark II can be challenging given their similarities on paper. Both cameras share the same 24-megapixel sensor and internal processor, making them appear almost identical. Deciding whether to spend the extra $700 for the R6 Mark II depends on understanding the subtle yet significant differences between these models.
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Making your images pop in Capture One is now easier than ever, thanks to new AI tools.
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Have you ever seen street photography with a slow shutter speed? It isn't for the impatient or inexperienced, but if you want to get really creative, this is how you do it.[ Read More ]
Timing is everything. If you miss the right moment, you can miss the perfect shot.
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Landscape photography often requires navigating unexpected challenges and embracing the unpredictability of nature. This video shows why location scouting and understanding weather patterns are crucial for capturing stunning shots.
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A few months ago, I started processing all my raw photos with a new Lightroom plugin. It led to a significant increase in image quality, as I show in this article.
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Knowing aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are important, of course, but here's another fundamental setting that will improve your work.
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Stills photography on movie sets is a specialized and vital aspect of the filmmaking process. While the primary focus during film production is on capturing moving images, stills photographers play a crucial role in documenting the creation of a film and providing essential marketing material. Their role involves capturing high-quality images of the actors, key scenes, and behind-the-scenes moments during the filming process. These photographs are used for various purposes, including promotional materials such as posters, press kits, and social media content. They help build anticipation for the film and provide a visual narrative that complements the moving images.
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Improving your photography involves understanding the nuances of composition, lighting, subject matter, and timing. These elements work together to create compelling images. Nigel Danson shares insights from his experience of shooting over 250,000 photos and reflects on the journey from his early, less successful attempts to his current expertise.
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Using your camera to capture the beauty of the world around you can be deeply fulfilling, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Sometimes, those challenges are personal and can impact your creativity.
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When you revisit familiar places, it's easy to overlook new scenes. You might have fixed ideas of what to shoot. This can lead to missing unique moments.
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Using your iPad as a second or third display for your Mac can significantly boost your productivity. This handy feature, called Sidecar, is built into macOS and is available for free.
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Landscape photography thrives on flexibility and spontaneity. The ever-changing nature of light and weather requires us to adapt quickly, abandon rigid plans, and let the natural elements guide our shots. This fluid approach often leads to the most captivating and memorable images, showcasing the dynamic connection of light, land, and sky. Here’s why being fluid in your landscape photography is essential, along with some practical tips to help you embrace this mindset.
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Creating a magical, dreamy golden hour effect in your photos can be achieved with a simple Lightroom trick.
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Getting the lighting right can make a big difference in headshot work. Here's how to set up and refine your headshot lighting to achieve professional results.
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The new generative AI remove tool in Lightroom is exciting but can be unpredictable. It’s important to know how to use it effectively under different situations.
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Finding fulfillment in the later stages of your career can be challenging. It's common to feel like you've ticked all the boxes—career progression, status, financial stability—yet still feel unfulfilled. This video explores how to transition to something more exciting and engaging in your third or fourth career chapter.
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The Pentax 17 is generating a lot of buzz within the film photography community. Exploring its features and design, you might find it a compelling option for your photography needs.
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I have never been a fan of digital effects that emulate analog results. I always thought making a digital image look like it was shot by film was a deception. Could DxO FilmPack 7 change my mind?
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Understanding the nuances of landscape photography can elevate your work from good to breathtaking. Composition plays a vital role in capturing stunning images.
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Choosing the right camera system can significantly impact your photography experience. This article explores five reasons why the Fuji X system stands out, especially for landscape photography.
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The Tamron 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 is a versatile telephoto zoom for Sony E-mount cameras. Can it hold up in real-world usage?
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Film photography has a certain allure. It’s drawn many, despite seeming like a hassle, time-consuming, and expensive. Curious to see if the effort, cost, and hassle are worth it, one photographer decided to dive into the analog journey.
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Learning to simplify your images is crucial for effective photography. Lightroom's new generative AI feature in the remove tool simplifies this process, making it easier to clean up images without extensive post-processing.
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Getting closer to your subject can be a real challenge. This is especially true when your subjects are birds. The simplest solution might seem to be adding a teleconverter, but it's not without its drawbacks.
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Tripods are tools that should always give us the assurance that the job can be done and that our cameras are safe. Now let’s see how this differently built tripod can affect how we travel and photograph nature.
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Island Darkroom presents CEARNS, an exhibition featuring the work of award-winning Isle of Lewis photographer Deljeem Rai. This event marks Deljeem Rai's first solo exhibition and his debut showcase on his home island.
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The Nikon Z6 Mark III is making waves with its new features and performance improvements. If you're interested in a versatile camera that excels in both stills and video, this review is worth a look.
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Believe it or not, the incredibly popular Canon EOS 5D will be 19 years old next month. Is such a classic camera worth adding to your bag in 2024?
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Transforming your photos from dull to dynamic is now simpler with a new AI tool in Photoshop.
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Love movies? This awesome video highlights three exceptional films from the first half of 2024.
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Adobe's recent changes to its terms of use have sparked quite a debate. Understanding how to manage these settings ensures your privacy is protected.
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Across the vast millennia of human existence, the total solar eclipse remains the most spectacular and celebrated of astronomical phenomena. As the blue sky dimmed, I suddenly decided to shoot the 2024 solar eclipse on black and white film using my trusty Hasselblad 500 C/M.
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The Nikon Zf has captured the attention of many due to its retro design and advanced features. Here's how it handles.
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There was a time when GoPro was everywhere and doing everything, from action cameras, to drones, to 360 cameras. Heck, I even learned how to make 360 videos using a cage that held 6 GoPro Heros. It all seemed so promising until it wasn't. What happened?
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The countdown to the Olympic Games is on, and the world shifts focus to the multi-sport event which takes place in Paris this summer. From athletics to equestrian to diving, we explore the best and most versatile lenses for sports photography and crown the best camera body and lens combination for the job.
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Removing people from your landscape photos can transform a good shot into a great one. But doing it manually is tedious and time-consuming. You need a faster, more efficient way to clean up your images without sacrificing quality.
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Understanding color grading is crucial for creating visually compelling images. This technique can elevate your images, making them more cohesive and professionally polished.
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Tripods can run the gamut from tiny tabletop-style tripods to hefty production-grade setups. The Pineta Peak system from YC Onion sits towards the bigger end of the spectrum but blends smart use of materials and features to make it a reasonable purchase for many photographers and videographers. In this review, I’ll take a look at the system and give some context for why you might want to add this tripod to your kit.
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Your photography journey hinges on developing a refined taste, something that goes beyond just technical skills.
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The choice of a camera deeply influences your photography experience. You may wonder if the gear you use truly matters, or if it's more about how you use it. The answer isn't simple.
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I recently had the good fortune of spending some time with Sony's latest ZV-E10 II camera and the updated version of their iconic APS-C zoom lens, the E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II. Let's take a look at what makes Sony's latest ZV camera and compact vlogging lens so compelling for content creators.[ Read More ]
In today's rapidly evolving media landscape, video content has undeniably surged in popularity, reshaping how we consume information and entertainment from the internet. According to a report from Q2 2023, video content already reaches 92.3% of internet users worldwide and continues to grow significantly. This statistic highlights the growing dominance of video in our digital age. But does this trend mean that video is inherently better than photography? Let’s explore the differences between these two mediums and their impact on viewers.
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The Qualcomm Snapdragon X+ and X Elite inside Microsoft Surface devices are the talk of the industry right now. Can they keep up with Apple's Silicon? This video takes a look.
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Micro Four Thirds cameras offer surprising versatility and image quality, making them a viable option for many photographers. These cameras are known for their compact size, but they also offer excellent performance.
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The Canon EOS 60D was much derided on its release in 2010 for "dumbing down" the venerable xxD lineup compared to its predecessor, the semi-pro 50D.
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Lighting is crucial in photography, and learning how to use it effectively can elevate your images significantly. This video covers five dramatic lighting setups using just one light source, designed to help you create stunning, impactful images.
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Affordable lenses are abundant in 2024, offering excellent value and quality. Let's explore some top budget lens choices for your mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors.
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Summer is here, and with it has come some incredible savings available to you. Our friends at BH Photo are currently advertising this brilliant camera with $500 off.
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Not all photos are created equal. Some are objectively better than others. However, the photos themselves may not necessarily be bad; it may just be that the image is badly exposed or the white balance is off. Fixing bad images quickly can be a hassle for some, but it is a piece of cake for Aftershoot. Read on to find out how to fix your bad images quickly.
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Cameras today boast an impressive range of megapixels, with some models offering 60 megapixels. But do you really need that many megapixels? For most people, a 24-megapixel camera might be more than enough. Let's break down the different scenarios to help you figure out which camera fits your needs, potentially saving you money.
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You don't need the latest gear to take great photos. While new equipment can offer advantages, your creativity and technique matter more. This video dives into that notion by sharing a personal journey with both old and new gear.
Coming to you from Albert Dros, this informative video discusses the evolution of his gear. As a Sony Europe Imaging Ambassador, Dros has access to the latest Sony gear, but he emphasizes that he didn't always have this luxury. His high-end gear produces stunning images, but Dros argues that older...
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Street photography is full of opinions, and you've probably heard advice that can hinder your progress. By the end of this video, you'll know some of the most controversial advice you can get and what to do instead to boost your creativity and take better photos.
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Portrait photography is a popular genre that many enthusiasts enjoy exploring. Knowing how to use your environment and tools can elevate your shots significantly.
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Willie Nelson has played the same Martin N-20 nylon-string acoustic guitar since 1969. Serial number 242830. The instrument is an eternal flame of creative freedom, one of a kind and beautiful — just like Willie.
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Landscape photography can be tricky, especially when your raw files look flat compared to what you see with your eyes. Understanding how to process these files can turn your photos from dull to stunning.
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Lenses with a wide-open aperture of f/1.4 or wider are something of an addiction for many photographers. They bring a unique look and feel to images, adding depth and separation from the background. Understanding the value and potential pitfalls of these lenses can help you make better choices in your photography.
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Being a photographer for more than a decade, this is probably the shortest love story I have with camera gear, pushing the definition of a love-hate relationship to the next level.
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Capturing wildlife in the Arctic is both challenging and rewarding. The extreme conditions and stunning scenery offer unique opportunities for photography. An insane 1200mm lens can help, though.
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Getting the right shot can be challenging but rewarding. Here's how to find one in an imperfect place.
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Incredible space photos like those from NASA don't look as stunning straight out of the telescope. They need significant processing, and a crucial part of that is sharpening.
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With the announcement of the new Nikon Z6III last week, it inspired me to have a little fun thought experiment as the Nikon lineup of mirrorless cameras continues to take shape.
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Sensor size is a hotly debated topic in photography, with many arguing that larger sensors are always superior. However, the reality is more nuanced. Understanding the pros and cons of different sensor sizes can help you make informed decisions about your gear and improve your photography without wasting your money.
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Enhancing light and shadows in landscape photography can dramatically transform your images, adding depth and visual interest. Here's a great approach to adding that depth in Lightroom.
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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?
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It's easy to fall into repetitive patterns, applying the same edits over and over. This video shares four creative tips to break out of that rut and achieve unique results in Lightroom.
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Shooting in exotic locations presents unique challenges and opportunities for photographers. Capturing the essence of a place while managing technical difficulties and working with models requires skill, adaptability, and creative problem-solving.
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In landscape photography, there's often a misconception that success is measured by the number of great shots captured in a single outing. However, this mindset can be limiting and lead to burnout for many. Sometimes, the true reward comes from capturing just one exceptional shot. Focusing on quality over quantity not only enhances your craft but also deepens your connection with the landscape. Here’s why and how to embrace this approach.
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As an innovator of fashion photography, Gian Paolo Barbieri's various approaches and techniques helped to shape modern fashion photography.
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Understanding the mechanics of a camera can be comforting. You set things up, press a button, and voilà, you get a photograph. However, there’s more to it than just pressing a button.
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Doubt and intimidation are common feelings in photography. They can hinder your progress and prevent you from pursuing your passion.
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Venice Beach, California, is a vibrant place, perfect for capturing spontaneous moments. Kimchi, our furry guide, takes you on an amusing VR adventure through this iconic location.
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A double exposure is a great way to spice up an image. Today, we'll look at how to create beautiful double exposures in Photoshop.
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Do we really need to spend thousands of dollars just to get good photographs? Can you become a good photographer with an old and cheap camera?
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Choosing the right standard zoom can be tricky, especially when you're deciding between the 24-70mm f/2.8 and the 24-105mm f/4. Here's a look at both.
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Landscape photography can be both rewarding and challenging, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature. Understanding the essentials of gear, planning, shooting, and editing can significantly improve your skills. Let’s dive into these aspects to help you enhance your landscape photography journey.
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Flash synchronization is a crucial concept for anyone working with artificial light. Here's what you need to know.
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The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II lens is a great option for those who want an affordable workhorse. Here's what you can expect.
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Film photography has seen a resurgence, capturing the hearts of many enthusiasts with its unique charm. What's your hot take on the trend?
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The use of AI offers the ability to create almost lifelike images. This has nothing to do with photography. However, AI can also be used for removing unwanted parts of a photo. Is this feature making us lazy, taking less care while photographing? After all, we can easily fix it in post.
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The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is designed for serious enthusiasts and professionals. Its blend of advanced features and competitive pricing makes it an attractive choice for many.
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Summer creates opportunities for striking images. Here are six great ideas and techniques to help you make the most of the season.
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Once, photographers converted their precious raw files into DNG files, which promised to be future-proof. There might be another reason: there is a DNG file format with lossy compression. Could this be future-proof and save disk space at the same time?
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Masks are an essential tool in photo editing. This fantastic video tutorial will show you one of the most useful types of masks in Lightroom.
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Photographing your first wedding can feel overwhelming. It’s a pivotal moment, both for the couple and for you as a photographer.
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Gatekeeping in the photography industry is a hot topic, causing friction between younger and veteran photographers. It shapes how opportunities and resources are distributed, impacting your growth and success.
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Embarking on the journey of crafting a portrait as a non-portrait photographer can be daunting, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety and low confidence. However, creating a photograph need not be an overwhelming task. With a few simple pointers, you can step into the realm of portrait photography with a newfound sense of capability and confidence.
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There are a lot of obvious ways to damage your camera gear, from drops, to liquid, to dust, but did you know that it's possible to damage your gear just from having it sit around?[ Read More ]
Today, let’s talk about life as an artist. Not the Instagram rose-tinted glasses version of reality, but the real thing.
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There are two lenses by Sony that are both interesting and curious. The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G and FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G are small, lightweight f/2.8 lenses with a limited zoom range. How do these lenses perform, and are they worth buying? Let’s find out.
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Enhancing the subject of an image is all about using the right techniques. The key tool here is masks, which allow you to control various elements of your photo with precision.
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Learning the workflow from experienced photographers can help you understand and apply various techniques effectively. Here's a seasoned photographer's landscape editing process.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Building the right wedding photography kit can be a daunting task, especially when you're just starting out. Here's what to bring for capturing those special moments without any hiccups.
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Expanding a photo in Lightroom without using Photoshop can be a real time-saver. Here's how to do it.
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Photography involves a constant evolution of techniques. Here's a look at one fascinating shoot that required a lot of ingenuity to produce fantastic results.
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As a seasoned studio strobe shooter, I put the Zhiyun Molus B Series LED lights through their paces. Transitioning from my usual larger, heavier strobe studio lights, could these be powerful enough for my needs?
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Learning how to smooth skin in Photoshop can make a significant difference in the quality of your portraits. Here's how to do it in an authentic manner.
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Whether you’re a beginner or have years of experience, this helpful video discusses six important lessons every photographer should master.
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The market for compact and lightweight tripods has exploded in recent years. Well, Falcam has decided to stir the pot with their new TreeRoot carbon fiber tripod that challenges the big leagues in a compelling way. Is it the right choice for you? It certainly offers plenty within its portable frame.
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Choosing the right lens can significantly impact the look of your images. Today, we’re looking at 35mm versus 50mm prime lenses to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
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The v-flat is an incredibly versatile tool that can elevate your headshot photography. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to maximize their versatility.
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Understanding the nuances of a well-executed photo shoot can significantly enhance your skills. This video follows a pro on a shoot and offers a mix of creativity and technique that can inspire your next photography project.
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Finding the creativity and inspiration to succeed as a premier fashion and editorial photographer is hard enough, keeping it up for more than three decades is a completely different story altogether. Rankin's new show at 180 Studios is a retrospective of Rankin's first decade of work at Dazed and Confused, one of photography's most influential magazines.
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An editing tablet can make a big difference in your workflow. Here's how to edit an image using a tablet and Photoshop.
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The choice between crop sensor and full frame depends on your needs and shooting style, making it essential to grasp how each one works.
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Popular music is getting worse, isn’t it? The reason why has an impact on your photography too.
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Making mistakes in photography is part of the learning process. Avoiding common pitfalls can help you improve faster and enjoy the journey more.
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The history and evolution of television and computer display standards is fascinating. These advancements shape how we interact with media daily, affecting everything from television broadcasts to video games.
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It's essential to develop resilience and adaptability to navigate the unpredictable nature of this industry. Success doesn't follow a linear path; it's influenced by numerous factors beyond your control.
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Photographing live music can be an amazing experience once you embrace the idea that you have no control over any of the elements in your frame. So how do you create great pictures when you have limited angles to shoot from, terrible lighting, and no control over what your subject will do next?
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Landscape photography can be tough. You’ve got the gear, the location, and the vision, but somehow, things don’t always click. This struggle is familiar to many, and understanding why it happens can be the first step to overcoming it.
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Fast lenses are essential tools in photography. They allow you to capture more light, which can make a big difference in various shooting conditions. If you're new to the craft, check out this helpful video that will show you what you need to know.
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Not every idea is golden, and not all camera systems are destined to become legends. Digital photography has always grown by leaps and stumbles.
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Clamshell lighting, often associated with glowing, high-key portraits, sees an innovative twist in Lindsay Adler's latest tutorial. This approach contrasts with traditional uses, aiming to sculpt features with stark shadows rather than soften them.
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Ripley, streaming on Netflix, is a high-contrast film noir. It is filmed in such a beautiful and meticulous way that I find myself rewinding scenes just to study everything that is going on visually and why. Lighting, camera angles and objects in a scene can tell a story without using words.[ Read More ]
The new generative remove feature in Lightroom Classic simplifies removing unwanted elements from your photos. Here's how it works.
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When you think of photography, you think of a solo pursuit. We find ourselves mostly alone when creating photographs and advancing our craft. However, consider the inspiring and motivating personal growth opportunities a photography community can provide.
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Today, Nikon has added a new lens to its lineup of Z lenses for mirrorless cameras. This time, it is the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4.
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A buyer wants to be inspired by your work and envision it on their walls. There are many variables as to why someone is purchasing a piece of art, but these three suggestions may help you make a sale.
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Using Lightroom’s object selection mask, you can target specific areas in your photos for precise adjustments. Here's how to get the most from it.
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You've probably heard that short behind-the-scenes videos can be a great marketing tool. They show potential clients what it’s like to work with you and highlight your production levels. Let's dive into how to create these videos effectively.
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You got hired to shoot your first wedding. Congratulations! It's a big day, and you might feel a bit overwhelmed, but don't worry. It's more manageable than you think.
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Many people think that their photography would improve if they could just go somewhere new and exciting. The allure of different places, unique scenery, and vibrant cultures seems like the perfect solution to breaking out of a creative rut. But is it really?
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Sigma has released its first official Canon RF mount lens, the 18-50mm f/2.8. This lens is designed for Canon's APS-C RF mount mirrorless cameras, like the R100, R50, R10, and R7. Is this as big of a deal as it seems?
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CFexpress Type A has been a bit of a niche card format compared to the bigger Type B cards. Mostly used in Sony cameras, Type A cards haven’t seen as wide availability or as high specs. However, ProGrade has just launched their Iridium line of Type A cards, which promise to take performance into the next generation.
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Understanding how to shoot in manual mode is essential for achieving creative control in your photography. This video by covers the essentials of manual mode and semi-automatic modes.
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If you're considering investing in a budget portrait lens for your Fujifilm X Mount, Nikon Z, or Sony E mount camera, there are two compelling options: the Viltrox 56mm f/1.7 and the TTArtisan 56mm f/1.8. Both lenses are affordable and perform well, but each has distinct strengths and weaknesses.
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Low- and high-angle shots play a critical role in shaping how characters and scenes are perceived in films. Understanding the nuances of these angles can improve your own work behind the camera.
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Lighting is a fundamental aspect of photography, and understanding how to manipulate it can dramatically improve your portraits.
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Shooting film can be an expensive hobby, but if you love it, there are ways to make it more affordable.
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I've been a fan of Peakto image management software since it first launched. I find it indispensable for locating photos, and it offers advanced features that are missing from the "big boys" like Adobe Lightroom. It's Mac only, which will displease some photographers, but it's been that way since the first release.
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Street photography can be intimidating, especially if you're worried about confrontation. Learning how to approach it with confidence and ease is crucial. This video provides valuable insights to make your street photography less stressful and more enjoyable.
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Although any photographer worth their salt knows there is always more to learn, they might not understand what to look for when studying great art. At first, it can seem inaccessible. So here is a first taste of what to look for and consider adopting into your photography.
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Finding moments of artistry in unwelcoming environments is a worthwhile challenge.
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The Nikon Z6 series has long been a favorite, but it was time for an update. Enter the Nikon Z6 III. This camera brings many flagship features into a more compact and accessible body, making it an exciting new option for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
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Should you use crop mode on your camera? This helpful video takes a close look.
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Macro photography, like many genres in the craft, can be expensive to attain the necessary equipment for. Nevertheless, it is possible to shoot macro imagery on a budget, as demonstrated in this video.[ Read More ]
Exploring new locations can be a rewarding experience, opening up new perspectives and inspire fresh creative ideas.
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Long exposure photography is a powerful technique in landscape photography, allowing you to capture the smooth, dynamic movement of clouds and water while keeping stationary elements sharp. One challenge we often face is dealing with moving subjects, such as boats, which can result in blurred images if not properly stabilized. Ensuring the stability of boats is crucial to achieving sharp, high-quality long exposures.
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Finding the perfect photo shoot location can make all the difference. Whether you're working outdoors or transforming your own space, the right setting can elevate your images significantly.
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Street photography is a popular genre that captures the essence of everyday life. It’s about being in the right place at the right time and having an eye for the unexpected. Here's how to create compelling images that tell a story.
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Using affordable lenses to create high-end photography results can seem challenging, but it's entirely possible with the right techniques.
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Understanding how to effectively organize and manage your photos in Lightroom Classic can streamline your workflow, especially when working with large catalogs. If you've ever struggled with keeping track of your images or knowing which ones to edit, this system could be a game-changer.
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If you’re new to Sony cameras, here are eight key tips that can save you a lot of frustration and help you harness your camera’s full potential.
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Long exposure photography is a fantastic way to enhance your skills and capture stunning images. If you're not already incorporating it into your routine, you're missing out on some great photo opportunities.
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In the last week, Instagram has been automatically labeling any photo touched by artificial intelligence tools as "Made with AI." On the surface, this sounds like a win for photographers decrying the use of AI as intellectual property theft. But in practice, the way Meta has decided to call out AI leaves little room for nuance and debate.
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Rolling shutter was more or less the only option for photographers and videographers for some time, but that's no longer the case. The question is, do you really know why a global shutter is seen as superior? Probably, even if you don't think you do.[ Read More ]
Showing now in her hometown of New York, the first major retrospective in the United States showcasing the work of the late photographer Vivian Maier. This article discusses the extraordinary story of one of the greatest photographers of the twentieth century and how her work was only discovered after her death.
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Yet another card reader to review this week, with promises that this delivers faster-than-ever transfer speeds. Today I'm testing the Dockcase DPR81F smart hub and card reader, and get this, it's got a screen attached.[ Read More ]
Portable monitors are becoming very common, especially because many more creative professionals adapt an on-the-go lifestyle. However, this feature-packed monitor might be perfect for photographers and other digital visual creatives.
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Invaluable advice on why photographers, particularly those more advanced in their careers, should reconsider the practice of spontaneous, unplanned test shoots in fashion and beauty photography.
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Peak Design has released new gear to complement its growing Travel Cube range. For traveling and adventurous photographers, they may be exactly what we need.
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Abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko and photographer and contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, though working in different mediums, exhibit strikingly similar artistic sensibilities. Both artists engage deeply with abstraction and the exploration of perception, creating works that transcend their physical forms and can evoke profound emotional and philosophical responses from viewers. Rothko is known for his large-scale color field paintings, while Sugimoto creates photographs that appear simple in approach but capture a sense of stillness in our surroundings.
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Starting out in photography can seem expensive with all the gear you need, but once you've got your equipment sorted, it becomes one of the most cost-effective hobbies. Nonetheless, it's important to keep that gear safe. Here's how.
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What if the conventional rules of composition aren't the key to great photography?
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Masahisa Fukase's eccentricity, radicalism, and experimental style have been linked with the word obsession. Western outlets often describe Fukase as a photographer obsessed with photographing his wife, ravens, and many other subjects. But did photography really destroy his life and career as many claim? There's only one way to find out.
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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.
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Peak Design just released a big bundle of new gear. That included adding two new Travel Duffels to their range. Are these a niche product or something that many traveling photographers could use?
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The Canon RP has recently become the cheapest new full frame body available at B&H. Priced at $899, it offers 26 megapixels and 4K video. This camera might seem appealing due to its price, but it's important to take a close look at its performance and see if it remains a worthy purchase in 2024.
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Continuous lighting can be a huge convenience for studio work. It offers a different experience and challenges, especially if you are used to natural light or flash. This helpful video tutorial will walk you through a simple one-light setup.
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Restoring an underexposed raw file can seem daunting, but it's possible with the right tools and techniques. Proper editing brings out the hidden details and enhances the overall quality of your images.
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Understanding how to effectively use lighting is crucial for capturing high-quality images in any setting, especially in small spaces, which is why one-light options are particularly useful.
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Looking at other artists' work can benefit your photography in many ways. From expanding your perspectives by studying different techniques and styles to simply motivating and encouraging you, there's a lot to gain.
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As cameras continue to get more powerful year by year, there comes a time when you can be limited by the type of card you use, but no more as the dawn of the CFExpress 4.0 card is here. I was sent the brand-new Exascend 1 TB Essential Pro CFExpress 4.0 Type A card, and I could not wait to take this out on a shoot.
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Is editing with a mouse good enough? Customize your workflow for both photo and video to take your editing to new heights.
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AI tools in retouching aren’t new, but it’s nice to know the current level of competence that some tools have when compared to a professional portrait retoucher. It could be a useful comparison whether you’re a photographer who wants to understand how these AI tools can speed up your workflow, or whether they’re a waste of time, or even if you’re a retoucher who wants to know what they’re up against in today’s world where fast-evolving Artificial Intelligence-assisted tools are always improving.
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The Pentax 17 is here, bringing a fresh take on film photography. This half-frame camera uses 35mm film but gives you 72 exposures per roll, giving you more shots and a unique portrait orientation when looking through the viewfinder. For film enthusiasts, this camera could offer a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy shooting.
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The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 is an exciting new release, offering big prints for fans of instant photography. This camera fills a gap left open for a decade since the last wide-format model.
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If we look at Nikon and Sony's wide-angle prime lens lineups, you'll find some significant gaps. The Viltrox 16mm f/1.8 steps up to fill some of those gaps, and it's a real winner.
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Retro never truly disappears. The Kodak Ektar H35N half-frame camera evokes memories high school parties and youth summer camps. But is this plastic fantastic or missing the mark? I ran some film through it to find out.
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Knowing how to approach and execute post-processing correctly can substantially enhance your final images. This fantastic video guide will show you how to get it done in Lightroom.
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With the release of their new Z6 III hybrid camera, has Nikon just thrown the proverbial cat among the pigeons for anybody looking for a new camera that can hold its own in both video and still photography? Based upon this first look at a pre-production Nikon Z6 III, the answer might well be yes.
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Photoshop and Capture One offer nuanced controls that address complex aspects of photo editing, such as skin retouching and precise color grading. This helpful portrait retouching tutorial will show you how to get the most out of them.
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Exploring prime lenses in can significantly refine your skills and vision. It's a path worth considering for those looking to focus on composition, visual weight, and other photographic elements without the distraction of multiple focal lengths.
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Weather can often be misleading when it comes to photography. On days that don't look promising, you might find ideal conditions for capturing stunning landscapes. Outdoor photography in unsettled weather provides distinctive opportunities to play with light and mood in your shots.
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Photographers and videographers require equipment that’s good enough to do the job. Wanting to discover whether this new solid state drive would make the grade, I put it through a series of rigorous tests.
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Working in the rain can be an exciting but challenging experience. It’s not just about the weather; it’s about how you prepare and what you look for in those conditions. Rainy days offer unique opportunities to capture reflections, colors, and moods that you wouldn't get on a sunny day.
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It hasn't been a good couple of weeks for software giant Adobe. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is suing the company for violations of U.S. consumer protection laws, what it deems "hidden termination fees" and an overly complicated process to cancel your Adobe services. The complaint centers around Adobe's Creative Cloud offering, which bundles various software products.
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You might think that an epic view will result in an epic photo, but often, it’s the elements within the view that matter more. This helpful video tutorial features that bit of wisdom along with lots more.
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Lighting and staging can transform a simple photo into something unique. Learning these techniques doesn't require complex equipment, just the right methods. This helpful video guide explores how to create stunning still life shots with simple lighting and staging.
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Creating worthwhile photos often requires overcoming various obstacles, such as finding the right location or the perfect weather. These challenges can prevent you from capturing that dream shot you've been envisioning, or you can tackle them head-on.
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The long wait is over. Today, Nikon announced a major follow-up to its Z6 line of mirrorless cameras, the brand-new Z6 III.
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The AI creations we get presented with on social media are getting increasingly ridiculous. A massive tornado over a deep canyon? Bring it on. A burning furnace of ash and embers over the coast? Yes, please. Or really? All those concoctions are missing one essential ingredient. Ok, not just one. But in this article, I'll focus on what I think is the most important piece AI images are missing.
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Photography captures the ordinary and reveals its hidden beauty. The familiar can become extraordinary through the lens of a camera.
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Is the Fujifilm X100V worth the hype? While the X100V might not offer the best specs for its price, its charm and usability can inspire photographers to shoot more and improve their skills.
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Transforming a basic image into a stunning photograph often only takes a few simple adjustments. Here's how to pull them off in Lightroom.
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Planning a landscape photography session doesn't always guarantee ideal conditions. Weather changes, plans fall through, and sometimes, the scene isn't what you expected. How you handle these situations can make a big difference in the quality of your photos.
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Hiring a photo assistant can significantly enhance your workflow. Their role is often misunderstood or underutilized, but understanding how and when to hire one can make your shoots more efficient and less stressful.
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Summer is finally here, and it's the perfect time to embark on your next photographic adventure. You've meticulously scouted locations, carefully booked your night stays, and secured that reliable rental car. But have you honestly considered all the essential gear to make your photography adventure a thrilling success?
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Here's a powerful tool for creating visually appealing and impactful images, and it all centers on the number three.
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Editing workflow can be a nuanced topic, especially as technology evolves and personal styles develop. This helpful video tutorial will show you the workflow a Lightroom pro uses.
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Ultra-wide angle lenses are beloved for their ability to capture expansive scenes. One standout option is the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM lens, and this great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it.
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Mistakes can hinder your progress, but they also provide valuable learning opportunities. Avoiding these common errors can help you grow and refine your skills.
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As the weather gets warmer, it's the perfect time to take your portrait photography outdoors. These helpful tips will improve your shots.
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As the new Star Wars series, "The Acolyte," and the latest Doctor Who hit our TV screens, there are important photography lessons we can learn from them and our other favorite productions.
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The 16-35mm wide angle zoom lens is often seen as essential for landscape photography. Its versatility makes it a staple in many photographers’ toolkits. Here's how to get the most from it.
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There are many ways to perform dodge and burn in Photoshop. But have you ever tried to introduce color into the process? Matt Shannon shows you how in this great tutorial video.
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Investing in camera lenses can be a tough decision, especially when balancing quality and cost. If you're considering Canon RF lenses, you might wonder if they're worth their high price of entry.
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Understanding sync speed is crucial if you want to master flash photography. Whether you're using studio lights or speedlights, knowing how your camera's shutter syncs with external flashes is a foundational step in working with artificial light.
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Composition in commercial photography can be a tricky landscape to navigate. It’s not as straightforward as personal or editorial work.
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Is becoming a professional photographer worth it these days, especially in 2024? I asked myself this question in 2023 every other day, as it was one of the most difficult years since I had become a professional photographer over ten years earlier.
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Portrait photography is not just about the technical details; it's about the story you tell through your lens. Let's dive into some insights from seasoned professionals that can help you elevate your portrait photography game.
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Supertelephoto lenses offer unique capabilities that can transform your photography. This fun video explores the Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM and its practical uses in different shooting environments.
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Waterfalls have been a favorite subject in my landscape photography. They are often some of the most beautiful and iconic sceneries in many national parks and mountain regions around the world.
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Have you ever wondered why some panoramas won't stitch? The problem is often parallax, and in this video, Emil von Maltitz shows an effective way to avoid it.
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Understanding camera settings is essential for capturing great sports shots in a studio setting. The right settings can make a huge difference in the quality of your images, especially when working with fast-moving subjects.
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Solid lighting technique can transform your photos from mundane to stunning, giving your images a professional edge and helping you stand out in the competitive field.
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It's easier than ever to get started with video, thanks to the great video capabilities of most cameras (and even phones!), but having the right accessories can make a huge difference. Here are some essential accessories every videographer should consider adding to their kit.
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Meanwhile, in VR news, today, Canon announced a new addition to its lens lineup, the new RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens.
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If you've watched the series Ripley on Netflix, you'll know how visually stunning the series is. Each shot is crafted with meticulous detail, and if you've also read the recent article by Kim Simpson, "The Series Every Photographer Should Be Watching" and the accompanying video, you'll understand why lighting, the use of shadow, and composition play a particular role in crafting the narrative.
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The M2 iPad Air combines intriguing specs and hardware in Apple's iPad lineup. This device is particularly compelling for those who want a high-performance tablet without opting for the more expensive Pro models.
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Improving your photography requires dedication. You need to consistently push yourself and explore new techniques. One key approach is pre-visualization, which helps you plan and anticipate your shots even before you pick up your camera.
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The Tamron 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD offers a lot of versatility at quite an affordable price. How does it hold up in practice? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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It has been a while, but the wait is about to be over. While leaving out many details, the new Z6 III is on the way.
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Sometimes, to get really inspired for photography, you can just watch someone else doing it. Now, if you're a landscape photographer, I think that's doubly true. But, beware, that usually comes with some wanderlust which can be expensive. You have been warned.[ Read More ]
Neutral density filters (ND filters) are crucial tools, reducing the amount of light entering the lens. This allows you to achieve longer exposures even in bright conditions, creating stunning effects with moving elements like water and clouds.
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Many photographers are textbook overthinkers, and while it's great to put thought into your work, too much of it can be a detriment.
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Serif’s Affinity Photo has come a long way over the years. Is it a good enough option for most photographers who want to delve into photo editing? Let’s find out.
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Becoming a full-time YouTuber — or really any content creator — is the dream of many. Although I've never had any aspirations to do it per sé, I can't deny I find myself envious at times. So, could you really do it?[ Read More ]
Digital photography in the 1990s was a wild ride, full of innovation and quirks. Here are five iconic digital cameras from the 1990s, each unique in its own way.
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Lightroom has some powerful masking tools it pays to take advantage of. This fantastic video tutorial will walk you through using some of those capabilities.
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Are you a landscape photographer wanting to start photographing wildlife? You may have the art of landscape photography figured out, but photographing wildlife is a whole other challenge. Don’t let that deter you, as this video shares several fantastic tips for getting started.
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Exploring popular photography spots can be an overwhelming experience, especially during peak seasons. If you find yourself in Japan during cherry blossom season, you'll quickly realize how crowded these places can get. Despite the chaos, there are ways to navigate and still capture stunning images.
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As far as we can recall, photography is often seen as a direct representation of reality. However, the truth is far more complex as we dive deeper to examine the underlying issue. The issue isn't just about altering reality through manipulation with Photoshop or generating images with AI. Instead, I believe our societal expectations and perceptions have fundamentally altered how we view and interpret photographs.
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Creating soft, flattering light is an essential skill for any portrait photographer. This helpful video tutorial explores the benefits and techniques of using a silk for lighting, offering a practical approach to achieving beautiful, even light.
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The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN zoom lens offers a mix of performance and versatility for those using Fujifilm cameras. This great video review takes a look at what you can expect from it in real-world usage.
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Editing photos to add life, depth, and dimension takes them from good to great, but it's important to learn how to enhance images while keeping them natural and appealing. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to do that in Lightroom.
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As landscape photographers, we shouldn't be avoiding bad weather. Instead, we should be actively seeking it out. Bad weather creates some of the most interesting and dramatic skies. It brings an atmosphere and mood to photos that simply can't be captured on sunny days with puffy clouds and blue skies.
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Under Armour's latest ad has caused outrage among many creatives due to it being produced by AI. The ad uses the likeness of famous heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua and elements that were previously filmed for Under Armour, along with AI, to produce a brand new video.
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You might be surprised to hear that in an era dominated by full-frame sensors, a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor can still pack quite a punch. If you're doubting whether this compact system can meet your demanding photography needs, it's time to reconsider.
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The Sigma SD Quattro H is a unique mirrorless camera with both strong points and drawbacks. Here's how it performs in real-world usage.
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Do the colors in your photos sometimes look wrong, but you don't know how to correct them? This article and video can help. I show you how to get brilliant colors in your images.
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Some landscape photographers enjoy getting out into nature by themselves and away from others—the introvert. Other landscape photographers enjoy heading out with others and carrying the conversation—the extrovert. Did you know you can tell which personality you are by your favorite lens?
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Natural light portraits can be stunning with the right setups, and they're simpler than you might think. This excellent video tutorial shows three easy setups that will elevate your portrait images.
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Knowing how to use light effectively is crucial for capturing portraits. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started with three easy setups.
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The Sigma Corporation, founded in 1960, has a deep history of producing innovative and daring camera lenses, which has earned them a prestigious reputation, particularly in recent years.
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Photoshop offers a vast array of tools, but not all of them are worth your time. Some are outdated, others have better alternatives. This fantastic video tutorial will show you 10 such cases.
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Determining what gear you need can be overwhelming, especially with all the advertisements pushing the latest products. As a photographer and business owner, you must figure out what works for you and what will benefit your business the most. This video focuses on making smart gear purchases and budgeting effectively.
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Integrating film photography into wedding packages can be a valuable add-on for your business. Here's how to go about it.
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As good as it feels to already know, it’s the learning that is the most fun.
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Dodging and burning is an editing technique that allows you to selectively adjust the brightness and darkness in specific areas of an image. This technique can add depth and dimension but can also lead to several common mistakes. This fantastic video tutorial will show you three common mistakes and how to fix them.
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Different sensor sizes offer unique advantages for various types of photography. Choosing the right sensor can significantly impact your shooting experience and the quality of your images. This helpful video tutorial will show you which is right for you.
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There is often a big price difference between a 20-megapixel camera and a 50-megapixel camera. Understanding the value of megapixels is essential to avoid wasting money.
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The summer season is fast approaching, and many of us are preparing to jet off on our summer vacations to destinations all over the world. Whether you are going for a beach vacation or lounging around the pool with your family, having a camera at hand is always a great way to capture those special moments.
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Understanding the latest updates to the Nik Collection is essential for anyone serious about photo editing. The Nik Collection 7, a popular suite of photo editing plugins, has seen several improvements that can significantly enhance your editing workflow.
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The Sony 300mm f/2.8 G Master lens is one of the best in the company's lineup. The standout feature is its remarkably light weight. However, there's a lot more to the lens than that, and this great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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Like reading a book, watching a movie, or listening to music, when people look at your photos, you probably want them to spend time and appreciate them. In a world where people constantly scroll and instantly forget your photos, are there ways you can have your photos noticed? Let's find out.
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If I hadn't already written an article about it a couple of years back, it would be one of my best-kept photography secrets: I often use my monitor and some bokeh shots I've made over the years as a product photography background.
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Canon has just introduced two new tools for filmmakers and videographers, the Canon EOS C400 Cinema Camera and the CINE-SERVO 17-120mm Cinema Lens.
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Canon has just announced a new lightweight glass option for photographers, the new RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM Lens.
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Creating stunning portraits even on challenging days is entirely possible with the right techniques and equipment. Understanding how to manipulate both natural and artificial light can transform your photos, giving you the control to achieve the desired effect regardless of the weather.
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Camera gear talk is probably something that we as photographers cannot resist often when we are discussing photography. Some cameras hold a special place in our hearts not just for their technical prowess but for the memories they carry. One such camera for me is the Ricoh GR.
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When it comes to finding your unique style, many might think it's hidden in a set of presets or filters. But style is much closer to home than you might realize. The question of style and how to find it is a common one, and understanding its true nature is crucial for making your work stand out.
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Transforming a bright summer photo into a moody look can dramatically change its impact. This helpful video tutorial will guide you through some techniques in Lightroom that can help you create that look.
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As photographers looking to improve our craft, we watch YouTube videos, buy online training, read articles, and maybe even take a class or two. We can pursue our quest for information and consume all of these trainings and never see a marked improvement. The key to getting better? Get those reps in.
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Landscape photography often hinges on unpredictable elements. The weather, light, and fixed positions of natural features make capturing the perfect shot a challenge. You can't move mountains or adjust the sky, but you can increase your chances of success with careful planning and the right tools.
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Low light and night photography can be challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, you can capture stunning images in any lighting. This fantastic video tutorial will show you what you need to know.
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Lightroom Classic’s survey view is an underused tool that can really speed up your photo selection process. By allowing you to compare multiple images side by side, survey view can help you quickly identify your best shots and streamline your workflow. Here’s how you can use it in your workflow.
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Having your own photographic style can make your work instantly recognizable, even if people don't know it's yours. But is this something only professional photographers need, or is it also important for hobbyists and amateurs? Let’s explore this topic and its importance for anyone who loves photography.
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Evgen Bavčar, a conceptual artist, has been crafting his unique photography for decades despite losing his sight at the age of 11. His work challenges conventional notions of visual art and highlights the power of imagination and memory.
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Whether you work with still or moving images, there’s an art to telling a story with pictures. As a movie director whose preferred medium is analog film, Christopher Nolan’s shared experience with the evolution of his own creative process is sure to resonate with photographers.
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Lightroom’s masking tools are essential for emphasizing different parts of your photos. This helpful video tutorial highlights the practical steps to improve your images by using these tools.
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Fstoppers has partnered with 5DayDeal to offer the best video bundle deal of 2024. Included are education, software, and tools from a wide of variety leaders in the industry that will help take your work to the next level. The product list is incredible this year.
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Submit Your Best Moody ImagesWelcome to another Critique the Community contest! Each month, Fstoppers is challenging our community to submit their best photographs for our Critique the Community show, and three lucky winners will win a variety of photography related prizes.
For the month of May, we want to see your best "moody lighting" images. Your photos can be from any genre of photography including landscapes, portraits, architecture, or still life but it must portray a moody, smokey, mysterious, or...
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There are many things to consider in order to capture great photos. You need to know about exposure, composition, and how to operate the camera. It’s easy to get on the wrong track, which can introduce confusion and disappointing results. Here are some tips for beginning photographers.
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Sigma is known for making high-quality lenses, and they’ve just added another world’s first to their lineup: the Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art lens. This new full frame lens not only delivers a constant f/1.8 aperture throughout the entire zoom range, but it also delivers incredible sharpness and clarity throughout, similar to a high-quality prime lens. This versatile zoom is perfect for a variety of shooting scenarios.
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Knowing what not to photograph can be just as important as knowing what to capture. This helpful video tutorial will show you the importance of being discerning.
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Want to get great commercial, headshot photos using the Canon R5 and the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM lens? The following advice will help you produce the best professional headshots and show you how to interact with your clients for stunning, natural results.
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There are good reasons why monochrome photography is compelling. Let’s look at what makes a captivating black-and-white photograph and what doesn’t work. Also, why Nik 7 SilverEfex is possibly the best tool for converting color images.
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Hard light, when used effectively, can transform your photos from good to stunning by adding drama and depth. It’s a challenge, but learning to control and manipulate this type of lighting can significantly improve your portraits.
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Do you find yourself always leaning heavily on certain composition tricks that you learned as you were developing your photographic skills? Sure, they might make your more mediocre shots a little better, but casting off these creative crutches can be the first step towards making great photographs.
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Capturing someone's essence is more about the interaction between you and your subject than the technical aspects of your camera. People’s expressions and body language reveal their comfort level, which will significantly impact your photos.
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Taking your photography seriously is essential if you want to turn it into a fulfilling career. For many, photography starts as a hobby, but with dedication and the right approach, it can evolve into a professional pursuit. This helpful video tutorial offers a lot of useful advice for your journey.
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Finding interesting subjects to photograph can be challenging. This is where the WAKE system comes into play. z
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OWC’s Atlas line of memory products, which includes SDXC, CFexpress Type A and B models, and high-performance readers, isn’t cheap. However, they promise leading performance and integration with their Innergize card management system. But can users really make use of all that performance? In this review, I’ll take a look at the ecosystem and test out all the features.
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Elton John and his husband David Furnish have collected over 7,000 pieces of fine art photography over the past thirty years.
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Editing a landscape image is not just about enhancing the picture, but about bringing out its full potential. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to do just that using Lightroom.
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Lightroom can be a deceptively complex program. If you are new to the program, check out this helpful video tutorial that shares a lot of useful tips and tricks.
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Street photography can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. By mastering a few essential techniques, you can significantly improve your skills and capture more compelling images.
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Panasonic's new Lumix S9 is certainly stealing the headlines as far as the company's camera launches go, but less talked about is the incredibly odd lens that launched with the camera, the one that's featured in many of the camera's beauty shots: The Lumix S 26mm f/8 lens.
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If you’re thinking of buying your first flash, the Godox Lux Elf might just be the perfect choice. This new flash is easy to use and priced competitively. It’s compatible with a wide range of cameras, including Fujifilm, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, and even film cameras.
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The Canon VR system, combined with Apple Vision Pro, offers an innovative way to capture and experience special moments. Is it the future of wedding videos?
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The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens is a game-changer for anyone looking to capture wildlife, sports, or distant subjects without breaking the bank. This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Working as a photographer for over a decade has helped me realize one important thing: I hate editing photos. I absolutely love every aspect of being a photographer, except for the editing. This is why Aftershoot has been incredibly useful to me.
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Capturing the ethereal beauty of bluebells in the early morning mist brings a unique challenge and reward.
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Balancing work and personal life can be challenging, especially when you're passionate about your career. Nonetheless, finding that balance is crucial for longevity as a photographer.
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In the days when film was king and gasoline cost less than 50 cents a gallon, photographer Rick McCloskey captured a vibrant car culture on the streets of LA in glorious black and white. Equal parts art and historical record, McCloskey’s work is a visual feast for street and film photographers alike.
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Creating great images doesn't always require complex setups. Sometimes, all you need is a single strobe and a bit of creativity.
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The Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR lens brings improvements that make it highly competitive in today’s market. How does it compare to other top-performing portrait lenses?
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Editing sunrise photos can be tricky, but it’s crucial to bring out those beautiful colors and dynamic range. This helpful video guide will walk you through how to use Lightroom to enhance your raw files, focusing on creating a balanced and vibrant image.
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Building a profitable photography business involves more than just taking great pictures. It requires strategy, versatility, and sometimes thinking outside the box. Here are five essential tips to help you grow your business effectively.
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Medium format cameras offer unique advantages, but are they worth the investment? The photographer took the Fujifilm GFX 100 II to Iceland to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
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Sigma’s newest Art series lens, the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II, takes the winning formula of its predecessor and dials it up a notch, boasting significant advancements in sharpness, autofocus speed, and overall handling. The lens isn’t content with simply meeting the high expectations set by the original; it surpasses them, delivering exceptional image quality that will impress even the most critical photographers.
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When it comes to high-end cameras, the Leica SL3 stands out due to its cutting-edge features and impressive build quality. This new flagship model from Leica aims to cater to professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of advanced technology and the classic Leica feel.
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Shooting tethered can be useful for so many things, from having a better screen to view an image on, to being able to record what your camera sees for real behind-the-scenes footage. In this video, Jiggie Alejandrino shows you how he does it and how valuable it can be.[ Read More ]
Mastering the art of studio lighting can elevate your portrait photography. This helpful video will walk you through a pratical setup and shoot.
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Living in a small town with a passion for street photography can be challenging. How do you make great images in a place that feels uninspiring? Instead of giving up, you can develop the skills to create worthwhile photographs even in seemingly boring locations.
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Printing quality photos at home can be challenging. It's essential to understand your equipment and materials to ensure you get the best results. Let's explore what makes a printer suitable for photo printing and how to avoid common pitfalls.
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If long exposures are preferred, there are limits to how far you can go unless you wait for darkness. The best alternative is a neutral density filter, which allows the desired long exposure at any time of day. Whatever you do, don’t use a variable neutral density filter for photography.
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Mastering your lighting setup is crucial for confidence as a wedding photographer. Having the right gear can make all the difference in both efficiency and quality.
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Getting sharp landscape photos in blustery conditions is a challenge, but it's essential for capturing the beauty of nature in all its moods. These tips will help you improve.
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Wet weather can be a test of resilience and creativity. Rainy days might not be what you planned, but they offer unique opportunities to capture the landscape in a different light.
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Wedding photography can be a rewarding yet challenging profession. Here's what you need to know about navigating the world of wedding photography, based on valuable insights gained over a decade in the industry.
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The new 13-inch iPad Pro M4, paired with the Apple Magic Keyboard and the new Pencil Pro, offers a compelling package for users considering it as their primary computer. Priced at nearly $2,500, it prompts the question: Can the iPad Pro finally replace a traditional computer in 2024?
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Most cameras have at least one exclusive attribute, and the OM System Cameras have more than most. Its ever-expanding “Live” collection contains some of its unique computational photography features. Let’s dive into five of its tools to find out what they do and how you can use them.
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In this in-depth review of the Lumix S9, we explore the newest addition to Lumix’s camera lineup from the vibrant streets of Osaka, Japan.
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Enhancing a sunset sky in an image can make a significant difference, bringing out vibrant colors and warm tones that captivate the viewer. Here's how to do it.
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Choosing the right gear can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available at varying price points. It's essential to consider whether to invest in expensive, well-known brands or to opt for more affordable alternatives.
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Exploring new places with your camera can be incredibly fulfilling, especially when you’re trying to capture unique moments and invigorating shots.
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Adding infrared emulation to your landscape images can create a unique and striking effect. This tutorial demonstrates how to transform a regular landscape photo into one that mimics the ethereal qualities of infrared photography using only Lightroom Classic.
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You don’t really expect so much out of ridiculously cheap lenses. However, every once in a while, a budget lens comes along that may surprise you. This might be one of those lenses.
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Lightroom has always been a powerful tool, but it’s had its limitations. One major challenge has been removing distractions from photos without switching to Photoshop. Adobe's recent update introduces a game-changing feature: the generative AI erase tool. This tool simplifies the process, allowing you to handle more within Lightroom itself.
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When you're shooting sports, knowing the game is key. It's about anticipating the action and being ready to capture those peak moments. Timing is everything, and the better you know the sport, the more consistently you'll make great pictures.
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On a wedding day, you will face a variety of challenges that are beyond your control. From lighting issues to rushed timelines, these difficulties can create editing nightmares. This helpful video will show you how to fix five common issues in Lightroom.
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If you're considering trying out pinhole photography, the Ilford Obscura 4x5 might pique your interest. This camera offers a unique shooting experience and can produce images with distinctive character.
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The increasing popularity of film presets has sparked a surge in the availability of preset packs and software designed to emulate specific looks, such as color palettes or film stocks. These presets are appealing for their ability to quickly transform the appearance of your photos, but there's an argument to be made for creating your own. Developing your own presets allows for a more personalized and accurate reflection of the visual style you admire.
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I have spent much (digital) ink on how great a camera the Panasonic GM1 is, even in 2024. Someone at Panasonic must think so too, because the new S9 looks like it’s channeling big GM1 energy, and that’s an awesome thing.
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There are some common mistakes many new photographers make. This helpful video tutorial details three of them and how to correct them to improve your shots.
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Balancing photography and enjoying nature can transform your creative process. Staying flexible and open to spontaneous moments can lead to exceptional photographs.
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Understanding how to use ambient light and flash together can greatly improve your versatility. Natural light conditions are unpredictable, and knowing how to work with them can make or break your shoot.
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Compact cameras have been fighting for relevance in a market dominated by smartphones. One camera that made a significant impact is the Sony RX100. Why did it leave such a mark on the industry?
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Shooting street photography can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to find your own voice and style. This fantastic video tutorial offers seven tips sure to help you improve.
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Having a photo agent can help propel your photography career to new heights. What exactly do you need to do to get one?
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Sometimes you don’t have to look far and wide for artistic inspiration. Oftentimes the answer you seek is right around the corner.
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Exposing for the highlights is age-old advice in landscape photography. However, that technique can cause other areas of the photograph to be underexposed. You can always use the exposure slider in Lightroom to increase the exposure, but is that really the best way to fix the exposure in the image?
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Could you imagine uploading a few selfies to a random website and having it generate hundreds of naked photos of you? That sounds terrifying. Today, let's talk about how AI could upend various photography genres and why boudoir photography will be one of the exceptions.
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Almost anyone can remove acne or wrinkles in a photo, but retouching a face video used to be a monumental task... until now.[ Read More ]
Woodland photography is hard enough for landscape photographers, but what about when there isn’t any fog? Fog is the cheat code for this type of photography, but do you just need to head home when there isn’t any fog? We find out in this video.
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Vintage-inspired fashion photography brings a timeless elegance that resonates with many enthusiasts. Understanding how to create such imagery while maintaining a modern twist can elevate your work. This video will take you behind the scenes of a vintage-inspired photoshoot, emphasizing the importance of concept, lighting, and post-processing.
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Do you think about improving the contents of your kit bag? It’s expensive, so is it worth it? Let’s talk about upgrading your gear, or not.
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In a thought-provoking TED Talk, artist-photographer Felisa Tan takes us on a journey through her life and the profound lessons she has learned through photography. With over 15 years behind the camera, Tan’s insights offer a unique perspective on how photography can help us appreciate life’s beauty and complexity. Her poetic narrative, paired with captivating images, challenges our preconceptions about photography and invites us to explore universal truths often overlooked in our daily lives.
Tan begins by sharing her early struggles with understanding her place in the world, a...
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In today’s world of social media and YouTube, it is easy to think every time a photographer goes out, they come back home with portfolio-ready images. If you begin to believe this, it can impact your own landscape photography. This video looks at the real truth behind landscape photography.
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Skylum has news that will be of high interest to portrait photographers. It's an announcement of a dedicated app code-named "Project Barcelona." It's an app designed for professionals to enhance portrait retouching.
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File formats matter. The type of file you use for saving and editing your photos can significantly impact your workflow and final image quality. From JPEGs to raw files, understanding the differences can help you make better decisions for your photography and workflow.
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Mastering photography requires not just technical skills, but also a keen eye for opportunities and the right mindset. One key piece of advice can significantly impact your approach to photography, the famous: "f/8 and be there." This concept emphasizes the importance of being present and ready to capture moments, regardless of perfect conditions.
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We are almost 48 hours from the latest Critique the Community photo contest. The theme for this month's contest is "Unique Lighting" and the prizes include several new products from the lighting company Profoto.
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Imagine heading to a photo shoot and noticing afterward that most images you took are partially out of focus. You are sure you set the focus right, and the depth of field in the photos is also sufficient. The problem might be a decentered lens.
Half of the lenses I bought in the past 15 years were decentered. At first, I didn't know of that problem. The first wide angle lens I got from Canon required focus-stacking all the time. Since I mostly shot landscapes, it wasn't clear to me that this was due to a problem with the lens and not because of the topography of the landscape or the...
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Getting high-quality portraits without spending a fortune is a common goal. The Astrhori 85mm f/1.8 lens, priced at under $300, offers a budget-friendly option. Let's see if it delivers the quality you need.
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Astrophotography presents unique challenges and opportunities, making the choice of lens critical. This helpful video will show you some of the best options for Canon users.
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Understanding how to manipulate light direction is crucial for creating compelling portraits. The direction and quality of light can dramatically alter the mood and depth of an image, and this helpful video tutorial will show you how to harness those properties to maximize your image quality and creative vision.
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Have you tried is the "The World’s Greatest Photo Game" from GuruShots? They offer challenges all the time and allow photographers of every level to submit and participate. Their latest challenge "Photogenic Pursuits," received thousands of entries and millions of votes. You can see the three winners of the challenge as well as hundreds of top rated images below.
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As a wedding and sports photographer, reliability and speed are at the top of my list when choosing media cards. I've tested many different brands and various-sized cards in the past, so how did the Exascend 1 TB CFexpress stack up when put under pressure?
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The Hasselblad 907X is a unique camera that stands out for its distinct features and the creative freedom it offers. This fun video takes a look at why its users love it.
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The Lenovo Legion 7i, touted as Lenovo's best-looking laptop, has garnered attention for its sleek design and performance capabilities. This model stands out with its white color and brushed aluminum edges, offering a premium feel that sets it apart from its predecessors in tandem with the power creatives demand.
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Wide angle prime lenses are a must-have for many photographers, offering a useful perspective for landscape, architectural, and even portrait photography. Finding a lens that delivers both quality and value can be challenging, but this lens seems to check all the right boxes.
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Today, Adobe brings its popular Firefly Generative AI technology to Lightroom in the form of Generative Remove and Lens Blur. These features will be available in all Lightroom incarnations, including the mobile app, desktop app, and web browser versions.
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I’m here to talk about the best way to whisk away your couples for some relaxed portraits on their wedding day and get some natural photos of the two of them together.
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The Fujica G690BL, also known as the "Texas Leica," is a unique camera that has long intrigued many enthusiasts due to its blend of medium format quality and rangefinder ease of use. The camera stands out for its practical design, which was a response to the needs of commercial photographers in Japan who required a balance between image quality and manageable frame counts for quick development. Even today, it's a fun oddity that's worth a look.
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The belief that good photographers must consistently produce great photos is a myth that can hinder your growth. This notion implies that every shot must be perfect, discouraging experimentation and risk-taking, which are essential for artistic development. Understanding that not every photo needs to be a masterpiece is crucial for evolving your skills and creativity and enjoying the craft.
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The shifting patterns of nature provide unique opportunities. This year’s unusual weather has created an overlapping bloom of bluebells and wild garlic, presenting a rare and visually rich scene. For enthusiasts, these unexpected changes in seasonal flora offer fresh challenges and rewards.
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The Great Plains offer some of the most extreme and jaw-dropping weather on Earth, and those who venture there with their camera are rewarded with some of the most unique and stunning images possible. We interviewed Paige Vincent, a photographer capturing those phenomena.
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Creating a professional photography studio at home can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be. This helpful video tutorial shows you how to create stunning portraits in a small home studio using minimal equipment.
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Planning is a crucial part of landscape photography, often being the foundation of a truly compelling image. Proper planning can make the difference between an average shot and a keeper. This tutorial focuses on how to effectively plan your shots, particularly how to predict weather conditions to enhance your landscape photos.
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Getting the perfect shot with a large format camera can be tricky, but the results are worth it. The combination of a large negative and precise control over focus and depth of field can create stunning images.
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Microsoft's recent refresh of its Surface line marks a significant shift in the laptop market with the introduction of new models powered by Qualcomm chips. These ARM-based processors promise efficiency and improved battery life, addressing a long-standing issue for Windows laptops.
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Truly affordable macro lenses, especially for hobbyists who are just starting out, are tough to find. The Pergear 60mm Macro lens promises magnification beyond the standard 1x reproduction ratio, but at just $200, can it really deliver usable results? In this hands-on review, I’ll test out this lens and take a detailed look at its performance.
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Sony’s decision to open their full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras to third-party lens manufacturers has led to a thriving market with a variety of options. Among these, three standard zoom lenses stand out: the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II, and the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2. These lenses are popular because they offer a versatile zoom range and a bright maximum aperture, making them ideal for various shooting scenarios, including low-light situations and achieving smooth bokeh.
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Getting the right look for a portrait often depends on more than just the subject. Backgrounds are essential, and minimalist backgrounds can be a great way to create striking images that emphasize the subject.
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Filters are simple tools, but as our workflow becomes more intent-driven, the use and efficiency of these simple tools become more crucial than expected. Filters are helpful tools, but in a fast-paced situation, they can cause delays or even failures. This simple solution might prevent that.
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Understanding your camera settings can dramatically improve your photography. Many photographers believe that shooting in manual mode is the only way to achieve professional results, but this video argues that this is not always the case.
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Getting the most out of your film photography endeavors often means striking a balance between quality and cost. Kodak Gold 200 is a film stock that offers a compelling combination of affordability and pleasing results, particularly when shooting in 120 format.
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As a photographer, you’re likely driven by passion and a desire to capture compelling images. However, the path to a thriving photography career is often paved with challenges and frustrations. Understanding and navigating these pitfalls can significantly contribute to your success.
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Woodland photography, while rewarding, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to shooting and bagging some banger shots. From intricate compositions to unpredictable lighting conditions, capturing the flow of forests requires skill, patience, and adaptability. For this article, I want to dive into the reasons why woodland photography is considered difficult and explore methods to overcome these obstacles.
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Have you ever taken a time-lapse with your phone and been... underwhelmed? They can look choppy, gritty, and far from the professional-quality videos you can produce using a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Well, a solution may, quite literally, be in hand.[ Read More ]
A fast standard zoom lens can be one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in a photographer's kit. Covering a popular zoom range and offering a wide maximum aperture, lenses like the new Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN ART II are ideal for a variety of photographic applications.
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It's going to be an exciting year for Canon fans, with the EOS R5 Mark II and EOS R1 expected to be fully announced. And to hold you over until the EOS R5 Mark II is announced, here are some rumored specifications.
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There are very few professions where you get to shoot zombies for a living, but production photography is one of them. If you’ve ever wondered what production photographers do and whether you might like to try it for yourself, then read on because this article was written just for you.
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Composition is crucial in landscape photography because it's one of the few aspects a photographer has complete control over. Understanding how to arrange elements within the frame can significantly elevate a photograph from average to extraordinary.
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Adobe Lightroom has continued to become more powerful over the years. If it has been a while since you have used Lightroom, you might be surprised at how far it has come. Masking is an area where the software has greatly improved, including a tool that could have been called the Mask Anything tool.
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Lightroom is an indispensable tool for many photographers. Here are seven hidden features you might have missed.
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Getting sued is a photographer's worst nightmare. Understanding the legal side of photography, including contracts, insurance, and copyright, can protect your business and give you peace of mind. This helpful video will get you started.
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It’s daunting buying a new camera. Some cameras have features that others don’t, and they are often things that photographers only realize they haven’t got after they have spent their money. Here are some features to consider when deciding what camera to buy.
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If you’re a photographer looking for inspiration, look no further. This article dives into the life and work of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and how his dramatic use of light and shadow can revolutionize your photography techniques.
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The Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, near Sharpsburg, Maryland, was a pivotal engagement during the American Civil War and remains the single bloodiest day in American military history, with over 22,000 casualties. The battle also prompted President Abraham Lincoln to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, shifting the focus of the war to one of emancipation and forever altering its course.
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Sigma has built a solid reputation for its commitment to innovation and excellence in its ever-increasing range of photography lenses. The Contemporary series offers a very high-quality glass and price-friendly option for all photographers.
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Quite possibly the most basic gear you can get for shooting nice portraits is a 50mm lens on a crop body camera. This combination of fast prime and smaller sensor creates almost the ideal conditions for this type of photography. So, how do some of the options in the field stack up?
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Lighting is a crucial aspect of photography, often making or breaking a shoot. Understanding how to manipulate light effectively is essential. This video details a challenging scenario that was transformed into a valuable lesson on lighting techniques.
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Mastering photography is not solely about technical skills but also about cultivating a creative vision. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources is crucial for developing a unique style and staying motivated. This insightful explores how you can harness creativity and inspiration to elevate your photography.
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Creating custom presets in Lightroom Classic can significantly streamline your editing workflow, especially for repetitive tasks like enhancing eye details in portraits. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to create your own.
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If you're tired of struggling to get the "right" look on your still images, Dehancer is coming to the rescue with a solid plug-in for Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, Affinity Photo, and Capture One. It's available for Mac and Windows.
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Fujifilm recently held an event in NYC for photographers to gain hands-on time with their two most recent camera releases. Fstoppers was there, and we are pleased to provide you with three downloadable raw image files from each camera.
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When it comes to lighting in portraiture, there are many ways to skin a cat, but sometimes, the best way is not to go any direction all-out, but rather to blend different approaches. In this video, see the merits of subtle lighting.[ Read More ]
So which are you—a photographer or a videographer? In an age when you can do serious work in still and video capture using only a single hybrid camera like the Panasonic Lumix S5IIX that is capable of knocking it out of the park in both, your answer can now be “All of the above!”
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What do you get when you pair an industry titan in creative beauty images with a campaign promoting psoriasis awareness? You get images you're anxiously curious to see, and an interview you want to watch. For the lucky New Yorkers, you also get the perfect outing for this weekend. I sat down with Adler to talk about the “Clearly Me” campaign she shot, which will be on display this weekend at Nine Line Galleries, NYC. If you follow my writing, you know we took rabbit trails into all kinds of tangents that will keep you learning, laughing, and hopefully leave you inspired with takeaways that will apply to your own photographic journey.
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Aside from being an entertaining series with a great cast, this article discusses why the stunning new Netflix series “Ripley” is a must-watch for photographers.
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Wedding photography is a demanding yet rewarding field, and it requires photographers to constantly adapt and evolve to stay fresh and inspired. Maintaining creativity while avoiding burnout is crucial for long-term success.
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Expanding your camera’s dynamic range with Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) can drastically improve image quality. Human eyes can see a wider dynamic range than cameras, so we need to use techniques like AEB to capture more detail in high-contrast scenes.
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Everybody wants a clean and organized desk, and this is possible even if you use a lot of tools for editing. This docking station might be a good option if you like to keep things simple.
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The Orton glow effect gives landscape photos a soft, ethereal quality that draws viewers in. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to create it in Lightroom.
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Using open shade can transform your outdoor photography by providing soft, directional light without the need for complex lighting setups. This technique leverages natural light to create stunning images with minimal equipment, making it a great skill to master.
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When you are trying to build yourself into the artist you want to be, a little ordinary can help you do the extraordinary.
As I’m sitting down to write this, I’ve just had a quick peek over at the clock in the upper right-hand corner of my screen. It has just rounded 5:43 am, and I’ve already been at work long enough to have long forgotten about the sleep I wiped from my eyes when I rolled out of bed. To some, this might seem like an early time. Others might be wondering why I slept in so late. The exact time on the clock isn’t important. What is important is that this is all part...
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Mastering studio portrait photography requires adapting to controlled environments and understanding how to manipulate lighting and equipment effectively. The transition from outdoor to indoor photography can be challenging, but it offers unique opportunities to refine your skills and produce high-quality images consistently.
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The release of the Fujifilm X100VI has many photographers wondering if the 23mm f/2 lens can keep up with the demands of a 40 MP APS-C sensor. This excellent video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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Sigma’s flagship lens is evolving with the new 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art for L-Mount and Sony E-mount mirrorless systems. Fully redesigned to take advantage of the latest technologies and improve image quality throughout the entire zoom range, the lens is lighter and smaller than its previous incarnation and boasts some serious features.
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Photographing wildflowers presents unique challenges and rewards. Getting the perfect shot requires understanding light, composition, and the delicate nature of the subjects.
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Fujifilm has just announced its sixth medium format mirrorless camera. The 102-megapixel GFX 100S II is a successor to the wildly popular, compact GFX 100S. Along with the body, Fujifilm has released the GF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR, an incredibly long medium format telephoto perfect for wildlife!
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Having a zoom lens trinity is the most common approach to making sure that you have all the necessary ranges covered. But what if one lens can let you significantly lessen the amount of gear you bring?
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Depth of field is a fundamental concept that can dramatically impact the quality and storytelling of your images. It's not just about blurring the background; it's about thoughtfully controlling what elements are in focus and how they relate to each other within the frame.
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Lighting can make or break a shoot, especially when it comes to commercial beauty photography. Having a go-to lighting setup that you can rely on will streamline your workflow and ensure consistent, high-quality results for your clients.
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DSLRs offer photographers numerous advantages in 2024, and the availability of high-quality DSLRs at affordable prices, coupled with a vast selection of lenses, makes them an attractive option for photographers seeking exceptional value.
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The Fujifilm XF 35mm f/1.4 R, despite its age, remains a popular choice for many. This informative video takes a look at why.
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White balance is a fundamental image property that can dramatically affect the mood and overall look of a shot. While achieving a technically neutral white balance is important for accurate color representation, many photographers also use white balance creatively to enhance the artistic impact of their images.
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An external recorder can be a good choice for video. Such a recorder has no use for photography, but it can function as an external screen. Since you don’t need the recording option, there are some affordable possibilities as well. Perhaps an external screen can be of benefit for your photography?
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Isolating your subject is a key technique that can dramatically improve your images. It helps draw the viewer's eye to the most important part of the picture, creating a more engaging and impactful photograph. Whether you're shooting portraits, landscapes, or product photography, mastering this technique can elevate your work.
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The new Fujifilm X100VI is going to be a best-seller, that's for sure. But despite how popular modern cameras can become, there are still plenty of features that aren't common knowledge, and the X100VI is no exception.[ Read More ]
There’s an often misleading rule quoted that amateurs use auto and professional photographers use manual mode. Balderdash! It should be replaced with professional photographers can use manual mode, but many use the mode that is most likely to get them the shot.
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Color plays a crucial role in photography, influencing the mood, atmosphere, and overall impact of your images. Achieving color harmony within your compositions can elevate your work and create a visually pleasing experience for viewers. A little work in Photoshop can get you closer.
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Springtime often inspires photographers to capture the vibrant colors of blooming wildflowers. While the allure of colorful floral photography is undeniable, there's a unique beauty in exploring wildflowers through the lens of black and white. By stripping away color, you can focus on the intricate textures, shapes, and forms of these delicate subjects, revealing a different dimension of their character.
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We've already reviewed several power stations that allow you to power your gear on the road or even your office at home. The solar generator we show you today goes beyond that. The Mango Power E has sufficient power and capacity for energy-hungry studios and demanding productions.
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Composition is a crucial element in photography, often separating a good photo from a truly captivating one. While understanding camera settings is essential, developing your eye for composition can elevate your images and help you create a unique style.
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Viltrox has stepped up to the plate with their affordable AF 16mm f/1.8 autofocus lens, now available for Nikon Z and Sony E mount cameras. This full-frame lens offers a compelling combination of features, making it an attractive option for a variety of photographic applications.
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Bird photography is arguably the most demanding genre. The equipment quality, the photographer's camera skills, and their ability to create a narrative are pushed far beyond any other genre. Here’s what I discovered about cameras, lenses, and bird photography.
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There are some hidden tools and techniques in Lightroom that can transform your images. This helpful video tutorial explores five essential Lightroom tips from a seasoned pro.
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Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your photographic journey, continuous learning and growth are crucial for success. This helpful video tutorial will put you on the right track.
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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.
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Shutter speed is a fundamental concept in photography, influencing not only the brightness of your images but also the way motion is depicted. Understanding how to manipulate shutter speed is crucial for capturing sharp images of moving subjects or creating intentional blur for artistic effect.
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As technology in photography continues to evolve at a rapid pace, many photographers find themselves grappling with the implications of these advancements. While some embrace the new tools and possibilities, others express concerns about the potential impact on the art form itself.
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Distorted portraits are all the rage in fashion photography at the moment, with elongated body proportions. Take it one step further by using highly reflective mylar during your next photoshoot. This article explains all you need to know to achieve this effect.
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As a photographer, efficiency in post-processing is crucial to your workflow. Spending less time editing means more time shooting, marketing your business, or simply enjoying your life outside of photography. Thankfully, tools like the TourBox Light can significantly expedite your editing process, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your work.
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The ability to manipulate and control light is a fundamental skill for any photographer, especially when working with natural light in outdoor portrait settings. Understanding how to shape and modify sunlight allows you to create dimension, depth, and mood.
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I’ve often said there’s not a bad camera on the market today. At this point, that logic is starting to apply to 360 cameras as well. Though there are no bad cameras — and the PanoX V2 is included in that — there are also cameras that may be more worth your hard-earned money.
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In the world of digital photography, our discussion topic has always revolved around equipment, software tricks, and tips for getting better images. But deep down, we should know that data management discipline after every shoot is also crucially important. After all, what is there to edit and publish if there is mishandling of our photo files?
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As a photographer, you understand the importance of capturing sharp, detailed images. But have you ever considered how the capabilities of the human eye influence the technology we use to create and view those images?
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As photographers, we often find ourselves searching for inspiration and fresh perspectives. Stepping outside of our comfort zones and exploring new environments can be the key to unlocking creativity and pushing our boundaries.
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In today’s article, I’ll have a look at the latest version of the Dehancer plugin for DaVinci Resolve.
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Street photography is one of the most revered genres of the craft, with a rich history and some of the most famous images ever taken. But, it's not an easy genre to master, so here are five tips for composing the frame.[ Read More ]
Hasselblad has unveiled its latest medium format prime lens that is pitched at night and astrophotography, but is it far more than that? Is the 25V the new king of the wide angle medium format lenses?[ Read More ]
It’s always fun to take pictures of a waterfall. It doesn’t matter if the waterfall is small or huge. The movement of the water, the mist around it, and the patterns in the water are amazing subjects to capture. I have 10 suggestions for a variety of creative waterfall photos.
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The Fujifilm X100 series has garnered a cult following, and the X100VI is the latest iteration to capture the hearts of photography enthusiasts. But is it all hype, or does this camera truly live up to its reputation?
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Taking stunning portraits goes beyond technical skills; it's about understanding human connection and capturing the essence of your subject. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting, refining your portrait skills is crucial for creating impactful images.
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Understanding the fundamentals of photography is crucial for capturing worthwhile images. While technical aspects like camera settings and equipment are important, developing a keen eye for light, composition, and storytelling is what truly elevates your photography.
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Apple has once again raised the bar with the unveiling of its latest iPad Pro, boasting a revolutionary display, the powerful M4 chip, and innovative features designed to empower creative professionals and casual users alike. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, the new iPad Pro is thinner and lighter than ever before, making it the most portable iteration of Apple's flagship tablet to date.
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Apple has just announced a significant update to its popular iPad Air line, introducing a redesigned 11-inch model and an all-new 13-inch option. This marks the first time the iPad Air is available in two sizes, catering to users who prefer a more portable device and those who desire a larger canvas for work and creativity. Both models boast impressive upgrades, including the powerful M2 chip, enhanced AI capabilities, a landscape-oriented front camera, and faster Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
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The TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 lens is a budget-friendly portrait lens designed for APS-C cameras. Although it only costs $158, don't let the price fool you because this inexpensive lens packs quite a punch in terms of quality and performance.
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Apple has introduced their latest Silicon, the M4 chip. This powerful system-on-a-chip (SoC) is set to debut in the newly redesigned iPad Pro, promising a significant leap in performance and capabilities. Built using a cutting-edge 3-nanometer process, the M4 chip boasts impressive power efficiency while delivering remarkable speed and functionality.
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Truly harnessing the power of monochrome requires intention and a deep understanding of light and shadow. The Leica M11 Monochrom, a dedicated black and white camera, presents a compelling option for photographers seeking to explore this art form, albeit at a very high price. Is it worth that cost?
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The title of this article sounds like the nichest of films — albeit one I'd gladly watch — but it's actually the premise of a photographer who took some of the best travel cameras money can buy on a trip to pit them against one another.[ Read More ]
The Nik Collection, a set of seven photo editing tools, has just received a version number update. Version 7 brings with it primarily speed and workflow improvements, but is that enough to justify a whole new upgrade? In this review, I’ll discuss the new features, improvements, and even a surprise missing feature of this venerable editing suite.
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The ability to craft stunning portraits isn't solely determined by the size of your studio or the expense of your equipment. In fact, with a bit of ingenuity and understanding of light, you can achieve professional-quality results in a limited space using just a single speedlight. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how.
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As photographers, we often find ourselves searching for inspiration to fuel our creativity and improve our craft. This pursuit of inspiration can be both exciting and challenging, regardless of where we are in our photographic journey. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, finding ways to stay motivated and passionate about photography is crucial for long-term growth and enjoyment.
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Choosing a new camera can be overwhelming, especially with the constant emphasis on megapixels in marketing materials. While more megapixels generally translate to more detail, it's crucial to understand how they impact your photography and whether a higher megapixel count truly aligns with your needs.
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For Nikon Z mount users seeking an affordable prime lens, the Viltrox 40mm f/2.5 is an intriguing option. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Every once in a while, a piece of gear becomes an instant classic. The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R carries that title with pride and deservedly so! I have been using it for nearly a decade and cannot recommend it enough. It's a brilliant lens with flaws that are easy to ignore.
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The ability to transform a raw image into a final piece is a crucial skill for any landscape photographer. If you're new to editing your images and need a little guidance, check out this fantastic video tutorial.
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Vintage lenses have long been celebrated for their unique character and cinematic charm, captivating photographers and Hollywood filmmakers alike in recent years. Can a modern Chinese lens give the classic Soviet Helios a run for its money?
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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.
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Have you heard the buzz? Sony just unveiled the Sony a9 III, boasting the groundbreaking feature of being the first full frame camera equipped with a global shutter. This technological leap has sent shockwaves through the photography industry, but it's also sparked a flurry of questions, particularly regarding its compatibility with flash and whether it outperforms high-speed sync. But before we delve into that, let's demystify what a global shutter is and how it revolutionizes flash photography.
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Tamron is one of the most well-respected lens brands out there, offering a variety of options at great prices. One such option is the 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2, and this great video review takes a look at what you can expect from it.
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Achieving tack-sharp focus is a fundamental skill every photographer strives for. Whether you're capturing portraits, landscapes, or fast-paced action, understanding the causes of blur and how to avoid them is crucial for creating impactful images.
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Viltrox is rapidly gaining a reputation as the photography world's champion of affordability, consistently delivering lenses that defy their price tags with impressive performance. One of their latest offerings, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, specifically designed for Fujifilm X Series cameras, is no exception. This lens boasts an incredibly wide f/1.2 aperture paired with a versatile 75mm focal length, making it an enticing option for portrait, wedding, and low-light photographers.
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As a photographer, you're always looking for ways to expand your creative toolbox and capture unique images. One way to achieve this is by using lenses with special characteristics, like the Lomography Petzval 55mm f/1.7 Mark II. This lens offers a distinct aesthetic, taking inspiration from 19th-century optical designs to produce images with swirly bokeh and a vintage feel.
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Capturing the beauty of the natural world through photography is an art form that requires a keen eye, technical skills, and creative vision. However, one often underestimated aspect that can significantly impact the outcome of a landscape photography trip is the choice of clothing.
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Lightroom masking tools offer quite a lot of control and precision when editing photos. This helpful video tutorial offers 15 masking tips and tricks specifically tailored for landscape photographers, with techniques that refine skies, add ethereal fog, create custom vignetting, and dodge and burn, all while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
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Some people think great landscape photographers are just lucky, always at the right place at the right time. The reality is great landscape photographers are persistent. Making portfolio-worthy images often entails repeat visits to areas to find the ideal composition paired with stunning conditions.
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YouTube has made it easier to improve your landscape photography. Videos are available about any facet of the topic you could want to explore. Are you confused about a technique? There is a video for it. But can you really learn everything about landscape photography from YouTube?
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Let's be real, photography gear can get expensive. Between cameras, lenses, lighting, and backdrops, the cost of setting up a studio can quickly drain your bank account. But what if there was a way to create a functional studio without breaking the bank?
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Creating stunning macro splash photographs requires precision and control, especially when capturing the intricate details of water droplets colliding. While manual methods can be time-consuming and yield inconsistent results, specialized tools offer a more efficient and reliable approach. This helpful video will show you how to use such a kit and how to create captivating results.
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The ability to capture the essence of humanity in a single frame is what draws many to street photography. However, the genre often finds itself trapped in repetitive patterns and clichés, hindering photographers from expressing their unique perspectives.
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Finding the right laptop can be a challenge, especially with the constant influx of new models and fluctuating prices. While the general advice for 2024 has been to stick with slightly older models for cost savings, the Asus Vivobook S 14 presents a compelling case for considering a 2024 release.
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Hollyland’s latest wireless transmitter, the Pyro H, is now available. In this review, I go hands-on with this impressively-specced transmitter and see if it can fulfill everything that Hollyland promises.
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Mastering landscape photography requires not only technical proficiency but also a keen eye for composition, an understanding of light, and the ability to tell a story through your images. This helpful video tutorial will put you on the right track.
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Landscape photographers look forward to days with foggy conditions, which help create interesting scenes to photograph. But timing your outing with those types of conditions isn’t always possible. Using Lightroom, you can use several techniques to enhance the atmosphere of your photos.
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There is a unique series of lenses for the X-Mount. They do not offer the brightest apertures, nor do they use linear motors, but what they lack in features, they make up in beautiful vintage-looking, slanted, weather-resistant, and compact build. Some call them Fujicrons and the 35mm started it all.
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Unwanted objects, distracting backgrounds, and clipped elements can turn a great photo into a frustrating experience. But what if you could easily erase these imperfections without resorting to drastic cropping? This helpful video tutorial will show you how to leverage Generative Fill in Photoshop to take care of numerous distractions.
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The ability to accurately estimate project costs is a crucial skill that directly impacts profitability and client satisfaction. A well-crafted estimate not only ensures you're adequately compensated for your time and expertise but also sets clear expectations with your clients, fostering trust and professionalism.
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Understanding and utilizing light effectively is crucial for photographers of all levels. Whether you're capturing a landscape or a portrait, the quality and direction of light can make or break your image. But what happens when natural light isn't cooperating?
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Canon makes some wildly good and wildly expensive lenses, including the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, which offers amazing results but also costs north of $2,000. Do you really need to spend that much? This useful video will help you decide.
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Whether you are a professional or amateur photographer finding an efficient way to process your photos is essential. AI can help us do just that, saving us hours of the most tedious part of photography.However, there are reasons for caution.
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The 35mm focal length is a staple for many photographers, offering a versatile perspective suitable for various scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. This great video review takes a look at one of the best options out there.
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It seems that the genre of product photography is booming right now. I come across hiring ads for product and e-commerce photographers all the time. With e-commerce being such a big market, or at least where I live, there is a lot of need for product photographers. I learned the basics of photographing products many years ago, and it has come in handy several times.
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The ability to adapt and evolve is crucial for any photographer. Stagnation can lead to uninspired work, leaving you feeling unfulfilled and your audience disengaged.
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Since HDR has been used (wrongly) so much in the past, it's a good time to make people aware of the changes happening in the industry. Zoner Photo Studio X Pro's latest update includes its new True HDR process. This comprehensive software has much to offer, not least an end to overblown HDR photos.
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Embracing inclement weather, such as rain, can help add interest to your landscape photographs. Rain can add richness to colors, atmospheric mist, or even dark, moody clouds for grand scenes. But how do you protect your camera gear in these conditions? Here are five tips to help keep your camera safe.
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As a photographer, you've likely dreamed of having your own dedicated studio space. It's easy to imagine the creative freedom and professional image that comes with a studio, but the reality involves much more than just taking pictures. Understanding the full scope of owning or renting a studio is crucial before taking the plunge.
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I recently was introduced to photographer Todd Hido in Jason Momoa’s docuseries on HBO. Momoa has a real affinity for Todd. I wish I had a fan like that; if you watch the show, you will see what I mean.[ Read More ]
Editing is just as important as capturing the image, but there are many places where things can go wrong. This awesome video tutorial discusses five common mistakes people make in Lightroom and how to fix them.
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While professional-grade lenses offer exceptional performance, they often come with a hefty price tag. For those seeking a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality, the Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens is a compelling choice.
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Photos with "Unique Lighting" Win $2,500 in Profoto Light ModifiersWelcome to another Critique the Community contest! Each month, Fstoppers is challenging our community to submit their best photographs for our Critique the Community show, and three lucky winners will win a variety of photography related prizes.
For the month of May, we want to see your best photographs featuring "unique lighting." Your photos can be from any genre of photography including landscapes, portraits, architecture, or still life so long as it features interesting...
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Unlike Canon, Nikon understands the importance of a third-party lens manufacturer for a healthy ecosystem and a stronger incentive for any potential buyer. And thanks to that, we get more and more interesting lenses for their mirrorless Z mount, like this proven budget-friendly option.
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Whether you’re shooting for fun or for work, in the rush of modern life it can be all too easy to lose sight of the joy of photography. In this short, meditative interlude with no words, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found in just watching another photographer enjoying their own photography.
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There was a lot of positive feedback regarding the DJI Pocket 3 when it came out, but now that the dust has settled, has it continued to live up to the hype?[ Read More ]
Staying competitive and offering unique services is crucial for success. One increasingly popular trend is hybrid shooting, which involves capturing both photos and videos during a single session. This approach allows photographers to cater to the growing demand for video content while maximizing their time and resources.
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In landscape photography, there is a powerful reason why it's important to have a go-to location, which cannot be overstated. While the attraction of venturing into new and potentially uncharted territory may be strong, there also exists meaningful value in revisiting familiar spots time and again. This article will delve deeper into the significance of returning to familiar locations and how it can enhance your photographic skills and artistic expression.
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Have you ever flipped through an REI catalog with a twinge of despair, or gazed with more questions than answers at the DICK’s Sporting Goods billboard? Perhaps you’ve wondered who shot those jobs and how they got the contract? Standing in the camping section, you suddenly realize why the 20-year-old employee is looking at you oddly. You have been staring at the billboard for who knows how long in a state of perplexed despair. Articles that line your LinkedIn feed extol the value of “networking,” but who to network with and how to gain access to these gatekeepers didn't come attached. You want a shot, but you don’t seem to be able to get your hands on that opportunity. If that description hits home, and if you are a female, you want to read on about the Peak Design & The Roam Collective Photography Scholarship.
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The decision of whether to shoot in color or black and white is a fundamental one, impacting the mood, tone, and overall message of an image. It's a choice that goes beyond mere aesthetics, leveraging the very essence of how we perceive and interpret the world around us.
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The Sony a7 IV, despite being released in 2021, continues to be a relevant and powerful tool for photographers in 2024.
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The ability to make objects appear as if they are defying gravity is a captivating skill that can help you capture attention. This technique, often employed in product and still life photography, adds a touch of magic and intrigue to your images, leaving viewers wondering how you achieved such a feat.
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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.
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Right now, it seems like nobody has the new Fujifilm X100VI for sale unless you’re willing to pay a hefty premium over the retail price. But are you really ready to pull the trigger on one, or still on the fence about it? Never fear—help is at hand.
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Are you wondering what makes some landscape photographers' photos stand out more than others? It all begins with how you make the photograph in the field, but it doesn't stop there. Understanding the editing process helps carry the vision through to the final photograph.
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The title of this article makes it seem like I'm heaping some sort of superlative description upon what is, more or less, a typical Zink-based printer that doesn't require ink or cartridges. And when it comes to this, the $129 HP Sprocket 3x4 Instant Photo Printer, I am. Well, more or less.
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Establishing a successful photography business requires more than just taking beautiful pictures. It demands careful planning, organization, and efficient workflows to attract clients, deliver exceptional service, and ultimately, thrive in a competitive market.
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Landscape photography often aims to capture the vastness and beauty of natural scenes. However, achieving depth and dimension in these photos can be challenging, especially when dealing with flat lighting or a lack of contrast. Fortunately, post-processing tools like Lightroom offer powerful techniques to enhance your landscape images and bring them to life.
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We often encounter challenging lighting situations that can affect the color and overall look of our images. Whether it's dealing with harsh sunlight, mixed lighting, or simply wanting to enhance the colors in a scene, understanding color correction techniques is essential. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to tackle the issue in Lightroom.
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Building a successful photography career requires more than just technical skills and a good eye. It also involves making smart decisions about your finances, time, and overall well-being. Learning from the mistakes of others can save you valuable resources and help you navigate the challenges of the industry.
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As a landscape photographer, the chase to capture stunning images of breathtaking scenes is a continuous journey. Yet, in the middle of this mission for the perfect shot, lies a crucial aspect often overlooked—the necessity of challenging ourselves and getting out of our comfort zone. In this article, let’s dive into why pushing our boundaries and embracing discomfort is vital in the journey of landscape photography.
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In the professional world, achieving exceptional image quality is paramount. While budget-friendly cinema cameras boast impressive specifications, Hollywood consistently opts for high-end options like the ARRI Alexa 35. This raises the question: why is there such a significant investment in these top-tier cameras?
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In the age of digital portfolios and online presence, photographers need to go beyond stunning visuals to truly connect with their audience and secure bookings. Building a strong social media strategy, particularly on Instagram, is crucial to showcase your work, establish your brand, and attract potential clients.
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The new DJI Mini 4K offers a very affordable and portable entry into the world of drone photography and filmmaking. Can it match your needs? This excellent video takes a look at what to expect.
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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.
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One of the most common requests from photographers is to provide photo galleries for clients. This not only enhances the customer experience but also boosts sales. Let’s explore how Picdrop can assist you in creating the best galleries for your clients.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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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.
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For those seeking a blend of portability, performance, and a unique shooting experience, the Fuji X100 series has long been a popular choice. With the release of the X100VI, Fuji has taken this beloved camera to new heights, offering significant improvements while retaining the charm that has charmed photographers for years.
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In today's landscape, the demand for video content has skyrocketed, creating new opportunities for photographers. The ability to capture motion and tell stories through video is no longer just a desirable skill, but rather an essential one for photographers looking to expand their services and reach.
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As photographers, we understand the importance of efficient and effective photo editing workflows. Adobe Lightroom Cloud offers a powerful platform for managing and editing images, but navigating its features can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why this helpful video is worth a watch.
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The life of a professional photographer is often romanticized, but the reality is that it can be a demanding and stressful career path. From the pressure to constantly create to the financial instability that often comes with freelance work, there are many challenges that photographers face. However, there are also ways to find happiness and success in this field.
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Maintaining your printer is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to issues like dust buildup, ink clogs, and paper jams, ultimately affecting print quality and potentially shortening the lifespan of your printer.
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The Sony a7R V sits in an elite class of cameras, offering some of the best image quality available today. Is it right for you? This great video review takes a look.
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It's amazing how far camera technology has come in a short time. The Sony Cyber-shot R1, one of the top cameras in its day back in 2005, is a great example of that.
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Fujifilm has already rewired the paradigm of medium format by making it more affordable and accessible than ever, and it looks like they have no intentions of slowing down.
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It’s 2024. The number of options available to use when choosing gear and accessories has rapidly grown. Have you considered these crucial factors?
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Travel photography is one of the most enjoyable genres of the craft, and counterintuitively, it can sometimes be improved by limiting the amount of equipment you take with, particularly lenses.
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Landscape photographers often seek out specific weather conditions, such as dramatic storms or vibrant sunsets, to create impactful images. However, clear sky days, often considered less ideal due to the lack of dramatic light and clouds, can also offer unique opportunities for capturing stunning landscapes. By understanding how to work with the available light and compose effectively, you can create fantastic images.
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The shutter drag/slow shutter trend has found its way into any niche in photography but particularly amongst wedding photography. But is the trend a clever use of camera techniques to add a different feeling or is it overrated?
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Understanding the pricing landscape in photography can be a daunting task for both emerging and seasoned photographers. The vast range of prices, from a simple potato image fetching millions to a seasoned professional receiving a few hundred dollars for a day's work, can leave many scratching their heads.
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Capturing the essence of athleticism and the thrill of competition has always been a driving force for sports photographers. But the landscape of this genre has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, evolving from isolated photo shoots to comprehensive media days involving entire teams and extensive production crews.
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Finding affordable, high-quality lenses can be a challenge. Thankfully, companies like Viltrox are stepping up to offer compelling options. One such option is the Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Z lens for the Nikon Z mount, a prime lens that boasts impressive features at a remarkably low price point.
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As photographers, we often grapple with the question of whether to pursue our craft alone or in the company of others. Both approaches offer unique benefits and challenges, and the ideal balance varies depending on individual preferences and creative goals. While collaboration can provide valuable support and inspiration, solitude can offer a space for quiet reflection, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with the natural world.
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Composition is a fundamental aspect of photography, impacting how viewers perceive and connect with your images. It's the arrangement of elements within the frame, guiding the eye and creating a sense of balance, harmony, or dynamism. However, navigating composition can be challenging, often leading to frustration.
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As photographers, we are constantly told that our gear or camera does not matter. As someone who has pushed this narrative, it is finally time to admit I've been wrong this entire time.[ Read More ]
Mastering post-processing techniques is just as crucial as understanding camera settings and composition. While tools like exposure and contrast adjustments are commonly used, Lightroom offers a hidden gem that can elevate your color grading to a whole new level. This often-overlooked feature holds immense potential for refining colors and creating stunning visual effects.
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The jump from 26 to 40 megapixels in the Fujifilm X100VI sparked debate about whether the lens could keep up. This video tackles that question head-on, comparing the X100V and X100VI lenses to see how well they resolve detail and handle the demands of a high-resolution sensor.
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Capturing stunning wildlife and street photographs requires specific equipment, particularly when it comes to lenses. The choice of lens significantly impacts image quality, versatility, and the overall photographic experience. Nonetheless, there's probably a limit. This lens might be past that limit.
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Sony released a rather odd lens a few days ago. The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is neither a replacement for the GMaster nor the cheaper f/4. It is its own odd thing. What is its purpose? Where does it fit in the lineup? Does purchasing it make sense? For some, it most definitely might. Not for all, though.
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As photographers, we often seek out advice and inspiration from those who have achieved success in the field. We devour tutorials, attend workshops, and follow the journeys of renowned photographers, hoping to glean insights that will propel us towards our own goals. However, it's crucial to remember that the path to success is rarely linear and is often paved with failures.
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For photographers seeking unique and creative avenues, exploring adapted lenses opens up a world of possibilities. This journey into adapted lenses can lead to surprising and unusual results and expand your creativity.
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Fine art portraits often evoke a sense of emotion and tell a story through careful composition, lighting, and posing. While achieving this style might seem complex, it can be done with minimal equipment, even in a small home studio. Let's explore how you can create stunning fine art portraits using just a single light, a backdrop, and some basic modifiers.
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Landscape photography often hinges on the ability to capture fleeting moments of dramatic weather. While planning for ideal conditions is important, embracing unpredictable elements can lead to truly unique and impactful images. Understanding how to anticipate and work with challenging weather conditions is a valuable skill for any landscape photographer.
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Canon has recently filed a patent application that has caught the attention of a few eagle-eyed photographers, as it could radically transform the ways in which we can use any lens.
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As a follow up to my article on the best advice in respect of turning pro, I thought it would be fun to dig into the worst advice we've ever received as photographers. As Oscar Wilde wrote, "one might consider always passing on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself." So, what's some of the worst photography advice you've ever received?
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Natural light is often touted as the photographer's best friend, yet many struggle to harness its full potential. This disconnect stems from the oversimplification of natural light usage and the expectation that it should automatically enhance photographs.
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Choosing a new camera can be a daunting task, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the wide range of options available. For photographers who prioritize image quality and advanced features, the Sony a7R V has remained a popular choice since its release. But is it still worth considering in 2024, with newer models on the horizon?
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The desire to capture the unique aesthetic of film photography remains strong among photographers, even in our digital age. While the convenience and flexibility of digital cameras are undeniable, the distinct colors, grain, and overall feel of film hold a certain allure.
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Trying to decide what to include in a photography portfolio can be a daunting challenge. Here are just a few things that should definitely not be included.
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Capturing the perfect shot often involves meticulous planning, patience, and a bit of luck. Landscape photographers, especially those who chase specific celestial events or fleeting light conditions, understand this challenge all too well. Even with the best preparation, unforeseen circumstances like weather or equipment limitations can threaten to derail an entire shoot.
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If you’re lacking the motivation and inspiration to get out there and shoot, take comfort in the knowledge that artists of all persuasions find themselves in a creative funk now and then. A little reflection upon what you want from your photography might be the first step towards fixing the problem.
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Early digital cameras, despite their limitations, were a marvel of their time, offering a glimpse into the future of image capture and paving the way for the advanced technology we enjoy today. This fun video takes a look back at one such camera.
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As a photographer, you're constantly seeking inspiration and exploring new ways to express your vision. Sometimes, the most impactful projects come from unexpected sources, challenging conventional ideas about what makes a compelling subject. This fantastic video explores two such projects that showcase the power of photography to elevate the ordinary and shed light on often-overlooked aspects of our world.
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Big softbox, little softbox, umbrella, or beauty dish? When choosing a key light modifier for your portraits, it can be daunting to decide which one is the best for the job. I've been working as a portrait photographer for 19 years, so in this article, I'll take you through the modifiers I grab most often for shoots and explain what each one does and the best scenarios to use them.
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Lightroom Classic offers a robust platform for photographers to manage and edit their images. However, navigating its extensive features and optimizing your workflow can be challenging. This helpful video tutorial offers a range of tips that will make your life easier.
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Landscape photography often hinges on ideal weather conditions, but overcast skies and stormy forecasts shouldn't deter you from capturing stunning images. With careful planning and a positive attitude, challenging weather can present unique opportunities for compelling compositions.
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Composition is a cornerstone of photography, influencing the story, emotion, and impact of your images. While understanding compositional rules like the rule of thirds or the golden spiral is valuable, relying solely on them can stifle creativity and lead to formulaic results.
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Foreground elements in photography do more than just fill space. When used with intent, they can introduce context, enhance storytelling, provide frames that guide the viewer's attention, create balance, and elevate the visual appeal of the images. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, understanding how to effectively use foregrounds can enhance your photography. In this guide to foreground photography, we'll explain the effect of foregrounds and provide you with tips and inspiration for using them effectively in your portrait photography.
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Navigating wedding ceremonies as a photographer involves more than just capturing the typical scenes. It’s essential to approach these events with a strategy that ensures you're ready to seize every moment with creativity and precision.
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It can be frustrating when you find yourself struggling to make good images. If you're currently in a rut, check out this awesome video tutorial that offers five tips sure to help you improve.
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Recent updates to Adobe Photoshop, both in the beta version and the current release, offer exciting new tools and enhancements that empower users to push their creative boundaries even further.
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Saturday mornings, for most people, are about errands or relaxation. But for photographer Kai Eason, Saturday mornings are spent at local coffee shops, photographing a film photography portrait series known as "The Coffee Shop Sessions."
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Whether you’re shooting video, stills, or some combination, there’s a camera that offers incredible levels of excellence in both, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore. Watch it get put through its paces in a 4-week trip to South America, and see how it stacks up against the competition.
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A 300mm lens with an aperture of f/2.8 is a wonderful lens. But it’s often large and heavy, or so it used to be. Although the diameter of the lens is unchanged, Sony managed to keep the weight within acceptable limits. It makes the FE 300mm GM OSS a great tool to work with.
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Even if you're a professional videographer, the chances are that you utilize your phone from time to time. And if you're not a pro, your phone can be a valuable tool for anything from behind-the-scenes footage to part of your shoot. So, here is everything you need to know about making videos with the iPhone 15.[ Read More ]
Depth of field, the range of distance within a photograph that appears acceptably sharp, is a fundamental aspect of photography. It influences the way viewers perceive images, directing their attention and creating a sense of depth and dimension. Understanding how sensor size impacts depth of field is crucial for photographers, allowing them to make informed decisions about the equipment they use and achieve their desired creative vision.
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Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.
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In 2019, I wrote about how I would never quit full-frame DSLRs. Back then, I complained about mirrorless cameras for wonky bodies and mediocre autofocus. Today, I’m eating crow.
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Historically, the Olympus TOUGH cameras were well respected by outdoor adventurers, divers, and those who work in extreme environments. The New OM System TOUGH TG-7 has taken a huge step forward with a host of exciting new features.
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Apple made a range of exciting announcements, including the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, as well as the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max. Photographers and filmmakers should be particularly excited about the new iPhones, which bring with them some impressive new features sure to please creatives. Here's a nice rundown of everything announced today. [ Read More ]
With its innovative APS-C and medium format cameras, many have long wondered why Fujifilm has steadfastly refused to enter the full frame market. It turns out they have had their eyes on the full frame market the whole time.
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Smartphone cameras have evolved in the past decade from merely being tools for documentation to being actual devices that can be used for art. With most smartphones getting bigger, what does this small phone actually have to offer?
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You’d be hard-pressed to find a portable flash at the level of Profoto A2 in terms of build quality, size, weight, power, ease of use, and consistency. It is genuinely a tiny marvel for any photographer. It is almost hilariously simple to set up, and yet, it delivers terrific results. Best of all, if you buy a Profoto A2 between now and October 31, you get a Connect remote for free.
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When we head out into the landscape to capture some epic bangers we should be full of hope and have some expectations about just what type of photos we will get and how we are going to capture them. What settings to use for each scenario can become second nature over time, however, it’s getting to that stage where most will find challenges.
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Today, we’ll take a look at why sometimes adding a little horsepower to your workflow can supercharge your productivity.
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Canon has produced some mightily innovative and unusual RF mount lenses in the last few years, and it seems they have no intention of stopping. New patents show the company is dreaming up more lenses with extreme designs.
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Lenses with wide maximum apertures are extremely popular both for working in conditions with low light and for creating images with very narrow depth of field. In recent years, we have seen an explosion of lenses that push well past traditional thresholds like f/1.4 and into extreme apertures like f/1.0 or even f/0.95 and f/0.85. Are these insanely wide lenses worth it? This insightful video discusses the issue.
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We all want to be better photographers, but the journey to that destination is often anything but straightforward. If you find yourself feeling a bit stuck and unsure of how to move forward, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing some insightful and actionable advice that is sure to put you on the right track.
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The GFX100 II, the followup to the highly popular Fujifilm GFX 100S medium format mirrorless camera is here, and it looks like an incredible camera.
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As if a new medium format camera and three new lenses weren't enough, Fujifilm has also announced plans for two rather innovative medium format lenses.
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Alongside the new GFX100 II medium format mirrorless camera, Fujifilm has announced three new GF lenses.
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Landscape photography is a captivating art form that allows us as photographers to capture the beauty of the natural world. Among the many composition techniques employed by landscape photographers, the Rule of Thirds has long been considered a fundamental guideline for creating visually appealing and balanced shots. However, in this article, we will explore a less conventional viewpoint: why you should consider ignoring the Rule of Thirds in landscape photography. We will delve into the limitations of this rule and uncover situations where breaking away from it can lead to more unique, compelling, and creatively satisfying landscape photographs.
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Landscape photographers often find themselves hiking longer distances or on routes with significant elevation changes. Decisions about what camera gear to carry can influence the hike's success, both in reaching the destination and photography results. Is there a one lens solution for these hikes?
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Coming to The Photographers’ Gallery in October: the first UK retrospective of one of the world’s most innovative and influential artists and street photographers. If you are interested in documentary or street photography, Daido Moriyama's work is definitely something you should familiarize yourself with.
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The AstrHori 18mm f/8 macro 2:1 lens released a few months ago is the nearest competitor to the Laowa Optics probe lens and at half the price, it is something that should be considered by both macro photographers and videographers.
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Canon has produced some remarkably impressive RF mount lenses, and their latest, the RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM, is arguably the most stunning yet. With incredibly versatile capabilities and jaw-dropping image quality, it is the type of lens that makes people like sports and wildlife photographers drool. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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The Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is easily one of the most intriguing lenses to hit the market in some time, offering an extremely useful focal range in combination with especially wide maximum apertures, making it a dream lens for people like events photographers, at least on paper. How does it hold up in the real world? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the Nikon Z mount version.
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In the digital age, we print our photos less than ever; in fact, some of us never do. And that is a shame, as there is something really special about holding a physical manifestation of your work in your hands and hanging it on a wall where you can pass by it for years to come. If you have not printed your photos before, be sure to check out this excellent video tutorial that will show you why it is such a worthwhile endeavor and offer some helpful tips for doing so.
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As a seasoned seascape photographer, I've learned that capturing the beauty of the ocean is a thrilling yet unpredictable pursuit. Each time I venture to one of my favorite locations, Ballycotton Lighthouse, I'm reminded of the gamble that is seascape photography.
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ACD Systems marks 30 Years of Innovation with the latest edition of their flagship software, ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate 2024. It’s available for preorder and has some exciting-looking new features.
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After delving into some of the regrettable gear choices I've made, it's time to shift the focus to the gear that has truly excelled in my toolkit. In this article, I'll share the equipment that brings me joy whenever I use it. Be it a camera, or a light stand, or even a keyboard, it's all in here.
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The more you improve as a photographer, the harder it becomes to take photographs you’re happy with. This is an unfortunate paradox most creatives have to endure as they hone their craft, and the psychology can impede your progress if you don’t re-evaluate and manage your expectations along the way.
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For astrophotographers, there is a huge need for finding an important balance between the landscape or foreground, and the amazing interest in the sky. Whether you are photographing the Milky Way, Aurora Borealis, or the Winter Circle, the fundamentals of composition are still just as important as they are in normal landscape photography. In this video by Jeroen Linnenkamp, he provides three tips that will help you improve your compositions.
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In today's digital age, there are numerous apps available that can significantly enhance your landscape photography experience. In this article, I want to take a look at the six apps that have proven invaluable for my own landscape photography.
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One of the greatest aspects of mirrorless cameras is that you can adapt just about any SLR lens to them, making it easy to take full advantage of decades worth of lenses to explore your creativity or find an often much more affordable alternative to modern lenses. Are they worth the cost and effort, though? This great video discusses the issue.
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Leica makes some incredible cameras and lenses, and some of their prime lenses in particular are highly sought after. This video shows what two weeks with a Leica 35mm is like and why it recaptured the magic of photography for Alex Barrera.[ Read More ]
Despite being an incredibly large and busy city, London has some very interesting and special wildlife, which you can see all year round. In this video from Harry Read and Edwin Towler, the lads have been given a list of twelve species to locate and photograph in one single day!
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Landscape photography is an art that often balances on the precipice of meticulous planning and spontaneous creativity. As a landscape photographer, I've found myself torn between meticulously planning every detail of a shoot and simply going with the flow, capturing the unexpected. In this article, let's delve into a debate: Is it better to meticulously plan a landscape photography shoot or embrace spontaneity?
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Landscape photography is an art that requires creativity, patience, and the right equipment. While cameras, lenses, and tripods are essential, there are some unexpected items that can serve as game changers in the world of landscape photography. In this article, we will explore five unconventional tools and accessories that can enhance your landscape photography experience. Plus, unlike your main gear, these won't cost an arm and a leg.
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Busy scenes are common in many genres of photography, and while that business can often be a nice feature, knowing how to cut through it in order to prioritize your subject is an important skill. This excellent video tutorial discusses a range of ways to simplify images to make them more direct and impactful.
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Polaroid is an iconic brand in photography and has been since the late 1940s! Now, Polaroid has a new camera released, and it has a lot of pros, but potentially one large con.[ Read More ]
I took a chance on purchasing a no-frills £12 tether cable to see how it performs in comparison to other well-known brand cables. If you shoot tethered, you might want to read on.
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Wedding photography is a challenging genre that requires rock-solid technique, the ability to think on your feet, and a ton of people skills. One of the most difficult aspects of the day is large group portraits. If you are a budding wedding photographer and want to learn how to take those big portraits, check out this awesome video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know.
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While there's been much ado about the death of stock photography in the wake of AI-based imagery, there are still many photographers earning passive income from the trade. Just how are they doing that, though?
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If you’re looking for a vintage digicam for your travels, look no further than 2002’s Casio Exilim EX-S1. With a 1.3-megapixel CCD sensor, this ultra-compact digicam is sure to give your photos that early 2000s vibe. About the size of a credit card (though a little thicker), this is the perfect digicam for travel.
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Lighting your videos — or even cinematic-style portraits — can be a complex affair, with so many different lighting setups available to you. One potential solution is to take cues from brilliant cinematographers.[ Read More ]
100-400mm lenses are popular among photographers of many genres ranging from birds to landscapes, as they offer an extremely versatile focal length range suitable for a lot of applications. For Fujifilm X Series users, the new Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary offers that versatility at a relatively affordable price, making it an intriguing option. The excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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This article delves into my personal experience of spending £1,000 on a secondhand lens, which turned out to be faulty. This cautionary tale will open your eyes to the perils that come with the world of preowned or gray-market camera equipment.
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As a landscape photographer and van owner myself, I know just how much goes into every shoot that I head out on, plus the ever-present worry that exists in the back of my mind, where I see myself stuck in the middle of nowhere after my trusty steed has broken down. Recently, I had the misfortune of this exact thing happening, and let me tell you, not only does it pull the handbrake on any adventures, it also adds the complexities of where it can be fixed, if it can be fixed, and finally, how much will it cost to be fixed!
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Generally, you can expect relative stability in the amount of couples needing wedding photography services, at least across short to medium periods of time. However, the COVID pandemic was an unprecedented hit to the industry that resulted in less couples getting engaged in subsequent years, meaning that a few years later, we are seeing a drop in those couples getting married, placing strain on wedding photographers. What can wedding shooters do to weather the lull? This helpful video tutorial offers a range of great ideas and advice.
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Are you the type of landscape photographer who visits a location once and then head off to other new locations, never to return? Or are you the type that returns to a location over and over? Revisiting a location presents significant opportunities for the landscape photographer.
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The Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z8 and Z9 are remarkable cameras that can tackle a huge range of genres and needs with ease, making them the workhorses of choice for countless creatives. Which is right for you, though? This great video comparison takes a look at all three cameras, how they perform in a challenging genre, and which is right for you.
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We have it drilled into us from the very start about the importance of good light in photos, and while that is certainly crucial, you are not always guaranteed the proper light when you press the shutter. In those situations where you know you have an image with potential, knowing how to manipulate the light a bit in post can make all the difference. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to do just that in Lightroom.
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Take a range of modern and powerful features, pair them with a beautiful lens, and put them all in a small and portable body, and you get the Leica Q3. With a high-resolution sensor, 28mm f/1.7 lens, and a great set of capabilities, the Q3 looks like a great camera on paper. How does it hold up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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ON1 Photo Raw has always been well ahead of the game for innovative features. Will their 2024 version bring new and exciting tools to enhance your workflow? It certainly looks like it.
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It's true that I frequently test and use a wide range of gear. With numerous options at our disposal, not all gear is of equal quality. I'll readily admit that I've made some rather regrettable gear decisions. Reflecting on my inventory, I've chosen to revise the list of items that turned out to be poor choices.
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It can be easy to get caught up in things like talking about gear or finding dramatic locations for creating stunning images, but there is a lot more to becoming a successful and fulfilled photographer than just those things. If you want to both improve your images and enjoy the experience more, check out this awesome video tutorial that offers some excellent advice sure to put you on your way.
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Composition is one of the trickiest parts of photography, and even seasoned veterans can sometimes struggle with it. If you find yourself struggling with it, check out this fantastic video tutorial that offers a wide range of helpful and meaningful advice sure to improve your images.
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Using flashes with ambient light can be tricky, whether you're fighting with the midday sun or you're trying to balance ambient light. In this behind-the-scenes video, you get a breakdown of how one photographer exposes for the ambient light and then layers in a strobe.[ Read More ]
Every now and then, I hear words of wisdom worth sharing. Here are the most recent.
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50mm lenses featuring wide maximum apertures are typically some of the most popular options out there, offering a versatile and relatively neutral focal length in tandem with a lot of light-gathering and subject-isolating power. For Fujifilm shooters, there is the XF 33mm f/1.4 R LM WR, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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It seems as if we have new cameras released every month, and that can make it harder to pick the right camera. Sony's newest announced camera has turned some heads, though it has a few divisive entries into the spec sheet. The question is, is it right for you?
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Hey, fellow landscape photography enthusiast! Can you feel that slight chill in the air yet? Yep, fall is right around the corner, and you most likely already know what that means: it's prime time for capturing those breathtaking autumnal landscapes. The vibrant colors and the cozy vibes are a landscape photographer's dream come true. But, before you dash out with your camera, let's chat about how to get prepped for some epic fall photography.
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No matter what genre you shoot, understanding how light behaves and knowing how to leverage it in your images makes all the difference when it comes to making compelling photos. If you are a landscape photographer and want to improve your work, check out this excellent video tutorial that offers a ton of excellent information on the types of light in the genre and how to use them.
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The X100 series of cameras from Fujifilm has long been loved for offering both excellent image quality and a uniquely fun and inspiring shooting experience. So, why are photographers so loyal to the X100 series after all these years? This excellent video comparison looks at how the camera compares to the Sony a7 IV and why, despite some disadvantages, one photographer still prefers the X100V.
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What matters more, gear or creativity? For this camera challenge, I set out to do a portrait shoot with an 8-megapixel camera that is almost 20 years old. Yes, I am talking about the Olympus E-500.
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The Hasselblad X2D 100C brings an ultra-powerful, modern medium format sensor inside an extremely portable body (with equally portable lenses to match), making it a dream camera for many photographers who want high image quality without a lot of bulk. How does it perform in real-world usage? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect.
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70-200mm f/2.8 lenses have long been some of the most popular workhorses out there, able to tackle a huge range of needs and genres with ease. However, such lenses are neither light nor cheap. 70-200mm f/4 lenses offer a nice alternative for those who do not need that wide aperture, and the Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 Macro G OSS II offers 0.5x macro capabilities as well. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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If hop on a platform like Instagram and look at landscape images, you will probably notice that most of the photos are rather intricate, full of a ton of elements and complicated combinations of vibrant colors. And while such photos can certainly be compelling, they are not the only way to approach landscape image compositions. Simple, direct shots can be just as eye-catching. This great video tutorial takes a look at such an approach and offers some useful tips for enacting it.
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As a landscape photographer, do you feel frustrated when things don’t quite work out? Maybe the weather wasn’t cooperating or despite your best efforts looking for an engaging composition, you couldn’t find one before the light faded. Learn to enjoy the journey and watch the frustrations fade away.
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There are many iconic and popular locations in landscape photography, and while they offer stunning imagery, with that comes a tricky issue: creating unique images that stand out from the thousands of others also created at that spot. How do you go about that? This excellent video tutorial follows a professional landscape photographer as he does just that.
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Minimalism is out and maximalism is in. Discover the six striking new Wondershare Filmora Effects Packs for adding spice to your reels and videos.
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If you're using your DSLR or mirrorless camera for filming, you're likely familiar with the limitations these cameras can present for this type of work. While each new model offers more options, accessories can enhance your filming experience. An external recorder is one such accessory.
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The Sony a7R series of mirrorless cameras has long been respected for offering some of the best resolution and image quality available in a full frame camera in combination with many of the innovative features Sony's options have been known for, making it incredibly versatile in a variety of applications. The latest version, the a7R V, comes with a laundry list of impressive capabilities, and this great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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At only $679, the Canon EOS R50 makes a strong case as one of the best camera for beginner photographers by offering plenty of modern features while still leaving room to grow into more advanced options. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in real-world use.
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As I stood at the edge of the tranquil beach, a sense of both calm and disappointment washed over me. Having checked the weather forecasts closely, I was once again feeling let down as instead of crisp morning light, I instead had low clouds and very little light.
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Modern cameras are absolutely ridiculous machines, capable of performing tasks and producing images that would not have been imaginable even a decade ago. And let's be honest: most cameras are far more capable than necessary, meaning if our images are not what we want them to be, the problem is probably with us. This important video essay discusses the issue.
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For many, it has always been a dream in the back of our heads to someday be able to escape the rat race and follow our passion in photography and turn it into a career!
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As photographers, we spend a significant amount of our time post-processing images, writing emails, and engaging in other computer-related tasks. While we often scrutinize the gear photographers use for shooting, there is seldom an in-depth exploration of the post-production setup they employ. In this article, I will showcase my post-processing arrangement.
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Along with aperture and ISO, shutter speed is one of the three fundamental exposure parameters of photography that not only determine a technically correct exposure, but allow you to take creative control of the image-making process. As such, having it mastered is crucial to growing as a photographer. If you are new to the craft and ready to learn about shutter speed, check out this fantastic video tutorial that offers 10 tips on how to choose the right setting for an image.
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The beauty of being a professional photographer is that you have the freedom to pursue what you love on your own terms. However, with that comes arguably its biggest drawback: the loss of guaranteed steady income and financial security. Every freelance photographer goes through lulls, and it is important to expect them and to know how to get through them. This great video essay features a professional photographer discussing the issue and offering some helpful advice.
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Storage is one of the most critical necessities for a content creator. After all, without a place to store your work, you can't enjoy the freedom of creating. While it might be fine to store your shoots on your computer initially, you will soon run out of storage space. This is when a product like the LaCie D2 external HDD drive becomes essential.
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Aside from the bride and groom, on the long list of shots a wedding photographer has to get, few rival the family portraits in terms of importance. If you would like to ensure you get all the shots you need, check out this helpful video tutorial that offers a range of practical and actionable advice along with some behind-the-scenes footage of how one wedding photographer approaches the task.
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I've been an amateur astronomer since I was around 11 years old. I had an uncle, a retired engineer, who had a small reflecting telescope, and when I saw Saturn for the first time I was hooked. Photography through a telescope came much later for me, and it was a very difficult undertaking in the film days. I remember taking some star shots to the drugstore for processing, and they told me they threw them away because there were just a bunch of white spots on them, and I should take better care to learn how to take pictures. Oh well.
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Cornwall is one of those places I cannot get enough of. I've visited three times over the past years and can't wait to be back. In this article, I show you five of my favorite photo locations in Cornwall.
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While fast zooms generally get most of the attention, Canon also makes some excellent slower zoom lenses for people who don't need an f/2.8 aperture or who want to save some weight in their bag or money in their bank account. Two such options are the RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM and RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, and this great video comparison takes a look at both to help you choose the right one for your needs.
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Shooting panoramas can be a highly rewarding exercise. However, there is always the dread in the back of my mind as to whether I will be able to stitch it correctly when back in my editing suite. I, for one, have had this challenge with an image that I thought was going to be a banger, only for the horizon to slope off or for an important part of the foreground or sky to end up not stitching, resulting in a scrapped image.
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It's amazing what a little fog or haze can do to spice up an image or video clip. But you don't have to rely on the bulky machines that need to be plugged into a wall.
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There is something innately annoying about having to carry stuff. I can't decide if it’s shoulder pain, back pain, or just a general need to do physical activity. If you are a photographer who has to bring out more gear than a camera bag’s worth, this is a product for you. Don’t think so? Then read on!
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Life magazine was known for its large format photojournalism. In 1984, filmmaker David Hoffman made this not-to-be-missed television documentary about the history of Life, which included interviews with some of their greatest photojournalists. It's just as interesting today, if not more, than it would have been back then.[ Read More ]
The brand new Sony a7C II offers a huge amount of tech in a very compact body. What if you could supercharge it so that it suddenly had most of the functionality of a cinema camera? Can you get the best of both worlds? How much would it cost?
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Ever thought about shooting video? If so, you should consider a gimbal stabilizer. You won't go wrong with a Hohem iSteady MT2, with its outstanding AI tracking feature.
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Compositing a photo may seem quaint in the age of AI-generated everything, but it's still often the best or sometimes only way to get the image you're truly going for.[ Read More ]
When traveling, it's often the case that photographers zero in on the iconic sights that everyone else gets: the Eiffel Tower in France, Big Ben in London, etc. But instead of capturing what everyone else gets, there are ways to capture the feel of a place without necessarily getting the "standard" shot.
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With the availability of complex analytics, deep statistics, and clear reward-for-effort ratios, it's all too easy to become hung up on doing only those things that we can carefully track the results of. In this article, I will explain why you should carve out a place for those things that can't be tracked.[ Read More ]
Sony has recently released a successor to a fan-favorite a6600 fittingly called the a6700. Don’t get me wrong, in those few days I had it it performed well, but there are some features that would elevate it to a different level. First things first though, what did Sony do well with the a6700?
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If you are anything like me, you hate having to lug a tripod around, a hate which is only outmatched by your disdain for unstrapping it, setting it up, and packing it up again. If you are going to shoot handheld, though, you need to have careful technique and awareness to ensure you still come away with sharp images. This excellent video tutorial discusses some of the common reasons why photographers end up with soft images when shooting handheld and what you can do to fix those mistakes.
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Leica is arguably the most polarizing photography brand out there, though its users tend to be fiercely loyal to the brand, which is why it is always interesting to hear why when one leaves them for another system. This insightful video essay features a photographer discussing why he left Leica after four years with the brand and switched to Nikon.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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The Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM is one of the most exciting lenses to come along in several years, and it is tailor-made for the needs of wildlife and sports photographers. Of course, there is no reason you can't use it for other things, such as portraits. This fun video follows well-known portrait photographer Lindsay Adler as she works with the lens for a portrait session.
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The new Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II lens is here, and it brings with it a nice range of improvements and new features that will make it a desirable option for many photographers and filmmakers. How does it hold up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from it in practice.
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If you haven't calibrated your monitor recently — or perhaps ever — you may not realize the impact it can have. It is a rather dry topic and you might want to allocate those dollars toward a new lens, which I understand, but a color-calibrating tool is an essential piece of kit and Datacolor are the best in the game.[ Read More ]
One of the biggest questions for many is how to make money from photography. There are many ways of doing it, such as photographing weddings, pets, portraits, or even products, but there are also ways to make money, such as stock photography. In this article, I discuss my experiences of using stock photography websites.
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Perhaps one of the more challenging aspects of running a professional photography business is that you have to deal with all clients yourself, including those who might be looking to take advantage of you. It pays to be aware of some of the red flags these clients will frequently show before you get involved with them in order to save yourself a lot of headaches down the road. This great video essay features an experienced commercial photographer discussing some of the most common things to watch out for.
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Portrait photography is a challenging genre that requires not just a creative voice and technical command, but the ability to work with people at the same time. If you are new to the genre and would like to improve your portrait images, check out this helpful video tutorial that shares three tips that will put you on the track to better results.
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If you’re looking to shoot landscapes or to grow your current landscape portfolio, here are some pointers for every photographer. [ Read More ]
Wedding photography is a very challenging genre that requires a lot of versatility both as a photographer and in terms of gear. As such, 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are highly popular options, but they are far from the only choices for wedding work. This great video essay features a seasoned wedding photographer discussing some of the reasons he prefers using prime lenses for his work instead.
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I go way back with the Nik Tools software. I bought the set before Google snapped it up, then they let it sit virtually idle. DXO got it six years ago and have added their own deep knowledge of photo editing and, I think, fulfilled the dream of what the Nik Collection should be.
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It used to be that Photoshop was the place to go if you wanted to edit portraits, but in recent iterations, Lightroom has implemented some powerful tools that make it easier to edit your images without leaving the application. This great video tutorial will show you how to use those new tools for editing portrait photos.
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It’s no surprise that the well-loved 16-35mm G Master is getting a revamp, as this one completes the trinity of second generation G Master zoom lenses. But what does it have to offer, and is it worth the upgrade?
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Getting a new editing computer can be a confusing process. How do you know when to upgrade? What kind of computer do you get for different kinds of editing? Do you build one or buy one? Well, I hope to answer those questions here in this article in a way that will match your specific situation.
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While some may stress over light fixtures, others are stressing over reflections.
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As I began my interview with Fabian Wagner DOP, he sits there, totally relaxed and easygoing. Describing himself as just an ordinary guy, it quickly becomes clear that my conversation was going to be a very relaxed affair, without pretenses, and totally open to all questions I threw at him.
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If you've ever owned a fixed focal length wide-angle lens, you've probably noticed the numbers located between the focus ring and the aperture ring. This is the depth of field scale, and it's a valuable tool that helps you check the depth of field for different apertures and focus distances.
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24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are the workhorses of many genres in the industry, combining a useful focal length range with a nice maximum aperture for a zoom lens. If you do not need that f/2.8 aperture, though, f/4 versions offer the same versatility in a smaller package and at a much lower cost. The Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G embodies that and offers an even more versatile focal length range, making it quite desirable for a huge range of applications. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Today Sony has announced three new products: The Sony a7CII, the 16-35mm F2.8 GM II, and last but not least, the Sony a7cR. And unfortunately, I have not been able to use the first two products I mentioned, but, I have been able to use the A7cR quite a bit. In total, I’ve taken about 10,000 images with it so far. So let's talk about it.
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A lens that costs only a few hundred dollars and gives a unique, dream-like image? That's certainly going to catch the attention of many photographers and videographers, but how good is it? [ Read More ]
As a camper and tech enthusiast, finding the right portable power bank to keep all my devices charged while on the road has always been a priority. I do have a leisure battery, which is connected to my van, and this allows me to use devices when parked up after being charged while driving. However, if I want to stay in a spot longer I would be pinched for power.
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We all want to be better photographers, but the path to getting there is not always readily apparent. If you are feeling a little stalled out in your progress but looking to grow, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing 10 useful tips that will put you on the path to improvement.
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There is no format more extreme than large format, where the negatives dwarf even the biggest medium format sensors and each frame costs upwards of $5. With such intense costs and demands, would you use it to photograph something as important as a photo assignment for The New York Times? This neat video takes you behind the scenes with a photographer who did just that.
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Hold on tight, my fellow photography enthusiasts, as we dive into the world of shutter speed! Get ready to unlock the five secrets that will make your photographs freeze time, bend reality, and maybe even make your subjects strike a pose like supermodels on a catwalk. So, grab your camera, put on your photography hat, and let's embark on this adventure.
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Few lenses on the market right now are more exciting than the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD, which offers an incredibly versatile focal length range in tandem with a particularly wide set of maximum apertures. Now, the lens is available for Nikon Z mount users, and this awesome video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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The work of Daido Moriyama is some of the most unique of the last several decades, and it is a fantastic source from which to draw creative inspiration. The excellent video essay takes a look at Moriyama’s work and how his creative philosophy shaped his images.
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Photography is as much a business as it is an art. Amid the myriad choices that shape a photographer's journey, one pivotal decision looms large: pricing. For those straddling photography alongside another profession, striking the right pricing balance can be both an art and a science. Navigating my dual professional roles, I discovered that pricing isn't merely a reflection of an image's worth; it's a strategic tool, ensuring equilibrium between passion, profession, and personal moments.
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It has been five years since we first saw the EOS R, Canon’s first full frame mirrorless camera. Though we have seen several newer models since its release, it is still a perfectly serviceable camera that can be had for a bargain now. This excellent video review takes a look at how the EOS R holds up in 2023.
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Remove the complications and long lists of equipment that you think you need to create stunning portraits. Look at what Irene Rudnyk can achieve shooting with this simple LED light set up in her living room.
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As a photographer, my lens has been my window to the world, a conduit through which I've captured the grandeur of nature's landscapes. From the sweeping vistas of mountains to the tranquil embrace of forests, I've dedicated my craft to preserving the beauty of the outdoors. Yet, a whisper of curiosity has tugged at me, urging me to step outside my comfort zone and explore the realm of portrait photography for a long time.
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Landscape photography can often be a very slow process that requires a lot of preparation followed by a lot of waiting for just the right conditions and right light to develop in front of you. If you are willing to wait, though, you will often be rewarded with worthwhile images. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing the importance of patience in the craft.
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Viltrox has quickly become one of the most competitive manufacturers of lenses, creating options that offer excellent performance and image quality at some of the best prices in the industry. The relatively new AF 75mm f/1.2 offers APS-C users an extremely wide aperture in tandem with a portrait focal length, making it an intriguing option for many photographers, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in real-world usage.
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Have you ever wondered how photographers achieved that etherial blurred effect? Well, it can be done in Photoshop, but it turns out there's a filter available to create the same results if not better. [ Read More ]
I get questions like these daily, mostly from inexperienced or new photojournalists who want to get into documentary photography. I often repeat the same answers, so I figured it might be useful to put it all into a single article. So, here are the bare basics of high-risk documentary photography.
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Jessica Kobeissi has a much-needed rant in response to comments from viewers who assume that everyone not using mirrorless has been left behind in the dark ages.
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Do you ever feel like you carry too much camera gear when out practicing landscape photography? A camera bag, a camera body, a trio of lenses, batteries, filters, a tripod, maybe a drone or action cam: it all adds up. This video looks at taking a minimal approach and some of the advantages that it brings.
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A lot of interesting photography equipment is released almost every week. This could be an upgrade to something you currently are using or something new that you've never considered buying before. However, think twice about spending your hard-earned money on new photography equipment.
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Viltrox has continued to establish themselves as a manufacturer of capable lenses that are priced quite competitively, making their options intriguing for a wide range of photographers and filmmakers. Their latest lens, the Viltrox PRO Series AF 27mm f/1.2 Pro, offers Fujifilm users a relatively neutral equivalent focal length of 40mm in tandem with an extremely wide maximum aperture of f/1.2, making it a potential workhorse for many applications. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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Back in 2017, Sigma released the 14mm f/1.8 Art, a lens which offered the widest maximum aperture seen in a full frame 14mm lens by more than a full stop. Now, they have released the 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art, which offers even more light-gathering power and sits as the world's widest f/1.4 full frame lens. Can its performance and image quality match those impressive specs? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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Sometimes, when you want to win the big game, you have to be willing to call your own number.
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Photography equipment is not cheap, and as such, it pays to think long and hard about where exactly you are spending your money. And so, when it comes time to upgrade some of your gear, is it better to put your money toward a camera or a lens first? This helpful video tutorial features an experience photographer discussing the topic and offering some great advice to help you ensure you get the equipment that will serve you and your budget best.
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We often think of photo composition in an additive way, including an increasing numbers of elements in the frame to balance each other out, until the shot feels relatively full and satisfying. However, thinking about how you can leave things out of the image can often be a great way to reduce distractions and bring your viewer's attention back to the subject. This great video tutorial discusses negative space and how to use it in your images.
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Over the past few years, there has been a remarkable rise in M and LTM lens manufacturers, throwing in with Leica and Voigtlander in an attempt to carve out some space of their own. Many of these lenses lean towards the more affordable side of the marketplace, with TTArtisan and 7Artisan joined by revived "classics" like Meyer-Optik Görlitz or handmade, artisanal lenses like MS-Optics.
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Photoshop's Generative Fill feature has generated a ton of buzz in the last few months with its ability to drastically edit and alter photos in just a few seconds. One photo task that can often be tedious is restoring old or damaged photos, and a lot of Generative Fill's capabilities seem perfectly tailored to the task. Can it save you a lot of time and effort? This great video takes a look.
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One of the neat things about landscape photography is that any one frame can be edited in numerous ways to produce many vastly different but equally compelling results. And while many editing techniques are somewhat ubiquitous across all those different styles, this interesting video tutorial explores an unusual but simple approach to adding more atmosphere to foggy landscape images.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that requires the confluence of technical skill, creative vision, careful planning, physical effort, and sometimes, a bit of luck. If you would like to improve your landscape photos, check out this fantastic video tutorial that offers five useful tips sure to put you on the track to better images.
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We all know that AI is changing every industry and photography is a long way from being exempt from that. What many may not know, however, is photographers have an edge when it comes to image-generating AI: Let me show you how. [ Read More ]
Ever wonder about VR filmmaking, but aren’t sure how to get started? Here is a mini-primer using the Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8 L Dual Fisheye 3D VR lens and the R5 C camera.
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These images have been described as the greatest photographic document of Caribbean people in post-war Britain. Hear what creator Vanley Burke himself has to say about his iconic "Rivers of Birminam" photo series. [ Read More ]
Composition can be one of the hardest skills of landscape photography to learn for more pleasing images. The rules can be overwhelming: the rule of thirds, leading lines, golden ratio, and more. This video brings it all down to one element to help master composition and landscape photography.
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Hendrix used it. As did Hemingway. Slash still does, and so too does George Saunders. It's simple, relatable, and easy to implement. Best of all, it really does help take your creative work to the next level. Learn how you can use it, too.
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The new Hasselblad XCD 28mm f/4 P offers uses a very portable wide angle lens that still brings with it some innovative features and the promise of image quality able to keep up with the demands of 100-megapixel medium format lenses, making it intriguing for a range of applications, particularly street photography. Can it live up to those high demands in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect.
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When it comes to different filter systems, they may seem simple, but they can have wildly differing user experiences, with some a breeze to use and others an awkward, fumbling debacle. Is this magnetic system the best on the market?
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Social media is bigger than ever, and that means more photos are being posted than ever before. With all those images being posted, there can be some powerful trends, and it can be easy to wonder if you should be following them yourself in order to stay relevant. This insightful video essay discusses the issue and offers some thoughts on how closely we should follow the crowd.
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Almost every accessory brand is taking the horizontal-to-vertical rotation mounts very seriously. Let’s see what Ulanzi’s range of options have to offer.
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In today’s world of photography where we are spoiled with choices, selecting the ideal method for delivering photo prints can be a daunting task. With an array of options available, photographers often find themselves constantly in a dilemma of choosing the perfect print method that is not only capable of showcasing their work in the best physical form but also provides an exceptional experience for their clients.
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In the world of photography, the name "Hasselblad" resonates with elegance, precision, and uncompromising quality. Enter the Hasselblad X2D, a piece of technological artistry that has the power to transform mundane moments into breathtaking visual narratives. Thanks to the creative prowess of Gavin Hardcastle, an acclaimed photographer and filmmaker, we are treated to a captivating video that showcases the Hasselblad X2D's capabilities.
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Photographer's block, also known as creative block, is a common challenge that many photographers encounter during their artistic journey. It is a frustrating and sometimes overwhelming feeling of being stuck, unable to find inspiration or ideas for new photographic projects. Photographer's block can affect photographers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. However, it is essential to recognize that it is a natural part of the creative process. In this article, we will explore the causes of photographer's block and provide practical strategies to unlock creativity and overcome this creative hurdle.
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Venus Optics is known for making some of the most unique lenses on the market today. Their 10mm f/4 Cookie lens takes the classic pancake design and turns it into a very wide focal length, making it an intriguing option for any photographer looking for a portable (and affordable) walkaround option for things like hikes and travel photography. 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.
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Fujifilm's X Series of mirrorless cameras are some of the most beloved options out there, offering a great combination of a traditional and highly functional user experience in tandem with modern features and capabilities. The X-S20 offers a nice balance of features and cost, making it an intriguing option for many photographers. This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Ultra-wide angle zoom lenses with f/2.8 apertures are popular for everything from weddings and events to landscapes and astrophotography. Nonetheless, such lenses are often rather expensive, frequently costing north of $2,000. And so, at $996, the Nikon 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is a breath of fresh air. Can it keep up with more expensive competitors? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect.
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Over 100 days ago, Russ Cook (aka The Hardest Geezer), who aims to become the first person ever to run the entire length of Africa, set off on this epic 15,000-kilometer journey. Join me in this article as I interview the filmmakers behind this epic adventure and find out what has happened.
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As a Canon user, perhaps no lens has me more jealous of other camera systems than the 35-150mm f/2-2.8. Arguably one of the most versatile lens designs, such lenses can cover a huge range of needs and applications. Both Tamron and Samyang make 35-150mm f/2-2.8 options with different advantages and prices. Which is right for you? This excellent video comparison takes a look at both to help you decide.
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In the archives of photography, few moments have been as pivotal as Robert Capa's coverage of the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. Capa stepped onto the beaches of Normandy and captured the raw intensity of one of the most significant events of World War II, and, it can be argued, one of the most significant events in history. Despite the chaotic atmosphere, Capa's work stands as a testament to the power and importance of photojournalism. We've all seen the photos. They are some of the most iconic images captured during war. However, due to a darkroom mishap, many of those moments he captured are gone forever.
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Abstract photography, do you hate it or love it? Either way, there’s a lot we can learn from the techniques and utilize them in our other photographic work.
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Lighting can make or break a portrait, and sometimes, you will be asked by a client to tailor your lighting design to accentuate specific characteristics or features of your subject. In this great video tutorial, you will see a photographer team up with a world-class barber to create images for a hairstyling competition and learn how a combination of lighting and editing came together to create the final images.
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It can be a strange experience to take a photo you know is sharp, only for it to look soft despite getting everything right. If you know your technique is solid, but your photos still do not look sharp enough, check out this great video tutorial that discusses some of the reasons technically sharp photos can look soft and what you can do to improve them.
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Almost no landscape image is finished when you press the shutter; pretty much every photo you take is going to require some level of editing to produce a finished product. Editing does not have to be complicated, though. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing some useful and straightforward techniques for creating compelling edits of your landscape images.
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If you've wanted to try macro photography but didn't want to outlay on all the special equipment necessary, you're in luck. If you're an iPhone user, SANDMARC has a 100mm Macro lens you can screw onto your phone, and I put it through its paces.
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Ah, the allure of the sea! The crashing waves, the salty air, and the breathtaking beauty of the coastline. If you're a beginner photographer looking to embark on a seascape photography journey, you're in for a treat.
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The Canon EOS R3 represented a major step forward for the company, bringing with it the first stacked sensor in a Canon camera, helping them to get back into competition with the likes of Sony. It looks like the company intends to bring that technology to more cameras soon.
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14mm f/2.8 lenses are useful for range of applications, particularly landscape and astrophotography. At less than $300, the Pergear 14mm f/2.8 Mark II is on the affordable end of the spectrum, making it an intriguing option. Can it keep up with more expensive lenses? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Back in my college days, when I first started taking photographs, I pursued magazine photography because I loved seeing my name printed in the magazine. Often, I wasn’t being paid for my services and the photo credit was payment enough for me. When I incorporated my business some 20+ years ago, I named my company "photo: John Ricard, LLC" because it resembled a photo credit.
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One of the best benefits of digital images with high resolution is that you can crop them to essentially aspect ratio you please, but there is a drawback as well: we often do not put as much thought into the final crop of a photo before we press the shutter as we did in the days of film. This great video tutorial discusses the issue and offers some helpful advice for better crops of your landscape photos.
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In the past few years, we have seen some nice advancements in the quality of superzoom lenses, and there are now several options that offer good results along with the unmatched versatility of a huge range of focal lengths. For Canon shooters, there is the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Wedding photographers place a lot of demands on their lenses: they need wide apertures, great autofocus performance, sharp image quality, and a variety of focal lengths. As such, most wedding photographers carry several lenses, which can be both expensive and a bit of a logistical pain. And so, the thought of a lens that could replace several lenses and do so at a far cheaper price is quite intriguing. Can it offer the sort of performance and image quality wedding photographers need? This great video takes a look.
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A new Illinois law forces adults who profit from their kids' content to set aside a percentage of their earnings. Does this go far enough to protect kidfluencers?
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There are no hard and fast set of rules for how to price your photography, which can make it difficult to know how to set your prices in order to make a decent profit without driving away too many potential clients. If you are new to the business of photography, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you some fantastic advice on pricing your work.
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Canon's RF mount has generally produced some quite impressive lenses, but the company has also been quite aggressive in stopping third-party manufacturers from creating lenses for the mount, much to the frustration of many photographers. In a recent interview, the company has confirmed that their strategy has effectively not changed.
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Finding the perfect print option for your images can be daunting. Figuring out which paper to use is just the first part of the task. At least equally important for a printed photo's visual appeal is the right frame choice. And in this article, I show you frames that can elevate your images.
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The X-T5 mirrorless camera took Fujifilm's highly popular X Series platform and upgraded it with a huge range of new features and advancements, the most notable being that new 40-megapixel sensor, the highest ever seen in such a camera. This great video review takes a long-term look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the camera in real-world usage.
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Leading lines are one of the most fundamental and powerful tools a photographer has for creating compelling compositions that invite the viewer into the frame. If you find yourself unsure of how to use leading lines, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer giving an in-depth explanation of the different kinds of leading lines and how to leverage them to create more powerful landscape photos.
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If you have ever seen an OLED TV, you know that they offer unparalleled picture quality, which is why it is so great that OLED displays have started becoming a regular appearance in computers. The Asus Vivobook S15 OLED offers such a display in tandem with a range of other features, and this great video takes a look at the computer and the sort of performance and display quality you can expect from it in use.
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In the world of LED lights, Hobolite has once again pushed the envelope, revealing the “Micro” to their lineup. At first glance, its compactness is enchanting, promising both convenience and functionality. The real question, however, is: does it deliver?
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This year, we celebrate the 184th birthday of photography, and in those nearly two centuries, we have seen some remarkable accomplishments and advancements. This fantastic video essay takes a look at the craft we all love and some of the most important milestones in its history.
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Good habits make good photographers, and landscape photography is no different than any other genre. Getting in the habit of doing certain things every time you head out can help give you the best chances of coming home with winning shots. This great video tutorial details 10 such habits and why they can have a positive impact on your work.
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B&H is turning 50, and they are celebrating with their Bild Expo September 6 and 7th at the Javits Center, in Manhattan. It is a free event where you can take advantage of a lineup of industry giants spanning across genres. Whether you're in need of renewed inspiration, valuable business advice, or acquiring new skills, you can expect an abundance of the most experienced voices at the expo.
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Sirui's launched the Venus 150mm T2.9 1.6x Full-Frame Anamorphic Lens. Beyond its sharp imagery, pleasing bokeh, and unique anamorphic flare, its standout feature is the remarkably close minimum focus distance. This capability sets the lens apart, elevating it to a distinct tier of optical brilliance.
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The Nikon Z8 is arguably the most capable camera for the price on the market right now, able to tackle just about any photo or video need and then some. Is it the best camera you can buy right now? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality it offers.
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Group shots might seem just like wider-angle portraits, but my word are they annoying. In this video, watch a tutorial of a professional group shot of a children's football team that yields superb results despite bright natural light! [ Read More ]
Film photography has enjoyed a notable resurgence in the last few years, and while it can offer an enjoyable and different experience over digital, it is not without its drawbacks. The cost is the most commonly cited con to the format, but there is something arguably more crucial to consider. This excellent video essay discusses the issue and what you should consider before you pick up your film camera.
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In a recently uploaded video by Dagogo from the renowned ColdFusion YouTube channel, the spotlight is cast on groundbreaking EU legislation that could reshape the contours of the smartphone industry.
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Focus stacking/bracketing consists of taking several shots of the same frame (in this case, a landscape) at different focus points within your frame to ensure sharpness throughout. Is it necessary? In most cases, no, as an aperture above f/9 will typically cover any slight variations in depth of field. However, if you are using an ultra-wide lens with subjects close to the lens and a large distance between the foreground and background elements, it is beneficial to ensure sharpness throughout.
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Few things are more fundamental to photography than the difference between zoom and prime lenses. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and knowing which one is right for various applications will help you choose the right one for your creative tendencies and ensure you get the shot. This helpful video tutorial will teach you the differences and show you which is right for your work.
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When you are new to learning, it can be tempting to think that you need complex multi-light setups in order to create compelling professional portraits, but that cannot be further from the truth. While such setups certainly have their place, you will be surprised by just how much you can accomplish with only one light. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced portrait photographer sharing four effective single-light setups and how to use them.
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When you think of a portrait, you probably think of focal lengths mostly between 85mm and 135mm, but, of course, that does not mean you can't use wider focal lengths. A wide angle portrait outside can be a great way to add a sense of drama and adventure to the frame, but you need to ensure you are carefully balancing the light. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to read the light and ensure you get the best possible images.
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Many new photographers will find themselves in or around wedding photography at some point — it is the inevitable call of those who take even a reasonable image. But, don't be fooled, it's harder than it seems. [ Read More ]
It isn't a new question and the answer is ever-changing, but periodically, it's worth looking at each brand from an objective point of view to see the state of play. Which brand is currently the best for each type of photographer? [ Read More ]
In the last few iterations, Lightroom has taken some remarkable steps forward in its masking capabilities, offering powerful and precise tools in tandem with some of its classic features that allow you to not only make precise edits, but take images in entirely different creative directions. This awesome video tutorial will show you a quick walkthrough on using the new tools for adding creative lighting to a portrait.
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35mm lenses with wide apertures have long been treasured for their usefulness and ability to tackle a huge range of needs and situations with ease, including portraits, weddings, street photography, and much more. The Fujifilm XF 23mm f/1.4 R LM WR has earned a lot of respect among photographers. However, now that the company has also released X Series cameras with high-resolution sensors, can it keep up? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect.
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Recently, a few photographers I know have been raving about Neewer’s gear. So, when given the opportunity to review their new Q4 Strobe Flash and its QPro wireless trigger, I jumped at the chance. Here’s why it far exceeded my expectations.
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In the ever-evolving world of photography, the post-processing phase has seen remarkable advancements, shifting from traditional manual culling and editing to the realm of automation with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
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Sennheiser's new EW-DP lav mic system should easily be able to outperform DJI's wireless lav mics... but that didn't happen. [ Read More ]
What does an atomic detonation look like with a 1/1,000,000 s exposure? If you drop milk onto a red table, do you make art? This article holds an interesting discussion about high speed photography.
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How do you keep yourself looking good while working from home, without turning your home into a workplace?
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Landscape photography is a challenging but rewarding genre that requires the confluence of several different facets of technique and knowledge in order to produce a winning shot. If you are new to the genre and ready to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced pro sharing five common mistakes beginners make and how to fix them.
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Flash does not have to be restricted to the studio; in fact, you can make some pretty creative and fun images by combining flash with natural light outside. If you would like to get started with working with flash for outdoor portraits, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will guide you through lighting and shooting such a set of photos.
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Viltrox has been making some superb lenses of late — affordable, compact, and fast — and they join a growing market of off-brand manufacturers who produce superb glass. This latest offering is another great addition! [ Read More ]
Almost every modern camera comes equipped with some form of wireless connectivity. Manufacturers are even making them a prominent selling point. But just how valuable is this feature in reality? In this article, I want to dive into the possibilities and their value.
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We all know that printer companies hook you with a cheap printer and then make their money with overpriced ink. I just didn't know it was this bad. [ Read More ]
As a modern photographer, you are often wearing many hats. We carry a lot of gear. Well now, there is one piece of tripod kit that transforms into a standing, tabletop, monopod, or handheld tripod all-in-one for both your phone and camera. My back is thankful for innovation. Let’s dive into the details.
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I know what you might be thinking. "Will AI replace professional photographers? Are the days of hiring a professional photographer numbered?" As the owner of 415Headshots, a San Francisco-based headshot studio, I'm here to quell those fears.
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As photographers, we are bombarded by information from all directions on a daily basis, and it can be tricky to know how to cut through it all to the advice that really matters. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, if you want some important lessons that will put you on the right track to finding success and satisfaction in the craft of photography, check out this fantastic video essay that discusses such ideas.
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Capturing birds mid-flight can be incredibly tricky and requires a lot of know-how. One of the biggest hurdles was the camera itself, but fortunately, we now have more tools at our disposal than ever before. [ Read More ]
I remember vividly in July of 2019 when Skylum announced Luminar 4, software that featured Sky Replacement. A ho-hum feature for some, it was seen as a major gift by many photographers who wanted an easy way to replace a bland or cloudless sky.
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Photographing The World: Japan, our newest photography tutorial with Elia Locardi, is finally live. And as always, we filmed an entire behind-the-scenes series of its creation. This is Episode 1. [ Read More ]
Sometimes a tripod just needs to be easier to carry for when you might need it. This tripod from SmallRig definitely fits that role.
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With everything photographers are bombarded by these days, it can be easy to confuse what you want versus what you need. This excellent video essay features an experienced photographer discussing a range of things modern photographers often want versus the things that will actually make them better and happier creatives.
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How much clutter is there in your life? Don’t you wish that your photography gear was better than what you have? Now is a great time to change that situation with a little help from MPB.
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The way you see light and the way your camera sees light are quite different, and as such, it is important to understand the differences to ensure you get the correct exposure and to be able to anticipate when your camera might get it wrong. This great video tutorial discusses how cameras meter photos, what to be aware of, and when you should consider switching to manual metering.
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It used to be that you would generally have to choose an APS-C or full frame camera to ensure reasonable levels of image quality and performance in all scenarios, but in recent years, we have seen significant advancements in the capabilities of small cameras, and they now make for excellent options for a wide range of applications. Along with that, they offer a nice gamut of advantages over their bigger cousins. This helpful video tutorial offers five tips for getting the most out of smaller cameras.
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The more I see AI churn out headshots and portraits with twisted appendages and those weird, dead eyes, the less I'm sweating about artificial presences taking over the photography world. Why fight AI when you can make it work for you? So, instead of pushing it away, I've started using AI tools in my day-to-day. It's not replacing my job; it's just handling the mundane stuff.
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Landscape photography is an art that requires skill, creativity, and an understanding of the natural environment. While beginners can capture stunning images, seasoned professionals have honed their craft over the years and mastered some advanced techniques. In this article, we will explore five landscape photography tricks that only pros know.
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Backlighting in portraiture offers a huge range of creative possibilities, whether adding a bit of shimmer to your subject's hair, including a dramatic sunset in the frame, or one of many other options. However, the use of backlighting takes some special considerations to ensure you get the results you have in mind. This helpful video tutorial will show you what you need to know to maximize your image quality.
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Waterfalls are an extremely popular photography subject, particularly since they offer the chance to really flex our creative muscles and make dynamic, compelling shots. If you would like to take your waterfall images to the next level, check out this fantastic video tutorial by an experienced landscape photographer that walks you through his process and offers a range of helpful tips and advice along the way.
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How many smartphone photography tools have you purchased and eventually misplaced or have forgotten about? Maybe these cleverly designed accessories will serve you better.
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Perhaps no lens is ubiquitous than the 24-70mm f/2.8, which is the workhorse of choice for countless photographers and filmmakers due to how adept it is at handle a huge range of genres and applications. That being said, it is far from the only such choice. One intriguing choice is that 24-105mm f/4, and this great video discusses why you might want to consider one for your work.
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Regrets are horrible to have, but they're also information-rich and necessary in many cases. We all have some, but in the context of photography, do you have any? Photographers reveal their biggest regrets to Nigel Danson. [ Read More ]
One of the classic challenges of photography is bringing a sense of depth to what is a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional scene. Understanding how to manipulate both color and contrast in post-processing can go a long way in helping you achieve this. This awesome video tutorial will show you how to use tools in Lightroom to give your landscape images a sense of depth.
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I love all types of documentaries, and I think it's very important that artists and photographers educate themselves on the past greats and present ones working today. I watch documentaries on photography, fashion, art, and anything else I find interesting. It’s an education coming from a very successful person in that field that everyone can learn from, and I find them to be very inspirational. When I don’t feel inspired or I'm frustrated with things not working out for me, I put on a photography or artist doc and learn about their past struggles and their process that they go through. It’s always a great way to remind myself that everything is going to workout and to create that crazy idea.
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PhotoPills might be the most popular app for planning photoshoots. However, there is another feature-rich app that can do even more. In this video, Alyn Wallace shows the app Planit Pro and some of its unique features.
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Astrophotography can be one of the most stunning and magical genres of photography, as you watch wonders of the universe that are invisible to the naked eye appear on your camera screen. It is also one of the most technically challenging photography genres, but your practice and patience will be rewarded. If you are ready to get started, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you the basics of wide field astrophotography.
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Judging by my title, you'll be shocked to know that I have always been a Canon loyalist. From learning with the Canon A-1 inherited from my grandmother in 1999, to the latest mirrorless models, I have been a devoted customer and an advocate of the brand for over two decades. That is, until the Canon EOS R5. The Canon R5 is where my bond to the brand was systematically dismantled as the hardware itself did.
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The difference between image quality and quality images is significant, and yet, they are two things that are often confused for one another. It is crucial that we maintain clarity about which is which and how to improve each individually. This excellent video essay features an experienced photographer discussing the topic and offering some insightful advice.
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If you've ever yearned after a medium format camera, you might wonder what the difference between them is, particularly when they're both 100 megapixels. Well, here's a showdown.
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If you are new to photography, it can be a little overwhelming trying to learn how to edit images with all the tools at your disposal. Nonetheless, one of the most common post-processing tasks you will have to tackle is fixing an overexposed or underexposed photo. This helpful video tutorial features a seasoned Lightroom pro showing you how to do just that.
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You can work tirelessly on developing strong technique and nurturing your creative voice, but if you do not know when you have taken a good photo, it can all be for naught. Evaluating your own work can be trickier than you might think, but it is a crucial skill to develop, whether you are an amateur or a professional. This helpful video tutorial offers a range of actionable advice on how to do just that.
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A basic understanding of the physics of light can help us to achieve the best possible photographic results. Here are some very simplified explanations of how what we learned in school science lessons can affect what we do with our cameras.
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Knowing how to confidently and efficiently pose couples is an absolutely crucial skill for any engagement or wedding photographer, and yet, posing is one of the trickiest skills that often takes photographers the longest to master. If you find yourself struggling a bit with posing, check out this helpful video tutorial that offers some great tips sure to put you on the right track.
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Having a few simple lighting setups available at your disposal is one of the most important tricks any photographer can have up their sleeve. In this post, I'm going to share with you six of my favorite lighting setups for wedding photographers, but really any photographer can use these simple tips.
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Sometimes, the simplest ideas can create some really cool images. Here’s how I created a fun and colorful DIY photoshoot backdrop for less than $25.
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Portrait photographers love a medium telephoto lens with good bokeh, and for most modern lenses, good bokeh means producing creamy, featureless backgrounds that allow total focus on the subject. But what is the bokeh has a character all its own? That is what TTArtisan is aiming for with the "Bubble Bokeh" lens, and this excellent video review takes a look at if its cheap price and interesting rendering make it a winner.
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Mastering shutter speed, aperture, and ISO is crucial as a new photographer. Doing so will not only give you technical control over your images, but will enable you to explore creative ideas that help you develop your unique photographic voice. This awesome video tutorial will give you a useful approach to camera settings to help you take precise control over your photos.
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While the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is getting most of the attention at the moment, for those who do not want the footprint of or the cost of a flagship, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers quite a nifty experience and a lot of the same benefits at about half the price. How does it hold up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at the new phone and the sort of performance and experience you will be able to expect from it in usage.
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Being asked to work for free can be a frustrating experience for photographers who have invested years of hard work and dedication to master their craft. In a time where equipment and running costs are so high, it has never been so important to politely decline requests to work for free.
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Cameras used to use glass plates and flash used to be controlled explosions. Thankfully, we've embraced the relative safety introduced to the photographic process with DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but can we say the same for AI?
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As we progress as photographers, we accumulate more and more images in our catalogs, and it can be easy for old photos to become buried deep on hard drives, left to be forgotten about. But there can be a lot of value in revisiting old shots, and you find even find treasure hidden in those old folders. This great video tutorial shows you what you can accomplish when you apply modern techniques and improved skills to older shots.
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Can metallic spandex work in a photoshoot? See how we built an entire photography set using metallic spandex and some of the challenges we faced along the way. [ Read More ]
Modern lenses are quite remarkable devices, and they often allow you to shoot at extremely wide apertures with little consequence in image quality, making it easy to fall into the habit of just leaving your lens at that maximum aperture for all your images. That can be a mistake, though, and it can make your work overly one-dimensional. This excellent video essay discusses some of the many reasons you might want to consider stopping down the next time you head out.
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In the world of filmmaking, quality often comes with a hefty price tag. But Sirui's latest offering — a trio of cine lenses designed for super 35 sensors — challenges this narrative. Affordable yet robust, these lenses offer impressive capabilities that can benefit both novices and seasoned professionals.
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Tilt-shift lenses are considered standard equipment for architectural photography, allowing you to correct common geometric issues to ensure your images both realistic and of the highest possible quality. But with modern cameras and software, do you really need a tilt-shift lens, or can you get by using other techniques? This excellent video discusses the issue to help you decide.
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Supertelephoto zoom lenses are remarkably versatile, making them well suited for a huge range of applications. In recent years, we have seen a real boom in more affordable options that offer great performance and image quality at prices that make them far more accessible. One such option is the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD, and this excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect from it in usage.
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Filip Majerčík, a diverse Slovak photographer, shares his incredible project that has taken six years to complete over 50 trips, resulting in 3 TB of data to process. His passion and dedication capture his country’s beauty from a sensitive, awe-inspiring perspective.
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The peak of the Perseid meteor shower is due to happen this weekend between the 11th and 13th. The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most impressive displays, with counts of over 100 meteors per hour during the peak. In this video from StarScaper, he goes into further details on how to photograph and edit meteor shower images.
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When it comes to landscape photography, rarely is the photo finished the moment you press the shutter; most landscape images require some degree of processing in order to produce a polished product. If you are new to the genre and ready to improve your images, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you the ins and outs of how to edit your first photos.
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Knowing what photos work best and worst in different lighting conditions can help us create the best possible photos. Here's how to do it.
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Having a handful of lighting styles ready at a moment's notice can be invaluable, particularly in wedding photography. In this video, learn some staples and what makes them so powerful. [ Read More ]
We have seen a boom in affordable third-party lenses in recent years, with many of them offering good performance and image quality at prices that significantly undercut those from first-party manufacturers. Viltrox has been one of the manufacturers leading that charge, and the AF 75mm f/1.2 is emblematic of that, offering a nice portrait focal length in tandem with an extremely wide aperture. How does it hold up in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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In the modern world of photography, it's easy to be lured into the belief that owning the latest and most expensive gear will automatically elevate your skills as a photographer. However, the truth is far from this misconception. While high-quality equipment can undoubtedly enhance certain aspects of your photography, it is essential to understand that gear alone does not make you a better photographer. In this article, let's delve into the reasons why true photographic prowess lies in the photographer's skill, creativity, and vision rather than the equipment they possess.
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In the world of photography, the debate over whether gear truly impacts the quality of a photographer's work has been going for years. Some argue that it is the photographer's skill and vision that matter most, while others firmly believe that having the right gear can significantly elevate one's abilities. This article aims to shed light on the argument that gear does make you a better photographer, by exploring how advanced equipment empowers photographers, enhances creative possibilities, and enables the pursuit of excellence.
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Photography has long been regarded as an art form that captures moments, emotions, and memories, preserving them for generations to come. The constantly evolving photography landscape is mostly driven by the advancement of the tools and technologies used to create and deliver photographs. While the art of photography has progressively changed and improved, the way images are developed has not changed much and often lagged behind based on the traditional lab approach.
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Flash can sometimes be used to create dramatic, otherworldly portraits whose lighting jumps off the screen, but other times, you want to use flash to mimic the look of natural light. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to use flash for a subtle effect that looks like it was natural light the whole time.
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It’s been a minute since I shot color film. I’ve been shooting digital on a Canon 5D Mark IV for years. How does The Canon EOS-1N RS with Portra 400 compare?
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Overcast days can produce rather flat light that lacks dimension and can feel rather boring, and as such, it can be a bit tricky to product images that are compelling. That does not mean you should just pack it up and head home, though. Flat light can actually lead to fantastic images, and this excellent video tutorial will show you how to find and shoot them.
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Street photography is one of the most compelling genres in the craft, but it can be tricky to get started with. In this video, you'll get some ideas and inspiration to get off the mark. [ Read More ]
Landscape photography is a challenging genre, but when you get a good shot, it makes all the time and effort worth it. If you would like to improve your landscape photos, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing a range of useful advice to help you get on the right track.
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Landscape photography offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking scenes and create stunning images. However, one common issue that can plague your landscape photographs is the presence of dust spots. These pesky little specks can appear on your images and distract the viewer's attention from the beauty of the scene. In this article, we will explore several effective techniques to help you avoid dust spots in your landscape images and maintain the integrity of your photographs.
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When it comes to portrait photography, the classic focal length is 85mm, but of course, that is not the only option you can use for creating worthwhile images. 135mm lenses have long been a popular alternative to the classic 85mm option, and this great video essay discusses why you should consider using one in your work.
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The three-year-old camera is already seeing some solid discounts, for a variety of reasons.
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Most modern photographers interact with social media at least to some degree, and it can have more of an effect on your work and your creative evolution than you might think. This insightful video essay discusses how social media can lead professional and amateurs alike to make a mistake that handcuffs their ability to grow and to enjoy the craft of photography.
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When taking landscape photos, it can sometimes be helpful to put yourself into the scene to provide a sense of scale. The same is true for night photos. But the long exposure times make it hard to create sharp selfies. In this video, Alyn Wallace shows how to solve this problem.
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Anamorphic lenses are becoming more attainable and that's exciting for many of us film nerds who have yearned for one for some time. In this video, Todd Dominey takes one of these new budget anamorphic lenses and puts it through its paces. [ Read More ]
With an array of flagship features and a gigantic folding display, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 looks like the sort of powerhouse phone that creatives who want to do serious work on the go crave. With an improved hinge, brighter display, and faster processor, should you place your preorder? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect.
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In the world of photography, capturing the perfect shot often requires meticulous attention to detail. From adjusting camera settings to framing the subject just right, photographers invest significant effort in creating stunning visuals. However, amidst all the technicalities, there is one often overlooked but indispensable tool that can make or break the outcome of a photograph: the tripod.
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As it turns out, I've been quite the simpleton when it comes to applying contrast in my photos, as with Lightroom, there are a few new tricks to make this process easier. [ Read More ]
Canon has filled out their APS-C mirrorless line quite nicely with an array of models that offer everything from highly affordable options to professional-level models capable of tackling just about anything you can throw at them. So, which model is right for your budget and needs? This helpful video gives an overview of every option to help you choose.
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After thorough consideration, I made the decision to purchase the Shimoda Action X50 backpack a few years ago as my primary backpack for photography travels. Now, after several years of use, I want to reflect on its performance. Is it worth the investment? Let's find out.
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We all want to be better photographers, but rarely is the path to accomplishing that plainly obvious, and it can be easy to make unconscious mistakes that stop us from reaching the next level. If you feel like you are a bit stuck in a rut, check out this insightful video essay that features an experienced photographer discussing five common reasons photographers fail to improve and how to break free and take the next step forward.
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The beauty of artificial lighting is that it allows you to create just about any photo your imagination can envision with total control over every last detail. And while we often aim for bright, soft, and flattering lighting in our portraits, if you want to explore your artistic side a bit more, a dark and moody look can yield some very interesting images. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to light and shoot those dark and moody portraits.
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Landscape photography is a challenging but rewarding genre, and with all the time and effort it can take to get to a location, it is worth considering the approach you take once you are there to ensure you come away with as many great photos as possible. The insightful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing the philosophy that helps him to consistently produce worthwhile images.
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After four years, Sony finally released this new APS-C camera. This is the a6700 with a completely new design. It features the new A.I. engine for identifying and tracking subjects. Unfortunately, Sony forgot to make a few other improvements.
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In today's age, billions of photographs are uploaded to the internet. We're accustomed to it. It's the norm. However, like anything on this planet, it started somewhere and some time. Photography was invented in 1822, 39 years before the opening shots of the American Civil War. Digital photography made its appearance 48 years ago. Comparing this, you can say digital photography has been barely a thing even though it's something that's such a staple in today's world. But to those that lived in the mid-19th century, photography was a thing of magic.
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If you’re looking to get your fine art photography into a gallery, this is a great video that answers the basic questions.
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Landscape photography is a rewarding and captivating pursuit that allows us to capture the natural beauty of the world around us. However, it often involves long hours of carrying heavy camera gear and traversing various terrains. To fully enjoy and excel in this art form, it is crucial to prioritize the health and maintenance of your back and lumbar region. In this article, we will explore the significance of good back and lumbar maintenance for landscape photography. We will discuss the role of a suitable camera bag, the importance of ergonomic camera gear choices, and various exercises that can help you maintain a healthy spine, ensuring longevity and comfort in your photographic journey.
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Superzoom lenses offer the ultimate level of convenience, replacing several other lenses and allowing a photographer to travel lighter and work faster. For Nikon mirrorless shooters, there is the 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from the lens in real-world use.
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American documentary photographer Alex Soth's work has a strong element of narrative and metaphor, making it not just powerful imagery to enjoy, but worthwhile instructional material for improving our own photos. This fantastic video essay takes a look at Soth's work, how it creates such powerful narratives, and how we can use the lessons we take from it in our work.
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If your dream camera doesn't exist, it might be time to craft one yourself. Here's how to hack a GoPro into a multi-use camera.
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As a beginner photographer, your natural instinct often tries to capture everything that catches your eye. If you’re standing in front of the most beautiful view you’ve ever seen, of course you’ll want to show the whole scene in your image, but you’ll often create the most compelling images by showing less.
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Just like portrait photography, the height you hold your camera relative to your subject makes a significant difference in how your wildlife images come across to your viewers. If you would like to improve your wildlife images, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer discussing the impact camera height has on storytelling in your photos.
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DJI Air 3 versus Mini 3 Pro versus Mavic 3 Pro versus Mavic 3 Classic. It is all a bit much now, isn't it? Just like Sony, DJI is constantly releasing updated versions of their products, at varying price points, and with different sets of features, so it is tough to know which one to get. In this video, Kai looks at the four latest drones from DJI and breaks down what might be best for you.
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Landscape photography is a pursuit that requires patience, dedication, and a persistent mindset. From waiting for the right conditions to refining compositions during challenging moments, as landscape photographers, we face a range of experiences that test our resolve. This article delves into the significance of persistence in landscape photography, exploring how embracing unfavorable conditions can benefit our skills, how enjoying the rewards of successful shots can continue to benefit us long after the shoot, the importance of how considered post-processing and printing of our banger combine and contribute to help us become a successful landscape photographer.
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Canon has taken advantage of the additional capabilities offered by the RF mirrorless mount, creating a variety of highly capable lenses that push the boundaries of lens design. It looks like they have no intentions of slowing down, with yet another high-level professional lens likely on the way soon.
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Nowadays, your website is one of the most important parts of your photo business, and as such, it is well worth putting a lot of time and effort into making yours as good as possible. If you would like to make sure yours is as good as possible, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced wedding photographer discussing a common mistake creatives make with their websites and how to ensure yours rises above the rest.
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AI has caused a ton of excitement and controversy in the last year, and the photo industry has not been immune to it. This has led to many creatives wondering how the role of the professional photographer will evolve under the shadow of AI. This insightful video essay features an experienced commercial photographer discussing his thoughts on the topic.
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Do you find yourself arriving at a landscape photography location, getting the tripod set up, the camera out of the camera bag, and then walking away disappointed with your images? Something not quite right? I have some tips for finding your shot, whether it is a new location or one of your old favorites!
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There is a lot of questionable information and hacks pertaining to photography on the internet. No genre is as notorious as food photography, where some people suggest pouring motor oil on pancakes and using PVA glue instead of cheese. However, some of these practices are literally illegal. Read on to find out why.
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Contrast is one of the most fundamental properties of a photo, and it offers you many powerful ways to create a mood, make the subject clearer, and more. As such, learning how to leverage it and all the factors that influence contrast in the frame is crucial. This fantastic video tutorial discusses contrast and a variety of different ways to use it in your images.
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Today, I’d like to recount a fun story about how the past is never really the past. It is only a prologue.
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Shooting outdoor portraits offers a lot of creative opportunities, but it can be a bit of a pain to lug lighting to a location. Knowing how to work with natural light and a reflector can give you a lot of the versatility of an artificial light without all the inconvenience. This fantastic video tutorial will show you four different ways to use a reflector for outdoor portraits.
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You may be familiar with the term anamorphic lens, but what is the difference between them and spherical lenses? Which is better for videography? Here is a comprehensive comparison of a wide array of both! [ Read More ]
Canon has produced some incredible RF mount lenses thus far, and they have shown they have no plans of slowing down. A new set of patents have emerged, and they show quite a versatile lens in the works.
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The mistakes you make in life, including photography, leave a tart, bitter taste in your mouth, especially when they’re your fault and entirely avoidable. The solution? Don't make them. Here are three easy steps photographers from any genre can implement to immediately improve compositions and eliminate unnecessary errors.
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It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to visit epic places to create great images. However, much like the false promise of new gear making us better photographers, the truth is photographic opportunities are everywhere, and you’ll develop your skills faster by working a little harder to seek them out. [ Read More ]
Photoshop is a tremendously complex program, and as such, there is often more than one way to accomplish any one task. One of its most fundamental but overlooked tools is Curves, which many photographers shy away from due to its intimidating appearance. Nonetheless, once you master, you will be hard-pressed to find a more capable and efficient tool for many needs. This fantastic video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of the Curves tool and how to use it to edit your images.
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Viltrox has gained a reputation for creating high-quality prime lenses for different lens mounts. Allowing for accessibility to everyone due to a very affordable price bracket, these lenses are sharp, robust, and fast and Viltrox is very rapidly establishing itself as a top contender in the 3rd party lens market.
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Lightroom can be a surprisingly intricate program, and as such, some of its best features can be easily overlooked. Lightroom has some powerful filtering features, and if you are someone with a catalog of images in the tens or even hundreds of thousands of images, you will find it highly beneficial to learn the ins and outs. This fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.
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The Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM is an absolutely tiny lens, making it an intriguing option for anyone who wants a nice walkaround setup that will not break their back or bank account. How does it hold up in practice? This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from it in use.
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Today, a brief thought on when, sometimes, the solution isn’t X or Y, but X and Y.
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Photographers make mistakes; it is part of the hobby of photography. They happen from not knowing how to use the camera adequately, to forgetting to change a setting, to post-processing errors. This video covers seven landscape photography mistakes you can easily correct, whether you are a pro or a beginner.
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One of the first lessons we learn in photography is to always try to shoot at the lowest ISO possible. In theory, this produces the cleanest images with the least amount of noise and gives us the most room to work with in post-processing, provided you expose the shot correctly. However, shooting at lower ISOs can cause more harm than good, especially when lighting starts to get tricky.
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Grand trips for landscape photography are exciting and can make it look like you’re really living the landscape photographer life. But practicing your landscape photography locally shouldn’t be underestimated if you want to improve your technical and compositional skills.
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Portrait photography is a challenging but rewarding genre that requires not just competence with a camera and lighting, but the ability to direct subjects and make them feel comfortable in front of the camera. If you are new to the genre and hoping to improve, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced portrait photographer discussing a range of helpful advice and actionable tips sure to help you take better photos.
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Photography is not an easy profession in which to make a living, and so, it helps to absorb the insight and advice of more experienced professionals whenever you can. If you are new to the craft, check out this fantastic video essay that features a pro photographer sharing some of the most important things he has learned over 10 years in the profession.
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One regular and boring argument proposed by some is that the camera doesn’t matter. That’s hogwash. A good quality camera is vitally important for photography, and here’s why.
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It's still a bit of the wild west for 360 video editors in 2023, but that said, many of the major brands and smaller competitors have made great strides in catching up with their software to cater to this specific niche. If that's you, you'll want to read about these four video editing tools.
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Wildlife photography has always been a passion for me. It's not something that pays the bills, but it's something that I love, and it is great for my own mental health. Recently, I was informed of a family of Little Owls in England, and the young Owlets had just begun fledging from the nest. I took the near three-hour drive down to the location and watched these beautiful creatures.
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Michael Sasser is a well-known boudoir photographer on YouTube and loves to shoot in natural light conditions only, but in this video, he is opting to use the Zhiyun MOLUS G200 lights. Join Michael in this video to see how he gets on and what amazing images he can create.
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Are you curious about creating AI art? Is it okay to sell your work? I find it very fascinating, and since I’m not a Photoshop artist, I think I might try it out. [ Read More ]
It's not often that my favorite flash system goes on sale, so when it does it's pretty big news. Now until August 31st, Profoto is offering up to $600 off their B10x and B10x Plus flash heads. If you looking to add to your kit or are wanting to switch over to a powerful and portable flash system that uses Profoto's light modifiers, this is a great deal to check out.
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What an absurd question — I know. But, the times have changed and where social media was once an interesting marketing avenue, it's now a staple of the craft for photographers. If you're making a living from said craft, can you take a break from Instagram, for instance? [ Read More ]
For astrophotographers around the world who are wondering what there is to shoot in August 2023, Alyn Wallace has you covered with this in-depth guide to what's in the night sky. August is a fantastic month with the Perseid meteor shower, Milky Way core, and supermoons.
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What separates a good image from a mediocre one? As a photographer who has conducted over 50 shoots in the past few months, this is a question I've asked myself countless times. Through this continuous exploration and practice, I've become adept at recognizing the essential components that elevate an image to greatness. In this article, I'll share my insights and reveal the five crucial ingredients that contribute to the creation of a remarkable photograph.
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Third-party manufacturers have put a lot of pressure on first-party companies in the last few years by continually offering both innovative and unusual lenses and more standard options that perform just as well as more expensive glass at far more affordable prices. One such company doing that is Viltrox, with the AF 75mm f/1.2 for Sony APS-C E mount cameras being the latest example. This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from this lens.
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Perhaps no editing tool is ubiquitous than the Clone Stamp. It has been around for decades now, and its uses and versatility are nearly infinite. And yet, we have seen an explosion of ultra-advanced AI-powered editing tools in recent months, which leads to the question: is the Clone Stamp finally obsolete? This interesting video essay discusses the topic while looking at some of those new AI tools.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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The 16-35mm lens is the standard workhorse of landscape photography, but it is far from the only lens you can use for the genre, and, in fact, you are probably doing yourself a disservice if you rely exclusively on those focal lengths. If you are new to the genre and wondering what makes for a good lens kit, check out this helpful video tutorial sure to put you on the right path.
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Perhaps no camera brand is more polarizing than Leica, with many photographers absolutely swearing by both the experience and the image rendering and quality, while others claim they are nothing more than overpriced status symbols. If you have been wondering what the experience is like but are not ready to spend thousands of dollars to find out, check out this interesting video that features a Fujifilm X100V user discussing his thoughts on the Leica Q2.
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Sigma long ago established themselves as one of the premier manufacturers of lenses that offer top-level image quality that professional photographers demand at prices that often significantly undercut those of first-party manufacturers. Two of their options, the 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art and 50mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary, often similar capabilities but with different experiences and at different prices. Which is right for you? This insightful video comparison will help you pick.
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With all the new advancements in technology, specifically with the emergence of AI, why would you still need to have a set of filters for landscape photography? How do you start and what should you start with?
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There is a ton of gear on the camera market, a lot of which promises to give you an easy shortcut to better images, and while some of it can legitimately make your life easier, a lot of it is simply a waste of money that you will regret spending down the road. This great video featured an experienced photographer discussing some of the gear he most regrets buying and why.
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Both the Nikon Z7 II and Z8 have earned reputations as highly capable cameras capable of producing excellent images in a variety of conditions. With a thousand dollars of difference between the two, you might wonder if you need the more expensive Z8 or if the Z7 II will cover all your needs. This in-depth video comparison takes a close look at both cameras to help you pick the right option.
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In 2021, I bought the Think Tank Retrospective Backpack 15. This would be my lightweight backpack for holidays and day trips. I’ve enjoyed using this backpack, and now, it’s time to make a long-term review.
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There are some genres in which you simply have to take fast bursts of pictures in order to ensure you get the right image taken at just the perfect moment. Bird photography is one such genre. So, when you come home with hundreds or even thousands of photos, how do you know which to choose from those? This helpful video tutorial shares a wide variety of advice sure to assist you in choosing the perfect shot.
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While interchangeable lens cameras rule the professional world, fixed lens cameras have always been an alternative option for anyone who does not want the hassle or expense of carrying around a bag of several lenses. With a long history of such cameras, there have been some remarkable options along the way. This interesting video takes a look at five of the best lenses ever made for fixed lens cameras.
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There is no doubt that digital photography is technically superior to film in most circumstances, but there are aspects of the film photography experience that can never be replicated and that keep creatives returning to the medium over and over again. This fantastic video follows a photographer on a day shooting a variety of film and shows you some of the joys of the experience.
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In the past few years, we have seen an explosion of lenses that offer far more performance for the price than many comparable first-party options, and few manufacturers have been more competitive in that respect than Viltrox, who have created some of the most remarkably affordable lenses in recent memory. The AF 75mm f/1.2 offers APS-C continues that trend by offering APS-C users the combination of a portrait focal length and a bokeh-monster aperture. This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the lens.
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Nikon has dabbled in vintage-styled digital cameras for quite some time now, with some achieving more success than others, but they have yet to release a full frame mirrorless camera with that sort of design. That might change soon, with a new vintage-style full frame mirrorless camera rumored to be on the way very soon.
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Innovation isn't easy in a crowded and competitive market. When I first discovered this magnetic filter system made by Maven, I was skeptical. After using them for over 6 months they have become my favorite filter system I've ever used. [ Read More ]
Everyone wants to be a better photographer, but with as complex as the craft is, it can be difficult to know how to create a focused plan to really bring you to the next level. If you would like to improve your work, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing a wealth of valuable advice.
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Success in photography is a fairly vague metric. Some measure it by the number of followers on Instagram, others by ratings on photography forums, and some people by the gear you use. However, none of these three things mean success. In fact, a photographer who shoots on the latest gear, gets 5-star ratings on forums, and has a million followers is not necessarily successful. Here is what an actually successful photographer is.
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Having used Capture One for a while now, I came to understand that I never gave the software a proper review. Not an article that talks about tips, or one that only talks about the positive, but a proper in-depth review. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Well, here is my review of the latest version of Capture One.
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Wide angle lenses are the tool of choice for a lot of landscape photography, but they come with a large set of challenges that can make it difficult to produce worthwhile images with them. This interesting video essay discusses the difficulties of wide angle lenses, why telephoto options can often be a better choice, and what it takes to make a compelling landscape shot with a wide focal length.
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Like it or not, Instagram is still one of the most powerful platforms for photographers to promote their work and to connect with potential clients. If you find yourself struggling to get traction on the platform and are unsure of how to move forward, check out this helpful video tutorial that offers a range of advice to get you on the right track.
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There can be a lot of negativity in the photography community that can be discouraging or downright disheartening, and that is a shame, because every one of us first picked up a camera because it was something we enjoyed and something that invigorated our imagination. If you find yourself feeling a little let down by photography lately, check out this insightful video essay that discusses many of the positives of photography and how to go about finding them.
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There are plenty of photo cataloging programs out there. Lightroom and Bridge from Adobe are the key products in the category, but there are many other entrants, including Skylum with its Luminar Neo, On1, and Apple Photos on the Mac side. There are even more for Windows users.
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The rule of thirds is such a common compositional tool that camera manufacturers even build it into their cameras as an overlay for easy application. And while it is useful, if you rely on it exclusively, you could be doing your photography a real disservice. This excellent video essay discusses some issues with the rule of thirds and why you need to move past it to really discover your full creative voice.
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Instagram is one of the most important marketing tools for photographers in 2023. Being able to optimize your images for the platform so that they perform best is a great way to attract new customers and build a following. In this article, I will explain some of the things that work well for photographers on Instagram.
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Composition is one of the trickiest aspects of landscape photography, but once you feel comfortable with it, the next step to really taking control of your images is color theory. This helpful video tutorial will introduce you to color theory, including several topics and how to see and apply them to create more compelling landscape photos.
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Backup and storage solutions are 10 a penny these days, and with so much choice, knowing which ones to choose becomes increasingly more difficult. Each of these solutions has its own advantages and disadvantages. Whether that's cost, security, compatibility, or capacity, these solutions can range in price from free to hundreds of dollars per year.
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We all want to be better photographers, of course. However, how do you actually go about it? If you find yourself wondering how to set about improving your work, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing loads of wisdom both on how to be better and how to enjoy the craft more.
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With a cost of just $1,299, the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 offers an incredible capable and versatile range of capabilities, at least on paper. Can its performance and image quality match those impressive specs in real-world usage? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect from the lens.
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When I was sent a Pentax K3 Mark III Monochrome for review, I must admit that I didn’t know what to expect. Releasing an APS-C DLSR in 2023 – one that only captures monochrome images – is quite a bold move, and the K3 Mark III Monochrome is in fact the only camera in existence that can claim these unique specifications. After using the camera for a few weeks, however, I have found a lot to love about the K3 III Monochrome, and it doesn’t begin or end with the monochrome sensor.
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Canon's 7D line of APS-C DSLRs were a massive hit for the company, as they borrowed many of the advanced features and capabilities of powerful full frame cameras like the 1D series and put them in far more affordable bodies that were accessible to a much wider audience. The EOS R7 has continued that philosophy in the mirrorless age, and it offers photographers some incredible features for the price. This great video review takes a look at the camera after a year of usage and discusses whether its combination of performance and image quality make it the right choice for you.
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This portable power station can power almost any device you have and it can recharge itself on location.
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I was challenged to photograph a portrait shoot on another random camera, but this one was really not what I was expecting. How do you take artistic portraits using an instant camera?
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If you want to create a timeless portrait with artificial lighting, you need to know which lights to use, which modifiers, and how to set them all up. Luckily for you, this video gives you a walkthrough of everything you need to recreate a stunning portrait. [ Read More ]
Perhaps no workhorse lens is more ubiquitous than the standard zoom with an f/2.8 aperture. Capable of handling a diverse range of applications and needs, these lenses can be found in many photographers and filmmakers bags, though they are often rather expensive. At $799, that makes the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD rather refreshing. Can it keep up with more expensive options? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the lens.
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ON1 Photo Raw keeps leaping forward in its functionality. It seems that Lightroom is forever playing catchup with the program's innovative features. The new facilities in the latest release make ON Photo Raw even more attractive.
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We constantly talk about how soft light is flattering and how to find or craft it for our images. However, if we spend our careers shooting in nothing but soft light, we will miss out on countless photographic opportunities. There is no reason to be afraid of harsh, midday sun. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to embrace that hard light and create dynamic and compelling photos.
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Even if you’re standing in the middle of a great-looking landscape, it can be difficult to make an inspiring photo. Many people feel the need to capture as much as possible in one single frame, but that’s not the solution. Keep these three things in mind, and your landscape photo will improve a lot.
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Standing desks have become somewhat ubiquitous over the last few years and hold a number of benefits for photographers and content creators. Having used them in the past with mixed results, I was pleasantly surprised by the standing desk from FlexiSpot in terms of quality, form, and function.
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Photographers are constantly inundated from every direction by a variety of messages: the need to constantly buy new and better gear, the kind of trends you need to follow to land clients, the latest social media platforms, and much more. Some of these can be quite detrimental. This insightful video discusses one such message and why you need to beware of it before it costs you.
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Filmora, a leading video editing software, took a distinctive approach to connect with the creators' community attending VidCon 2023 in Anaheim, CA. At this event, Filmora sponsored a creator session featuring popular YouTubers creators NichLmao and Jensen Tung where they delved into the exciting possibilities of AI in video creation, empowering creators to enhance their creativity and productivity.
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Like a lot of creatives, finding that perfect desk setup is sort of like searching for the holy grail. But after a lot of searching, I think I found mine.
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Lightroom is a very intricate and multilayered program, and while its default layout is perfectly fine for most uses, it can make your workflow both easier and more efficient if you take the time to customize your workspace a bit. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced Lightroom pro showing you how to do just that.
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Long exposures are useful to convey a sense of motion in photos, whether that's bodies of water that seemingly look like glass or car taillights whooshing by in a street scene. The iPhone allows you to create scenes like this easily. It's just a bit hidden.
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Whether you are a wedding, newborn, or boudoir photographer, delivering the final product to your clients is a true pleasure. The look on their faces when they see your beautiful work makes the job so much more satisfying. But how can we elevate the client experience even further?
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Pop quiz, hotshot. What is the best investment you can make in your photography today?
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The gimbal and drone giant DJI has just announced their next-generation mid-level drone set to replace the Air 2. The new DJI Air 3 brings many new and interesting features, and we managed to play with one for a few days before the announcement. So, what does it bring? Is it any good?
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Do you already work in Photoshop and you're looking for a way to speed up your portrait retouching? Retouch4me, may very well be the best Photoshop plugin I've ever tested. [ Read More ]
Finding a new landscape photography location or even planning an entire trip can be quite exciting, but there is a lot to consider before you arrive to ensure you can get the best possible images. Before you head out to your next spot, check out this helpful video tutorial that features two experienced landscape photographers discussing five useful tips for working in new locations.
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Canon came out swinging when they entered the full frame mirrorless market, with one of their most impressive lenses being the RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM, the first full frame autofocus zoom lens with an f/2 aperture. This has led many to hope that other f/2 zoom lenses might eventually be offered, and their wishes might come true.
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I have the best part of a decade of professional photography under my belt, with some very hard years and some good years during that time. I have learned a lot about the craft, the industry, and most of all, about running a small business. The majority of the lessons that had the most significant impact on my career were not around techniques, post-production, or even equipment; they were about running a business.
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There are many ways to sell prints online. In the last article of this series, we already looked at one of them that was free and easy to set up. But it might not be the right way to sell prints professionally. If branding and customer relations are important to you, a customized online store might be a better solution. In this article, I share how to set one up.
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We all work quite hard to develop a range of post-processing techniques to help us realize our creative visions and to satisfy the needs of clients, but one thing that even experienced photographers struggle with is knowing when to stop retouching. If you find yourself unsure of how far to take your post-processing, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced portrait and beauty photographer discussing philosophies of retouching and how to know you are doing just the right amount.
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I've been hearing about Patreon for a while, and I'm officially curious. Join me on my experiment to see if Patreon is actually a viable income source for photographers.
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We have entered a time as photographers where we are seeing monumental changes in the industry. There are more tools than ever before to streamline our workflows, push the bounds of creativity, and increase our visibility as creatives.
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There are some who believe creativity is a gift given to only a handful of people. Those of us who regularly engage in the practice of making art understand that we all have the ability to create something that has never existed before. It is common for us to struggle in our search for inspiration, and self-doubt can be a powerful enemy. A new organization may be of assistance to those who chose to engage in this struggle.
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Reflections can be some of the trickiest things to deal with as a photographer, particularly when you are working with rounded objects that can reflect light from almost any angle. Nonetheless, learning how to read and control reflections is one of the best exercises to improve your lighting technique, no matter what you shoot. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced studio photographer showing you how to manage reflections in your images.
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If you're creating digital videos and you want them to have more of the look you would associate with film, then this video might be perfect for you. Film Riot breaks down the differences and how to mimic film with digital files. [ Read More ]
We put a lot of time and effort into ensuring our workspaces are technically capable of tackling the often high demands we place on them for our photo and video work. Nonetetheless, the visual design of our workspaces can have a major impact on both our efficiency and our enjoyment of the work. This neat video highlights five minimal but highly functional workspaces to inspire your own design.
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The exposure triangle is practically gospel that just about every new photographer needs to master, but there is more to it than simply varying shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to create a balanced exposure. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing how to properly approach the exposure triangle to ensure you can make photos that are both technically and creatively satisfying.
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Here are 13 essential things to know about why your photos are not sharp and what you can do about it. Included are some that are often overlooked.
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At just $1299, the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 looks like a remarkable deal if it can offer the performance and image quality to match those impressively versatile specifications. So, how does it hold up in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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Sony's latest flagship APS-C camera, the a6700, offers many compelling features that make it a powerful contender to the cinema-focused FX30. Creator and filmmaker Terry Warfield puts the two cameras in a head-to-head battle to help you choose the best option for your needs. [ Read More ]
When it comes to landscape photography, certain destinations immediately come to mind – the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies, or the iconic landmarks of the American Southwest. However, there is one country that often gets overlooked as a photography hotspot: Ireland.
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At just $479, the EOS R100 is remarkably affordable, making it an intriguing entry point into Canon’s mirrorless ecosystem or a convenient and portable backup for current users. At such a low price, can it satisfy the needs of modern photographers and filmmakers? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Outdoor portrait shoots can be a fantastic way to photograph couples in an organic environment that allows them to convey natural poses and emotion. However, nature does not always cooperate. Adding a smidgen of artificial light can be just what you need to really complete a photo. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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There used to be a significant separation between prime and zoom lenses in several ways, and as such, it was easy to know which was appropriate for different situations. However, more modern zoom lenses have blurred the line, and they can arguably match prime lenses in some situations. One such lens is the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM. Is it all good, or are there drawbacks to having such a lens? The excellent video discusses the issue.
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The brand name Exascend is synonymous with high-quality products. So, will their award-winning Explorer SSD, designed for challenging environments, live up to its name? When the going gets tough, will the tough get going?
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If you are anything like me, you have probably found yourself staring at your open camera backpack, paralyzed by the decision of what gear to take and what to leave behind. Perhaps the solution is not to fill that backpack, but rather, to get a smaller bag. This fantastic video essay discusses the many benefits of carrying a smaller bag and why it can be such a freeing experience.
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LED light panels, once used predominantly by videographers, have now become an indispensable tool for photographers. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, finding the perfect lighting setup can make all the difference in capturing high-quality images.
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In last week’s article, I chose to talk about the joys of going small with lighting gear. In today’s article, we’ll go big, very big, with the Aputure LS 1200d Pro LED Light Kit.
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If you have been playing around with the new Generative Fill function in Photoshop Beta, you most likely have come across this error message saying: "The Generated Images were removed because they violate user guidelines." In this quick video by PiXImperfect, he has found an easy workaround.
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Fujifilm's X Series of cameras and lenses have become increasingly versatile and feature-laden in the past year, with one of their most capable lenses being the XF 18-120mm f/4 R LM PZ WR, which covers the most popular focal lengths and includes a power zoom mechanisms for filmmaking applications. How does it hold up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect from the lens.
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Composition is perhaps one of the trickiest aspects of photography, particularly since it is less easily codified than something like what camera settings to use for a certain scenario. One of the most effective but underutilized techniques for creating a compelling composition is framing. This helpful video tutorial will show you what framing is, how it works, and some great examples you can use it in your own images.
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Photography is an art that allows us to capture moments, freeze time, and express our creativity. One fascinating subject that many photographers are drawn to is small waterfalls. These cascading wonders provide an incredible opportunity to capture the beauty of nature. While wide angle lenses are often popular for landscape photography, telephoto lenses have their own unique advantages. In this post, let's explore how using a telephoto lens can significantly enhance your photography skills when capturing small waterfalls. Specifically, we will discuss the benefits of long exposures at half a second, and explore the focal length range from 70 to 200mm.
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We are absolutely inundated by imagery from every angle, every day, and as such, it can be easy to fall into the trap of shooting the most common trends. And it is a real shame when that happens, because it keeps you from developing your own creative voice and from enjoying photography as much as possible. This fantastic video essay is an important reminder that shooting for yourself is what matters most at the end of the day.
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It doesn't matter how good your composition is if you have this one glaring error. Take a look to see what it is, if you're guilty of doing it, and how to fix it.
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As photographers, we are constantly in pursuit of the perfect shot. Sometimes, the conditions don't align as expected, and the location we had in mind for a stunning sunset turns out to be better suited for a breathtaking sunrise. In such situations, it's important to embrace the opportunity and capture the beauty of the moment.
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Lindsay Adler is well known for creating dynamic and vibrant portraits that capture viewers' eyes and imaginations. If you would like to see how she does it from start to finish, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will guide you through a red-inspired portrait shoot, including set design, lighting, gear, and editing.
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The domination of A.I. Generative Fill continues. This YouTuber uses it to re-edit an old image that he delivered to a client some years ago, and the results really are staggering. If you're thinking of how Adobe Photoshop Beta's Generative Fill can work for you, then this is the video to check out. [ Read More ]
We had an idea for a shoot and acted on it. We had no idea that this photo would take me all the way to the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
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Landscape photographers often default to the wide angle lens when approaching grand scenes in the early part of their photography path. This video looks at simplifying these scenes with a telephoto lens to highlight the smaller details of a landscape.
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Logitech International has acquired Loupedeck, a Helsinki-based creator of custom consoles and software designed to elevate the creative process for streamers, creators, and gamers.
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When it comes to photoshoot locations, few things can top a cave. This was a wild photoshoot adventure.
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Over the last couple of years, the Non-Fungible Token (NFT) market was booming, and I couldn't scroll through the Twitterverse without seeing the many posts saying "GM", sharing their images and links to buy them as NFTs. After a huge crash in 2022, the NFT crew has finally started disappearing from my timelines, and good riddance to them.
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If you're looking at getting into videography, it can be intimidating, even if you have a background in photography. In this video, Pat Kay walks you through the bulk of the basics in a succinct and clear way. [ Read More ]
Rarely is a landscape photo finished when you press the shutter; almost all images require some degree of editing to produce a fully polished result. One of the challenges of editing a landscape image is bringing a sense of depth back to a two-dimensional photo. If that is something you are struggling with that, check out this helpful video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know to do just that.
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The Sony a7R V offers the highest resolution available in a full frame camera, tons of dynamic range, built-in focus stacking, and a range of other features that make it a strong candidate as the best 35mm mirrorless camera for landscape photography. Can it live up to that in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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Photographers have been frustrated by Instagram's mysterious algorithms and how their work isn't seen by as many people anymore. Now, for the first time ever, Instagram has revealed how these algorithms work and how best to take advantage of them.
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While every lens design may or or less look the same, the technology and components contained inside can be very different, particularly the autofocus motors. When it comes to autofocus (AF) systems in camera lenses, there are several types of autofocus motors used to achieve fast and accurate focusing. The decision on which autofocus motor to be used will depend on the lens manufacturer, lens type, and price range. Dive deeper into this article as we explore the most common types of autofocus motors found in lenses. [ Read More ]
Normally, when we take photos, we save them to the memory card, pop that card into our computer, and download the images to Lightroom or whatever cataloging program we choose. However, many studio photographers use tethering to bypass the logistics of working with a memory card, but it offers more advantages than just the convenience. This excellent video tutorial will show you what tethering is, why it is beneficial, and how to use it in your own work.
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The world of image-making is evolving daily. One such development is the introduction of one-inch sensors to smaller cameras and mobile phones. One of the problems with smaller cameras in the past was that the sensor was too small to capture appropriate detail. Insta360 has recently come out with the one-inch edition of its popular 360 camera, which sets a new standard for photographers and filmmakers worldwide.
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Hold on to your taste buds, folks, because we're about to embark on a deliciously hilarious journey through the secrets of protein bars! Get ready to discover the five covert tricks that turn these humble snacks into protein-packed wonders that would make even James Bond jealous. So, grab your fork and knife (yes, we take protein bars seriously), put on your best British accent, and let's uncover these delectable secrets and how they can help you overcome the hunger pains that might force you back home and miss that banger shot.
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Sony's Xperia range of phones has been knocking on the door of entry-level cameras for some time. Their latest offering might just be the best yet, but is it enough for creators to use as their primary all-purpose camera? [ Read More ]
Landscape photography places a particularly high priority on getting sharp photos, with photographers putting a lot of careful effort into ensuring their photos are as crisp as possible. If you find your images are not as sharp as you would like, check out this helpful video tutorial that discusses five reasons that might be happening and what you can do to improve your shots.
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Pancake lenses place portability above everything else, and that used to mean that while they were convenient, you could not expect very good image quality out of them. However, optical design and technology has made some great advances in recent years, making lenses like the Nikon NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8 intriguing to many photographers and filmmakers who want a tiny and lightweight option. This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the lens in use.
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We live in an era in which we are absolutely inundated by images every day, from every direction and in which we are often encouraged to think just as much about the tools of the trade as the images themselves. All that can lead one to feel frustrated or even disillusioned with the craft. If you find yourself feeling that way, give this insightful and motivational video a watch.
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The Fujifilm X-T5 has been out for some time. It was announced back in November 2022, but I’ve been using it since a few weeks before that so you could say I’ve had the camera for a long enough time to be able to tell you my opinion on it. Is it the right camera for you? What are its pros and cons?
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Watching Back To The Future as a kid, I always wanted to recreate the flame line scene after the DeLorean hits 88 mph. In my photography career, I have yet to come across one that works and has a Mr. Fusion. YouTuber Sirdork has beaten me to the punch by using toys.
Playing with Hot Wheels, I always remember staring deep into the vehicle to look at the smallest details. At an older age, I look back and wonder why someone would ever spend that much time making a steering wheel look so real, especially something that would likely fall...
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Lomography recently announced the release of a new film, LomoChrome 92, a 400 ISO C-41 process color negative stock. The film is touted as a throwback to older stocks, with vibrant colors and a more noticeable grain structure.
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Laowa has been producing lenses since 2013 and now has a vast collection, from cine lenses to landscape, to specialist lenses, and everything in between. These lenses are sharp and solid and cater to the ever-growing needs of photographers.
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Almost every modern camera comes with a variety of modes ranging from automatic to fully manual, with just about every possible option in between. What do they all do, and which should you be using for your work? This fantastic video tutorial introduces you to all the most common camera modes, how they work, and when you should use them.
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Today, video content creation has become more accessible than ever. YouTube, Vimeo, TikTok, and Instagram Reels mean everyone is creating video content. With the rapid advancements in technology, creators have the power to make videos anywhere and inexpensively thanks to AI and, in particular, Generative Fill AI. [ Read More ]
There are many ways to approach landscape photography, each with its own advantages and drawbacks, but one that we perhaps engage with the least is the intuitive method, namely building an emotional connection with the scene and allowing that to lead our photographic creation. This insightful video features an experienced landscape photographer discussing the approach and how to connect a landscape's impact on you with actionable photographic ideas and techniques.
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Explore the Art of the Cyanotype. In this article, we examine the step-by-step process of cyanotype printing and its place within the realm of photography. You can decide for yourself if you agree whether this is a photographic medium or not.
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It is one thing to work on your technique and creative voice, but making money with your work is an entirely separate skill. If you are working on developing your photography income, check out this great video tutorial that shares five actionable steps for making money as a beginner photographer.
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Photoshop's Clone Stamp has long been one of the program's most useful tools, but with a bevy of new and advanced tools, including Content Aware Fill and Generative AI, it might seem like such a simple tool might be obsolete. Nothing could be further from the truth, though. This fantastic video tutorial features a seasoned Photoshop pro sharing five reasons why the Clone Stamp is still relevant and how you can use it in your work.
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Don’t wait for someone to hire you to create your dream photoshoot. Do it on your own, and let that work attract clients who have a need for what you want to create.
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Tilt-shift lenses are some of the oddest options out there, and they can be a bit tricky to use, but they hold a very valuable place in the toolkits of many photographers. What makes them so useful? This helpful video tutorial introduces you to tilt-shift lenses and their applications.
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The Sony a7 IV is widely regarded as one of the best hybrid cameras out there, but with the a6700 now here, Sony users have two excellent options for their work. Despite the a7 IV having a full frame sensor, the a6700 has some better features and is also $1,000 cheaper. So, which is right for you? This fantastic video comparison takes a look at both to help you decide.
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There is a lot to learn when you are a new photographer or filmmaker, but one of the most important bits of advice does not have anything to do with your creative approach, but rather with how you spend your money. Before you pull out your credit card and go on a shopping spree, check out this important video essay that gives some crucial advice that will save you from making costly mistakes.
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It’s a subject not often addressed but significant in the process of creating images. There are domains where risks have to be assessed, evaluated, and prevented. Taking risks is sometimes necessary, although that encompasses many different aspects, and the stakes are also diverse. It mostly depends on your photo field and where you are on your photography journey.
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The camera can be seen as most impactful when it's used to document life in its rawest form. Every day, photographers grab their camera and head out to create a photograph for many reasons. It could be for a client on a commercial set. It could be a wedding photographer. It could be a landscape photographer. All these approaches hold their own sort of gravitas. However, when a camera is used to capture events that help the viewer understand our reality and our history, it could be said the camera is at its most powerful. Photojournalism holds this gravitas.
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When I'm teaching photography, I always suggest to my students that they make checklists of to remember things when they shoot. I'm also a fan of handy acronyms to remember them.
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Fujifilm and the entertainment powerhouse Disney have collaborated to celebrate 100 years since Disney's founding in October 1923. To commemorate this special occasion, the camera manufacturer has released a very rare edition of its unattainable X100V premium compact camera. [ Read More ]
With 10 years of professional photography under my belt, I can confidently say directing models with ease is one of the most important aspects of the job. Yet, it is a skill that so many photographers struggle with. It’s one of those things that seems so simple, but in the actual moment, can be incredibly challenging.
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Venus Optics is known for producing some of the most unique and innovative lenses in the industry, including ultra-macro options, smooth trans focus lenses with extra smooth bokeh, extraordinarily wide lenses, and, of course, their famous probe lens. It seems the company is never content to rest, with another crazy lens likely on the way very soon.
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Full frame cameras are generally regarded as the standard option for professional work, but in recent years, crop sensor cameras have come a long way, and their associated ecosystems have filled out to offer photographers and filmmakers a wide range of options suitable for many genres and applications. This interesting video essay discusses three reasons why crop sensors cameras are often a better choice than full frame options.
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Lightroom's new AI-powered noise reduction is a remarkable step forward for the program, giving users powerful capabilities for working with high-ISO photos without having to ever leave the program. The one drawback is that the noise reduction can take a bit of time, particularly if you are using an older computer. So, if you are working with a large batch of photos, it is important to ensure you have set up your workflow for optimal efficiency. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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What lured you into photography? Was it a specific genre? Was it a person? Whatever the case, I want to lay out the benefits of being as open and experimental as possible when you are new to the craft.
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Right after the Canon EOS R5 was released, I received one from Canon for a review. I liked the camera enough to make a gradual switch from the EOS 5D Mark IV. Now, after three years, I would like to share my long-term experience and the things that could or should be improved in the next iteration.
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Symmetry has long been one of the most powerful tools to provide visual interest in an image, and there are many ways to leverage it in your work to create compelling shots. This fantastic video tutorial will show you some of the different types of symmetry in landscape photography and how you can use them in your own work.
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A theme of Canon's RF lens philosophy has been taking some standard, well-established designs and pushing them to new extremes, such as the 28-70mm f/2 zoom or replacing the 300mm f/2.8 prime with the new 100-300mm f/2.8L. It seems like they have no intention of slowing down, with more extreme patents now emerging.
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I set up in my usual spot for fireworks photos this year, but with a bit of a lighter kit than normal, a small mirrorless camera, and a kit lens. With the advent of Photoshop's Generative Fill tool, perhaps I didn't need to even that.
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Composition is a challenging aspect of photography no matter what genre you shoot, but it can be particularly tricky in something like landscape photography, where you get no control over the placement of elements in the frame, only your position relative to them. If you find yourself struggling with your landscape compositions, check out this helpful video tutorial that offers five bits of advice sure to help you improve.
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Photography can be a pursuit marked by slow growth, and as such, insidious things can creep in and derail our journey, and it can be years before we even realize they have done so. If you would like to continue to grow as a photographer and creative, check out this fantastic video essay that discusses three mistakes that will hold you back and how to avoid them.
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Generative artificial intelligence like Chat GPT, Dall-e, Midjourney, etc., what we are all now collectively referring to as "AI," has all but dominated almost every aspect of popular public discourse over the last year. And for good reason: it's kind of a big deal, though I would argue a lot of the conversation around AI is overblown at best and outright unwarranted panic at worst. But that's not to say we shouldn't be paying close attention to the advancements in this new technology. Quite the opposite, we should be paying very close attention, and making every attempt to understand this tech to the extent we possibly can.
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A large screen with a precise pen, 4K resolution, and color accuracy? What more could you want on your dream editing setup?
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In the digital age, some of us never print our photos, content to share them on social media and view them on our monitors and phones. That is a shame, though, as seeing your images in a physical form is something really special that can't be replicated by anything digital. You do not have to print your photos yourself, though. There are plenty of great printing services out there, and this helpful video will show you how to get the most from your first order.
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From time to time you see images circulating on social media of Japanese camera store shelves awash with film. I’m not talking about half a dozen pro packs of Portra, I’m talking about hundreds and hundreds of rolls of film. More film than you could shoot in 10 years. Names of long-forgotten emulsions that many die-hard film shooters can’t even recall.
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Photographers are on a quest to take the perfect picture. Like the mythological grail, it’s an elusive thing but worthy of pursuit, nonetheless. If you want to achieve it, there are seven challenges you must overcome along the way.
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Canon has already produced some mightily impressive lenses for the RF mount. Now, though, it looks like one of their most legendary EF lenses will be coming to the RF mount.
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Being a successful professional photographer is about a lot more than simply being good with a camera. One of the things you need to be good at (and something a lot of people are uncomfortable doing) is selling yourself and your work, which requires a good dose of self-confidence or the ability to fake it, at least. Done wrong, though, and this can lead to pushing away clients. This insightful video essay features an experienced commercial photographer discussing the delicate balance and why it is so important.
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ICM, which stands for "intentional camera movement," is a technique in which the photographer moves the camera during the exposure in a precise way, resulting in creatively blurry images that often have a painterly appearance. It is a great way to explore your creativity and expand your landscape photography techniques. This neat video takes you behind the scenes as a landscape photographer tries it out to show you what is possible and some common mistakes.
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It's been a while since Skylum has added any extensions to Luminar Neo, its sophisticated image editor. Now, however, there's an important feature coming.
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Jumping back to an article I just wrote on how to speed up your career by 10 years, We Eat Together suggested “finding your passion and photographing the hell out of it.” That is what exactly New Zealand-based photographer Charles Brooks did in his recent photo series, Architecture in Music.
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Landscape photography is a challenging but rewarding genre that takes the combination of strong technique, creative vision, and solid editing to create a successful image, and things can sometimes go wrong. If you find your landscape shots are not as good as you would like, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses seven common landscape photography mistakes and how to fix them and improve your work.
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Camera straps are an often-overlooked accessory for photographers. If it’s something you’ve not considered before, then it’s worth looking at the adaptable Peak Design Leash.
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Many photographers know the famous Ricoh GR lineup. Unsurprisingly, it is a widely loved and appreciated series of APS-C fixed-lens compact cameras. But it is not alone in this space. Many Fujifilm users know the X70 well, but is it still a good choice today, nearly seven years after its release?
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If you are looking to take some portraits of your senior, or are looking to pick up some work in that area, this video gives you some great tips and a behind-the-scenes look at a senior shoot. [ Read More ]
This is the first 70-200 f/4 lens Sony has released in nine years. Is the product worth the wait?
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Photographers and filmmakers who work on location a lot have to strike a tricky balance between having all the gear necessary to complete a job and handle anything unexpected that might come up while still being able to travel without a ton of hassle. If you are wondering what it takes, check out this neat video that takes a look into a traveling photographer and filmmaker's bag.
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We've always known that robots are coming for all of our jobs, but in the past year, we've started to see them clank out of the shadows. There are few areas that are safe from their shiny mitts, but there is one thing that is impossible for AI to replicate and usurp. [ Read More ]
Recently, I bought a Soligor 300mm 1:5.5. It’s over half a century old, built in 1971 by Tokina. I picked it up for a song and decided to put it through its paces.
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During the pandemic, I did some gear juggling. I'm a little embarrassed to admit I changed systems twice in the space of 12 months and even more so about the reasons I made the second switch – but I learned some surprising lessons along the way.
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If you like photographing people with prime lenses, you must choose the best possible focal length for your situation. After all, with prime lenses, you can’t zoom in or out. This is a simple guide that can help you to use the most suitable prime lens for photographing one or more people, and groups of people.
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It’s been a while since Sony released a new crop sensor camera designed for serious photographers and videographers. But that day is finally here with the launch of the new Sony a6700.
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In a time when older cameras and lenses are getting new updated versions left and right, one of the best things to see is when the piece of gear gets an entirely new purpose. This is definitely something that no one expected from the new Sony f/4 telephoto lens.
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On paper, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM is a remarkably versatile and affordable lens, offering a wide aperture, macro capabilities, and image stabilization, making it useful for a huge range of applications. Can it keep up with the more demanding, pixel-dense sensor found on the EOS R7 mirrorless camera? This quick and helpful video review takes a look.
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In the last few years, medium format has seen itself reinvented from a niche, prohibitively expensive option to an alternative to full frame for those who want access to some of the best image quality that money can buy. It is not without drawbacks, though. So, is it right for you? This great video features a photographer discussing their experience after using medium format for a year.
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Are we living in a post-truth era of photography, where the authenticity and reliability of images have become questionable? Given the rise in AI’s association with photography and the ease with which photos can be altered, it might be worth considering a return to the use of traditional film as a means to regain trust and ensure the integrity of photography.
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The beauty of artificial lighting is that you can create looks that simply would not be possible using only the sun. One of the greatest technical challenges for a photographer is lighting a group portrait so that every individual is well lit but so the overall look is still sculpted and compelling rather than flat and two-dimensional. If you would like to really take your portrait lighting to the next level, check out this awesome video tutorial that will take you behind the scenes of a cinematic magazine cover photo shoot and show you how to do it yourself.
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Deciding which camera to buy can be challenging. But after doing some research, and taking advice from friends and other photographers, you'll find out which one to buy. The thing that nobody is talking about is the extra expenses that are involved.
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In today's rapidly evolving creative landscape where images are predominantly consumed and shared online, it is easy for us even as professional photographers to overlook the importance of physical prints and albums. Although the convenience and ubiquity of digital photography have made it simpler to store and share images electronically, there is still a unique charm and lasting impact to physical prints that allow people to truly experience and appreciate timeless images. In this article, we will be discussing the relevance and benefits of album sets and print sets while exploring how these products help us elevate our client relationship as a professional photographer.
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Peak Design has a great reputation for well-made equipment. So, I was eager to try out their new Micro Clutch, as it met a need I had. Would it be as good as it promised?
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When you are a hobbyist, you can enjoy buying gear however you want so long as you can afford it, but when you are a professional, you have to really change your philosophy to camera, lens, and lighting purchases. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced commercial photographer discussing his approach to buying gear and how he fulfills his needs without breaking the bank.
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Medium format lenses are normally quite expensive and of a narrow maximum aperture. So, the prospect of a 135mm f/2.5 lens for just $299 sounds almost too good to be true. That is what the new Mitakon Zhongyi Creator 135mm f/2.5 offers.
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As we consume social media, YouTube videos, and online articles, it is easy to think everyone else out there knows what they are doing. I made many mistakes early on in my landscape photography journey. I still make mistakes today! I’m going to share some of those early mistakes I made and things I wish I'd started doing sooner.
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Rarely is a landscape photo finished when you press the shutter. Almost every image takes some amount of editing to produce a finished product. In recent years, Lightroom has become a far more powerful editing tool, and it is now possible to complete many landscape images without ever heading over to Photoshop. This fantastic video tutorial will show you five different ways to improve your editing skills in Lightroom.
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Once your photos improve after practicing photography for a while, they will likely also attract a larger audience. And at some point, you might be asked if your photos are for sale. It is how I got into selling my images as prints more than ten years ago. In this article, I share an easy way to get started.
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Nude photo shoots can be intimidating for both the model and the photographer. Here's how I embraced the challenge, overcame intimidation, and found my creative flow.
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When it comes to cameras, two of the most important specs for landscape photographers are resolution and dynamic range. In recent years, cameras from Fujifilm and Hasselblad have reinvigorated medium format by modernizing camera options and reducing their prices to the point that they have become a viable alternative to full frame. So, which company makes the best camera for the genre? This helpful video review compares the Hasselblad X2D 100C and Fujifilm GFX 100S to help you decide.
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Since July 4th, over 7,000 earthquakes have been recorded in the Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwest coast of Iceland, leading to sustained speculation that a volcanic eruption is imminent. Over the last couple of years, we have already seen this behavior twice in Iceland, and now, it looks set to happen again for a third time.
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A decade ago, the idea of a reasonably affordable supertelephoto zoom lens that also produced professional-level images was almost unheard of. However, that particular market niche has exploded and recent years, and photographers now have a huge range of options to choose from. Which lens is right for you? This fantastic video review takes a look at many different options to help you pick.
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Don’t get me wrong, Pentax has made some incredible cameras in the past, many of which are still brilliant to this day. One of my favorite SLRs to this day is the KM released in 1975. But technology is advancing, and this “new” camera feels a little out of place, even though it produces great files.
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The Fujifilm GFX 100 was released four years ago, and a replacement model is most likely coming out soon. Even so, I have been wanting to try out this 102 megapixel behemoth for a long time, and I was recently able to get one on loan from Fujifilm for review. After testing the camera, I realize that it was a mistake, and in this video, I tell you why.
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The X100V has been on the wishlist of many. So many in fact, the waiting period to even get their hands on one can exceed six months. But why? What is the hype all about? What makes the camera so unique? Is it truly as good as everyone says? Is it worth the wait?
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Understanding how different elements of the frame "rank" relative to each other is fundamental to creating balanced photos that draw the viewer's attention in the right direction in a pleasing and intuitive manner. If you would like to improve your landscape photography, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses the idea of visual hierarchy in the genre and the different elements it includes.
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Astrophotography is one of those genres that few photographers have actually tried. It can be difficult, it can be intimidating, but it's highly rewarding, and you don't need a lot to get started. This video shows Lizzie Peirce's first-ever attempt with the help of friend and fellow photographer, Sam Lydya Smith. [ Read More ]
Landscape photography can be a technically challenging genre, and so, it can be particularly frustrating when you do everything right but still come home with a boring photo. If you find yourself in the position of having an abundance of technique but often ending up with images that just are not that compelling, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you a range of useful advices to make your shots more attention-grabbing.
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Astrophotography can be a tremendously fun and rewarding genre, but it takes some specialized knowledge, techniques, and often, equipment. If you are interested in capturing eye-catching photos of the night sky, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know to get started.
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Landscape photography is a captivating art form that allows us to unveil the extraordinary beauty of our planet. From towering mountains and serene lakes to vast deserts and lush forests, the diversity of Earth's landscapes provides an endless array of subjects for photographers to explore. In this article, we will delve into the world of landscape photography, discussing techniques, equipment, and the essence of capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet through the lens.
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As a photographer, you don’t always get a great studio or a perfect location for your shoot. Sometimes, you have to work with what you have. This is a great video to show you just that. [ Read More ]
Today, I’ll share two new additions to my lighting kit when keeping it small.
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Social media is changing. The algorithms are changing. The type of content and media is changing. And change is uncomfortable. Change can be frustrating. What is a photographer to do? I say put the social back in social media.
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Learning flash can be a tough endeavor; it takes a combination of a lot of technique, attention to detail, and creative vision. If you are working on mastering flash, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing perhaps the biggest mistakes photographers make when working with flash.
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Alexey Titanrenko is a photographer that creates unique results on a consistent basis. It sounds simple, but he is truly a master of his craft and creates stunning, otherworldly images. Here is how you can take photographs in a similar style.
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The Fujifilm X Series of mirrorless cameras has become a favorite of many photographers, offering a fantastic blend of tactile shooting experience, professional features, and impressive image quality. The X-S20 is the newest member of the X Series, and it offers a nice balance of capabilities and cost, making it a nice option for many photographers. This great video review takes a look at the camera for photography use and the kind of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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There has been a plethora of news about AI completely changing photography as we know it, but is it actually usable in the real world? Not only will you see exactly what it can do in a professional setting, you'll also get studio lighting setups, art direction, and an entire tutorial on doing this yourself. [ Read More ]
Pricing can be an extremely tricky things for photographers to master, and even small mistakes can add up to big losses over time. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced commercial photographer discussing a common and easy-to-make mistake, how to recognize it, and how to fix it.
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Photographing a friend's wedding sounds like a blast. Is it really worth it, though? Make sure to consider these things before making a decision.
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We all practice photography as much as we can, but how often do you consider how you approach your practice? More focused and purposeful practice can yield better results in less time, and one of the best ways to go about that is with a project. This fantastic video essay features an experienced photographer discussing the power of projects and offering some great ideas you can try out yourself.
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Photography is an art form that constantly evolves, and with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) software, many professional photographers now face a common question: Should they fear AI in photography?
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Sooner or later, every filmmaker starts to understand the magic of manual focus. The SmallRig F60 Modular Follow Focus is a tool to help you keep things sharp.
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Photoshop is a tremendously complex and multilayered program, and as such, it can be easy to overlook some of its less obvious features. Blend if is one such feature, but despite its somewhat hidden location, it is one of the most of useful tools at your disposal. This fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you need to know about Blend if, including how it works and some of its most useful applications.
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As new technology emerges, file formats like JPEG, PNG, and TIFF may no longer be the best options for photographers. Let's take a look at some potential replacements.
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Besides the camera and lens, perhaps no piece of equipment is more standard in landscape photography than the tripod. And while a tripod can help ensure you get the best image quality possible, it does not come without drawbacks. So, do you really need a tripod, or would you be better off without one? This excellent video essay discusses the issue.
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There are likely north of a billion portrait images in existence, and so, capturing an audience for your shot is absurdly difficult without having a preexisting following. Nevertheless, it's certainly possible, and I wondered what exactly makes a portrait resonate with me and if it is the same for others. [ Read More ]
Mark Zukerberg and the people over at Meta have just launched the new Instagram-adjacent app, Threads, which sees scores of photographers jumping ship from Twitter. Here, we unpack our initial thoughts on the new contender on the social scene.
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If you're not sick of seeing the term "AI", you may have been off-grid for a while. Nevertheless, this inevitable but interesting application of Adobe Photoshop Beta's AI is worth a look. "Fix it in post" could have a far broader scope now. [ Read More ]
Do you have a lens, camera, or a drone that you no longer need or use? Reluctant to sell via online marketplaces? Perhaps it's time for an upgrade and you want to earn some extra money to put towards the latest and greatest gear. MPB values your camera, and I will show you how.
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The golden hour, a cherished time for photographers, offers breathtaking opportunities at both sunrise and sunset. While both moments provide stunning lighting conditions, there is something truly magical about sunrise photography. This article explores the top five reasons why sunrise photography shines brighter than its counterpart, sunset photography, why many choose to set their alarm at a ridiculous hour, leave their warm bed, and head out into the darkness with their camera bags packed with both certainty and uncertainty.
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We live in an age of instant gratification, and as such, it can be hard to have the patience it takes to develop and master a skill over the course of several years, and photography certainly is not immune to that. There is a temptation to throw money at the problem, and while that shiny new camera or lens will certainly be fun to play with, it will not make you a better photographer. This insightful video discusses seven reasons why.
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I'm a sucker for panoramic cameras. Over the last decade, I've shot on my share, having spent more than I should have on a collection of various bodies. They've followed me to space shuttle launches, riots, out the back of aircraft, and to the White House. But as the world shifted to digital, the number of functional panoramic film cameras out there in the wild has dwindled, driving the prices through the roof.
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Ultra-wide angle zoom lenses are quite useful in a variety of different genres and applications. Professional models usually have an f/2.8 aperture, but in recent years, we have seen an influx of high-quality f/4 options that offer reduced size and weight and far lower prices. One such option is the Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S, and this great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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I follow a decently minimalist mindset when it comes to landscape photography, yet this is something I never leave home without. In some situations, this photography accessory single-handedly makes an image possible. [ Read More ]
In today's world of photography, there's a fierce debate going on whether AI art is in fact, art. On one side there are proponents of AI art that see these programs as another tool that can be used to express one's vision. On the other side are the traditionalists, who staunchly oppose AI art, arguing that it deviates from the essence of art as a medium of objective representation. Only time will tell how this plays out and how these two views learn to coexist.
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With their latest updates to Lightroom and Photoshop, Adobe has shown that they are serious about extending their software with AI capabilities. I was already impressed by the new Noise Reduction in Lightroom. And as Nick Page shows in this video, Photoshop also has a new, impressive AI feature.
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Taking landscape photos is a wonderful way of spending time. Enjoying the view and the play of light and shadow is inspiring. If you can capture that moment in the best possible way, it becomes even more fun. But watch out where you place the light in the frame.
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Perhaps no technical innovation in modern photography has had more of an impact than autofocus. Long gone are the days of rudimentary systems with just a single autofocus point or two. Modern autofocus systems are tremendously powerful and customizable, and as such, it is well worth knowing how to get the most out of your camera. This helpful video tutorial discusses autofocus modes, tips, and problems and how to get the most out of your camera's capabilities.
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Feeling uninspired or like there is nothing worth photographing can be a very frustrating place to be in, and it is not always clear how to find your creative spark once again. The truth is that there is always something to photograph, but often, the problem is how we are approaching things. If you are struggling with your creativity right now, check out this fantastic video tutorial that shares a range of useful ideas and advice for getting back on track.
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Lightroom has made some remarkable steps forward in recent years, bringing an array of innovative new features that can automate many tasks that used to be quite tedious to perform manually. And as impressive as many of those new capabilities are, one of its most effective tools is a simple one that has been around for quite some time. This great video tutorial features an experienced Lightroom pro showing you how to get the most out of the tool in your work.
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I have heard many different questions from those interested in photography, from staples such as "What is the best camera" to more obscure inquiries, such as "Is photography dying?" For some reason, the question in this article's title caught me more off guard than most. [ Read More ]
Designed for professional artists, graphic designers, and digital creators, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 2.5K is a digital drawing pen display with some impressive features, and exceptional performance and all at a very affordable price. Whether you are one of the aforementioned or simply trying to streamline and find a pen display that has a whole host of features to suit your budget, this might just be the one for you.
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When you edit landscape photos, you will often make use of a variety of masks to target adjustments to different areas of the frame. Lightroom has made some major steps forward in its masking capabilities in recent iterations, making it far easier to efficiently and precisely process your photos. This excellent video tutorial will show you five uses for Lightroom's masking capabilities when working with landscape images.
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The crop tool might not be as fancy as many others in your editing suite, but its importance cannot be overstated. Here are two very important reasons you should always think about starting with the crop tool when you first sit down to work on your images.
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The Fujifilm XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR offers an intriguing combination of an extremely wide focal length suitable for a lot of applications in tandem with weather resistance and a decent price, making it an option many photographers will be interested in. This fantastic video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Venus Optics has established a reputation for impressively unique and interesting lenses. The Laowa 17mm f/4 GFX Zero-D continues in that tradition, giving Fujifilm medium format users a particularly wide angle of view, making it appealing for genres like landscape and architecture photography. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it.
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With digital photography more accessible than ever, is film worth it? I picked up my film camera and shot my first roll of black and white film in over 10 years.
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Since Adobe’s Photoshop beta, more artists have been introduced to frame expansion. Interestingly, this workflow also benefits video shoots.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that requires good planning, solid technique, strong creative vision, and often, just a bit of luck. As such, there are a lot of places where things can go wrong. If you would like to improve your images, check out this excellent video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer discussing five common mistakes and how to fix them.
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There’s a good chance that your camera neck strap is connected to your camera incorrectly. If so, your camera is in danger. Here’s how you should be doing it to stop your camera from falling to its doom.
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Light is damn-near everything to photographers, and the exposure of an image is how it is captured. It isn't complicated to get right, but that doesn't mean there aren't many pitfalls to avoid. Here are five. [ Read More ]
A lot of landscape photography tends to be maximal, using intricate collections of elements in the frame to create lush balances that convey the grandeur of scenes at least partially through their sheer overwhelming nature. Of course, that is not the only way to approach the craft, however. Embracing negative space can help provide more balance in your images. This great video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing negative space and how to apply it to photos.
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Photography is not just about capturing beautiful images; it is a powerful tool that can positively impact our mental and physical well-being. Whether you are an amateur or a seasoned photographer, picking up a camera and immersing yourself in the art of photography can bring numerous advantages to your overall health. In this post, let's explore the remarkable benefits that photography offers for both mental and physical well-being.
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Jim Rassol wasn't expecting to have his $12,000 Sony 400.. G Master lens smashed when he headed in to photograph an MLB game on June 24, 2023. Check out the story of how his lens saved him from injury and the community rallied together to help him fix his lens. [ Read More ]
William Eggleston is best known for his color documentary photography, but the photos really just look like snapshots of the mundane. This is a great documentary to give you a little insight into his work. [ Read More ]
Seascape photography presents an expansive realm of creative possibilities, where the ever-changing nature of the ocean becomes a source of inspiration. From tranquil sunsets to tempestuous storms, the diversity of seascapes offers photographers a wide range of subject matter and moods to explore. In this article, we delve into the various types of seascape photography and discuss the unique benefits and techniques associated with each.
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135mm lenses have long been a popular second option to 85mm lenses for portrait photography, where their longer focal length and higher levels of telephoto compressions offer flattering renderings. Canon’s EF 135mm f/2L lens was long one of the company’s best hidden gems, offering fantastic image quality in tandem with deep contrast and colors and snappy autofocus. It’s successor, the RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM is here, and it looks like an awfully impressive lens. 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.
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As photographers, we work hard to create photos with technically accurate exposures, balanced compositions, and skilled edits, but what often separates a good photo from a truly compelling one is storytelling. Storytelling can be a difficult thing to develop, though. This helpful video tutorial features two experienced photographers sharing their thoughts and advice on what makes for good storytelling in photography.
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Landscape photography often requires a large amount of physical exertion simply to get to a location, particularly when you are carrying a heavy bag of gear. While you might want to stick to the trails and the paths of least resistance, sometimes, it pays to embrace the more difficult locations. This great video tutorial discusses why you should head off the beaten path every once in a while.
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I finally upgraded my compute,r and what a difference it has made to my photography workflow. Here’s how I worked out what to buy.
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In the competitive world of photography, closing a high percentage of your sales meetings is crucial for success. However, many photographers make common mistakes that hinder their chances of sealing the deal. To help you improve your sales approach and increase your conversion rate, here are five key rules to follow. By implementing these strategies, you'll be equipped to establish strong connections with clients, effectively communicate value, and ultimately close every sale.
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Does this affordable video editing software live up to expectations? Definitely. If you want a powerful but easy-to-use app, then look no further.
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Seascape photography has a way of captivating our senses, drawing us into the mesmerizing beauty of the ocean's rhythms. However, not every day at the coast is blessed with perfect weather and ideal conditions. As photographers, we must adapt and find creative solutions to capture stunning seascapes even when faced with challenging circumstances. Let’s explore the art of using long exposures to transform less-than-ideal conditions into ethereal and evocative seascapes.
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BenQ is one of the most respected monitor manufacturers in the industry, offering an array of devices for professionals and hobbyists alike. The new PhotoVue SW272U 27" 4K HDR offers a huge range of features sure to please most users and does so at a reasonable price. This excellent review takes a look at the new monitor and the sort of performance and quality you can expect from it in usage.
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There's nothing worse for a photographer's productivity than a cluttered desktop. This is why adding a cheap mini monitor to your existing setup may be a good idea.
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The night sky is a surprisingly active place, and it helps to know what is on deck for the next few weeks. If you want to enjoy a nice summer night or two with your camera, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses some of the most exciting astrophotography opportunities coming up in July and offers some useful for getting the most from your images.
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Photoshop has been evolving at a breakneck pace lately, with a number of groundbreaking features expanding and even completely changing the ways in which photographers approach editing their images. If you have not had a chance to catch up on everything that is new yet, check out this helpful video tutorial that will show you five of the biggest changes, what they can do, and how to use them.
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Two of the most popular focal lengths for portraiture are 85mm and 135mm. If you want to upgrade your nifty-fifty for something a bit longer, which should you choose? Well, it depends on a number of factors. [ Read More ]
Have you ever wondered what the Fujifilm Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode does and how it works? Whether you have or not, it's worth learning about this technology and just how powerful it can be. [ Read More ]
The enchanting allure of golden hues, vibrant skies, and serene landscapes make both sunrise and sunset photography captivating endeavours. While sunrise photography has its undeniable charm, there are distinct qualities that make sunset photography equally mesmerising, if not more.
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This pocket-sized camera has gotten a big upgrade. Will it live up to its promise?
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Reviewing good light modifiers is one of my favorite types of reviews to write. As I highly value light, I aim to cover light-shaping tools more than anything else. When this softbox was released, my thoughts were split in half. On one hand, I see how it is useful, but on the other, it is simply not for the majority. Read on to find out why.
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Usually, companies create lenses they would very much like to sell you, particularly if they only make lenses. However, TTArtisan's special edition 35mm f/1.4 isn't for sale, which works perfectly on me, as now I want it more than I ever would have. [ Read More ]
Something that was always missing from the Profoto Clic lineup was hard reflectors. Being very low-powered while also aimed to be used outside, the A series was a bit of a mystery to me. After all, can you really work in harsh sun with a light that can't do anything about it? Well, now you can. Your 100-watt light becomes 1.7 stops more powerful, making it suitable for more location work.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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I'm a landscape photographer who knows that to take great photos you must put in the work. And even then, you might still go home empty-handed a lot of the time. As this video by Gareth Leonard shows, wildlife photographers might have an even more difficult job.
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Getting started with flash can be both exciting and intimidating; it is an entirely new set of techniques, but it also enables a wide variety of creative opportunities that simply would not be possible otherwise. If you are ready to tackle artificial lighting, it is important to get off on the right foot. This great video tutorial features an experienced beauty and portrait photographer discussing why it is best to start your lighting journey with no more than two lights.
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Being good with a camera and having great creative ideas is, of course, crucial to finding success as a professional, but it is not enough. Knowing how to attract clients and convince them to book with you is a crucial skill. If that is something you have trouble with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that offers three actionable tips for increasing your bookings.
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The Nikon Z8 has lit the photography world on fire, offering almost all of the benefits and advanced features of the highly respected Z9 at an aggressive price. Paired with the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S and NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S, the combo becomes a formidable setup for portraits. So, what can you accomplish with it? This excellent video takes a look.
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Shooting portraits outside of the studio can be a great way to add context to an image, tell a story, or simply generate a bit more visual interest. Bringing along a flash for fill can often help you create a higher-quality image with a more balanced exposure. This great video tutorial will show you how to use a fill flash on location for better portraits.
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When talking about improvement in photography, we often hear a lot of nonsense answers, such as upgrading equipment, hiring more staff, trying to find a niche, and so on. This isn't bad advice, and I give it as well. The thing is, it is so generic and so common that it has lost its meaning. Here are some real tips on how to become a better photographer.
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The Fujifilm INSTAX line of instant film cameras has been a runaway hit for the company, tapping into the nostalgia of instant photography and introducing a new generation to the technology. The INSTAX Square SQ40 is the latest entry in the line, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from this fun and affordable little camera.
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When was the last time you fulfilled a print order? When I think of print sales, I envision awkwardly contrived meetings where proofs have been held hostage and finally revealed as leverage, using the client's emotions to maximize profits. I know in-person sales is an effective strategy, and photographers bankroll this method frequently. However, for the majority of photographers who don't want to take that approach, providing an online client photo gallery and a few simple suggestions can help you maximize your profits without the pressure of in-person-sales tactics.
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I get a lot of commentary on using expensive photo equipment, most notably lighting. Fair enough, a $400 softbox is not for everyone, and most people find it ridiculous to use a modifier this expensive. However, there are good reasons to use such tools. Here is why.
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If you heard a modern digital camera could only reach as high as ISO 1600 or 3200, you might think it was a very limited device. Such is the case with film, though. That does not mean you can't shoot it a night, though; in fact, it can be quite rewarding, especially if you enjoy long exposures. This great video tutorial discusses shooting film at night (particularly long exposures) and how to go about it to come home with the best images possible.
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Post-production of your photography can feel like a minefield when you first start; overwhelming, endlessly complicated, and confusing. In this video, Pat Kay goes over five common mistakes that can ruin your images. [ Read More ]
For some people, the thought of spending over $5,000 on a 35mm lens, let alone one without autofocus, is an absolutely absurd proposition. On the other hand, Leica users often swear by the company's optics. Costing over $5,000, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. promises amazing optical performance. Can it live up to that promise? This excellent first look video takes a look at what you can expect.
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Most of the time, when you think of landscape photography, you probably think of golden hour, with soft and warm light spilling across the scene. And while that can make for fantastic images, if you restrict yourself to just a few hours a day, you are missing out on quite a few opportunities. This great video tutorial shows you the benefits of landscape photography in the middle of the day.
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The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is a super telephoto lens available for Fujifilm and Sony APS-C cameras, and it has quite a few tricks up its sleeve. In this review, I detail my experience using this lens for sports and nature photography using Fujifilm cameras.
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One of the most fundamental challenges of landscape photography (and many other genres) is taking a three-dimensional scene and translating it to two dimensions in a way that still conveys the depth of the environment. Mastering this will significantly improve your landscape images. This excellent video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of controlling depth and perspective in landscape photos.
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Whether you're a budding vlogger or experienced filmmaker, cell phones can make for pretty powerful shooting tools if you know what you're doing and you're using the right program. [ Read More ]
There are infinite ways of upgrading gear as a photographer. Moreover, camera companies market their next product as the next best thing in the industry. All this results in a lot of confusion, speculation, and simple ambiguity. If we could, we would all upgrade everything at once, but money is a limited resource that we need to allocate with a high degree of efficiency.
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Wildlife and bird photography can be tremendously exciting and rewarding work, but the combination of fast action, faraway subjects, and frequent low light often necessitates the use of extreme cameras and lenses that can quickly put serious stress on your bank account. Thankfully, nowadays, we have a bevy of impressively capable budget options. This excellent video review takes a look at one of the best affordable setups for wildlife and bird camera and lens setups.
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As cameras get smaller and better (for the most part), we are able to incorporate them into new areas of our lives and invent more creative shots. This newest action camera might just be the smallest yet, but is it any good? [ Read More ]
In the past decade, we have seen an explosion of highly capable supertelephoto zoom lenses, and the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS and Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR are two of the most versatile options. How do they compare? This great video review takes a look at both lenses, their various characteristics, and how they match up with each other.
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Mirrorless cameras are superior to DSLRs in many ways, offering a wide range of modern features and capabilities that DSLRs do not or even cannot. However, one area where they still lag woefully behind is battery life. While they have certainly improved over first-generation options, battery life can still be a hindrance. If you find yourself sometimes struggling with that, check out this helpful video tutorial that will show you eight different tips for getting a little more life out those batteries.
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Prepare to dive headfirst into the world of waterfall photography! In this article, we'll uncover the five secrets that will make your waterfall shots as majestic as possible. So, grab your camera, put on your raincoat, and let's embark on this adventure.
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A wedding day is a marathon for photographers. Finding the time to grab a quick bite and refuel can feel impossible, but this is the perfect time to do it.
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If you are looking for beautiful, natural light portraiture and how to pose models effectively, this is a fabulous video set in an amazing waterfall location with a professional model. Join Irene Rudnyk here behind the scenes on this adventure and watch the magic unfold.
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In a world full of a little bit of crazy one thing remains constant – our unwavering love for our furry companions. Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, becoming cherished members of our families. They warm our hearts from being mischievous mutts to regal pedigrees, our four-legged friends bring joy, companionship, and a whole lot of slobbery kisses.
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Canon makes some awfully impressive lenses, but those options (particularly the full frame ones) are often quite expensive. That is what makes the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens, which sits at $299, a refreshing prospect. Can this affordable and portable option keep up with the demands of modern sensors? This excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you will be able to expect.
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Leica can be a polarizing brand for primarily one reason: price. Nevertheless, the cameras they create are often special and those who shoot with them, swear by them. In this video, Evan Ranft goes through his thoughts on whether the purchase was worth it or not. [ Read More ]
The Fujifilm X Series of mirrorless cameras has become quite popular and respected, upending the traditional paradigms of the sensor size, body design, and shooting experience that constitute a professional camera. The X-S20 is the latest entry in the line, and it offers an excellent balance of features and price, which should make it worth a look for many creatives. This great video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Landscape photography can be a rather "in your face" genre at times, where grand, sweeping scenes immediately capture the viewer's eye and draw them into the image. And while those make for fantastic images, there is a lot of subtle beauty in the genre as well. This insightful video tutorial discusses the art of the subtle in the genre and offers some nice tips for photographing wildflowers.
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The Pixel Fold is the first foldable phone engineered by Google. I had a chance to preview this feature-packed productivity tool that is actually both a phone, and a tablet in one. In this review, I will discuss the Pixel Fold from a photographer’s perspective, its myriad of camera features, and its use as a productivity tool for creative professionals.
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Ah, the allure of the sea! The crashing waves, the salty air, and the breathtaking beauty of the coastline. If you're a beginner photographer looking to embark on a seascape photography journey, you're in for a treat. Seascapes offer a wealth of stunning photographic opportunities, but getting started can seem a bit daunting. Fear not! In this article, we'll explore the five essentials for beginners to kick-start their seascape photography adventure and capture mesmerizing images that will transport viewers to the shores.
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In the past few years, Lightroom has taken some powerful steps forward, making it a versatile and capable editing tool that can accomplish many tasks that used to require a trip to Photoshop. One of the greatest new additions is the ability to use curves in masks. This great video tutorial will show you how to use curves inside the program's masking panel to quickly and easily create powerful and precise edits.
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Thorsten Schönrade upgraded his Portkey’s LEYE EVF to overcome lens issues he was facing, and the results are pretty great.
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As a photographer, how many times have you wished you had a portable power source in remote locations? Whether for outdoor lighting or simply to power some tools, this 1,200 W power station might just be what you were wishing for.
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Photoshop's new Generative Fill tool has generated a lot of buzz for its ability to transform images and manufacture ideas with just the click of a button. One genre it has a lot of potential in is portrait photography, and this great video tutorial will show you some of those applications.
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Adobe Photoshop's generative fill allows AI to recreate or remove parts of an image, blowing many minds in the process. Now, what if you could use this new tool on your videos? Well, it's possible, and here's how. [ Read More ]
Part of the challenge of landscape and city photography is that you can't control the physical placement of anything but yourself, which makes creating compelling compositions a particularly challenging skill. If you find yourself struggling with your compositions, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will give you seven tips sure to put you on the right track to better photos.
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Composition is the backbone of photography, the artistic element that allows photographers to convey their vision and create captivating images. It is the arrangement of elements within the frame and the deliberate placement of subjects, lines, shapes, colors, and textures that bring harmony and balance to a photograph. In this article, let's delve into the importance of composition in photography and how it serves as a powerful tool for visual storytelling to help your own photography level up.
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Modern cameras are remarkably capable machines, and you can now find a good option for just about every budget range. With an increasing emphasis on the ability to do both photo and video work, hybrid cameras have become increasingly important. The Sony a7 IV is one of the most well regarded options out there, and this great video review takes a look at if it really offers the best combination of image quality, performance, and cost in a crowded and competitive space.
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The nice thing about learning aspects of photography like proper camera settings or even composition is that these things are strongly codified, but when it comes to developing a personal style, it can be a bit harder to know how to proceed and if you are on the right track. This great video tutorial discusses the idea of a photographic style and some of the mistakes people make en route to developing theirs.
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Rock pools are captivating microcosms of marine life nestled along the coastline, holding a world of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. But have you ever wondered how you can capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of these submerged wonders? Let’s delve into the enigmatic power of a polarizer and explore how it reveals the secrets of rock pools along the water's edge, where the code to capturing the beauty of these miniature aquatic ecosystems is cracked.
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We've all heard that equipment doesn't make the photographer, and that a great photographer can create great images with whatever camera they have. But, how does that actually translate? How different do images look when taken with an early DSLR, compared to a modern mirrorless? [ Read More ]
The Leica Q3 is here, and it brings with it some of the company's most powerful features paired with the company's highly respected optics, all in a compact and quite portable body. How does it hold up in real-world usage? This excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from the camera.
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I'm sure some of you have seen the magnificent photos and videos of a polar bear sleeping in a bed of fireweed by Martin Gregus Jr. When I first saw it, I thought it wasn't real - it was just too perfect. But as this video documentary shows, it is, and taking those photos involved a significant amount of time, preparation, and effort.
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If you’ve been a wedding photographer for any amount of time, you know that you are going to spend a lot of time in loud wedding receptions, and this is my public service announcement to please protect your freaking ears. All wedding photographers and filmmakers need ear protection as part of their kit for the long hours we spend in front of bands and DJ speakers at volume levels unsafe for our hearing, and so, I rounded up a few options for you to consider below.
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It sounds too good to be true, but the TTArtisans AF 32mm f/2.8 lens offers full frame coverage, autofocus, and the promise of good image quality for $148. Can it actually deliver good performance and image quality at such a low price? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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The future of photography. Are we photographers in danger of being replaced, or is this just another fad due to pass us by? Who owns the digital rights? How much of a photograph that's generated by AI still belongs to the original artist, or does it belong to no one?
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We all want to take better photos. There are countless ways of learning how to do that. Attending courses and workshops, watching YouTube videos, and reading books and articles such as this are traditional approaches. But there is one unexpected way too: embracing bad photography.
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The new Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera has generated the most buzz of any camera in a while, as it brings with it most of the features and capabilities of the powerful Z9 in a more portable and affordable package. Just how impressive is the Z8? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from it.
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One of the trickiest and most frustrating aspects of landscape photography is that you do not get any control over the conditions, and when the weather refuses to cooperate and you get boring skies, it can be challenging to create worthwhile photos. Challenging does not mean impossible, though. If you know how to work with it, a dull sky can still give you great images. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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Cinematographer Markus Mentzer offers advice for shooting on a fast-paced set, like Netflix’s “I Think You Should Leave.”
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Attention, all pet-loving shutterbugs! If you're a studio portrait photographer with a passion for pup photography, then you've come to the right place. We're about to let you in on a little secret that will have those furry friends wagging their tails with joy during your next pet portrait session. That secret? It's all about the right tools. So, grab your camera and let's dive into the world of pet-tastic props!
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The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens offers an extremely versatile focal length at a very reasonable price, making it an attractive option for wide range of applications, particularly sports and wildlife photography. Is it right for you? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from it in practice.
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In a recently emerging search for the perfect vertical shooting tool, many brands have offered tools for better efficiency and stability. Nisi’s take on the rotating camera bracket might have some unique features to offer.
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Understanding lighting is crucial to becoming a successful portrait photographer, and few do it as well as Lindsay Adler. In this helpful video tutorial, Adler breaks down one of her most useful lighting setups and shows you how you can recreate it and customize it to your exact needs.
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While camera bodies get most of the hype when it comes to technological advancements, modern lenses are no slouches. It takes a lot of careful design, engineering, and manufacturing to fit a bevy of electronics, glass, and motors to create la ens that is merely functional, let alone one that reliably produces high-quality images. What all goes into a modern lens? This neat video takes apart a Canon RF lens to show you what is inside.
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It's easy to look at anyone who has had success and see a perfect game, or luck, or a helping hand, but it's often the case that to reach success, you have to stand on many past failures. [ Read More ]
Macro photography can be a tremendously rewarding pursuit that allows you to see a world that is all around us and yet, invisible to the naked eye. If you are new to the genre and wondering how to get started, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced macro photographer sharing everything you need to know to get underway in just 10 minutes.
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Packing an all-new imaging sensor, computational photography algorithms, and the S-Cinetone color profile from Sony's Alpha cameras, is the Xperia 1 Mark V blurring the lines between mobile and mirrorless? [ Read More ]
Nikon has released some incredible lenses for wildlife photographers and birders over the last couple of years, and the new 180-600mm Z f/5.6-6.3 VR looks to be another one to add to the list. Just like the Sony 200-600mm G Lens, this lens has a short throw and internal zoom, which are huge benefits when compared to Sigma and Tamron. This brilliant video from Jan Wegener discusses the performance of the lens and image quality you can expect.
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“It's not AI that will take your job; it’s someone who’s using AI who will.” Narrative Select is the fastest-growing photo-culling software. Until now, it’s only been available to Mac users. That is about to change, as it becomes available to even more photographers.
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If you're an animal lover with pets, you'll know how hard losing a beloved furry member of your family can be. To some, they are like our children and they are a massive part of our lives for many years. Sadly, I lost two dogs due to old age in quick succession, and I was asked reluctantly to capture some last portraits of them before they crossed the rainbow bridge.
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Fujifilm makes some fantastic cameras, with the X-T5 and GFX 100S sitting at the top of their APS-C and medium format lines, respectively. So, which is right for you? This helpful video comparison takes a look at both to help you choose the camera for you.
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Modern cameras are rather intricate machines with a bevy of features and settings, and as such, it is worth getting to know your camera well so you are not unpleasantly surprised by a setting that derails your ability to get the shot you want. This helpful video tutorial discusses seven fundamental settings you should consider changing to ensure you have the best chances of getting the photos you want.
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The L mount has opened up certain Leica lenses to many photographers and filmmakers, promising the company's legendary image quality in a variety of options. One such lens is the Vario-Elmar-SL 100-400mm f/5-6.3, which offers a versatile focal length for a wide range of applications, such as wildlife and sports photography. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Wedding photography burnout is real. For nine years, weddings consumed my life, documenting every bouquet toss and first kiss. I was burnt out and needed to make a drastic shift.
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Things don't always go as planned during photoshoots. Here are five questions to ask yourself when trying to overcome a creative challenge.
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I've taken a look at some earlier iterations of Astro Panel over the years, a plug-in designed for automating and enhancing both astrophotography and landscape photos. I found it a powerful addition to my editing arsenal, and it was easy to use but could do some very sophisticated editing. This new version from photographer Angelo Perrone adds more than 80 new astrophotography and landscape functions, as well as some features to support portrait editing.
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Highlighting the remarkably diverse and radical practice of Carrie Mae Weems, this survey brings together an outstanding selection of photographic series, films, and installations spanning over three decades, many of which have never been seen before in the UK.
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Coming from the land of "why has no one thought of this before," ON1's latest release, Photo Keyword AI, promises to make organizing your photo far easier and more efficient. It looks awfully nifty, and for anyone who has a large catalog of photos in Lightroom that they need to navigate, it could be an indispensable tool. This great video will show you the tool and how to use it to organize and search your images.
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Camera manufacturers excel at tempting us to buy their latest gear, teasing us with headline features like faster autofocus. These are the features that generate a buzz about new gear and get names on pre-order lists, but this video suggests they could also encourage us to buy cameras for the wrong reasons.
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For Android users, the new Google Pixel tablet offers a lot of performance in addition to some innovative features, making it an intriguing option for photographers and filmmakers looking for a light but capable solution for working on the go. This excellent video review takes a look at the new tablet and the sort of performance you can expect from it for creative tasks.
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For those in search of an affordable and versatile solution for your telephoto needs in the Nikon Z system, it may be time to rejoice.
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Geared tripod heads offer precision and efficiency for various kinds of photography workflows. However, they often come with bigger price tags. Let’s see if this fairly affordable one from Benro is worth a look.
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Of all the techniques, philosophies, and approaches that go into making a successful landscape image, perhaps nothing gives new and experienced photographers alike more trouble than composition. If you find yourself often struggling with composition, check out this fantastic video that offers a useful approach to get you on the right track in no time.
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In today's fast-paced and digitized world, finding solace and maintaining good mental health has become crucial. There are many ways one can find an escape from it all, and one of those is the powerful ally of photography. Beyond being a mere hobby or artistic expression, photography can have numerous benefits for mental well-being. Engaging with photography can have a positive impact on a person's state of mind, providing them with a creative outlet, promoting mindfulness, fostering self-expression, and connecting them with their surroundings.
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Ben Moore, Nikon Europe Creator, is an urban architectural photographer who understands the grind. His passion and tenacity for pushing himself have led to a career of stunning image creation.
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Micro four thirds is enjoying a bit of resurgence right now, with its lighter and smaller size, lower cost, and array of excellent lenses making it a fantastic choice for a wide number of genres and applications. Is it the ideal system for street photography? This great video makes a case for why that might be so.
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Finding success as a photographer requires a complex multitude of factors, but regardless of your ultimate goal in the craft or the specific genre in which you are interested, there are some universal truths every budding creative should be aware of. This helpful video essay discusses three common reasons why budding photographers fail to find success.
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Tamron has become one of the most impressive manufacturers in the photo industry in recent years, creating an array of lenses that offers both practical and affordable designs and that push the boundaries of traditional capabilities. The 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD falls into the former category, offering Fujifilm and Sony shooters an affordable ultra-wide angle f/2.8 zoom, making it appealing for a wide range of applications. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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Small scenes landscape photography: the practice of photographing the little details within the grander scene. Is it simply a genre that some landscape photographers gravitate towards? Or is it the natural evolution of a seasoned landscape photographer?
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Bright and sunny skies, or bluebird skies, as some call them, are the bane of landscape photographers. Or are they? We’ve all been taught to seek out the “good” light of golden hour or dramatic skies. This video talks about how to walk away with great images even on those sunny, cloudless days.
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Many of the most expensive shoots spend inordinate amounts of money on incredible locations, models, and photographers. But, if you're willing to accept models that aren't A-list celebrities, you might be able to recreate the same standard without being bankrolled. [ Read More ]
In my previous article, we talked about the technique and tips for performing focus stacking for e-commerce shoots. In this article, we will further expand into discussing the advantages of using focus stacking techniques, apart from the obvious reasons of getting the entire product to be in focus. There are a few more logical reasons and advantages behind focus stacking.
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The Fujifilm X-S20 is the latest entry in the company's highly respected X Series line of mirrorless camera, and it offers a nice balance of price and features, making it a reasonable option for a wide array of photographers and filmmakers. This excellent video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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No doubt, photography is not a cheap hobby, and the camera gear hype machine is designed to make you continually reach for your credit card to buy the latest and greatest gadget, camera, or lens. Whether you are a new photographer or a seasoned veteran, though, it is important to remember that a compelling image is not made by a great camera, it is made by a great photographer, as this insightful video essay demonstrates.
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In the world of photography today, it is pretty common that the relationship between creative concept and photography skill is intertwined and very much expected from a photographer. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into this discussion between these two relationships to see how photographers can unleash their artistic potential and bring their work to the next level and how one skill affects the other skill. Everything from the spark of inspiration from the basis of creative concepts to the technical skills required for project execution will be discussed in hopes of achieving balance between creativity and technical skill to push a photographer’s work to a greater height.
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One of the best things you can do as a new photographer is to take your camera out of automatic mode and begin learning how to control it manually. This can be a bit daunting, but once you get the hang of it, you will b glad you made the leap. This helpful video tutorial will get you started on the right foot with using your camera's manual mode.
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Have you ever tried to sell a vehicle that was a little past its prime? It may not have a lot going for it, but using the “car roller” technique could make that vehicle look as awesome as the day it rolled off the lot.
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If you've been running your photography business for any amount of time, you have quickly discovered that being successful requires you to spend an inordinate amount of time doing things that have nothing to do with a camera. Things you probably loathe. Suddenly, you find yourself needing to acquire skills in accounting, web development, project management, copywriting, contract writing, and countless other fields. A newcomer has entered the CRM space: Bloom IO, and they are on a mission to alleviate many of these burdens, allowing you to focus on what you truly enjoy.
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When you become a professional photographers, you can take one of two general paths: a specialist with a focused approach to a single genre and/or style, or a jack of all trades who can competently tackle a wide variety of jobs, if not quite at the level of a specialist in each area. So, which is right for you? This helpful video essay features an experienced commercial photographer discussing the pros and cons of both approaches to help you decide.
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Lightroom can be a sneakily intricate program, and it is not always obvious how to accomplish something you want. Whether you are still learning the program or a seasoned veteran, this helpful video tutorial discusses five common issues with not-so-obvious solutions that will make your life and workflow a little easier.
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Landscape photography is largely dictated by the weather you experience out in the field. Many times, we don't get the conditions we hoped for, which can be especially challenging after investing time and money into a photography trip. These are five things you can do the next time you're in unfavorable conditions to walk away with great images regardless of the weather.
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Generally, you shoot a portrait with either continuous lights or a flash, but not both. What happens when you mix them, though? You enable some pretty incredible creative possibilities. Check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to shoot an eye-catching portrait using a mixture of continuous lights and flash.
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In the never-ending debate (or is it ever-evolving?) about what makes the best street camera, here's an intriguing suggestion that's worth a look.
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Most people don't understand what all the fuss is about when they see a Platypod for the first time. If I showed it to my mom, she'd probably feign excitement in the way only a mom can. If you've ever used a Platypod, though, you know how powerful such a little piece of aluminum can be. You can use them for anything from travel and landscape to toy and food photography as a way to show your audience a new perspective on the world. You can even use them to mount flashes in obscure spots for portrait photographers. Okay, I'm a Platypod evangelist, but their company truly has changed the way I photograph.
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Few things are more crucial to a photography business than the website, as it is the place where most potential clients will go to see your work, to decide if you are the right fit for their wants and needs, and to initiate contact with you. As such, your website deserves careful attention. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced commercial photographer sharing some common website mistakes and how to fix them.
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Wine bottles can be a real challenge to light and photograph, particularly with their curves and reflective glass. Nonetheless, you can learn quite a lot from the process. If you would like a fun weekend project, check out this great video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know to create a professional wine bottle product image.
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Whenever a camera setup comes along that looks a little crazy, my interest is always piqued. The big question with these inventions is whether they are just gimmicks or potentially the next big thing in photography.
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This livestreamed special event which sees Paul McCartney discuss his photography and memories of a unique time in history is one not to be missed, and you can watch online globally.
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AI is the perfect hype commodity for tech companies and social media shills. If you thought NFTs and crypto cults were full of hot wind, then strap yourself in for the AI movement, because it’s bigger, gassier, and truly inescapable.
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Learning artificial lighting is something that every portrait photographer should do, as it frees you from relying on the sun and enables you to explore creative avenues that simply are not possible with only natural light. However, lighting modifiers can be quite expensive, so knowing which is right to start with is important. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced photographer discussing why an octabox should be your first choice.
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We have all seen the flat earthers and other conspiracy theorists out there. Enter Dave McKeegan, who is out there, providing information on his YouTube channel to prove they are wrong and that the Earth is indeed a globe and the International Space Station does actually exist. In this video, McKeegan shows us how he captured the ISS transiting across the moon to prove them wrong.
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For years, photographers old and new would enjoy sharing their favorite work across social media sites such as Instagram. Sharing your images was fun and would create conversation, engagement, and perhaps sales. Nowadays, the situation has changed.
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The Canon EOS R5 was a runaway hit for the company, offering a wide array of highly advanced features and signalling to the industry that Canon had become quite serious about professional mirrorless cameras. It has now been almost three years since its release, leaving many fans wondering when the next iteration of the camera will be on its way. Luckily, that may be later this year.
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Filmmaking is a desirable career and has been for many years. Now, however, there is more demand and are more ways into it than ever before. Here is some advice from somebody who has walked that path. [ Read More ]
Becoming a successful professional photographer takes a lot more than being good with a camera; you need to have a lot of business sense and a keen understanding of how a career as a creative differs from that of a traditional 9-to-5 job. That latter point often trips up aspiring professionals. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced commercial photographer sharing one such mindset mistake and what you can do to avoid falling prey to it.
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The Explorers Club needs no introduction. Some of humanity’s greatest firsts, like the first ascent of Mt Everest and descent to the Mariana Trench, the first people to reach the North and South Poles and, of course, the first two human beings to stand on the surface of the Moon, were all members of The Explorers Club.
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X Series mirrorless cameras have become some of the most popular out there, including a traditional photography experience in tandem with a portable footprint and a wide array of some of the most advanced features available in a modern body. The X-T5 sits at the top of the line, bringing with it a new sensor with the highest level of resolution ever seen in an X Series camera along with advanced performance and features. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and how it holds up after six months of usage.
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The Sony ZV-E1 packs the sensor from the a7S III, the AI autofocus from the a7R V, and the compact form factor of the ZV-E10, but what are some of the other reasons to love this small but mighty camera? [ Read More ]
It’s the time of year again for my 100% non-scientific, not-based-on-actual fact, purely speculative wonderings about the future of my main camera brand.
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The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR lens offers Nikon DX users an affordable wide angle zoom with some nice extra features sure to please filmmakers. Can it offer results beyond its low price? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice. [ Read More ]
It feels as if some videographers seem to just be able to capture surreal-looking footage consistently, while the majority of people only manage it on rare occasions. Well, one of those consistent creators of the surreal and the beautiful, Aidin Robbins, discusses how he manages it. [ Read More ]
Traditionally, you edit portraits in Photoshop, where you can take advantage of the program's powerful array of local editing tools. On the other hand, Lightroom has taken tremendous steps forward in the past few years, and while Photoshop still sits at the top for portrait work, there are many situations in which you can complete a portrait edit entirely in Lightroom. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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The Tamron 11-20mm lens features a super-fast constant aperture of f/2.8 in an extremely compact and light package. With a 16.5mm to 30mm full frame equivalent focal length, it is ideal for travel, landscapes, real estate, vlogging, and more. Designed specifically for Fujifilm and Sony APS-C cameras, the 11-20mm is sure to become a popular choice for compact mirrorless shooters.
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For the most part, camera firmware updates are a relatively unexciting affair, mostly bringing bug fixes and minor new features. However, occasionally, manufacturers will introduce major new capabilities via firmware upgrades, and Nikon's latest firmware update for their flagship mirrorless camera, the Z 9, has introduced one of the most exciting features we have seen in years.
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DJI's drones have come to dominate the marketplace, offering sophisticated and easy-to-use devices that make it simple for beginners to get compelling photos and videos and straightforward for advanced users to take deep creative control over the process. The Mavic 3 Pro offers some of the company's most impressive features yet while maintaining a portable footprint, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it, particularly for landscape photos and video work.
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If you're a photographer and haven't participated in "The World’s Greatest Photo Game," hosted by GuruShots, you'll want to take a peek at their latest challenge. Participants submitted a wide variety of night photography to their latest challenge. Thousands of people entered and cast millions of votes. See the three winners of the challenge as well as hundreds of top rated images below.
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Certain people from history are inherently quotable. Although their quotes were not necessarily aimed at photographers, they apply to us too and can help us improve our photography.
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Photography is a tremendously varied pursuit that can take you many different directions, but there are a few fundamentals that every photographer, no matter what they shoot, should have mastered. If you are new to photography and ready to learn, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will teach you many of the basics in just 10 minutes.
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A few years ago, Sigma released the 14mm f/1.8 Art lens, which had the widest maximum in a full frame 14mm lens by more than a stop. Recently, they released the 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art, which blows past the f/1.8 version by two-thirds of a stop and claims the title of the world's widest f/1.4 full frame lens. Can it offer performance and image quality to match? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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Nikon keeps up its rapid pace of updates for its flagship Z 9 camera today with the release of firmware version 4.00.
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Look, I think we've all been there, none of us want to have to bring extra stands, tripods/monopods, or even extra cameras just to get behind-the-scenes images (BTS for short from here on out) or video for our websites or social media, even though we'd all love to have that content. After some trial and error, I think I've landed on a fun and flexible solution by using a 360 action camera but there are some things to know before you get started so let’s get into it.
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Lara Jackson is an incredible wildlife photographer, conservation biologist, and children's book author. Over the last few years, Lara has had an incredible journey, becoming highly commended in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition to then becoming an ambassador with Nikon and Save The Rhino. I sat down with Lara to discuss this journey in more detail.
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Waterfalls are some of the most popular subjects in landscape photography, offering a great way to add a sense of drama and motion to an otherwise still scene. They require some special considerations and techniques to maximize the quality of your images, though. This excellent video tutorial will show you a range of great tips sure to help you take better waterfall photos.
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The MacBook Air has long been one of the most popular laptops on the market, offering a fantastic balance of portability, power, and battery life, but many users have been clamoring for a 15-inch version for a few years now. That option has finally arrived, and it looks like a real winner for many users. This great video review takes a look at the laptop and the sort of performance and experience you can expect from it.
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The Apple Vision Pro has been described as "magical" compared to other VR headsets. What sets the Vision Pro apart is not just its impressive displays, apps, and comfort, but primarily its user interface (UI) that relies on eye- and hand-tracking.
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There are only a few hours left to take advantage of this years 2023 Complete Video Creators Bundle. Are you ready to improve your video production skills?
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In photography, faster lenses are better, aren’t they? Many struggle to see the benefits of having a range of f/4 lenses. But, if you start using them, you’ll realize there are good reasons for challenging that assumption.
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With well over a century of cameras under the industry's belt, there are many niche cameras that have fallen through the cracks of history, with very few remembering them. One example is the early press cameras which are special in their own right. [ Read More ]
One of the most valuable skills a photographer can learn is how to work with artificial light, as it frees you from relying on the sun and allows you to explore creative ideas that simply would not be possible otherwise. If you are new to working with artificial light, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how you can use flash to capture captivating sports action shots.
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Many have waited for it patiently, and even more can only dream of affording it, but there is one thing you simply cannot deny: the Leica Q3 is a damn good camera. Is it worth the price? To many Leica lovers, undoubtedly. To you? Well, let’s see what it offers first.
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When it comes to landscape photography, "good" light is generally thought of as that which occurs around golden hour, with softer, warm rays cascading across the scene. However, we are not always there at the right time, nor are we always lucky enough to get that kind of light. That does not mean you should pack your gear away and head home, though. Harsh light can make for excellent images as well, and this great video tutorial will show you how to get as much as you can out of it.
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If you are looking for beautiful, natural light portraiture and how to pose models effectively, this is a fabulous video set in an amazing location with a professional model. Join Irene Rudnyk behind the scenes on this adventure and watch the magic unfold.
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Imagine being able to effortlessly insert your own face into iconic images or movies or create completely unique images with a particular person using AI. Thanks to the remarkable open-source software Insight Face, this is now achievable with just a few simple steps.
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Each week it seems, a new camera is released. And with every new release is the lure of new features promising to make the already easy image-making process even easier. This raises the question, do the benefits of easily creating images outweigh the potential benefits we might gain from taking a more challenging approach?
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It is one thing to be able to create a compelling image in isolation, but many of the best photographers have a recognizable style that unifies their entire portfolio and makes it easy to pick out one of their shots. Do you need a style to find success, though? This interesting video essay explores the topic and if styles are a crucial part of like as a photographer.
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Adobe Lightroom was once where you imported all your images into collections and then made some small tweaks before exporting to Adobe Photoshop. Now, it is a complex beast in its own right and can manage entire post-production workflows in some instances. [ Read More ]
The Remove Tool in Adobe Photoshop is a very handy tool, but did you know it can do more than just remove? In this video, PiXimperfect shows us three brilliant ways to make the most of this tool to make your editing workflow even easier.
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Canon Netherlands sent me a white Canon EOS R50 mirrorless camera, together with the standard EF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM kit lens. The assignment was clear, make an honest review of this tiny camera. You can read the result of this review in this article.
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Photography is an art form that allows us to capture moments, express emotions, and tell stories. The skill of the photographer is paramount to this, but the same can be said of the camera brand that they choose to shape their vision. We are all drawn to certain camera manufacturers for our own reasons, It can be said the right tool for the job applies here. So, why do photographers prefer certain brands over others?
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Becoming a confident and capable photographer is no small task, and it is something to be proud of when you accomplish it. If you are currently on that journey and looking for tips on how to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing five important tips sure to help you on your way.
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A good speedlight is a wedding photographer's best friend, allowing them to tackle any church or event hall, no matter how dark. Godox has established themselves as one of the most respected flash brands on the market, offering capable devices that are often significantly more affordable than comparable first-party options. This excellent video review takes a look at the V860 III TTL Li-Ion flash and the sort of performance you can expect from it under the heavy demands of a wedding.
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The lead image doesn't exist. Well, it does now, but it is a sum of two photographic parts aided by Photoshop's new Generative Fill AI. The mountains in the background exist but not in their entirety. Stobb Coirre doesn't exactly look like this, as tiny parts are generated. My two dogs never pose for photographs. [ Read More ]
When you think of portrait lenses, there are many staple focal lengths. However, there are a whole host of great lenses that while may not be intended to be for portraiture, are superb for exactly that. [ Read More ]
Photoshop's new AI-powered Generative Fill feature has generated a ton of buzz around the industry for its ability to perform powerful edits with just a single click. And while it has many discussing what extremes it can be pushed to, it also has some very practical, time-saving applications. This great video tutorial will show you five such applications for real estate photography.
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Like many tech enthusiasts, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the announcements at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference 2023. There had been wild rumors of a new Mac Pro, and a new AR/VR product which would be an absolute game-changer in the world of consumer technology. Is VR the future, just another gadget, or something worse?
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Photography has become an everyday part of our lives, moving from the realm of professionals to the hands of amateurs and enthusiasts. With the continual evolution of smartphone technology, mobile photography has significantly transformed, delivering professional-level results that rival traditional DSLRs. This year, 2023, showcases some extraordinary smartphone cameras, pushing the boundaries of what mobile devices can achieve in photography.
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Thomas Heaton is in a predicament over which lens to buy for his kit. In this video, Heaton has to choose between the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8, Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4.0 and the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4.0 lens. Which would you choose?
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Believe it or not, I have been a freelance photographer for six years. Looking back on it, I have been struggling to make it, truly learning the meaning of the term starving artist. I wish I would have received this bit of advice so many years ago.
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Video is now king, and all us still photographers better get on board if we hope to survive. That's what I've been told, anyway. Making the leap into video can be daunting, though, and so, a new website hopes to make that process just a little easier.
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The Nikon Z8 is one of the most exciting cameras out there right now, offering many of the capabilities of its larger sibling, the Z9, in a smaller and more affordable package. What kind of image quality and performance can you expect from it? This great video review takes a look.
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The announcement of the Sigma 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens has captured a lot of the photography world's attention, as it is now the widest full frame f/1.4 lens ever made, easily besting out second place, Sigma's own 20mm f/1.4 Art. However, that does not mean it does not have competition. The Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM is a widely respected lens that offers great performance and extreme capabilities as well. So, which is right for you? This excellent video review takes a look at both to help you choose.
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The last few years have seen an explosion in violent thefts, especially near San Francisco, and recently, a photographer was killed in Texas. Taking expensive camera gear out on a shoot can be a scary thought nowadays, especially when in some locations, violent thefts are on the rise. In this article, I discuss some ways that can help you minimize the impact of such thefts.
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Along with shutter speed and ISO, aperture is one of the three fundamental exposure parameters and something every photographer should master in order to take deeper technical and creative control of their images. If you are new to photography and ready to learn, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know about aperture, including how it works and how to use it to create better photos.
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Have you ever wondered what camera gear the top content creators never leave home without? If you have, this video is for you. If you haven't, this video still might be for you! [ Read More ]
In this rapidly evolving world of photography, it's essential to take a step back and scrutinize how well we're reflecting our business in its current state, including growth in our personal photos, websites, and social media profiles. In the previous article, we discussed five actionable strategies to address commonly overlooked areas, from updating personal images to refreshing website content, and from leveraging social media to nourishing creativity through personal projects and continuous learning.
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In today's world, many of us feel the pressure to constantly create and put out content, and that can be quite frustrating and detrimental to our process and enjoyment. There is something to be said for letting photos come to you, in a manner of speaking. This great video follows a landscape photographer as he does just that.
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Every once in a while, a lens comes along that rewrites the boundaries of lens design and offers photographers unique creative and technical opportunities that were not possible before. Right now, that is the new Sigma 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art, which offers the widest maximum aperture ever seen in a 14mm lens and the widest focal length ever seen in an f/1.4 lens. How does it hold up in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect.
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Photography has long been an evolving art form, and the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced a new wave of innovation. As in many fields, AI has begun to shape the landscape of wedding photography, changing how photographers capture, edit, and deliver photos.
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In the past few years, Nikon has really filled out their mirrorless camera lineup, and there are now options from well under $1,000 to top-of-the-line flagships costing north of $5,000. With eight different models to choose from, there is something for just about anyone. So, which is right for you? This fantastic video takes you through Nikon's entire mirrorless camera lineup to help you choose the right one for you.
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In today's video, I light the bottle of Oliveum Hot Sauce on fire for an online advertising campaign I'm about to run.
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Fstoppers has partnered with 5DayDeal to offer the best video bundle deal of 2023. Included are education, software, and tools from a wide of variety leaders in the industry that will help take your work to the next level. The product list is incredible this year.
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If you're living in the northeastern part of the United States, unless you've been under a rock the last day or two, you've probably noticed that the wildfires from Canada are turning the skies a funky shade of yellowish orange. The thing is, your cameras probably haven't noticed.
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Sigma has recently announced the world's first 14mm f/1.4, which is a dream for astro, real estate, landscape, and architectural photographers around the world. The images so far shown have been incredible, and in this video, Christopher Frost puts the lens through its paces.
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Stepping into the world of professional photography isn't just about mastering the art of creating stunning images. It's about becoming a dynamic, evolving brand in an industry that never stands still. As photographers, we are visual storytellers, but often, we become so engrossed in narrating other people's stories that we overlook our own.
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Fujifilm makes quite a few nice lenses for its popular X Series line of mirrorless cameras, but sitting at the very top of the lineup, at least in price, is the XF 200mm f/2 R LM OIS WR. The 200mm f/2 features an impressive combination of a long focal length and a wide aperture and promises extreme performance to match. This great video review takes a look at the lens and if it can match that high price tag.
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Photoshop's new Generative Fill feature has been capturing the imaginations of a ton of creatives in the past week or so, and it offers a lot of potential for a wide array of different applications. Like any other tool, though, it pays to know it well so you can get the best results from it. This great video tutorial discusses five common mistakes that can derail the tool and what you can do to get the most from it.
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For astrophotographers and real estate photographers, this lens is very exciting! Sigma has announced the world's fastest 14mm lens for the Sony FE Mount and Leica L mounts.
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Photoshop has some pretty incredible features, and while some, like the new Generative Fill tool, get all the headlines, others are buried deep in several layers of menus, where you might never even know they exist. One such feature is Path Blur, which can quickly and dramatically transform your images. What is Path Blur, and how can you use it in your work? This excellent video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.
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Brian McCarty, a self-proclaimed toy geek and an incredible photographer, tells the stories many people don’t want to hear in a way familiar to the world. He depicts children’s accounts of conflict and loss through toys as an advocation against the horrors of war.
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Never having used the Exascend brand before, when given the opportunity to review them, I leaped at the chance. Would they match the high standards I hoped for?
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Do you find yourself overwhelmed and stuck when composing a landscape photography scene? Having some tips on what to look for can help if you are stuck. This video looks at the world of abstract photography as a way to find scenes and compositions.
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I was challenged to photograph an entire portrait shoot using a broken lens. Can a consumer-grade camera and a half-broken, old lens from eBay create anything interesting?
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I wanted to share with you my experience exploring the new extensions available in Luminar Neo, photography software that many of you may already be familiar with. These add-ons offer specific functionalities to enhance your photographs and are each sold separately.
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One year ago, I finally received my Sony a7 IV after a long wait from my local camera store. In this article, I explain what I like about the camera and where I think it could improve.
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The Mac Studio, Apple's powerful desktop computer, has been upgraded with new chips and a range of new features and capabilities. Here's what's new and how you can order yours.
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The Apple Mac Pro, their top-of-the-line computer, has been updated to now use the company's own chips. And now, you can preorder yours.
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Street photography traditionally makes use of a relatively wide angle lens, with 35mm and 24mm options often being the most popular. Of course, you do not have to limit yourself to those focal lengths, however. This interesting video essay makes a case for why you should grab a 50mm lens the next time you head out for a street photography session.
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Monday, Apple made a groundbreaking announcement: the release of their Apple Vision Pro augmented reality (AR) headset, priced at $3,500. As an enthusiast, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and skepticism about this new product.
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At WWDC 2023, Apple did something fans have been hoping the company would do for years now: they released a 15-inch MacBook Air. It might become their most popular laptop yet. [ Read More ]
Photographers spend their entire careers mastering the art of composition, gradually honing their skills over many years. For new photographers, learning compositional theory from scratch is a huge task, but you can fast-track your progress by focusing on one technique first: subject separation.
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Anybody can take a video of something — and these days, most people do — but to come away with cinematic-looking footage requires some extra steps and forethought. In this video, one talented videographer gives you the cheat codes you need to achieve it. [ Read More ]
When we think of landscape photography, our minds are commonly drawn towards wide angle images of vast expanses, and while those can make for some jaw-dropping images, they are not the only compelling photos you can make. Looking for the smaller details can open up an entirely new world, and this helpful video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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The Canon EOS R8 full frame mirrorless camera is one of the more affordable options out there, but it is not so cheap that it does not come with many of the features professionals need. The EOS R8 sits in an intriguing position, offering a nice balance of capabilities and price, and this excellent video review takes a look at the features and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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Over the past few years, LEDs have become a popular choice for still photographers, and with good reason. Although LED light sources do have limitations, there are many clear benefits to using constant light for portrait photographers. In this article, I will detail five ways I use an LED light wand to create captivating portraits, both in and out of my studio.
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24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are the standard tool of choice for countless creatives, offering a versatile focal length range in tandem with a wide maximum aperture, making them suitable for a huge range of applications. However, such lenses are rarely cheap, often running north of $2,000. The Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G trades a stop of aperture for extra reach and a significant discount, making it an intriguing alternative. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Micro four thirds, once a bit of an outlier in the APS-C, full frame, and medium format race, is enjoying a bit of a moment in the spotlight right now, with innovative cameras and portable, affordable gear making it the format of choice for many photographers and filmmakers. Why does micro four thirds have some of the most fiercely loyal enthusiasts? This interesting video takes a look.
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The Fujifilm GFX line of medium format mirrorless cameras reinvigorated larger-than-full-frame cameras for the industry by offering a range of modern features and conveniences usually reserved for smaller formats and doing so at aggressively competitive prices. The GFX 100S sits at the top of that line, offering the company's top-level sensor in a body that comfortably competes with the costs of upper-level full frame cameras. This great video review takes a look at how the camera holds up for paid work after a week of usage.
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When you look outside and see a gray sky, it might be tempting to feel discouraged at the uninteresting backdrop and plain light quality, but flat light can actually be some of the best light to work with as a photographer. If you would like to see why flat light is actually such a boon for portrait photographers, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced photographer guiding students through building a shot.
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The Fujifilm X-S20 is here, and it truly feels like a complete package for enthusiasts, hobbyists, vloggers, content creators, and a combination of all of the above. It's a small camera body packed with many professional features. So what’s the catch? Is there one?
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Visitors are urged to share their reactions to images showcasing English documentary photographer Martin Parr’s view of Scottish life and Scottish stereotypes in a new exhibition taking place this summer.
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When Generative Fill in Photoshop Beta was announced, it seemed the world had gone crazy. From this time onward, nothing about photography could be trusted anymore, they said. It was the end of photography the way we know it, or so it was believed. But perhaps we’re really scared for nothing.
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Do you know what a barm or a zarf are? They're two items seen practically every day but rarely called by their real names. A barm is the foam head on a beer, and a zarf is the cardboard burn prevention sleeve. This brings me to Manhattanhenge. Can you believe it’s a New York City sunset?
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In the ever-evolving world of photography, the integration of new technologies in the photo editing workflow can create fears and concerns among photographers. Many worry that AI software will replace their skills and make them obsolete. However, it's essential to understand that AI software is not here to replace, but instead assist photographers.
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Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Fujifilm GF 23mm f/4 lens along with two other lenses and a GFX 100S, and I have to admit it has left a lasting impression on me. As landscape photographers, we value wide angle lenses for capturing wider vistas with stunning detail, and this lens didn't disappoint.
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The past week has been flooded with news showcasing how amazing Photoshop's new Generative Fill tool. It's essentially an AI-powered Content-Aware Fill on steroids, but is it actually as good as everyone says it is?[ Read More ]
Shiny facial skin is an incredibly common problem for people, and the majority of portrait clients will want you to retouch it. Thankfully, it is not particularly difficult to take care of in Photoshop, and this excellent video tutorial will show you everything you need to know to do so.
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You can create stunning portraits with just a single light, but once you have mastered that, moving into more complex multi-light setups will open up your creative opportunities even more. If you would like to try a challenging but rewarding portrait lighting setup, check out this great video tutorial that will show you a dramatic image shot using a four separate lights.
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If you are using Lightroom Classic for your photo editing, you have the possibility to use the presentation module. This module makes it easy to create a slideshow and export it as a video file. Try Premiere Pro if you want to take your slide shows to the next level.
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Landscape photographers put a high priority on resolution and dynamic range, but on the other hand, in a genre that often requires a lot of physical effort to get to a location, every ounce of weight counts. That is what makes the Hasselblad X2D 100C, as it offers the ultra-high levels of detail and quality one would expect from a medium format in a very small and portable package. Is it the ultimate package for landscape photographers? This excellent video review takes a look.
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HDR images took the photography world by storm about 15 years ago, and after a few years, they mostly fell away, as they were mostly deemed to be too over the top to be tasteful. Nonetheless, even today's best cameras can't capture some scenes all in one exposure, and as such, if you want to avoid blown highlights or shadows, you need to combine multiple exposures somehow. This in-depth video tutorial discusses what makes for a tasteful HDR image and how to go about creating one in Lightroom.
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When you think of memorable landscape images, you probably think of golden hour shots with dramatic rays cascading across the frame, but there is a lot more to life than that. Any light, even "bad light," can produce worthwhile images, and if you spend your time waiting for those magic golden hour moments, you are missing out on a lot of photo opportunities. This great video discusses the issue and the sort of personal philosophy that can make bad light days more enjoyable.
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Constant lights are traditionally used for video work. But I think they make for the perfect solution for a photography studio.
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Over the past few years, Viltrox has quietly grown into a leader for third-party lenses that often punch well above their weights in terms of their price-to-quality ratios. Their latest offering, the AF 16mm f/1.8 FE, promises to continue that trend by offering an ultra-wide focal length in tandem with a particularly wide aperture, making it useful for quite a few applications. 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 practice.
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While it remains primarily a cataloging program, Lightroom has made some significant steps forward in editing capabilities in recent years, and it is now possible to complete entire edits within the program, making your workflow far more convenient and efficient. This helpful video tutorial takes a look at the three of Lightroom's most useful tools, the Masking panel, Healing Brush, and Panoramic Merge, and how to use them.
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It would be nice if finding financial success as a photographer was as easy as taking great pictures and being paid for them, but it involves so much more than what you do behind the camera and often requires you to do things you might not really enjoy. This excellent video essay features an experienced professional discussing why you have to "play the game" if you want to make photography a career.
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It is one thing to be a good photographer, but running a successful photo business takes a large set of skills that have nothing to do with a camera. If you are new to working as a professional, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses some common business mistakes photographers make and how to fix them.
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The Northern Lights season has now drawn to a close. However, the next couple of seasons could be very special indeed for auroras chasers. Join me as I discuss the beauty of the Northern Lights, some of the science behind them, and how I capture this magical experience.
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In the midst of chaos, there exists a small group of brave individuals who risk their lives to document the horrors of war: combat photographers. These individuals point their cameras at the atrocity of war, capturing the brutal reality that unfolds across the landscape of battle. What's created is a visceral reminder of the violence, allowing the public to get just a small glimpse into the nightmares faced by those touched by the fire of combat. The photos we see once the silence has settled offers us a small chance to witness the harrowing experiences they endured, what they needed to do, and what they still carry with them as they try to live their lives in peace.
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Can combining ND filters and a flash elevate your portrait images? Miguel Quiles takes us through this technique in depth and provides great advice on how you can make the most of this setup.
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Magnets have long been used for their quick and sometimes strong holds. But is a magnetic camera strap a good idea?
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With the advancements in camera technology and software, focus stacking has never been easier. You can now even stack complex woodland photos without significant difficulty. In this article, I share how to approach such scenes.
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Manny Ortiz is well known for his urban portraiture on the streets of Chicago, and this time, the windy city becomes the rainy city, as he captures some beautiful portraits of his model, Elizabeth, with the new Nikon Z8.
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I love watching other photographers at work. In this video, you will see one of my favorite fashion photographs, Lindsay Adler, who is known for studio lighting and Dani Diamond, who prefers natural light. They go head to head on the streets of New York with the same model.[ Read More ]
The latest camera in Fujifilm's highly respected X Series line of mirrorless cameras, the X-S20, is here, and it brings with it some great features at a reasonable price, making it an appealing option for many photographers and filmmakers alike. This great video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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The highly anticipated final phase of the V&A Photography Centre is now open, and no matter what area of photography holds your interest, this news is worthy of your attention.
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Have you ever walked by a beauty image on the shelf at ULTA or scrolled by a brilliant shot on Instagram and thought: “I want to make images like that”? Or perhaps you are a photographer who saw a picture and thought: “I could have shot that better!” You have the skills, but you don’t know how to break into the commercial market. In this article, I’ll share about how to break into the market and disclose tips and tricks to succeed in the commercial photography space.
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Deep sky astrophotography has long intrigued me. The targets that can be found in the vastness of space are nothing less than impressive. In this video by Trevor Jones of AstroBackyard, he visits the Texas Star Party and captures something incredible!
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When I first heard about Lytro's new camera that could create pictures that I could refocus after the fact, I wondered if my career as a photography educator was over.[ Read More ]
Almost all of us have broken a piece of camera gear at some point and felt our hearts sink as we looked at thousands of dollars on the ground. However, I doubt any of us have broken gear as expensive as these shattered lenses.
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Photography is as much a learned skill as it is a natural talent for some. Whether you fall into the former or the latter category, there are a few practices that you can practice every day that can help you become a better photographer.
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Sony has announced the release of two new high capacity CFexpress Type A cards, a 960 GB and 1,920 GB version, which are currently available for preorder now.
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When an exhibition of works is announced by a photographer as influential as Diane Arbus, you would be forgiven for assuming that the work was on show in a major venue in New York or London, but you would be wrong.
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If you shoot real estate and other interior photography, I'm sure you know about flambient style shooting. This video is great to cut down on Photoshop time.[ Read More ]
While apertures like f/1.4 are totally normal for full frame and APS-C cameras, they are almost unheard of in medium format, where most lenses open as wide as f/4 or maybe f/2.8. And so, that makes the Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 65mm f/1.4 quite the intriguing lens right off the bat. Add in its very affordable price, and it becomes an option almost every Fujifilm GFX user should at least take a look at. 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.
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Lightroom's new AI Denoise feature has been monumental step forward for the program, but it also enters the market at a time when there are numerous highly advanced noise reduction applications. How good is it? This great video takes a look at the new feature, including its performance and how to use it on your own images.
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We may be firmly in the digital age, but there will always be something special about printing your images. However, there are dozens of ways to print your images, and it comes down to cost, your taste, photo content, final location, and much more. So, before you start spending a lot of money, it is worth taking a look at some of the options. This helpful video will show you 10 different ways to print your images, including the pros, cons, and aesthetic differences between them.
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While my focus revolves around landscape photography, much of the information I break down through this article would apply to any photography content channel. I've been doing YouTube full time for over two years. This is a breakdown of all of my revenue from 2022.[ Read More ]
Camouflaged to the max, Morten Hilmer is going full stealth mode on his farmland with the brand new Nikon Z8 for wildlife photography. Join Hilmer as he captures some magnificent wildlife with this new offering from Nikon.
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It can be overwhelming for a landscape photographer when it comes to the editing process. Between all the sliders and sections in Lightroom and a myriad of options in Photoshop, it can be difficult to know where to start. This video walks you through some simple steps in Lightroom to enhance your photograph, with the final touches done in Photoshop.
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Have you questioned your own work or struggled with constantly feeling like you aren't finding success as an artist? Hearing this might help remind you that we all experience similar struggles and many times, we are our own worst enemies.[ Read More ]
For astrophotographers around the world who are wondering what there is to shoot in June, Alyn Wallace has you covered with this in-depth guide to what's in the night sky.
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As a photographer, you’re attracted to everything that catches your attention, which sometimes leads to a very disparate amount of files. When you observe your portfolio, you can’t get a sense of coherence from it. Here are three tips that might help you identify a pattern in your photography and find your style.
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LED video lights have made remarkable strides in the last few years, and you can now get professional-level options at affordable options. One example of this is the new Colbor 220W Bi-color COB LED video light, which offers impressive features and performance at a very affordable price. This excellent video review takes a look at the light and how it holds up in usage.
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The Fujifilm X Series features some of the most respected cameras on the market, with the X-T5 sitting atop the lineup, bringing with it some of the company's most advanced design and capabilities in tandem with the series' classic design. How does it hold up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it.
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Photoshop's new Generative Fill feature has taken the industry by storm in the last week, with its remarkable capabilities capturing the attention of many for its potential to invigorate creative tasks and streamline workflows. It is not perfect, though, and it has one issue that you should be aware of should you plan to use it for professional work. This helpful video tutorial will show you the issue and a quick and effective workflow to ensure you get high-quality results.
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A cheap, vintage-looking lens that you can make at home sounds too good to be true, right? Thankfully, for us, a new camera lens is just a few easy steps away.
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The tired arguments against the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) standard are obsolete and rarely voiced now. Furthermore, the release of the OM-1 a year ago has seen a massive migration to the system, and for good reason. Many consider giving their creativity a boost by swapping to an MFT camera.
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The Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM is a highly respected lens, offering some of the company's best performance and image quality, but at nearly $3,000, it is a rather expensive option. The RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM offers a similar focal length range at a price not even a quarter that of the 100-500mm, making it an intriguing alternative. How does it hold up? This great video comparison takes a look at both lenses to help you decide.
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Woodland photography can be tremendously rewarding, but it can also be a particularly challenging sub-genre of landscape photography. If you are interested in improving your forestry photos, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer sharing some of his best advice.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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One of the nicest features of mirrorless cameras is the electronic shutter, which allows you to shoot in total silence, a fantastic option for situations where being discreet is key. That does not mean electronic shutters are without faults, however. Knowing when to use an electronic shutter and when to use a mechanical is important, and this great video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.
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The new TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 2x Macro Tilt Shift lens offers some of the most versatility ever seen in a lens: high levels of magnification and tilt-shift capabilities, all wrapped up in a popular focal length and an affordable price. Can it deliver on all those fronts it promises? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you will be able to expect from this intriguing lens.
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Along with shutter speed and aperture, ISO is one of the three fundamental exposure parameters that have a significant impact on the technical quality of your image and on the creative decisions you can make. If you are new to photography and feeling a bit unsure about how to handle your ISO, check out this helpful video tutorial that takes a very pragmatic approach to the topic with five useful tips.
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Today, Nikon has announced a new addition to its APS-C/DX line of lenses for its Z series mirrorless cameras.
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If you've seen westerns, sci-fi films, and even historic epics and car commercials, you've seen this place. It's the Alabama Hills, some spectacular geography just outside Lone Pine, California. It's at the foot of Mt. McKinley in the Owens Valley.[ Read More ]
The Canon EOS R10 mirrorless camera offers an affordable entry point into the RF mount system, making it a nice first camera or backup body. If you are interested in how the EOS R10 might fit into your workflow, check out this great video review that takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Many photographers who get into medium format come to it with large collections of full frame lenses, and as such, it would be great if they could work on their new gear. Two of the best candidates are Canon's TS-E 17mm f/4L Tilt-Shift lens and TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II Tilt-Shift lens, and these helpful videos take a look at how they hold up on a Fujifilm medium format sensor.
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The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens for Fujifilm was first released in 2022 and added to their growing line of X Mount prime lenses, which also includes the 16mm and 30mm. This trio of contemporary lenses is designed to be compact while delivering high-quality results at an affordable price. While these lenses offer slightly less features than the Art series of lenses, making them more affordable to a wider audience, the image quality is not compromised in any way, and these relatively inexpensive prime lenses make them a compelling option to explore.
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Any photographer who walks long distances or spends hours on their feet with their equipment knows that every last ounce matters. And so, the idea of a single lens that can cover just about every focal length is quite intriguing. Tamron's 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD makes that promise, and this excellent video review takes a look at it and the image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Adobe recently released AI-driven noise reduction in Lightroom, which represents a major step forward for the program. How good is the new feature? This great video takes a look at everything you can expect.
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Have you ever come across this alien-like symbol while cleaning or setting up your camera and had no idea what that was? Read further, where we discuss what this symbol is and its practical applications.
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In portrait photography, we often focus strongly on the posing of the subject, sometimes to the detriment of the overall composition of the image. If you would like to improve the composition of your portrait photos, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced portrait photographer sharing a wide range of helpful tips that will help you create better images.
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The Canon R8 is an affordable $1,500 full frame camera that is packed full of features. Is this currently the best entry-level full frame camera on the market for the price and how does it perform in wildlife photography? In this video, Simon d'Entremont covers the pros and cons in more detail.
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There are only a select few truly universal things that every photographer must have. While you may think of the obvious, such as cameras, lenses, bags, and other kit, we won't talk about any of these in this particular article. Instead, we will talk more about a service that every photographer must use in order to be a real pro.
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When you think of landscape photography, you most likely imagine doing it during golden hour, with dramatic rays of sunshine cascading across the scene. However, you can create compelling landscape images at any hour, even during the night. This awesome video tutorial will give you a ton of practical advice for tackling nighttime landscape photography and producing eye-catching shots.
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The Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens promises to be one of the most versatile lenses you can own, covering a huge focal length range and making it an appealing option for sports, bird, and wildlife photographers. With such an extreme focal length range, you might wonder if it can keep up with the performance and image quality demands of professional photographers. This great video review takes a look to answer that question.
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Even just five years ago, this would not even be a question. However, in recent years, continuous lighting has made some remarkable strides, and it is now a viable alternative to traditional strobes for a lot of work. So, which is right for your portrait photography? This excellent video comparison features an experienced portrait photographer sharing her thoughts.
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I'm not one to obsess over gear; I've never suffered from GAS. Frankly, the seemingly endless discussions around cameras, lenses, and various bits of kit that just keep multiplying year after year, couldn't interest me less. And now that I've said that, I'm going to write about gear.
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The time has finally come. Leading to this moment, you sat in the hot sun for hours, waiting for the grazing of the bird’s toe on the water, creating mesmerizing concentric circles, and boom: you got it!
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The tone curve often gets less use than tools like the exposure sliders or color grading panel, but it offers arguably more power, precision, and versatility than either of those aforementioned options, which is why every photographer should have some level of familiarity with it. This excellent video tutorial takes a look at everything you can do with the tone curve in Lightroom and shows you how to leverage it to take greater control over your photo edits.
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Icons of 90s British indie music Blur have just announced their long-awaited ninth studio album. The cover art has me tilting my head slightly to the left in confusion.
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The Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 lens is a thoughtfully designed super wide-angle lens for Fujifilm X-Mount cameras. Featuring a physical aperture ring, compact design, and solid construction, it is an excellent option for Fujifilm users. In this article and the accompanying video, I will share my experience using the 13mm primarily as a portrait lens.
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Many creatives are on the go quite a lot, and as such, they want to be able to work whenever and wherever they are with enough power to tackle heavy photo and video tasks but not a lot of bulk. If you are looking for such a laptop, check out this great video comparison that will show you three of the best options in 2023.
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It doesn't matter how many variables you match, when you pit creatives against one another, the results will invariably be distinct. In this video, five photographers all shoot the same models in the same location, and the results are exactly that: distinct.[ Read More ]
Medium format cameras offer incredible image quality, and in recent years, they have become far more affordable. That being said, astrophotography has some pretty specific and extreme gear requirements. So, can medium format work for shooting the night sky? This insightful video takes a look at how it holds up.
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Retouching hair can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but with the right knowledge and carefully practiced technique, you can avoid the frustration and improve the quality of your portraits. If you would like to make your portraits better, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know about retouching hair.
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I got an opportunity to use the brand-new Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM zoom lens. This expensive and large zoom lens with a large aperture is even more amazing than I initially expected. In this article, I share my experience and thoughts on this lens from real-world use.
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When you think of Hollywood blockbusters, they're typically shot on Arris or other extremely high-end rigs. Well, this latest film to be garnering quite the audience wasn't filmed on anything of the sort and it still looks incredible.[ Read More ]
As we all know, livestreaming can be a very expensive adventure. If you want to go beyond streaming from mobile phones, which are great, by the way, you will need to spend money on some higher-end equipment. This is why we put together a list of the top eight cameras for livestreaming that will deliver high quality at low cost.
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I’ve gotten the great pleasure of getting to spend the last two weeks with Nikon’s brand new, Z8 mirrorless camera. Here are a few reasons why this might be the camera for you.
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The warm glow of a sunrise or sunset can be a nice addition to a landscape image, but sometimes, the weather simply does not cooperate, and you are left with a rather plain sky. Luckily, it is not terribly difficult to add a nice, subtle warmth to the sky of such a photo. This great video tutorial will show you how to quickly and effectively do just that using only Lightroom.
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At $1,499, the Canon EOS R8 is not the cheapest full frame camera available, but it is certain on the more affordable side of things and offers a lot of features that make it a worthwhile upgrade. Is it the best affordable full frame camera on the market at the moment? This great video review takes a look.
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While a website is important, depending on what you shoot, an up-to-date Instagram account can be just as (or arguably more) important for providing a place for clients to find and contact you. If you would like to increase your bookings on Instagram, check out this fantastic video tutorial that shares five tips to help you do that, even if you do not have a lot of followers.
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I’ll admit I was seduced by digital medium format, with its ridiculous resolution and that “medium format look.” It has been two years of full-time use. Do I still think it was worth it? Better yet, should you drop $10K+ for a medium format digital camera kit?
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that takes a combination of technical skill, creative vision, knowledge of the elements, and occasionally, a bit of luck. If you are new to the genre and looking to improve your work, check out this helpful video tutorial that details 10 common mistakes new landscape photographers make and how to fix or avoid them.
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Drones have become incredibly powerful image-making tools in just a few years, and for landscape photographers, they offer the ability to reach perspectives that would not have been possible before. If you would like to see how a drone can improve your landscape shots, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer showing how he uses the DJI Mavic 3 Pro in his work.
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In the last few years, Canon has released some rather innovative lenses that push the boundaries of optical design and allow photographer capabilities not previously possible. It seems that philosophy is not just being applied to lenses, however, as another clever device is likely on the way in the coming months.
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The Fujifilm X-S20 mirrorless camera and XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR lens are here, and they bring with them the promise of great performance and excellent image quality. How do they hold up in practice? This excellent video takes a first look at what you can expect from both.
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Leica has just released their long-awaited update to the fan-favorite Q line-up called the Leica Q3. I’ve been using it for a couple of hours each day for the past three days. So, how does it feel to shoot with it, and should you want one?
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I usually don't speak in absolutes, but in this case, I do believe that every photographer should create a series of images at some point. What might surprise you is that the content of the series is wholly unimportant.[ Read More ]
Loved by many when it came out and adored by a solid user base today, the Fujifilm X-Pro2 was truly a hit camera made so well that it still has not truly been replaced even by the newer X-Pro3. And thanks to its age it is finally attainable even for the ones not willing to spend a ton on a quality camera.
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Fine art photography can be very lucrative, but it is a business and may not be for everyone.
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Perhaps no style is more timeless than the black and white photo, but creating a successful monochrome picture takes a lot more than simply pulling all the saturation out of a color photo. If you would like to improve your black and white photos, check out this great video tutorial that shares five helpful tips sure to put you on the right track.
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With Adobe's latest beta offering what they call Generative Fill, we're given a very powerful feature that lets us create or undo what is in our images. And I think features like Generative Fill are causing another round of soil searching, praise, and panic from photographers. I've tried to put my own thoughts in order, so I'm humbly sharing them, even though my thoughts will continue to evolve, or maybe devolve. I also wanted to create a forum in comments for your more recent thoughts as AI becomes more and more mainstream.[ Read More ]
Being a photographer can be a very expensive endeavor. Seeing pros on the internet have the latest and greatest gear in large quantities makes you wonder if this is what you need to be one of them. The truth is, no. Here is our list of basic gear that you need to start a business.
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Back in the mid-2000s, The Flip Video camera was all the rage, a vertically held, brick of a camera that was purpose-built for easy video in an age where video wasn't easy. With the Canon PowerShot V10, the company seems to want to channel some of that magic, but I have to ask: Why?
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The 50mm is a staple prime and lives in many photographers' camera bags, but the question is whether there is a vast difference in quality between them. In this video, a Leica and a Sigma are compared to gauge the differences.[ Read More ]
James Quantz Jr is one of the best portrait photographers out there, with his innovative lighting and dramatic concepts making for eye-catching images. While every portrait photographer knows the importance of things like lights, there are some other items that we think about less often, but that can be tremendously useful on a shoot. This fantastic video essay features Quantz Jr discussing five items he brings along on every shoot.
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Filters are some of the most transformational tools when it comes to creating possibilities in landscape photography. Aside from the intended exposure effects, there are some things you might need to learn about using them that will help you achieve better-quality images.
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Cinema may be a source of inspiration for photographers. And if we have titles of movies coming to mind or names of directors, we usually pay less attention to directors of photography, also called cinematographers. Big mistake! Those are the guys who master cameras and lighting techniques in order to materialize ideas into images.
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The use of commercial photography hides can be a controversial subject amongst wildlife photographers. In this article, I discuss the pros of such hides and how they can help you photograph those more elusive animals.
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Do you struggle with your landscape photography when at a new location? It can be challenging when you are photographing a new area. You don’t have a go-to composition, you don’t know when the light is best, and so on. This video walks through how one photographer approaches a new location.
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This is a great video for beginners and experienced photographers alike who are looking to get more out of their gear. In this video, Simon d'Entremont gives a definitive explanation of different lenses and how they can work best for you.
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As a photographer, I spend a lot of time taking photos, editing, blogging, and posting them on social media. However, are these photos just meant to be viewed for the 24-hour period (or less) that they're displayed on social media, only to disappear forever? Personally, I believe it’s important to create and share something tangible and special in this digital age of noise and instant gratification. That's why I've started to print my photos, and below are some reasons why you should too.
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There are several different ways to make money as a photographer, and the more you can diversify your income streams, the more you can ensure financial security. If you are working on improving your photography business, check out this helpful video tutorial that shows you several different ways you can use your photography business to make money.
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In the era of digital photography, it can be easy to click away without a second thought, but what if every time you pressed the shutter, it cost you $5? That might sound like an insane proposition, but the beauty of large format photography is that you get images that are simply not possible with a full frame camera or even with the most expensive modern medium format camera. This neat video takes you behind the scenes to show you large format landscape photography's process and some of the images you can create.
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Today, let’s discuss some of the biggest changes currently happening in the market and how those changes will affect our lives and our businesses as professional photographers.
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Wildlife photography can be a tremendously enjoyable genre, but it can also often need a heavy dose of rather expensive specialized equipment. Nonetheless, you can still create fantastic images with affordable cameras and lenses. This useful video tutorial will give you a range of useful tips to help you get the most out of budget equipment and still come home with excellent photos.
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After years of being a content creator, photographer, and videographer, Peter Lindgren goes through some things he wishes he'd known before making the leap.[ Read More ]
Although I like photographing people, I never dared to step into the world of street photography. But recently I have tried it a few times, with mixed results. I would like to share my experiences and give some tips for those who like to try this for the first time also.
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If you are new to editing your images, you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the dozens of sliders and adjustments available to you in Lightroom. They are not too difficult once you get the hang of them, though. This great video tutorial features an experienced photographer sharing his Lightroom editing work to get you on your way.
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It feels like stories about AI have dominated photography news over the last year. Part of me keeps ignoring the headlines as an irrelevance, but chirping away in the background, the other part of me keeps asking: what does it all mean? What's AI capable of? Will it really be a revolution? And perhaps the biggest question of them all: are photographers at risk of becoming obsolete because of AI?
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Greece is not only a country of rich history and culture, but it's also full of stunning landscapes and picturesque islands. This makes it a great place for photography, and in this article, I share some of the best photo spots Greece has to offer.
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You have some money saved up and you are ready to start building your gear collection. Should you spend your money on a good camera or a nice lens? It is an important decision that can have a significant impact on the quality of your images, and this excellent video will show you why.
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When it comes to photography advice, there are nearly as many pieces of wisdom as there are photos. In this video, Mark Denney offers one tip that always gets him results.[ Read More ]
As photographers, we often find ourselves at exciting places such as concerts, parties, and sporting events. Many photographers spend hours of their day working with other people. It is common to see photographers interacting with people and asking the people they are photographing to move a bit to the left or to position their hands differently. On the surface, it might seem that photographers are extroverts who love being out and about.
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Photographers often segment themselves into flash versus natural light when it comes to portraits, but the truth is, there is merit to both ways of shooting.
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When it comes to portrait photography, most people will reach for a lens with a focal length between about 85mm and 135mm, maybe a little longer or wider for certain applications or creative exploration. But there is no rule that says portrait photography has to be shot at those focal lengths; you can easily push into more extreme options for a bit of fun and creative invigoration. This short video will show you some of what you can create when shooting portraits with a supertelephoto zoom lens.
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I'm not a big fan of ultra-wide angle lenses. Shooting at 12mm usually requires that you get really close to your subject and create weird, warped-out-looking images, but I was recently hired for a job that required a wide field of view. I ended up buying three lenses to find the right tool for the job.
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Like any other craft, there are some common bad habits that new photographers often fall into, and these can both cause you to miss creative opportunities and to spend a lot of money you did not need to. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced photographer sharing five common bad habits and how to avoid them to put yourself on the right track.
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If you have never photographed in infrared before, that is not your fault; modern cameras are designed to reject infrared light. However, with a special modification, you can open up an entirely new world that is invisible to the naked eye. This great video will show you some of unique and fascinating images that can be made with an infrared-converted camera.
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When it comes to traveling as a nature photographer, one trouble spot comes up: charging. I recently fell down the rabbit hole of portable power stations, and let me share with you the difference a good power station makes for the road-tripping photographer.
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Color is one of the most powerful tools photographers have at their disposal, but it often does not get the kind of attention it deserves. If you want to expand your creative palette and help your photos stand out more, check out this helpful video tutorial that discusses a variety of different color schemes you can use to create more powerful images.
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One of Canon's most exciting lenses is the new RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM, which takes the popular 300 f/2.8 supertelephoto prime and replaces it with a far more versatile zoom option at essentially the same price. Now, it appears the company may be planning a second major supertelephoto zoom lens.
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A classic combination: legendary photographer, Michel Haddi and a plethora of top-of-their-game models and celebrities. Some of Haddi's black and white portraits will be on display as part of Photo London 2023 through 29 ARTS IN PROGRESS gallery. Also, as part of Photo London, Haddi will be signing copies of the latest addition to his Legends anthology, this time focusing on Kate Moss.
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We're always looking to bring our lives a little more joy and since most of us are chained to our desks throughout the day, I've decided to review the t13 highest-rated desk toys on Amazon.
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Often, as a wildlife photography enthusiast, I would love to have more reach when out in the field. This excellent video features a brilliant young photographer who is looking for a big performance from this small portable device.
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Do you struggle with creativity? In the first of this two-part series, we will look at what science and psychology have discovered about people who are creative. The good news is that they are habits that you can learn. Here are some exercises to help you with that.
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Google Photos is in the process of testing an enhanced search feature that allows users to perform complex queries, making it simpler and more efficient to find and manage photos within the platform. By catering to detailed and specific queries, users can locate their desired images with greater ease, thereby improving their overall experience.
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Mylio Photos is about to be reborn as a free app with some options that will have a price attached. Mylio Photos is a complete photo management solution that allows users to easily collect, organize, browse, search, and share their media files, including photos, videos, and documents.
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I've been doing serious astrophotography for around 20 years. I started in Seattle (large mistake), but now, I'm in Arizona, where we get a lot of "severe clear" nights.
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We've recently reviewed a lot of different programs that allow users to "train AI" to edit like they do in Adobe Lightroom. Aftershoot is the latest program to do this, but it has a few significant features that make it stand apart.[ Read More ]
One of the hardest, cringiest things any photographer can do is go back and look at the images they created early in their career. In this video, Lee Morris and I revisit some of our best and worst images taken prior to launching Fstoppers.com. How bad are these photos? Let's find out!
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One thing I've learned after being a wedding photographer for so long is that one light can go a long way.
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ChatGPT has taken the world by storm, and while it has some people rolling their eyes at the invasion of AI, it has a lot of potential as a business tool, and it is well worth taking the time to at least consider if it is something you should incorporate into your workflow. If you have not checked it out yet, this awesome video will show you five different ways you can use it to improve your photography business.
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Producing high-quality headshots in high volumes can be a daunting task. However, with over 6,000 headshots produced annually, we have cracked a code to high-volume headshot success. We know firsthand how challenging it can be to work efficiently without sacrificing quality.
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Although at Fstoppers, we tend to focus on photography-related products, we occasionally feature gadgets and technology outside of our normal focus. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is one of the most incredible gadgets I've ever used, and I wanted to create a video about it.
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Canon has released some awfully impressive mirrorless lenses, but with all that top-level performance often come high prices as well. That is why, at $349, the Canon RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM is a breath of fresh air. How much performance and image quality can it offer at that low price? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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One of the most important parts of any good book is the first few pages which draw in the reader in. That's what getting ready photos are for a wedding day. So let's make them epic.
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The Sigma 17mm f/4 DG DN Contemporary lens is so small that it barely reaches past the grip of the camera to which it is attached, making it an intriguing option for anyone looking for a highly portable wide angle lens. This great video review takes a look at the lens and if it can back up that portability with the performance and image quality professionals demand.
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One of the most common warnings you will hear about going pro as a photographer is that it will ruin your love for the craft. Why is that? Is it true, and if so, what can you do to mitigate that? This excellent video essay features a long-time professional photographer discussing the issue and his experience.
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After 27 years, Canon finally released a new 135mm lens. Instead of a new EF lens, it’s an RF lens, obviously. How does this expensive lens perform, and is it worth the upgrade if you’re still using the old but trustworthy EF version?
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Many of us love our gear, and while it can be fun to play with, it can also (perhaps paradoxically) cause a certain amount of decision paralysis and actually become a hindrance to the creative process. If that is something you sometimes find yourself struggling with, check out this insightful video that shows why carrying just a single camera and lens can actually make you a better photographer.
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Before Android-powered modern smartphones, the company, pre-Google, was focused on making a universal operating system for cameras. It raises the question of an alternate reality that never happened, but what if it did?
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The primary objective for boudoir photographers is to empower their subjects, encouraging them to embrace their unique beauty and sensuality. Photographers can highlight the individual's strengths and showcase their personality through careful posing, lighting, and composition, creating a personalized and intimate experience.
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Fujifilm's latest X Series sensor bumps its resolution to 40 megapixels, putting the company's APS-C sensors on par with many full frame options in terms of detail and even pushing toward medium format levels. Medium format still holds the image quality edge, but how significant is the difference? Will APS-C satisfy your needs? This excellent video comparison takes a look at the X-T5 and GFX 50S II to help you choose.
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Utter the words "16mm" when talking about focal length, and the first thing we think of is the dreaded distortion. But it doesn't always need to be such a bad thing! All-encompassing images can be an incredibly satisfying way of shooting. So, why do we fear the dreaded distortion in our images?
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For many people, landscape photography has become a popularity contest, chasing likes and adulation over creative inspiration and an individual voice. And that is a shame for many reasons, both individual and collective. This important video essay features an experienced landscape photographer discussing the issue and what really matters in the craft.
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If you want to create more first-person footage, or gather some interesting b-roll, or even film some great behind-the-scenes footage, this video might be for you. Armed with just your iPhone and some DIY, you can have an excellent, albeit odd-looking, first-person rig.[ Read More ]
With a 4K OLED panel, motorized built-in calibrator, and a range of other premium features, the ASUS ProArt PA32DC 4K OLED monitor is a top-of-the-line option that promises the sort of performance professionals demand. This excellent video review takes a look at the display and the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Woodland photography works best during foggy days. It helps to simplify the often chaotic forest environment. Soft sunlight early in the morning or late in the evening can also create a beautiful mood for your woodland photos. But what if you have neither fog nor the right light conditions? You can create those yourself, as I show in this article.
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Most of us spend a lot of time in Lightroom, and as such, it is well worth examining your workflow and finding any spots where you can increase your efficiency, as even small changes can up to big savings. This great video tutorial discusses five easy ways to increase your efficiency in the program.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Adobe recently rolled out one of its biggest Lightroom feature updates in quite some time: AI noise reduction. Promising to vastly out-perform the previous system, the new functionality has some stiff competition from many other options. How does it perform in practice? This great video overview takes a look at what you can expect.
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When they first came out, iPads were fun devices built for things like content consumption, but in recent years, they have evolved into some of the most powerful and versatile creative tools out there. Sitting at the top of the lineup is the iPad Pro M2, and this great video review takes a look at why it is so useful, particularly when paired with the latest Apple Pencil.
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Priced at just $679, the Canon EOS R50 is one of the most affordable mirrorless cameras on the market right now, though it still comes with a nice range of capable features. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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AI this, AI that. I know, we're all getting a bit fatigued with the conversation. But, the truth is, it is looking as if it will be the next major evolution in many industries, photography included. And so, it's worth reminding ourselves that we must adapt or perish.[ Read More ]
Canon makes a range of mirrorless cameras that range from sub-$1,000 to well over $5,000. The EOS R7 and EOS R8 both sit at $1,500, making them an appealing pair of cameras that balance capabilities and cost. Which is right for you, though? This great video comparison takes a look at both to help you pick which is right for you.
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Photographers and filmmakers have more choices in camera brands than ever before, with standards like Canon and Nikon to more niche options like Pentax. So, which is right for you? This excellent video opinion essay discusses the good and bad of 10 different brands to give a bit of insight into what each manufacturer is doing right and how they might fit your wants and needs.
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Talking about camera gear and upgrading has always been a polarizing topic anywhere. We all love our cameras but differing opinions often lead to long discussions. But when is it really acceptable to upgrade?
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You cannot move for articles and videos about AI at the moment, but this is for good reason. Rather than heralding in the apocalypse, this video points out some of the simple and integrated AI tools that you can use in your post-production.[ Read More ]
The Fujifilm X-H2 mirrorless camera took the highly respected X Series and added a high-resolution sensor for the first time ever, making it a desirable option for a wide range of creatives. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Lightroom Classic is playing catch-up. AI-based masking had been around for a long time in programs like ON1 Photo Raw, but has only recently been released in Lightroom. Now, Adobe has turned its hand to noise reduction. Does it stand up to scrutiny?
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Becoming a full-time photographer can be a really exciting time, but it can be tremendously difficult to know when it is the right time to take the risk and step into the world of running your own business. If you find yourself considering that move, check out this helpful video that features an experience wedding photographer sharing three things to carefully consider before you make the jump to professional photography.
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Retouching can be a very time-intensive process, and as such, it is well worth finding ways to streamline your workflow wherever you can. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced pro sharing five ways you can make your post-processing workflow more efficient.
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Large telephoto lenses are some of the most powerful and exciting optical tools out there, able to capture faraway action like birds or sports and create dynamic images. Nonetheless, they take some special considerations in order to get the most out of them and to ensure you are not straining yourself physically when using one. This helpful video tutorial discusses five things you should do whenever you buy a large telephoto lens.
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The Canon EOS R8. Is this the lightest, smallest, most diverse, and most affordable full frame Canon mirrorless camera yet? Let's see how it performs.
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If you look at the work of professional portrait photographers, it can be easy to be fooled into thinking that it is not possible to create high-level images with just a single light. This could not be further from the truth, though. If you are new to working with artificial light, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to shoot compelling portraits using just one light and a portable modifier.
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Landscape photography often places tremendous dynamic range demands on your camera, and while there are ways for dealing with this, sometimes, you will come home with an image that has blown highlights, which can distract from an otherwise compelling photo. If you find yourself in that situation, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to make them look more natural using Photoshop.
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With a 45.7-megapixel sensor and a lot of dynamic range, the Nikon Z 7II mirrorless camera looks like a strong candidate for a lot of landscape photographers. How does it hold up in practice? This great video review features an experienced landscape photographer discussing his thoughts months after switching from a medium format setup.
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The Sigma 17mm f/4 DG DN Contemporary lens brings with it the promise of excellent sharpness at a useful focal length and in a very small and portable package, making it ideal for genres like landscape and architectural photography. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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In recent years, energy has become a very hot topic. With the cost of solar energy at its lowest point ever, it only makes sense to look at products such as the Jackery 1000 Pro. Be it power outages at home or on-location shoots, having a solar power generator is a necessity in the modern digital workspace.
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Many photographers regard prime lenses as superior to zooms, since they often offer better image quality and more creative versatility via their wider apertures. Nonetheless, when it comes to landscape photography, sometimes, the balance of requirements is a bit different. This excellent video features an experienced professional discussing why zoom lenses are the better choice for most landscape photographers.
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Where you invest your money as a professional photographer is one of the most important decisions you can make, and as such, it is something worth of careful consideration to ensure you are not wasting your money on unneeded gimmicks. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced pro sharing what he invests in to ensure he can do his job easily and deliver the best possible images.
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If you’re a photographer who has tried using photo-sharing platforms, you might be familiar with the same problems that plague some of them. This can get pretty annoying. If you have been irritated by this, you might be happy to learn about 100ASA, a platform changing the game with its unique community-centered features.
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When you look at the work of professional portrait photographers, you might think that you need complex multi-light setups in order to produce top-level images. And while it is true that two- or three- light setups are common, you might be surprised by what you can accomplish with just a single light. This great video tutorial will show you three easy and creative one-light portrait photography setups.
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Landscape photography often requires significant physical effort simply to get to a location, and as such, it is worth ensuring you are getting everything you can from one spot before you move on to the next place. This excellent video tutorial walks you through the process of taking multiple images in a single location to show you how to maximize the return on your effort.
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The Canon EOS R5 showed the world that Canon was extremely serious about professional mirrorless cameras, and while it remains a highly impressive camera, features like a 45-megapixel sensor and 8K raw video are overkill for many photographers and filmmakers. For those who want most of the capabilities of the EOS R5 in a more pragmatic and affordable package, the EOS R6 Mark II is an excellent option, and this great video review takes a look at the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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With Adobe's updates coming fast and furious, it can be quite hard to keep track of what's going on and what's been updated. Glyn Dewis breaks this down and shows you what the latest April 2023 update means for you.[ Read More ]
Preparation is key when it comes to planning a trip to Namibia — a true land of extremes that can only be fairly described using hyperbole. As beautiful as Namibia is, to get the most out of your trip, you need to be prepared and well organized. Here are my tips for bringing back the best wildlife and landscape photographs from a trip across Southern Africa.
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Social media is a necessary evil for a lot of photographers, as it is the place where many potential clients will see your work and first contact you. However, with so many platforms and the need for continued, consistent posting, you might wonder where your time and efforts are best spent. This great video features a filmmaker discussing the results from a two-week experiment of posting to TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
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Cameras are more complex and customizable than ever before, allowing users to tweak buttons and settings until everything is mapped to the photographer's personal workflow. In this video, watch how to change settings to how you work.[ Read More ]
Today, we will talk about one of the most necessary and the most dangerous ingredients in a creative career.
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This morning, I awoke early to see a new cryptic web page appear on the Nikon website. So, what’s it all about?
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Fujifilm's X-H2 mirrorless camera brought a high-resolution sensor to the beloved X Series for the first time, along with a wide range of other new features and upgrades, making it an intriguing camera for many users. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Spring is here, and it brings with it a veritable plethora of fun and interesting photography opportunities. If you are ready to bust out your camera and shake off the rust from winter, check out this great video tutorial that will show three fun and easy spring photography ideas to get you rolling, along with some helpful advice for improving your images.
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The new Canon EOS R8 mirrorless camera can be considered the replacement of the older EOS R and EOS RP cameras. It promises to be a great camera at a reasonable price point. Canon Netherlands sends me this camera for a review. Let's find out how it performs.
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7Artisans has gained a reputation for making extremely affordable lenses, and while that sometimes means you may have to take a hit in image quality, the 15mm f/4 produces surprisingly good results without breaking that trend of low cost. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and if its results are right for your needs.
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Sometimes even the most beautiful moment captured doesn't quite translate into the final image. In these circumstances, it might be a mistake you made while shooting, but it could also be something that can be fixed in post-production.[ Read More ]
Landscape photography is arguably one of the most popular genres of photography while also being one of the hardest to find success in. After working full-time in the profession, I've finally found what the secret to success is.[ Read More ]
The DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone is here, and it brings with some of the company's most impressive technology yet, including a new triple-camera system, long flight times, and Hasselblad optics. Here's what you can expect.
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The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR promises users some of the best and most extreme optical design and performance on the platform, including an especially wide aperture, pleasing bokeh, and sharp images. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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While the presence of AI in photography has caused anything from fear to excitement, one thing is for sure: it is here to stay and will have a significant impact on the industry in many ways. The interesting video essay discusses the issue and something important to keep in mind as the industry changes and the role of the photographer evolves.
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Tim Tadder is widely revered as a bold and visionary photography icon. With numerous accolades to his name and a client list ranging from Amazon to Nike, he is recognized as a leader in advertising photography and beyond. Since late January, though, he has turned into a highly controversial artist in the industry with his work in AI. I sat down to chat with him about the polarizing pieces he has been creating.
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Fujifilm's X100 series of cameras is now in its fifth generation, and it remains one of the most beloved cameras on the market, all but guaranteeing that we will see a sixth version at some point. What would photographers like to see in the next iteration? This interesting video features a photographer discussing his thoughts on the topic.
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Canon has some incredible lenses in their lineup, but with all that performance and image quality often come eye-wateringly high price tags. And yet, they also a lens for APS-C cameras that costs only $149, and it far outperforms its very affordable price tag. This great video review takes a look at the lens and if it can keep up with the demands of a modern, high-resolution sensor.
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My first-ever article on Fstoppers condemned the use of presets and inspired photographers to focus on creating their own color grades and styles. Looking back, I still stand by some of those points, but not all of them. You see, while using presets is bad, creating your own presets might actually be beneficial to your photography and editing workflow.
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Creating a successful landscape image takes a variety of factors, including good technique, solid planning, a knowledge of lighting, and more. Composition is one of the most challenging aspects, and it takes a keen knowledge of what to include in the frame, what to exclude, and how to position them all. If that is something you find yourself struggling with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you some solid advice sure to help you improve.
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Fujifilm's X-T5 mirrorless camera was a major step up for the X Series, and along with it came the XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro lens, which offers a normal focal length in tandem with the versatility of a true macro lens, all in a small, lightweight, and affordable package, making it a very interesting option for a wide range of applications. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the image quality and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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Architecture is an art form that reflects human creativity and engineering ingenuity and is not simply about buildings and structures, and one of the most fascinating ways, for me anyway, to capture the beauty of architecture is through multiple-exposure photography.
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Photoshop has a huge array of tools and features, and many of them have a bit of overlap between their purposes and functions. Two of the most fundamental tools in the program are the opacity and fill sliders. If you have tested them out and are not quite sure of the differences between the two, check out this excellent video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know, along with a wide range of helpful examples and exercises.
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Camera technology has advanced at a breakneck pace in the last decade, and now, we are on the doorstep of an AI revolution that will cause a fundamental shift in the way we work with, and in some cases, even in the way we create images. And while many of those tools have made our lives easier, they have arguably also sapped creativity from a lot of the craft. Have we lost the fundamental aim of photography? This fantastic video essay discusses the issue.
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Mother’s Day is an important day for any mother, but it is even more exciting for the soon-to-be mother.
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When it comes to portraiture, for the most part, 85mm is the traditional choice, with focal lengths around that number also seen as alternatives, such as 50mm, 100mm, and 135mm. 35mm is often used for portraiture, though it is rarely thought of as a primary option, being just a little wide for closer shots. Nonetheless, one well-known portrait photographer actually prefers 35mm above all other focal lengths, and this great video shares why, along with a wide range of images demonstrating its benefits.
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The 85mm prime is a pretty highly regarded focal length for a lot of portrait photographers, with most boasting a deliciously wide maximum aperture. But is it simply too awkward a focal length?
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Rapid changes in our global climate conditions are putting the Earth's landscapes at risk. Andrew Geraci and Project Preservation are creating a global public database to preserve and document rare and beautiful landscapes for future generations.[ Read More ]
Buying a camera is one of the most exciting and important decisions a photographer can make, and as such, it deserves some careful thought. Before you pull out your credit card, check out this fantastic video tutorial that offers 10 bits of helpful advice to help ensure you pick the right camera for your needs, wants, and budget.
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There is no lack of film photograpers, despite digital photography's dominance, though it is becoming increasingly more expensive to do. One film-centric photographer has become a disciple of a digital camera that does its best to straddle both worlds.[ Read More ]
Golden hour is a magical time of the day for photography, characterized by warm and soft light that can turn even the most mundane scenes into stunning works of art. This period occurs twice a day, during the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, and is highly sought after by photographers for its dreamy and ethereal qualities.
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While you can do it at any time of day you wish, landscape photography is often done around sunrise and sunset, and that can often require you to be in position, far from home, at very early and late hours. And because of that, camping for landscape photography can not only be fun, it can be quite practical for getting the shots you want. This fun video follows a landscape photographer as he camps overnight and shows you the experience.
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Good lights can make all the difference in the quality of work you can produce as a photographer. If you've never heard of a self-inflating light, then today might be the day you add one to your camera bag.
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There have been some magnificent improvements in the abilities of cameras over the last few years, not least in lenses and camera focusing systems. The technical advancements have almost taken camera skills out of our hands. But is this good or bad for photography?
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Canon's latest lens, the RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM, is here, and it promises some of the most extreme design and optical performance ever seen, making it an especially intriguing option for a wide range of photographers, including sports and wildlife shooters. This excellent video takes a look at the new lens and what you might be able to expect from it.
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Denoise software has made exponential growth over the past several years and arguably become a necessity for many genres of photography. The market has been highly competitive and typically always required extra software which might be completely shaken up by Adobe.[ Read More ]
Being a photographer permanently changes the way you travel. One sees the world and every destination in a different way that is fueled by curiosity and wonder. At the same time, it also means carrying more stuff around with you.
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I've long been a fan of Fujifilm's X100 series of cameras, the "T" model being my gateway drug into the Fuji X system. Fuji's X100V, the latest and greatest in the lineup, launched in 2020, seems near impossible to find even in 2023. So, what's a photographer to do? Try this instead.
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Lightroom has become impressively capable in the last few years, easily able to edit a wide range of landscape images from start to finish. With all these capabilities and features, it can be easy to overlook some of the options at your disposal. If you would like to expand your abilities, check out this great video tutorial that discusses six useful techniques for editing landscape images.
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During a special gala ceremony in London, the World Photography Organization announced the winners of the Sony World Photography Awards 2023. After the ceremony, German photographer Boris Eldagsen refused his prize, trying to discuss the role of AI in photography.
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It’s no secret that COVID put a bit of a damper on anything in person, especially large group gatherings, like conferences and trade shows. But as time has moved on, has the photo conference world fully recovered?
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You don’t have to spend big bucks to get a virtual wall these days. Bring your studio to life with just three televisions.
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Photographers and videographers that are constantly on the move may require a reliable source of power to keep their equipment charged and ready to go. BLUETTI's new AC60 & B80 power stations provide a flexible and expandable solution for professionals shooting on location.
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Photography is a challenging career, particularly since it does not have the sort of well-established stable path that something like a more traditional job does. Fear is a natural thing to arise from that experience, and as such, it is important to be prepared for it and ready to handle it in a healthy manner. This great video essay features an experienced pro discussing the issue and how to cope with fear.
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Wedding photography is a challenging genre that takes rock-solid technique, the ability to think quickly on your feet, and calmness under pressure. If you would like to learn how to become a better wedding photographer, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced wedding professional discussing 10 of her photos and how she chose the camera settings for them.
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Smoke and haze have been a long-time tool of the trade. But smoke-in-a-can and giant fog machines beware. This pocket-sized fog machine lives up to the name of Smoke Genie.
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Streaming has become a core part of our digital lives and serves so many purposes now. Having a 3-camera live stream has typically been highly expensive and difficult to setup. Well, if you're interested in that, this is far more achievable.[ Read More ]
Modern camera lenses can be extremely expensive, often reaching into multiple thousands of dollars. However, there are some real gems out there at much more affordable prices, some even lower than $100. So, how do you know which of those are diamonds in the rough and which you should avoid? This excellent video review will show you 10 of the best budget options out there.
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Have you got equipment you don’t use? Do you need to upgrade your gear bag? There are surprising reasons why MPB is the answer to clearing your clutter, bringing in some welcome cash, and enhancing the tools of your visual storytelling craft.
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Samyang has long been a favorite brand of budget lens buyers, creating affordable manual focus options that often bunch well above their weight in terms of image quality. The company now includes autofocus in many of their lenses, but prices have remained competitive. The AF 75mm f/1.8 for Fujifilm X Series mirrorless cameras is one such lens, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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An effective and compelling photo takes a combination of qualitative factors and solid technique, and it can be difficult as a beginner to find a balance between all those things. If you are new to photography and interested in improving your images, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses four crucial aspects that make a memorable shot.
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I love using Capture One. Recently, I have been working with the latest release: Capture One 23 and Capture One Live. Loved by enthusiasts and professionals alike, it is feature-heavy software. In this article, I would like to share some of the hidden and little-known features of this great software.
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Portrait lighting takes a good eye for nuance, and as such, it can be easy to overlook smaller details that detract from the overall quality of the image. If you would like to improve your portrait lighting, check out this helpful video tutorial that demonstrates a common mistakes and how you can fix it to improve the quality of your portraits.
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There are a lot of beautiful places for photography, but typically we envision locations teaming with life, greenery, and complexities. Well, deserts are stunning locations in their own right, and this video shows how it can be the case.[ Read More ]
Today, we’ll have a quick look at SmallRig’s latest solution for camera stability, the AS-100 FreeBlazer Heavy-Duty Carbon Fiber Tripod System.
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While the EOS R system and RF mount have proven quite successful, they actually were not the company's first foray into the mirrorless market. That honor belongs to the EOS M system, but it seems (unsurprisingly) that the company is continuing to wind down those cameras and lenses to focus on the RF mount.
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DJI's Inspire series of drones has long provided users with some of the company's top capabilities and features for high-level filmmaking. The Inspire 3 is here, and it brings with it a huge variety of impressive upgrades. This great video overview discusses the new drone and what you can expect from it.
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Nikon continues to build its arsenal of lenses for vloggers and content creators with the brand new NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Power Zoom Ultra-Wide Angle Lens.
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Sony just announced several major updates to the AirPeak S1 drone. These new hardware and software updates include an RTK unit for centimeter level accuracy, an all-new lightweight gimbal, and higher-capacity batteries for increased flight times.[ Read More ]
If you’re looking to add a hint of cinematic flair to your Fujifilm X100V images, I have the perfect accessory for you.
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At over $15,000, the Nikon Nikkor Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S sits at the very top of the lens mountain in terms of price, but does it also bring performance and image quality to match? This great video review takes an in-depth look at the lens and if it can justify that massive price tag.
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Glyn Dewis looks at a new app that can reduce camera shake and allow you to shoot incredible landscapes and long exposures on your iPhone without a tripod. From the creators of ReeXpose comes Reeheld. It apparently uses AI stabilization (something we are all very aware of at the moment) to create stunning handheld images.[ Read More ]
The brand of your camera is perhaps more important than you initially think. Unless you are Jared Polin, you are unlikely to change whole camera systems because one brand does something better than the other. This is why there are camps associated with camera brands. In this article, I will discuss the simple reason I use Canon.
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Photographers have more choice than ever when it comes to cameras, and there is an option for just about every budget and set of needs. So, what is a good camera? How do you make the right choice for you? This great video features an experienced photographer discussing the issue, mistakes he has made over the years, and how to find what is right for you.
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Wildlife photography is a challenging genre that requires sound technique, specialized equipment, particular knowledge, and heaps of patience, often for just a few seconds of prime opportunity for a shot. Whether you are new to the genre or a seasoned pro, this helpful video tutorial will show you six common mistakes wildlife photographers make and how to fix them or avoid them in the first place.
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As a photographer who constantly experiments with new ideas and techniques, I have been busy playing around with some unconventional things that you may find in a photographer's kit.
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The Canon EOS R8 is a relatively affordable entry point into Canon's full frame mirrorless system, making it an intriguing option for a wide variety of users, whether as a main or backup body. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Prints will always be in style: no matter how good digital displays are, people love tactile manifestations of images for a variety of applications: homes, offices, and more. So, how do you go about selling prints in 2023? This excellent video tutorial will give you a wide range of useful advice.
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As patronizing as it sounds, wedding photography isn't simply a one size fits all style. Some photographers adopt an editorial style, some pose couples for most of the day, and others will be 100% reportage. That said, we can always be sure that some parts of the wedding must be candid, the events that we cannot control or manipulate.
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Black and white cameras are a bit of a rarity, but they have been steadily present for years, and many photography purists swear by them both for the experience and the quality of images they provide. And so, as both a black and white camera and a DSLR, the new Pentax K-3 Mark III is an especially interesting camera. How does it perform in practice? This great video review takes a look at everything you can expect from the camera.
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Samyang, well known for many years for creating fantastically sharp and affordable manual focus lenses, has moved into creating autofocus options as well in recent years. Despite the addition of autofocus, their lenses remain competitively priced, which is what makes the AF 75mm f/1.8 for Fujifilm X Series mirrorless cameras so intriguing. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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I have a very small office space, which I use for work and filming tutorials. For the filming part, I was looking for a compact lighting solution. Typical studio lights are often quite large and wouldn't have provided the versatility I needed. That's why I'm glad I got introduced to the Colbor CL60R, which I review in this article.
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Katelyn James talks about why you need prime lenses in your kit bag and what is an essential purchase, based on her experience as a Canon wedding photographer. She shows you where to spend your hard-earned money and where to save.[ Read More ]
If you're looking for tips on how to shoot natural light portraiture, you might find some useful information in this video. If not, just watch a stunning photoshoot happen in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.[ Read More ]
Recently, some of my gear broke, and as always, it got me pondering if I should upgrade my gear. I ended up finding the same unit online and purchased it to replace the old one. That was a light, but if it were a camera, what would I do? Very likely, the same. Here is why.
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Black and white cameras are a bit of a rarity, but those who use them generally swear by the way they render images. The new Leica M11 Monochrom rangefinder offers an impressive range of features paired with a top-of-the-line sensor, and it may just be the best black and white option yet.
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Artificial intelligence is here to stay, whether photographers like it or not. So, what are some ways photographers can leverage it rather than fear it?
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Has your improvement trajectory in photography begun to level off? Do you find yourself feeling a little jaded and uninspired? There is a paradox that might resonate with your current situation and if it does, it holds the keys to propelling yourself forward.[ Read More ]
While Canon has always made some of the world's most impressive lenses, they really kicked it into another gear when the RF mount came along. It seems they have no intention of stopping, with another impressive lens on the way soon.
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Profoto sets a challenge for photographers, Chris Knight and Lindsay Adler, to orchestrate a portrait shoot with some limitations: the color theme of the shoot is the Pantone Color of the Year and although each photographer can use as many lights as they like, they have to use hard reflectors.[ Read More ]
If you are a beginner photographer, filmmaker, or content creator in the process of learning about and investing on lighting, quality should be alongside affordability and ease of use. The Nanlite FS-60B might be something worth considering.
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Wedding photography is one of the most challenging genres out there, and given the pressure and lack of second chances, most photographers opt for high-end digital equipment to ensure the best chances of getting the shots they need. Given today's client expectations, can you still shoot a wedding on film? This neat video features a photographer taking you through his entire film photography kit for a wedding.
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The AstrHori 85mm f/2.8 Macro & Tilt lens is definitely one of the strangest lenses to come along in a while, and yet, behind that weird design is a highly affordable option that promises to tackle the responsibilities of three or four separate lenses. Can it perform all those functions suitably and offer the performance and image quality professionals demand? This excellent video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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I’ve long been a believer that wildlife and landscape photography does a lot of good for wildlife by raising awareness of conservation issues. But there’s a problem that many of us don’t consider. Are you aware of what can you do to ensure your photography is doing more good than harm?
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The most fundamental distinguishing factor of lenses is whether they are primes or zooms. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages, and as a beginner, it is crucial to learn the differences so you can make the right choice for your needs and budget. This helpful video tutorial will show you everything you need to know about the two types of lenses.
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Sony's latest firmware update for the FX3 has some major improvements for shooters making the body truly one of the most desirable video-centric cameras on the market. Here is a breakdown of what has been added and how to get your hands on it.[ Read More ]
The firmware update version 1.8.1 offered Canon EOS R5 users the ability to capture a stunning 400-megapixel image. You may ask yourself if this has any real benefit over the standard 45-megapixel resolution, but it’s nice to have. How useful is the option in real life? Let’s find out.
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Becoming a professional photographer can be a scary thing, especially because, unlike a traditional job, the pathway to sustainable success is much more nebulous and often changing. What are the most common fears people have about becoming a pro? How can you mitigate those fears? This excellent video features an experience professional photographer discussing the topic.
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Canon's EOS R5 mirrorless camera showed the industry that the company was deadly serious about the professional mirrorless market, but alongside it came the EOS R6, which was arguably a more pragmatic option, offering most of the EOS R5's features and capabilities at a much more affordable price. The EOS R6 Mark II brings a nice array of improvements and new features over the original model, and this excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it.
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When going freelance in any profession, you will get faced with rejection after rejection. Not getting enough love on social media, emails not being replied to, and inquiries not leading to bookings are frustrating parts of running a self-employed photography business. “Don’t take it personally,” they say. But how?
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The Canon EOS R8 offers an affordable route into the company's full frame mirrorless lineup, making it an appealing choice for a wide array of amateurs and professionals alike. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Canon Canada has opened applications for the third cohort of its FUTURES program. Canon's FUTURES is geared to helping emerging storytellers between 20 and 25 years old develop their craft and business acumen. It's heartening to see a major international corporation make a point of nurturing the users of their products. Hurry, applications close on June 30!
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Mixing gels and hard light, when done properly, can result in some truly memorable images. In this video, watch as you are walked through the setup, the shoot, and the results.[ Read More ]
By popular demand, Sony has just released a new firmware update for the FX-3. This update adds Cinema line features from the FX-9/FX-6 and a few of the popular Alpha features that the community has been asking for.[ Read More ]
Fstoppers is expanding, and we're looking for more talented photographers and videographers to join our team as staff writers! If you enjoy reading Fstoppers and want to join our team, we want to hear from you!
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Leica's M11 rangefinder represents a notable step forward for the iconic M series, bringing with it a wide range of new features and improvements that are sure to capture the attention of many photographers. How does it hold up in practice, particularly against the reputation of its predecessors? This excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from the camera.
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One of the best parts of the Sony system is the vast library of different lenses available, making it easy to find an option that fits both your budget and your needs. In particular, there are many options for supertelephoto zooms, with Sony, Tamron, and Sigma each offering multiple choices. This excellent video comparison takes a look at seven such lenses to help you pick the right one for you.
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Make Your Cart Go has teamed up with Inovativ to make pushing carts around a little easier this summer.
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Without a doubt, social media has revolutionized the experience, dissemination, and even creation of photographs. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter have leveled the playing field in a lot of ways, allowing photographers to instantly share their work with hundreds or thousands of followers. Combined with the availability of high-quality cameras in smartphones and social media algorithms, the number of images disseminated to the world has absolutely exploded. Despite this democratization of the craft, has social media actually diminished the value of photography?
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Portrait lighting can sometimes take complex multi-light setups, but you would be surprised at what you can accomplish with just a single light — even only a speedlight. In fact, you can even create professional images with one, and it is a great place from which to start as a beginner to artificial light. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to use a single speedlight to create compelling portrait images.
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The standard zoom lens (24-70mm) is one of the most practical and versatile out there, able to tackle a wide range of applications with ease, including landscape photography. This great video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing how he uses a standard zoom for his own work.
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What if I told you there is a social media platform on which you can earn money whenever somebody likes your content? And it's not owned by a big corporation but is governed by its community. In this article, I share my experience with such a platform that has been around for several years already.
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Perhaps no camera system is more iconic and more polarizing than the Leica M system. While some see it as an overly extravagant status symbol for wealthy people, others absolutely swear by both the experience it offers and the images it produces. So, who is the system really for? This fantastic video review features one photographer sharing his thoughts after four years of using Leica M cameras and lenses.
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AI art generators have made significant strides in recent years, capable of producing stunning pieces of artwork that mimic the styles of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso. However, there is still one area where these AI algorithms struggle to accurately replicate, the human hand.
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As a photographer, focusing on improving your craft is one of the most important things to do. Money can buy the latest equipment, but it can't buy you knowledge of how to use that equipment.
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One of the challenges of landscape photography is creating expressive images, as you have little control over what appears in the frame compared to most other genres. If that is something you struggle with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will share some helpful advice for creating expressive images and how to deal with issues like composition, aspect ratios, and perspective shift.
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AI has been the talk of the town around the photography industry for a few months now, with opinions ranging from it being a fantastic tool that will significantly reduce and streamline photographers' workflows to it being the death knell of many parts of the industry. This interesting video essay features an experienced commercial photographer offering some more pragmatic and balanced thoughts on how AI will change the industry.
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What’s keeping you from being the photographer or even the artist that you hope to be? How much of it is under your control, and what can you do to get past the roadblocks?
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The beauty of landscape photography is that there are so many different ways to photograph the same scene. As such, it is nice to have options to cover the full range of scenarios, but that also needs to be balanced by keeping the amount of bulk you are hiking with in check. This excellent video discusses a versatile two-lens kit that will not break the bank or your back.
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There are a lot of iconic locations out there, and it can be wonderful to travel to and photograph them, but there is a lot of beauty in the ordinary and what is around us, and you are missing out if you overlook the places you pass by every day. This great video tutorial discusses the power of the ordinary and why embracing it will make you both a better and more content photographer.
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7Artisans has become well known for producing some of the most affordable lenses available to photographers. While that sometimes means significant compromises in performance or image quality, their 15mm f/4 lens offers rather impressive results while still coming in at a very low cost. Is it the right lens for you? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect from it.
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Shutterfest stands out as my favorite photography conference to attend each year! As I write this, I am wrapping up day three of the affair. I always look forward to the various workshops, lectures, and unique experiences available throughout this fun-filled event like no other.
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Have you ever set up your lights, gone through the poses, gotten back to your computer, and realized you have taken some perfectly competent but uninspiring photos? If that is a situation you have recently found yourself in, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced portrait photographer sharing three different ways to reinvigorate your images.
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There are different opinions about what makes good photography. Many suggest it’s a single ingredient; they are wrong. If we want to grow in our art, it’s by combining seven elements that we have any hope of improving.
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AI is the most talked about subject on the internet these days, with many fearing its impact (and rightfully so), but for now, we ought to see how we can harness it. In this video, Aaron Nace of PHLEARN combines a portrait with images created on Midjourney, the AI image generation software.[ Read More ]
Here's a super quick and easy method of adding glow to objects in Photoshop using layers, blending modes, and brushes. This technique can be used to make light sources in your images look more realistic, or add some pop to a portrait. This tutorial would be helpful to anyone looking to start using layer masks and blend modes in Photoshop.[ Read More ]
Current Luminar Neo users are in for a treat the next time they open the app, which has quietly hit version 1.8.0. Some of the updates are evolutionary, and there's the usual gaggle of bug fixes, but there are some really nice updates here that will please Neo users.
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The 7D line of APS-C DSLRs from Canon were some of the most popular the company ever made, bringing many of the features and capabilities from higher-level full frame cameras like the 5D and 1D series to far more affordable cameras. Now in the mirrorless age, the EOS R7 has picked up that torch and brought along a modernization of the body with a range of upgrades. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera after six months of usage and if it holds up to the needs of professional photographers.
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When you step outside and are greeted by rainy weather, it can be tempting to turn around and head right back inside. However, if you are willing to brave those mundane conditions, you might be rewarded with worthwhile landscape images. This helpful video tutorial offers five tips to increase your chances of coming home with compelling shots.
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We would be hard-pressed to find a photographer who wasn't familiar with mega-brands Tamron and Sigma offering lower-priced lenses to rival the designs put out by the giants: Canon, Nikon, Sony, and more. This week, there has been buzz in the nerdy sublayers of photography sites about a new lens coming out: the Samyang 35-150mm f/2-2.8. Let's dive into this.
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How many times have you had a promising conversation started with a potential client, only for them to simply stop responding to you, never completing a booking? It is a very frustrating but also very common experience. This helpful video tutorial shares some useful advice and techniques to decrease that ghosting rate and land more clients.
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At $679, the Canon EOS R50 offers an affordable entry point into Canon's mirrorless system, though it still brings along an array of enticing features. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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I recently posed a challenge to DALL-E 2 (or to myself?) to mimic one of my photos using prompts. I didn't think it was actually going to work, until it did. Almost.
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If you want to improve your post-production skills, there are few better ways than to watch experienced photographers editing their raw images. In this video, Mark Denney edits a stunning landscape in Bali, walking you through each step.[ Read More ]
Whether you are a new hobbyist or a seasoned professional, creative ruts are something that happens to all of us, and trying to get out of them can be a frustrating exercise that only makes them worse. If you find yourself mired in a creative rut, check out this helpful video that features a photographer sharing what helped him break free and get back to work.
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I know, I know. I'm likely guilty of photography blasphemy here. The 50mm focal length, often referred to as the "nifty fifty," has long been one of the most commonly used in photography, noted for its versatility and often, its affordability relative to other focal lengths. Despite all that, I am here to argue that the 50mm focal length is overrated and not as useful as it is often touted to be.[ Read More ]
When it comes to sports portraits and action photography, employing a bit of artificial light can make a huge difference by giving you the ability to shape the look of the frame and add a lot of drama to the image. If you are ready to get started working with artificial light in your sports action portraiture, check out this excellent video tutorial that will give you a range of helpful tips and advice sure to put you on the right track.
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Camera sensors have evolved at a breakneck pace since the advent of the digital era, but many photographers lament the loss of a sensor from the early days of the technology, often calling its color rendition "magic." Is it nostalgia, or is there really something different in the way it produces images? This awesome video takes a look.
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Juxtaposition is something you can stumble upon when reading about composition. Although it’s not literally a composition theory, it is a great way to add something extra to your photo. Did you know you’re probably already using it?
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It seems that every year we see crazier and crazier setups, usually reserved for high-end cinema productions, made available to the average person. In this video, you can see an absurdly cool orbital shot made in a back garden.[ Read More ]
Top-level full frame cameras can easily run north of $3,000 and much higher, and while they are, without a doubt, tremendously capable machines, you may not need all that power. This fantastic video takes a look at a full frame camera that costs only $400 and can still compete with modern options in many ways.
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I spent a few weeks testing the new Viltrox 75mm f/1.2 lens for Fujifilm, and in the accompanying article and video, I share my thoughts on one of the most exciting third party lenses on the market today.
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The new Sigma 50mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary lens offers one of the most popular focal lengths in tandem with a modestly wide maximum aperture, all in a very travel-friendly package, making it an appealing lens for quite a few photographers. Can it deliver good performance and image quality to back up those appealing characteristics? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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The Canon EOS R7 and Fujifilm X-T5 are two of the most advanced APS-C cameras on the market, sporting high-resolution sensors in tandem with fast burst rates, advanced autofocus systems, and a wide range of other useful features. Which one is right for your needs? This excellent video comparison takes an in-depth look at both cameras to help you decide.
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The Godox AD200 has been around for a few years now, and in 2019, Godox released the "Pro" version of the AD200. Is this small, lightweight, powerful flash the right choice for you in 2023? Why do so many photographers think so highly of this pocket flash?
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It used to be that wedding photographers had to carry expensive top-level optics in order to ensure they could reliably deliver professional shots. However, in recent years, third-party and mid-tier lenses have made remarkable steps forward, and it is now possible to save both your back and your bank account by purchasing more modest options and still be able to deliver excellent images. This excellent video discusses some of the best options out there for Sony users.
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Being competent with your camera and having creative vision is, of course, essential to finding success as a professional, but it also takes a fair amount of business savvy as well. One of the things newer photographers struggle with the most is pricing. This great video tutorial features an experienced pro discussing a common mistake and what you can do to avoid it and increase your chances of success.
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A step up in ability makes a huge difference. Suddenly, the future doesn’t seem that far away.
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An incredible location for our shoots is all we want, but with enough creativity and experience, you can transform even a humble place into something special. In this video, YCImaging shows how he shot a cinematic music video without any obscure or expensive locations.[ Read More ]
The new Sigma 17mm f/4 DG DN Contemporary lens promises nice image quality and a wide focal length in a very light and portable package. Can it deliver on that promise? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from the lens in practice.
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It can be challenging for many photographers to get qualified leads, but there are steps you can take today to enhance your online exposure and lead generation.
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Sigma has announced a slew of new lenses that are attracting favorable reviews so far. One of which is the 24mm f/1.4 and this photographer has spent some time hands-on with it for this video.[ Read More ]
Popular landscape locations are like that for a reason: they are often quite breathtaking and can be a real joy to experience. Nonetheless, the challenge is creating unique imagery that stands out from the thousands of other photos of the location. How can you do that? This great video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing the dilemma and how you might approach it.
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Sigma has announced the release of three new lenses: the 17mm f/4 DG DN Contemporary, the 23mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary, and the 50mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary.
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Over 20 years of digital photography produced 80,000 images. Culling is a time-consuming, tedious process that I’ve neglected. Consequently, my hard drives and cloud storage are bloated. Can Aftershoot PRO help me lighten the load?
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Canon has caused a fair amount of controversy recently over their refusal to allow most third-party lenses for the RF mount. However, recent research data sheds a lot of light on the decision.
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I've long been fascinated by the work of Joel Tjintjelaar and Julia Anna Gospodarou. Those two are among the pioneers of a popular editing style for black and white architecture photos that is very graphical and introduces strong contrasts and lighting that feel surreal. In this fantastic video by Ben Harvey, you learn how such images are created.
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We shoot with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II mirrorless camera at a real wedding and a live concert and test the camera that changes the rules when it comes to shooting in low light and at high speed.
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The Canon EOS R5 burst onto the scene and instantly showed the industry that the company was extremely serious about contending in the professional mirrorless market. The EOS R6 came with the EOS R5 and brought with it most of the same features as the EOS R5, save for the high-resolution sensor and 8K raw video, and did so at a much lower price. The EOS R6 Mark II builds on that foundation and brings a wide variety of improvements and new features. This great video review takes a look at everything you can expect from the camera.
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When you look at landscape photography online, you will probably notice that, for the most part, it is of extraordinary locations that are difficult and pricey to reach, at best. And beyond that, you have further issues to contend with, such as distinguishing your images among the thousands of others created at the spot. This great video tutorial discusses why you should be embracing your local area and how to go about doing it.
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Small, dye-sublimation printers have all but eliminated the need to go to the drugstore to make basic 4x6 prints, and HP’s new Sprocket Studio Plus is a welcome update to this style of printer from a venerable name in printing.
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Color grading is a subtle art, and yet, it is one of the most powerful ways to give your image a professional look, convey a certain mood, and establish a recognizable personal style. If you are new to the technique and looking for some advice on how to do it in a professional manner, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you a wide range of useful tips and techniques for color grading images in Lightroom.
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Portrait photographers will often drop significant amounts of money on top-level lenses, but even by those standards, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct is particularly expensive. At $8,000, can its performance and image quality justify that stratospheric cost? This great video review takes a look at everything you can expect from the lens.
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The nostalgia of film and the decades gone is fascinating so no wonder film presets and looks are popular to buy for your editing software. They’re pretty easy to make yourself if you put a little bit of time into understanding what elements in editing make the film look different from digital. Follow my tutorial to make your own vintage film presets for Capture One, Lightroom or PhotoShop.
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The way you edit the sky can have a tremendous impact on not just the quality of a landscape images, but the mood it conveys to the viewer. Lightroom offers a lot of power and versatility for editing skies, and this fantastic video tutorial will show you how to take advantage of those capabilities to create better and more precise edits.
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Venus Optics, well known for creating some of the most unique lenses available, recently released the Laowa Argus 28mm f/1.2 FF, which offers an extremely wide maximum aperture in tandem with a popular in-between focal length. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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A few brief words on why it sometimes pays to have more hands in the kitchen when cooking up a creative project.
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The ultra-wide angle lens is one of the most exciting out there, able to take sprawling, majestic scenes and bring their entirety into a single frame. They can be rather challenging to use, however. If you just picked up your first ultra-wide angle lens and you are ready to get started, check out this helpful video tutorial that will give you a range of useful advice sure to have you on your way in no time.
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The wide-aperture 50mm lens is, by far, one of the most common lenses out there, and for good reason, as it is also one of the most versatile, able to tackle a humongous range of scenarios and needs thanks to its neutral focal length and top-notch low-light and narrow depth of field capabilities. Both Sigma and Sony have recently released professional-level 50mm f/1.4 options. So, which is right for you? This excellent video comparison looks at both to help you decide.
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Last summer I bought a super telephoto lens to capture wildlife in Alaska. After more than half a year of using it as a lens for landscape photography, was it worth it?
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Without a doubt, finding success as a professional photographer takes solid technique and a strong creative voice, but those alone are not sufficient. Becoming a successful professional takes quite a bit of business savvy, including the ability to monetize your work, anticipate market trends, and understand how to convert one-time clients into loyal returning customers. This great video essay featured an experienced pro discussing one of the most common mistakes newer professionals make and how you can fix it.
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A new Finnish startup business, Huhtikuu Yksi, offers software that unlocks advanced functionality in basic camera models and standardizes features from different brands. I interviewed the company's CEO, Harri Tyhmäläinen.
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Have you ever wondered what the frame rate of the human eye is and, just importantly, why it matters? It turns out the answer is far more complex than a simple numerical value, and that has tremendous consequences for the design of cameras and why we work the way we do. This neat and informative video takes you behind the scenes of the science behind how the eyes sees to discuss the topic and the implications it has for filmmakers.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that takes a combination of strong technical skills, planning ahead, a keen awareness of conditions, and often, a smidgen of luck. As such, there are a lot of places where things can go a bit wrong and end up derailing your images. This great video tutorial details five such mistakes and how to fix them or avoid them altogether.
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You may notice that most cinematography has a shallow depth of field. There are lots of reasons for this, and in this video, one filmmaker goes through the pros and cons of using it and why it is often avoided.[ Read More ]
In the land of the photographer, times are harder than ever before, with companies ending their contracts at lower levels and shoots being less available, with budgets cut and a huge number of working photographers facing hard times. With all this uncertainty in the world, can we really survive doing what we love and live comfortably?
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The Canon EOS R3 is already the company's most advanced camera at the moment, and thanks to a new firmware upgrade, it just became more capable.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2023, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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We spend a lot of time working on perfecting our retouching technique when it comes to hair, skin, and eyes, but just like those aforementioned aspects, the lips are also a crucial part of the face, and as such, they deserve equal attention in the post-processing phase. This excellent video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of retouching lips in Photoshop to ensure your portraits are in tip-top shape.
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Landscape photography takes a wide variety of skills and techniques in order to find success, and often, just a bit of luck thrown in. However, one skills that tends to elude photographers more than any other is composition. If composition is something you tend to find yourself struggling with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you a range of helpful advice sure to improve your landscape image compositions.
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L-brackets are very helpful tools that are loved by many photographers of different genres, but for as long as we have been using them, imperfections in how they fit or work with certain cameras have been hard to ignore. These two new mounting tools from SmallRig just might change that.
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A few weeks ago, an intriguing "Coming Soon" tweet popped up in my Twitter feed, teasing the announcement of a new Rolleiflex digital TLR. I gave the tweet a like and followed the account since the idea of a twin lens digital camera sounded interesting, although strange, and thought little of it until the account issued another tweet titled "My Apology."
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The Last of Us has been a tremendous hit, initially as a game, and now as a TV show. The cinematography has appealed to many, but so too has the post-production. In this video, find out how to replicate the sort of color grade you can see in the viral series.[ Read More ]
Insta360 has now introduced the Insta360 Flow a handheld, lightweight, foldable, and pocketable gimbal with tonnes of features to help you create stunning videos. If you've ever used one of their products you'll know the quality they deliver. I've personally had the opportunity to try the Insta360 One X2 and loved it, and hopefully will own the new X3 in the future. So when they asked for a review I jumped at the chance.
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Street photography is a realm of photography that carries enormous weight. A genre derived from some of the world's photographic pioneers — the big names. The generations taking cameras to the front lines of war, documenting death, destruction, humility, and the human spirit, and bringing it home to document the everyday. It’s a genre of photography like no other, and here’s why you should be shooting it.
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Stock up on hard drives and RAM, because the rumors were true. Canon EOS R5 users can now shoot images at a whopping 400 megapixels.
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OM Digital Solutions has announced the opening of a new Technology Centre, close to its Research and Development base in Tokyo. This is superb news for photographers and the wider photographic industry.
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It's annoying, I know. You thought you had it figured out. You thought you'd ticked every box, but I guarantee you didn't. I certainly didn't and haven't to this day! The amount of gear we use as photographers is ridiculous. It makes even the smallest of shoots a test in organization, packing, loading, unloading, setting up, packing down, and remembering to do it all again. But there are some items that simply can't be ignored.
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Want some easy and immediately actionable advice that will improve both your images and your workflow in no time? This is the video for you. This helpful tutorial features 10 helpful tips, tricks, and accessories that will make you a better photographer in no time.
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Photography is a common hobby and profession in which high amounts of money and valuable equipment frequently change hands, making it a popular target for scammers. This excellent video essay details some of the most common scams in the industry and how to recognize and avoid them to ensure you are not taken advantage of.
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Lighting modifiers aren’t quite as expensive as they used to be. However, some of the quality and flexibility has gotten lost along the way.
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The technical side of photography takes a lot of committed study and practice to master, and it is something to be proud of when you have gained the skills to stride confidently into a variety of scenarios and produce adept images. Nonetheless, just that alone is not enough to find success and recognition, particularly in the professional realm. This great video essay features an experienced photographer discussing what it is that differentiates the most memorable pros from their peers.
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We all dream of heading to a thrift store, pawn shop, or storage unit auction and finding a great camera or lens for a fantastic price. This person actually took a chance on a similar auction, dropping $175 on mostly unverifiable camera gear to see if it contained any hidden gems, and this fun video takes you through the unboxing to see if the gamble paid off.
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There are hundreds of cameras in existence, some more successful than others. However, some cameras have become icons that managed to define the industry and technology for years. Despite technology evolving rapidly in the past 20 years and cameras becoming too good to be true, some pieces of gear were so perfect that professionals used them despite newer versions coming out. In this article, I will look at five of the most iconic cameras ever made.
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Learning photography is a complex process that takes the confluence of a variety of skills and knowledge sets in order to find success. And while there is certainly a ton of specific information you will need to learn, if you follow the five simple rules contained in this helpful video tutorial, you will find yourself ahead of the curve in no time at all.
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Sony just announced the new Sony ZV-E1 full-frame interchangeable lens camera. Currently the smallest and lightest full-frame interchangeable lens camera on the market. But who is this camera designed for?
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In a recent interview, Fujifilm offered some interesting insights into the company, its accomplishments, and the future of its cameras and lenses.
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Being a new photographer, whether you have aims of going pro or you simply enjoy the hobby, comes with a lot of challenges you need to overcome to find success and contentment with the craft. If you are just getting started and looking for some guidance, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing some important advice.
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I gave a favorable review to Peakto a couple of weeks ago, and one thing I noticed is that they do frequent updates, which is a positive thing in my view. Bug fixes and new features are frequent. Today, they've offered an update to Peakto that includes integration with Pixelmator Pro, a popular photo editor. Peakto, please note, is a Mac-only application.
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As you learned in my articles about editing mistakes, too strong image transformations can harm the quality of your photos. But if you use them selectively, they can be of great help. In this article, I show how to use selective image transformation in Photoshop to fix compositions.
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Being a photographer, whether you are an amateur or a professional, is a complex thing that takes knowledge of and experience in a multitude of factors and scenarios in order to find success. And though all of those factors are undoubtedly crucial, there is something else that all successful photographers share in common, and this great video essay discusses how you can embody it to become a better creative.
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This tutorial looks at using Adobe Lightroom Classic's intelligent masking and preset tools to create realistic light in post-production after you've already shot your images. Then, you can save the preset to use on any photo with just one click. This is essential for portrait and landscape photographers and will make your images better with less effort.[ Read More ]
Tutorials on using a 1-light setup for portrait photography are commonplace, and rightly so. There are several ways that a single light source can be positioned to create flattering lighting on a subject. You might think that switching to a 2-light setup would be twice as complicated. This isn’t the case. There are several 2-light arrangements that are easy to understand and quick to set up. Using 2 lights can make it easy for you to transition between a clean headshot and a dramatic portrait.
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"Migrant Mother," a photo by Dorothea Lange, is, by far, one of the most important and well-known images ever taken, having become an iconic symbol of the Great Depression. If you do not know the story behind the photo, check out this great video that will show you some of the history that went into it.
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By far, one of the common retouching requests photographers receive when editing portraits is to lighten dark circles under the eyes. Thankfully, it is not an especially difficult problem to address, and this excellent video tutorial will show you everything you need to do to lighten those circles in a convincing and high-quality manner.
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The Fujifilm GFX line of mirrorless cameras has become popular for making medium format more modernized and financially accessible than ever, making it a legitimate alternative to full frame for many photographers. For landscape photographers using the system, the GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR looks like the ideal lens. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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"Vintage" point-and-shoot digital cameras are all the rage among Gen Z today, and while you can cruise eBay to find something used to scratch that itch, what can you get for about the same money new?
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In this article, I share my experience with a new NFT marketplace called Fantasea.io. There's not much information available about it online. The domain has been registered just a little over a month ago, and the homepage currently feels like a work in progress. Because more and more photographers seem to get contacted to sell NFTs on this site, it's important to determine if it's legit.
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No matter how incredible the vistas are in front of you, your resulting images can be ruined by poor composition. In this video, learn some of the most common composition mistakes and how to avoid them.
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Eye-controlled autofocus, in which the camera selects the autofocus point by detecting which one you are looking at, is one of the niftiest features in the Canon EOS R3 mirrorless camera. In a bit of good news, Canon has confirmed that the feature will be coming to more mirrorless models in the future.
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When it comes to product and food photography, lighting is critical and can make or break the final image. Achieving the perfect lighting can be a complex process, even more so if you are just starting out with this type of photography.
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Would you use a camera tripod that costs as little as $8.50? Let's see what you get when you buy the cheapest tripod on Amazon.
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If you've ever looked at your face on a Zoom call and wondered why you look so bad, you're not alone. Here, we look at how to add color corrections and pop to your face so you look so much better on Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, and more.
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I'm sure most, if not all, of you have heard about the idea of paying-it-forward. Did you know that recent studies have shown that this phenomenon is a learned behaviour? How can we as photographers use our skills to encourage others to benefit projects and philanthropy close to our hearts? I had a chance to chat with photographer Michelle Valberg, whose habit of giving back just saw her appointed to the Order of Canada this past summer.
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Likely the most controversial topic in the photography world is which camera brand is best. What if you took those brands and personified them into a conversation with each other?
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The eyes are one of the most important of any portrait, and as such, they deserve a little bit of extra attention when you are in the post-processing stage of your work. If you would like to improve your portraits, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to brighten and enhance the eyes in a portrait for natural, compelling results.
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Photography education is a constantly fluctuating space, ever evolving from one approach to the next in an effort to differentiate from the pack. The Photo Creators Conference is the next evolution in the chain.
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The Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera takes the company's well-established and respected X-T line and adds a range of new features and capabilities, most notable being the new 40-megapixel sensor, the highest ever in an X Series camera. The great video features an X-T5 user discussing three reasons why he recommends the camera.
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Wide angle lenses are the tool of choice of countless landscape photographers, but they can be particularly tricky to work with, especially when it comes to composition. If you are new to landscape photography and hoping to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to use a wide angle lens for creating effective and compelling landscape images.
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A good pair of binoculars are often invaluable to photographers. There are many important things to learn about buying them. Here's what led me to the OM System Olympus PRO binoculars, why they are my perfect choice, and why my old ones were a mistake.
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Canon has a long history of producing some of the most interesting and extreme lens designs out there, and they can be a blast to look back on and even use today if you can track them down. This fun video takes a look at the company's seven most extreme designs, ranging from an insane 5200mm f/14 lens from the 1960s to one of the most useful options on the market today.
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Recently, news broke that Canon is likely planning a significant firmware for the EOS R5 later this year, including a high-resolution pixel-shift mode. Now, it appears that mode may offer a whopping 400 megapixels of resolution.
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Hobolite has recently entered the market with what could possibly be the most aesthetically pleasing LED lights created by any company within the past decade. In this article, we will be looking at the new Hobolite Avant, a mid-tier 100-watt LED light.
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The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S lens has arrived, and with it comes some of the company's most extreme design and impressive optical performance. And while it looks impressive on paper, can it hold up in the real world? This great first look video examines the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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A good wide-aperture 50mm lens is one of the most versatile optics a photographer can own, capable of comfortably tackling a huge range of genres and needs. For Sony users, the new FE 50mm f/1.4 GM offers the promise of high-level performance and image quality in a relatively portable package. This excellent video review takes an in-depth look at everything you can expect from it in practice.
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It’s time to spring-clean your photography website! Don’t leave it until you've finally shot that new body of work you’ve been meaning to shoot. There are several things you can do to your website to freshen it up without shooting new images first.
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When it comes to studio lighting, you might think that you need powerful monolights or pack and head systems, but you can accomplish quite a bit with speedlights. This great video tutorial will show you how to do just that using affordable and easy-to-use speedlights.
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Rhy Dyball is a photographer and artist working with themes uncanny and eerie images.
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Canon CPS is changing for the better? We talk to Frankie Jim, the man in charge of Canon’s Professional Services in the UK, to find out what’s changing and assess if these changes happening are for the better or worse?
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If you're a beginner to photography, your images might seem far softer than those you see from your favorite photographers and it can be difficult to identify why. Well, the answer might be in this video, and if not, you'll come away with some sage advice on getting sharp images.[ Read More ]
Working with flash intimidates a lot of photographers, but it is well worth taking the time to learn it, as it will make you a vastly more versatile photographer and enable new creative opportunities that simply would not be possible with only natural light. This excellent video tutorial will help you learn the basics of flash through examples and have you up and running in no time.
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Drones provide photographers with incredible image opportunities but still lack dynamic range and pixel count of their grounded handheld counterparts. What if you could increase your dynamic range, resolution, and take better images?
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Tamron's 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD has been praised for being remarkably versatile and for pushing the boundaries of lens design. Samyang might be joining the party soon, as rumors that the company is planning a similar lens have emerged.
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If you are interested in landscape photography, you might think that the first lens you should pick up is an ultra-wide angle zoom. Those can certainly be useful tools, but there might be a better first lens. This excellent video will show you a potentially better choice.
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When I was looking for a camera that could shoot higher resolution than my Canon 5D Mark IV, I had three options: Phase One, Canon 5DD, or mirrorless. I ended up getting the Canon 5Ds, and after using it for a bunch of work, here are my long-term thoughts.
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Few lenses are more famous than the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM, renowned for its extreme design and insane bokeh, making it a favorite of numerous portrait and wedding photographers for many years. Now available on the used market for about the same price as the far newer RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM, you might wonder which is right for you. This great video comparison will help you decide.
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The Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G is an impressively versatile and portable wide angle zoom lens at a very reasonable price for the features and image quality you get. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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Zoner Photo Studio X is an editing suite and file management system for photographers and videographers that rivals Adobe's options, all while costing significantly less. In the latest update, ZPS X has added more improvements than any update in the past 7 years, so let's take a look![ Read More ]
Being a photographer, whether a hobbyist or professional, is a complex endeavor in today's world, and it can be easy to be sidetracked by a wide range of issues or red herrings. If you sometimes find yourself struggling with that, check out this important video that is a useful reminder of what matters in photography and what the real nature of progress is.
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Along with aperture and ISO, shutter speed is one of the three fundamental parameters that determine the overall exposure and look of a photo. Shutter speed has both a technical and creative aspect, as you can also leverage it for making effects that would not be visible to the naked eye. If you are new to photography, check out this helpful video tutorial that will give you some useful advice regarding choosing shutter speeds.
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The 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 is a classic design used by countless creatives for genres like sports and wildlife photography, where its versatile focal range and modest aperture offer a lot of reach at far more reasonable prices than top-shelf supertelephoto prime lenses. For Nikon mirrorless shooters, there is the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S, and this great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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In the middle of the lineup between the Galaxy S23 and S23 Ultra, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ offers a lot of the most advanced features available in smartphones without the top-level price of the Ultra model, making it an appealing option for many users. This excellent video review takes a look at the S23+ and how it holds up in daily usage.
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In what is some of the most surprising news the industry has seen in a long time, DPReview, one of the oldest and most respected photography publications on the web, is ceasing operations in less than a month.
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Are you a photographer or a content creator? More and more photographers take on several roles and end up being content creators rather than traditional photographers. The industry is changing every year, and as it looks now, you have to learn content creation to stay in business. Photography is not enough.
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The MacBook Pro is the computer of choice for countless creatives who need high levels of power for advanced editing tasks in a portable device. Now in the M2 generation, the lineup offers a variety of options, but perhaps no choice is more fundamental than size: should you get the 14" or 16" version? There is more to the decision than just size and price. This insightful will show you everything you should consider to ensure you pick the right computer for you.
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If you have used computer hardware for any period of time, you probably know that all hardware will eventually fail. With it could go all your precious images and videos and the memories that you have captured over the years. You've probably thought about different ways to back up your computer, mobile phone, and other devices and have already put some of these strategies into place. But are you missing a simple trick or two that will allow you to make all of this really simple and foolproof?
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Unless it's your full-time job, you probably don't know how fast AI is improving. Let's look at the incredible advancements that took place just last week.
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There are many reasons why we take photographs. It's the intrinsic motivation that has the greatest value, and for me, it has paid off. Have you discovered why you should be seeking that and neither the money nor a pat on your back?
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The 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is the primary tool of choice for a huge range of photographers and filmmakers who value its versatile combination of a practical focal length range and wide maximum aperture. Such lenses can easily run up to the $2,000 mark, though, making them a purchase many consider twice. However, Sigma's 24-70mm f/2.8 Art lens sits at about half that, making it quite intriguing. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and if its performance and image quality can match the pricier options.
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A few years ago, the idea of taking quality long exposures on a phone would have seemed absurd, but major advances in the quality of the cameras in phones and in computational photography have enabled numerous techniques that simply were not possible before. This neat video takes you behind the scenes to show you just what you can accomplish with an iPhone.
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Collaborating with models for trade shoots, often referred to as TFP (Time for Print), provides a wealth of benefits to both parties involved. In this type of collaboration, neither party charges for their services, but both receive valuable assets in the form of high-quality images that can be used to build their respective portfolios.
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When it comes to choice of camera, many landscape photographers desire two things above everything else: resolution and dynamic range. And as such, the Fujifilm GFX 100S looks like one of the most ideal candidates for the genre. How does it hold up in practice? This great video review features a respected landscape photographer sharing his thoughts.
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Photography has often been described as the capture of light on a sensitive medium and its reproduction. But what happens when there's a significant amount of manipulation before the final image can be created? Even more importantly, what happens when this is instantaneous and seamless? Is it a photograph that you've just taken? These are questions that we will have to answer for ourselves in the near future.
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We all know Mark Mann from the close-up, soul-bearing portraits of what feels like every celebrity, public figure, and president in current times. Prolific seems a fitting word that should be permanently grafted to any discussion of the artist’s work. Today, however, we are getting to know Mark Mann in a way that you never have.
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Your portfolio is your calling card and is the place where most potential customers will make the decision to pursue hiring you or not. As such, your portfolio deserves a lot of careful consideration. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced photographer sharing five tips to help you improve the quality of your portrait portfolio.
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Sony's new FE 50mm f/1.4 GM lens has arrived, and with it comes some of the company's best design features and optical performance. For many portrait and wedding photographers, a top-level, wide-aperture 50mm lens is one of the most important tools in their kit, and thus, the new lens is likely catching the attention of many. Can its performance match its impressive specs? This great video review takes a look.
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In a recent article, I shared a selection of easy-to-avoid photo editing mistakes. Today, it's time for five more. Some of them might sound obvious, while others are more subtle. What they all have in common: they can ruin an otherwise great edit.
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A Texas man is suing a sheriff's deputy and Dallas County after he says his personal information was broadcast to over 100 people when the deputy livestreamed his traffic stop on TikTok.
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Canon recently released their corporate strategy for the next few years, and it sheds some light on where they plan to take their camera and lens business.
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In recent years, boudoir photography has experienced quite a surge in popularity, attracting women of all ages and backgrounds who want to capture their beauty in a classy and sensual way. While it's true that the rise in confidence and body positivity among women has played a significant role in this trend, there are several other factors contributing to its growing popularity.
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Modern cameras are tremendously complex and intricate machines, and as such, there are often settings that may not be the best choice for your work and may even cause you to miss a shot or not come home with the best quality images. This excellent video tutorial features a seasoned photographer showing you some important settings you should consider changing to improve your workflow and photos.
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In recent years, Tamron has entirely reinvented themselves as a company that produces competitive lenses that offer excellent performance and image quality at prices that are often significantly more affordable than many first-party options. One of their latest lenses, the 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD, offers a highly versatile focal length range suitable for a huge range of genres and applications. This great video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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When it comes to landscape photography, many photographers like to stick to the golden light that is only available around sunrise and sunset, when warm, dramatic rays of sunlight cascade through the frame. However, if you only shoot during those times, you are missing out on a ton of photo opportunities. This great video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer showing you why different times and conditions can make for worthwhile images.
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Creative ruts happen to just about everyone, and they can be both frustrating and detrimental, particularly if you derive your income from your work, often leading to a vicious circle. If you find yourself stuck in a rut and unsure of how to get out of it, check out this great video that discusses why these lulls happen and what you can do to get the creative juices flowing again.
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On the never-ending camera buyer’s merry-go-round? Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way.
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Balancing the exposure of a complex scene can be tricky, particularly when the dynamic range is wide. In this video, learn the basics of avoiding blown highlights ruining your landscape and nailing the perfect exposure instead.[ Read More ]
There have been some mighty impressive moon shots taken with cell phones these days, but are they even real? In the case of Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra, the answer is: maybe.
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When I got the opportunity to test out this lens, I jumped at the chance. An ultra-wide angle zoom at f/2.8 would be great for so many different photographic applications: landscape, architectural, interior, astrophotography, events, creative, and video, to name a few. Did I get the opportunity to test it out with all of these? No, but what I did get to try certainly produced the results.
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Photography can be an exceptionally expensive hobby, but it needn't be in most situations. If you're thinking about getting your first camera and a lens, this budget setup might give you the most back for your buck.[ Read More ]
Landscape photography is a challenging genre that requires good technique, planning, creative visions, and sometimes, just a bit of luck. If you would like to improve your landscape photography, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing 10 common mistakes landscape shooters make and how to fix them or avoid them altogether.
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When it comes to landscape photography, foliage is often one of the most important components of an image, and as such, it deserves a lot of close attention, particularly when it comes to color. If you would like to improve your landscape photos, check out this great video tutorial that will show you how to leverage Photoshop to create more accurate and vibrant foliage.
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Although I've probably taken millions of photographs at this point, I rarely ever print them. I moved into a new house in 2022, and a year later, almost every wall was still bare. Well, not anymore. I finally printed 10 giant photos and purchased two Samsung Frame TVs that become art when they aren't being used.[ Read More ]
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 laptop is a beautiful device that offers Windows users a lot of versatility in a relatively small package in tandem with long battery life. This great video review takes a look at the 2023 version of the device and the sort of performance you can expect from it in usage.
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There are many simple and effective techniques that you can utilize to improve your photography when you're just starting out. Check out these seven simple tips to help you improve your photography as a beginner.
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As a photographer, you know that having the right gear can sometimes make all the difference, and this includes tripods. With the launch of the Benro Theta, shooting just became more fun and easy. This revolutionary tripod combines portability, stability, and intelligence, making it one of the most essential tools for photographers on the go.
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The majority of portrait photographs are only half finished once the shutter button is pressed; almost every image will require some degree of post-processing to be complete. This helpful video tutorial will show you an effective, professional-level retouching workflow using frequency separation and dodging and burning that will help you create compelling, polished results.
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Generally, when it comes to medium format, lenses do not have the same extremely wide apertures many full frame or APS-C options do. Nonetheless, there are a few such options out there for medium format users, and they can offer some extreme and unique results. One such option is the Mitakon Speedmaster 65mm f/1.4 XCD for Hasselblad mirrorless cameras, and this great video review takes a look at the sort of images you can create with the lens.
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In landscape photography, sharpness is often one of the top priorities, and photographers will go to great lengths to ensure that their photos are crisp. If you are new to landscape photography and ready to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced shooter sharing seven useful tips sure to improve the sharpness of your images.
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If one argument gets photographers riled, it’s whether one should protect the front element of a lens with a UV filter. Should we instead use a lens hood? Let’s settle the argument with this definitive answer by testing an Urth Plus+ pro filter.
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The Mac mini line has long been popular for offering the Mac experience in a desktop at a very reasonable price and in a small, easy package. The line took a major step forward when Apple started offering their own silicon in the computers, and in the latest iteration, users can now even opt for a Pro chip. So, how good is the new M2 Pro Mac mini? This excellent video review takes a look at the computer and everything you can expect from it.
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Fujifilm recently introduced their latest 40-megapixel APS-C sensor, the X-Trans CMOS 5 HR. Along with announcing two new cameras featuring the X-Trans 5 chip, a list of lenses that are "optimized" for the new sensor was also released. But do you need the optimized lenses to get the most out of the new cameras? I address this and more in my latest video.
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As a photographer, understanding your place in the market is essential to the success of your business. Whether you are just starting out or are an established photographer, it's important to have a clear understanding of your competition, your preferred target audience, and demand for the photography services you offer.
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A lot of portrait photographers are scared of working with artificial lighting, but it is a skill that is well worth learning, as it will make you a more capable and versatile photographer and better enable you to realize all your creative visions (and those of your clients). If you are new to working with flash, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you a simple and highly effective one-light portrait photography setup.
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Being a professional photographer can be extremely demanding and can easily lead to burnout and/or a loss of passion for the craft. And yet, many professionals persevere into that dangerous territory out of the need to constantly churn out fresh material. It does not always have to be that way, though. This interesting video features a seasoned professional discussing how he stepped away from his camera for a couple of months but still moved his business forward.
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While it used to be that Photoshop was the place for any sort of advanced photo editing, in recent iterations, Lightroom has become impressively intricate and capable. In fact, you can now do a lot of things in the program you used to have to switch to Photoshop for, and often, you can perform them more efficiently in Lightroom. This great video tutorial will show you three functions and techniques you might not be aware of and how to use them in your editing.
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Photo editing is a powerful tool that allows you to transform your images in many ways, from enhancing the atmosphere in a photo to increase of image quality. However, common editing mistakes can negatively impact the final result. In this article, we'll explore five of those.
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I didn't think DxO PureRAW 2 for Mac and Windows could be improved, but it has been, in a variety of both subtle and not-so-subtle ways that improve workflow. The latest, version 3, is out today, and the company says PureRAW 3 features DxO’s latest artificial intelligence technology, DeepPRIME XD, delivering industry-leading noise reduction and RAW image enhancement; greater control over which corrections are applied through DxO’s renowned Optics Modules; and user interface modifications that offer improved integration with every photographer’s workflow.
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If you're like me, you've got photos strewn over a variety of storage devices: local, on the web, maybe even some off-line storage. Keeping track of these images is a real pain. I've got multiple image editing apps: Lightroom, Photoshop, Luminar Neo, and some dedicated astronomy editing apps. I'm also a former Aperture user (groan). Lightroom has its own catalog system, and it's very good. But I've also got photos in the Neo catalog (it's not so good as a catalog) and all my iPhone photos in Apple's Photo app.
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Automation is now an integral part of photography. There are innovative ways you can use it to make your workflow run like clockwork and allow you the time to concentrate on your creativity.
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Artificial intelligence may end up destroying the photography industry, but until then, let's use it to make our lives easier.[ Read More ]
Mobile phones have become more advanced and are capable of capturing high-quality video footage, and with that mobile phone gimbals have also become increasingly popular and are a game changer for content creators, vloggers, and anyone who wants to capture professional quality footage.
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In this article and the accompanying video, I will show you how to create four unique portrait looks using one light and v-flats.
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In the DSLR days, Canon made a few surprising good wide angle lenses for their APS-C cameras, one of which was the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM, which offered a versatile focal length range in a portable and affordable package. Can it keep up with the demands of a modern high-resolution sensor, though? This excellent video review takes a new look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it.
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You can have the lighting, the settings, and the subject perfectly aligned, all with the best camera money can buy, but your videography may still lack that something special if every shot is too static. Here are some simple movements you can make during your shots to improve the results.[ Read More ]
Taking amazing photos is the wish of every landscape photographer. You can go out and photograph what you encounter, or you can plan everything in great detail. What do you prefer, planning the perfect photo or taking your chances? Or is there a way in between? Let’s find out.
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While different genres place different levels of emphasis on getting sharp images, landscape photography generally demands a higher-than-average priority be placed on consistent sharpness. If you are working on becoming a better landscape photographer, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced creative sharing some helpful advice for getting sharp shots on a consistent basis.
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One of the best parts about the Micro Four Thirds system is the availability of a lot of small lenses that pack a lot of image quality into those tiny footprints. If you are looking to expand your lens arsenal, check out this fantastic video that features a seasoned Micro Four Thirds user sharing five of his favorite lenses for the system.
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LinkedIn is not just a platform for jobseekers; it is a powerful networking and marketing channel for entrepreneurs, such as photographers. If you ever serve other businesses with your photography, then LinkedIn is a great place online to find and connect with the right people in your niche. As they say, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
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Samuel Bilodeau compares some of the best monitors on the market to see how they stack up. Are the prices worth it?
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Of all the things that go into making a compelling image, posing is perhaps the thing that photographers struggle with the most. If that is something you have trouble with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you three easy posing techniques for when your subject is sitting on the ground or floor.
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Rain in the forecast can be a disappointment for photographers and their clients, especially if they planned an outdoor photoshoot. Rain can ruin the vision for perfect, directional lighting that was originally planned, making it difficult to capture the desired mood or atmosphere. However, instead of rescheduling or moving the shoot entirely indoors, photographers have an opportunity to capture interesting and creative photos with an outdoor rain photoshoot. In this article, we’ll provide you with some rain photoshoot tips to prepare and inspire your creativity.
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Though we normally think of Photoshop as the place for complex edits, in recent iterations, Lightroom has become a tremendously capable and surprisingly intricate program. As such, there are some features and capabilities you might not be aware of. This excellent video tutorial will show you seven such features and tips and how to use them to make your landscape photo edits more efficient and improve your overall image quality.
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You can be proficient with a camera and lighting and have a strong creative voice, but to find success as a professional photographer takes strong business skills as well. If that is something you are new to and you would like to improve, check out this great video tutorial that will give you some helpful advice for the process of booking new clients to help you increase your chances of landing the job.
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In January, the BBC published a story about a man who was sent dog food by Amazon when he ordered an iPhone. The article prompted numerous other readers to come forward with similar stories, including cameras being replaced with cat food and computers swapped for surgical masks.
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Landscape photography can be done anywhere and everywhere. That’s undeniable. However, there are certain places that would be best for when you are learning and standing out.
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The first thing that comes to mind when panoramas are mentioned is an extremely wide field of view. Often, you need multiple photos to cover such angles. A panorama can also be achieved by a crop. Which method should you use for landscapes? Cropping or stitching?
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Let’s chat a bit. Have you ever stopped to think why you chose photography over all other avenues of artistic expression?
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Gaining technical competence is hard enough, but developing an original creative voice is an entirely separate challenge. This can be particularly tough in a genre in which you do not get control over the presence or placements of elements in the scene, such as landscape photography. If that is something you find yourself struggling with, check out this fantastic video essay that discusses the process of finding originality in landscape photography.
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Colin Prior and Joe Cornish are revered as two of the greatest British landscape photographers of all time, and their work has garnered a large following globally. This video series follows Colin and Joe as they embark on a journey through the Scottish Highlands, explore its stunning scenery, and capture its raw and untamed beauty through their lenses.[ Read More ]
Are you thinking of buying yet another lens? Can't wait for a new body? (In my case, reincarnation is the only option). This article covers the main reason why my Synology DS1821+ is the best purchase I made in 2020 for my photography business.
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70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are the workhorses of choice for a huge number of photographers, as they can comfortably tackle many genres and needs and often offer some of a company's best features and capabilities. For Nikon mirrorless shooters, there is the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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The rise of AI has been slow and steady, but if you haven't been watching, it might seem rather sudden. Nevertheless, it extends far beyond ChatGPT and rather than fear it or scoff at it, here are some ways you can harness its power for your own ends.[ Read More ]
Adobe's Lightroom masking feature introduced just under a year ago revolutionized the workflow for many photographers by automating the tedious task of creating individual masks for specific parts of an image. This AI masking feature allows photographers to easily separate the foreground from the background, easily break down the parts of a portrait, and apply various edits to each individual part.
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Fujifilm's GFX line of medium format mirrorless cameras helped to rewrite the paradigm of the format with a combination of aggressive prices and modern features traditionally reserved for smaller sensor sizes. The GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR offers GFX users an enticing wide angle focal length range suitable for genres like landscape photography, and this great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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One of the challenging things about running a photography business is that, unlike a regular job, we have to give ourselves all the structure to stay on track and to be productive. If that is something you struggle with, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you five useful hacks to make you a more productive photographer.
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When V-Flat released the new Karl Taylor Light Cone, the comments ranged from dismissive jokes about "the cone of shame" to excitement for a product designed by esteemed commercial photographer Karl Taylor. I decided to take the cones into my product studio and see for myself if this simple tool really delivered the effortless results it boasted.
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It's no secret that Gen Z has rediscovered the digital cameras of most millennials' youth. But while 20-year-old point-and-shoot cameras are fun and all, the realest camera of them all just might be the Barbie Wireless Video Camcorder.
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There are several focal lengths that have become staples for portrait photography and both 50mm and 85mm are two right at the top of the list. If you are in the market for a portrait lens, however, which is best for you? This video might help.[ Read More ]
It takes years of practice to become good at sports photography. Basketball, for example, is fast-paced, with frequent turnovers. When covering a game, you need to be attentive to all of the action happening on the court. But even if you photograph all of the crucial plays, something may be missing from your coverage. This article will help you understand the variety of potential shots at a basketball game and what you need to do to ensure that you capture them properly.
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A decade ago, Samyang lenses were known for being sharp, affordable, and manual focus only, but in recent years, the company has expanded their offerings to start including autofocus in many options while still maintaining reasonable prices and impressive image quality. So, how do they compete with current options? This great video overview takes you through four options: the 35mm f/1.4 AF II, the AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II, AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II, and AF 135mm f/1.8 FE.
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Fujifilm's GFX line of medium format mirrorless cameras has reinvigorated the market beyond full frame, and the company continues to invest in expanding its capabilities. Along those lines, a patent has emerged for an interesting lens that would offer a lot of versatility for its users.
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The Sony a7R line of mirrorless cameras has long been popular for offering some of the highest levels of resolution available in a full frame camera in tandem with a wide range of features that make it suitable for many different genres and applications. We have now reached the line's fifth generation, and the a7R V brings with it some of the company's latest advancements and capabilities. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Braces are extremely common, but their wearers are often a bit self-conscious about them, and as such, you might get requests to remove them. As usual, it is Photoshop to the rescue, and this helpful video tutorial will show you how to deal with a situation that can be surprisingly tricky.
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There’s nothing like having a neat and efficient workstation, and for on-the-go digital creatives, this means having a laptop that you can bring everywhere is obviously a must. However, when in your personal workspace, having a docking station to bridge it with all your peripherals makes a huge difference in your workflow.
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ChatGPT is all the rage at the moment, and while many people are interested in its ability to generate text for things like articles or essays, it has some other applications that make it a rather useful tool. For example, it can design an entire photoshoot for you with just a bit of prompting. Will that photoshoot be any good, though? This fun video follows an AI-generated photoshoot to see just what can be created.[ Read More ]
Photography is a wonderful hobby to have and it's the passion of many, but most who pick up a camera will debate turning it into a career. If you're thinking about it, here are some tips.[ Read More ]
The art of boudoir photography, which is playful, imaginative, and private, honors the femininity and beauty of women (though the genre is expanding rapidly to men as well). It's all about capturing personal and stirring moments that highlight your clients' best features. But have you ever thought about holding your boudoir sessions outside?
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The nice aspect of learning things like camera settings and lighting is that these topics can often be objectively quantified. On the other hand, something like posing is a bit more nebulous and something that many photographers struggle with even when they have mastered other aspects of portrait work. If posing is something you are still working on learning, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to pose a full-body portrait when working with a non-model.
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DSLR fashion has plummeted in recent years. The perks of mirrorless tech continue to exceed expectations, pushing boundaries and leaving their clunky, slower siblings in their shiny, space-age wake. But does any of that really matter in the commercial photographic world? Well, no, not really. In 2023, £250 will still have your images contending with ones from bodies 10 times the price.
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No doubt, you need to be good with a camera and have a strong creative voice to find success as a professional photographer, but there is a lot more to that life than simply taking images for money. If you aspire to be a professional photographer, check out this great video that will show you the ins and outs of a typical photographer's day and everything it takes to keep a business running.
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This tutorial is going to show you how to upgrade your Canon EOS R6 firmware with minimal fuss and easy instructions.[ Read More ]
My business insurance has rocketed in price this year with a 33% increase. Yet, I would not do without it. Like anything with monetary value, cameras can be targeted by thieves. That risk is growing.
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Wacom has become a staple in the photography industry. If you're a professional photographer, a graphic tablet can greatly improve your workflow. The issue is that many graphic tablets come with hefty price tags. Fortunately, there is a budget option that is surprisingly brilliant, and that is the One by Wacom tablet.
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If you create content outdoors, you will know that lighting can feel like a minefield. In this video, Aidin Robbins teams up with Adorama to give you some simple lighting setup options for your next shoot.[ Read More ]
Today, we will eschew all the glitz, glamour, and pixel-peeping and get down to brass tax on why I chose to use a specific camera for a specific use case.
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Supertelephoto primes are some of the most desirable lenses out there, but their prices often run upwards of $10,000. You can often pay half or even a third of that without major sacrifices if you are savvy, though, and this helpful video will show you both how and what to expect.
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Composition is one of the trickiest and most nebulous aspects of photography, and it is something even experienced photographers often struggle with. If you find yourself often having trouble with creating balanced and compelling image compositions, check out this helpful video tutorial that discusses five common composition mistakes and how to fix them so that you can create better photos.
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Being a new photographer can be daunting, and it can be easy to make mistakes that can derail your progress and confidence as a creative. If you are new to the craft and looking to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing five mistakes he made along the way and how to avoid them or learn from them.
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In a recent interview at CP+, Canon was quite honest about many of the things its users want to know about most, including DSLR production, the EF-M mount, and third-party RF mount lenses.
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Are you starting out as a wedding photographer? Maybe you're looking to improve the quality of what you deliver. Here are my top 10 must-have shots, when they will happen during the day, and key information to consider when setting them up, finessing, and completing them.
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Creating a successful landscape image takes a complex combination of a range of factors, and as such, anything you can do to simplify or clarify the process can have a big impact on your workflow and the final product. Although it is rarely used, almost every digital camera has a built-in function that can vastly improve how you see a scene, and this great video tutorial will show you how to take advantage of it for better landscape images.
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Recently, rumors have swirled regarding the release of the Canon EOS R5 Mark II mirrorless camera, the follow-up to the company's wildly popular EOS R5. It seems as though that release might take a bit longer than initially thought, but in the meantime, EOS R5 users will likely get to enjoy a major upgrade to their cameras' capabilities.
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Photography is an expensive game, especially when you are just starting out. Sometimes, what you are seeking is just a little bit out of reach for now. Third-party manufacturers offer many different options for your brand and sometimes at a greatly reduced price, but are they worth the investment?
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Working with flash is something that scares a lot of photographers, but once you learn the basics, you will probably wonder how you went so long without in your toolkit. Flash can make you a far more versatile photographer and open up creative avenues that simply are not possible when working solely with natural light. This helpful video tutorial will show you 10 important tips that will assist you in gaining comfort and competence with flash photography in no time.
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70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are some of the most versatile out there, suitable for countless applications, genres, and needs. Because of that, manufacturers often put some of their best designs and capabilities in such lenses. For Sony shooters, there is the FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II, and this great video review takes a deep look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Have you ever experienced being delighted about the outcome of your photographs but ended up getting a different reaction from your audience? Here’s a step that might help you curate your images better.
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Have you ever tried a lens that has just changed everything? One that has made you reconsider how you approach every shot. Well, this Fujifilm lens might do it for you.[ Read More ]
The MacBook Pro line has long been the workhorse computer of choice for many photographers and filmmakers who need the power to tackle a range of demanding creative projects in a package they can take with them. For those who want that power but without the larger footprint of the 16-inch MacBook Pro, the 14-inch model looks like the perfect option. This great video review takes a look at the 14-inch model and how it performs after a month of usage.
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When you love photographing moving subjects, it may be difficult to get a perfectly sharp photo. The best way is by moving your camera with the subject to keep it in the frame. This technique is called panning. I have 10 tips for successful panning photography.
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With the announcement of the EOS R3 now 18 months behind us, many have started to wonder where Canon's flagship mirrorless camera, the EOS R1, has gone to. In a recent interview, Canon reassured its users that the EOS R1 is indeed still in development and will be on its way eventually.
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The internet is split after a wedding photographer shared a controversial "safety shot" technique he uses in case couples divorce or break up.
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Vivo has launched its latest addition to the V series, the V27 Pro. This model is designed for people looking for a seamless user experience in a sleek smartphone, but with a price tag that won't break the bank.
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Price lists can be dangerous, but they can also be great. How do you know if you should reveal your hand and have one displayed on your website?
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CP+ 2023 recently wrapped up, and at it, the photo world was able to glimpse some of the most exciting cameras and lenses yet to come from some of the world's biggest manufacturers. Here is some of what you can expect next from Fujifilm.
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Visiting beautiful locations for landscape photography can be quite rewarding. Often these, are one-time occasions. If you want to visit the same location more than once, you have to look for something close. This article is about making a long-term series of photos of one location.
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Photography is quite literally painting with light. As such, it’s important for a photographer to be able to see and shape light.
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While clear blue skies are happy times for many people, for landscape photographers, they can be a source of significant frustration. That swath of monotonous blue can remove a large chunk of visual interest from a scene and make it difficult to create compelling images. Before you pack up your gear and head back to the car, though, check out this great video tutorial that will show you some helpful tips and techniques for dealing with those boring skies and still coming home with effective photos.
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Like it or not, social media is one of the primary means of disseminating your work and communicating with potential clients nowadays. As such, it is important for photographers to know how to effectively engage with it and leverage it for finding customers and advancing their careers. This great video presentation features a photographer who is highly successful on various social media platforms sharing some of what made her successful and offering some helpful advice so you can do the same.
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In last week’s article, I discussed three mistakes to avoid when building a career as a photographer or filmmaker. Today, let’s look into three broader concepts that you might want to lean into.
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It is easy to look at modern digital cameras and forget just how spoiled we really are. After all, the latest generation of cameras make it almost impossible to miss the shot. Even a decade ago, digital cameras were far less capable, and if you turn back the clock three decades, digital models had barely just come into existence. This fun retro review takes a look at one such camera, the Apple Quicktake 100.
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Fujifilm's Instax line of instant film cameras have long been popular for reinvigorating the genre with some modern features while still allowing users to take part in the fun of instant film, all at very reasonable prices. The new Instax Mini 12 is here, and it brings with it an updated design and a range of new features. This great video review takes a look at the new camera and the kind of performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Despite the deep-freeze of a cold January day, a lone photographer moved swiftly through the graffiti-covered halls of what was once a bustling psychiatric center in the heart of Long Island in New York.
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Katelyn James answers the most common questions she gets about the Canon R6. She's done a ton of videos on the R6, but there are still more questions here that get answered. Like, are low megapixels an issue with the R6? This is the video to watch.
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The 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is one of the classic workhorses in countless photographers bags, suitable for a huge range of genres and scenarios. As such, you can often expect top-shelf performance out of professional 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses. For Sony shooters, there is the FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II, and this excellent video review takes a quick look at the image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Fujifilm's latest release in their X mount range is the Fujinon XF 30mm f/2.8 LM WR Lens, a compact and lightweight lens that is perfect for a wide range of photography, including macro, portraits, and street. With a fast maximum aperture of f/2.8, it also allows for great low-light performance. Yes, there are wider apertures from the Fujifilm range, but none I expect can shoot as close to the subject and still provide highly detailed images as this one can.
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When you have gained a lot of confidence in your ability with a camera and have built out a nice portfolio, you might start thinking about going professional. However, even though it absolutely takes those aforementioned items, they are not enough on their own. It takes a good amount of business savvy to create a reasonable income from photography. This helpful video tutorial will show you five essential items that will make your business life a little easier.
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I'm not a novice to the world of computer hardware. I've been building my own Intel-based PCs for the better part of 25 years, but the new world order of Apple Silicon has turned conventional wisdom on its head for those looking to buy a machine for multimedia work.
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Most of the time, a landscape photo will show the horizon. The best position of that horizon depends on what's important in the photo. Do you place the horizon at the top, the bottom, or somewhere else in the frame? If you struggle with that decision, this article may give a helping hand.
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35mm lens with wide maximum apertures are some of the most popular and versatile options available, offering the ability to tackle a huge variety of shooting scenarios and genres, including things like wedding photography, astrophotography, street work, and more. For Fujifilm users, there is the XF 23mm f/1.4 R LM WR, and this excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Perhaps no choice is more fundamental to and impactful on your images than the focal length you employ. So, how do you choose the right focal length for a photo? It is a more complex question than it might seem on the surface. If you are new to photography, be sure to check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you some helpful advice and knowledge for choosing the right focal length.
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Sony's AirPeak drone is the world‘s smallest drone that can carry a full frame Alpha series mirrorless camera. It's also a versatile aerial platform that's capable of carrying other payloads. Check out how professional drone pilot Craig Coker deployed powerful drone-lighting tools to capture stunning images of world-class athletes in the first AirPeak "Light The Night" showcase.
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What does it really take to get by in an industry where any Tom, Dick, and Harry has it in them to harvest likes on images like basking sharks devouring krill? Who’s doing it better? Well, everyone, right? What’s happening, day to day, week to week in the life of an active professional photographer? Well, I’m laying it all on the line. Telling it like it is. Here’s a desperately honest account of what happens in an average week for me, an honestly average photographer.
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Lightroom is bursting with a variety of tools for editing your images, but one that is often overlooked is the Targeted Adjustment Tool. This tiny icon hiding among the larger sliders and adjustments is quite powerful, though, and with it, you can efficiently make very precise adjustments to multiple aspects of your photos. This great video tutorial will show you where to find the Targeted Adjustment Tool and how to use it to edit your images.
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Canon's RF lenses have generally been lauded for their impressive image quality and performance (and often, their extreme design), but with all that comes fairly expensive prices. And that is why, at $299, the RF 16mm f/2.8 STM looks like quite an intriguing option, particularly when you consider how portable it is as well. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of experience and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Choosing a lens which will give you desired results for a particular portrait assignment is an integral part of being a photographer.
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This video from nature photographer Simon d'Entremont offers one of the best explanations of camera metering modes I have come across, complete with examples of each mode and when to use them.
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As a landscape and seascape photographer who also shoots surfing, I'm not too embarrassed to say that my understanding of indoor lighting setups is not where I want it to be. This video here is extremely helpful, especially if you'd love to get those gorgeously mysterious rim light shots.
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Low budget doesn't have to mean low quality. Here's a handy tip for keeping your backgrounds interesting.
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Blurry pictures are a nightmare. When you simply have to recover detail on images you've taken, this is the video to watch. Photographer and author Glyn Dewis goes through three mainstream programs, Luminar Neo, On1 NoNoise AI 2023, and Topaz Sharpen AI, that he uses to evaluate and try to improve his blurry image.
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When it comes to photography, your purpose can feel a little vague. While that may not necessarily be a problem, a little focus — if you'll excuse the pun — can push you forward and improve your work.
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When it comes to landscape photography, we often talk about things like exposure settings, lens choice, use of filters, managing conditions, and more. But one thing we do not talk about as much is color, and yet, it is one of the most powerful aspects of any landscape photograph. This great video tutorial will show you how careful management of color can make your landscape images better and offer some helpful tips for making that happen.
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Mostly, photographers learn the camera settings and compositional techniques first. Those basics of photography are essential. But when we have mastered those, what do we do next?
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For the first time in 15 years, it recently snowed where I live. I desperately wanted to take my drone out but was petrified it might get swept away in a blustery blizzard or die of hypothermia. I wish I'd known these five tips for flying drones in wintry weather beforehand.
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Making a photo zine can be a great way to present a body of work or, alternatively, re-contextualize a series of images which may exist elsewhere, such as on your website.
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While the craft is the same, the professional life of a female photographer is often different than that of a male photographer, whether it is in the way clients work with them, the interactions they deal with on social media, or the expectations of their abilities. This great video interview sits down with a female photographer, Arfa Khatri, and discusses some of her experiences, difficulties, and the struggles she faces in her day-to-day life as a professional creative.
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One of the first techniques every new photographer loves to try is the long exposure. Long exposures can improve image quality by helping to reduce noise, and they can be a wonderfully powerful creative tool that can entirely change the look of an image. If you are new to photography and wondering how to get started with long exposures, check out this great video tutorial that will get you up and running in no time.
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There are times when achieving a balanced exposure across your entire image is ideal, ensuring that you don't lose the details in your shadows and highlights. But, some of the most interesting images do not follow that rule whatsoever, and you should try shooting that way too.
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While I'm not fond of using AI to replace the creative process, I think it is incredibly helpful in enhancing image quality. With the right AI tools, you can rescue photos that may have been unusable otherwise. Topaz Photo AI is such a tool, and in this article, we look at its capabilities, limitations, and ways to get the best results.
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There are myriad ways you can light your subject in portraiture, and whether you're jaded by your go-to setup, or overwhelmed as to where to start, this video can help you add some more styles to your arsenal.
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Sigma's latest entry in the highly popular Art series, the 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art, is here, and it brings with it an impressive array of features and capabilities and an even more impressive price. 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 practice.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2022, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Can you shoot exclusively in JPEG as a professional photographer? Check out our interview with award winning wedding and portrait photographer Scott Robert Lim, as he explains why he's been shooting only in JPEG for over 23 years.
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Nikon's new NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S lens has been turning heads for offering an extreme design and the promise of impressive image quality and beautiful bokeh. Can it deliver on that promise? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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In the last few years, Tamron has established themselves as a manufacturer of some of the most cost-effective and useful lenses available, offering practical capabilities and good image quality all at very affordable prices. One such option is the 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD lens for Nikon Z mirrorless cameras, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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When you think of stunning landscape photography, you probably imagine vast expanses with golden rays of light cascading across them. However, cloudy, foggy, or rainy days can yield equally stunning photos if you know how to work with them to maximize your results. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to embrace those gray days and come away with compelling photos.
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50mm f/1.4 lenses are both highly versatile and highly popular, able to take a wide range of needs and scenarios, including portraits, weddings, landscapes, and much more. As such, almost every manufacturer makes at least one 50mm lens. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art to the Sony FE 50mm f/1.4 GM are both new to the market and promise high levels of performance and image quality, and this excellent video review compares both to help you choose the right for your needs.
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Why would anyone shot with an antique lens from the days of Britney spears and the spice girls? Well, while our opinions of their music might differ, we call can agree that the Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8 is still an awesome lens, despite being as old as Nickelback's “How You Remind Me”.
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The rule of thirds is probably the most common heuristic method of composition, so much so that just about every modern camera and editing program has a grid for its usage built in. And while it can often lead to well-balanced photos, there is a downside to it too. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing why you should be wary of the rule of thirds and how to create better photos.
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Robert Frank and Sergio Larraín are two of the most famous photographers in history, and as such, we can learn some important lessons from their images and their approach to the craft. This excellent video essay takes a look at their work and their philosophies and discusses three important lessons we can deduce that will help us become better, more complete creatives.
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If you find yourself struggling during the colder, darker seasons, you're far from alone. In this video, Aidin Robbins goes through how he combats winter burnout and how you can, too.
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Photography has come a long way since its invention in the 19th century. Starting off as a status symbol usually associated with the rich, it has grown far and wide to become one of the most common ways of artistic expression. As it grew more and more, it also sparked the rise of some worrying tendencies. In this article, we will discuss some of the most worrying tendencies that plague modern photography.
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When you pair Sony's powerful 61-megapixel a7R V mirrorless camera with the FE 135mm f/1.8 GM, it seems like a match made in heaven for portrait photography. How does the combination perform in the real world, though? This excellent video shows you what you can expect.
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Have you ever wanted to shoot with a medium format camera, but you can't justify the cost? Well, you're not alone. The question is, what would the cheapest medium format on eBay be like?
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You can do everything you can to hone your technique and expand your creative range, but perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects of landscape photography is that you have no control over the conditions. If the weather is dull, though, that does not mean you have to pack up your gear and head back home. With a little adjustment, you can still come home with fantastic images. This excellent video tutorial will show you everything you need to know to do just that.
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Forget the rule of thirds and leading lines. This is not an article that will give recipes or magic bullets for composing images. Instead, we will talk about methods and broad approaches I used to go beyond the cliché techniques and create unique imagery
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Lighting a group of people can be particularly tricky for new photographers, but it does not have to be, nor does it take a lot of expensive gear. In fact, it can be done with just a speedlight and a bit of know-how. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced photographer showing you how to pose and light a group portrait using just a single speedlight.
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Skylum's Imgmi for smartphones has been out for a while. Like Luminar Neo on the Mac and PC platform, it's an AI-based image editor with a host of features, including sky replacement, power line removal, and tools like saturation, exposure, shadows, and highlights for simple editing.
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In a recent article of mine, I discussed switching from a DSLR to a smartphone for casual photography. Recently, one of my friends reached out to me and asked what camera he should get for a trip he is going to. I told him: to use his phone and gave him some tips. Here are the top 7 tips that every smartphone photographer should know.
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Getting tack-sharp photos of birds in flight is not easy, but when you get it right, the results can be stunning. One of the most fundamental aspects of this is choosing the correct shutter speed. If you are new to bird photography and wondering how to go about selecting the right shutter speed, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer showing you everything you need to know.
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With 2023 well underway, it's time to look back at what has been a busy year for Luminar Neo, the AI photo-editing software from Skylum. Since its launch back in 2021, Luminar Neo has seen many updates, performance improvements, and major feature enhancements, including new AI-powered tools, and has established itself as a powerful editing tool for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
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The Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera takes the already highly respected X-T series and brings to it a wide array of impressive features and new capabilities, perhaps most notable being the highest resolution sensor ever seen in an X Series camera, making it quite an intriguing option for many creatives. This excellent video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Do you all remember the when Sigma released the “Bigma” in 2001? The Bigma, or Sigma 50-500mm f/4-6.3 EX DG HSM, dominated the amateur and semi-professional market. 22 years later, in a time of mirrorless cameras and high-end optics, the next Bigma is here. Welcome to the new Sigma 60-600mm for Sony E. Is it worth your money? Read on to find out.
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The impact of smartphones on photography has been well documented and profound. One lesser-discussed element of smartphones' influence on photography, however, might be the change in what photographers now want and expect from dedicated cameras.
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50mm lenses with wide maximum apertures are some of the most popular out there, offering a versatile focal length useful for everything from portraits to events, in tandem with excellent low-light and narrow depth of field capabilities. Both Sigma and Sony recently released new premium 50mm f/1.4 options, and this great video comparison takes a look at both to help you decide which is right for your needs and budget.
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Color spaces are perhaps not immediately a primary concern of beginner photographers. However, they are in fact crucial to how you see and perceive the images you make. There are two main color spaces that are used in digital photography: sRGB and Adobe RGB. Your camera is probably set to the more inferior, sRGB profile. In this article, we will discuss why you should switch to Adobe RGB as a professional photographer.
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While micro four thirds is still seeing development from a few companies, one manufacturer is throwing in the towel. In a recent interview, Sigma's CEO indicated that due to a decrease in demand for micro four thirds lenses, the company will no longer be developing new options for the format, though they will maintain their current lenses.
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At its most fundamental level, photography is about being able to read light and create images with interesting, dynamic, or flattering light. If that is something you are still learning, this great video tutorial will show you a simple setting hiding in just about every camera that will make the process a lot easier.
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Sigma's Foveon sensors have long had a small but loyal following who love their sharp images and vibrant, accurate colors. Since the advent of the L mount alliance, there has long been the hope that the Foveon sensor might find its way into a full frame camera. Sigma's CEO recently confirmed that those hopes might soon come true.
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Artificial intelligence is everywhere, from editing photos to writing text, to generating "photos" out of thin air. This technology is going to revolutionize every facet of the world, and photographers need to be ahead of the curve or risk being left behind permanently.
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Recent research shows that there are excellent reasons why you should abandon the camera phone that have nothing to do with how good the pictures are. There’s a darker side to camera phones that we ignore at our peril.
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Conventional wisdom in studio portrait photography tells us to avoid shooting portraits wide open. But in this video, I will show you why I shoot portraits wide open all the time, and you should try it too.
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If you find your photos are often a bit monotonous and lacking in interest and you are unsure of how to break out of that rut, this is the video tutorial for you. A simple change of habit can help you take more varied images and expand your eye beyond what you are used to shooting.
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Canon’s cinema line of cameras ushered forward the post-DSLR years for video users, and now, they could be set to do the same with mirrorless designs.
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Very few people jump right in to running a photography business full-time. The vast majority start out slowly, doing photography on the side while they maintain their primary income from another job. That can be a particularly stressful time, but as this excellent video essay details, with the right mindset, you can become more intentional and focused and achieve your goals sooner.
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24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are the workhorses of choice for a huge range of photographers, as their versatile focal length range and relatively wide maximum aperture make them suitable for many different genres and shooting scenarios. For Sony shooters looking for the best the company can offer, there is the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, and this excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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This camera was released a whopping seven years ago. Being the last-of-the-line DSLR for Canon, it is still the best 5D camera they will ever make. While there are photographers switching from DSLR to mirrorless, the 5D Mark IV is still being sold to photographers worldwide. Let’s review this camera and see how good it is in 2023.
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Though it takes a lot of skill with a camera and in editing, being a successful professional photographer takes a lot more than just those. If you feel comfortable with your skills and your portfolio and you are wondering if you are ready to make the jump, check out this fantastic video essay that features an experienced professional detailing how to know if you are ready.
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Fujifilm cameras have been popular for decades, but in the past few years, they have released bodies that are fully in vogue and thus difficult to find. Are they worth the hype? Should you buy a Fujifilm camera in 2023?
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In a lot of my articles, I go on about how incredible Capture One is and how every photographer (with a few exceptions) should switch from Lightroom to Capture One. In this article, we will finally take a deep dive and see for ourselves why it’s worth considering the switch in 2023.
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Modern camera gear evolves at a breakneck pace, and as such, it can be tempting to watch the news of the latest and greatest cameras and lenses and pull out your credit card. When should you actually drop the money to upgrade your gear, and when should you turn your attention elsewhere? This helpful video essay discusses the topic and might just help you save a lot of money and improve your images at the same time.
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Nikon's impressive new NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S lens is here, and along with it comes some of the best image quality and optical performance ever seen from Nikon, at least on paper. How does it perform in the real world, though? This great video takes a look at the lens and how it balances and feels on some of Nikon's most popular mirrorless cameras.
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Although it sounds like a nasty disease, like athlete's foot or tennis elbow, the photographer's eye isn't that. We take our eyes for granted, and they are an essential part of photography, both metaphorically and literally.
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There are some aspects of film photographs that can’t be replicated with digital.
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Some brands attract vitriol to a degree that is hard to fathom. Typically, they are expensive brands that many photographers do not believe can justify their price. At the top of that pile is Leica, and yet, the brand has die-hard followers and disciples.
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When it comes to making great imagery, post-production is perhaps one of the most important steps that can make or break your image. Sure, you can master all elements to making an image, but if you forget post-production, you will be stuck miles behind someone who knows how to edit. In this article, we will discuss ways how to get better results when editing
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A 35mm lens with a wide maximum aperture is one of the most useful options in many photographers' bags, and that makes Sony's FE 35mm f/1.8 an intriguing option for a lot of users. Is it right for you? This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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You can spend a lot of money on lights and modifiers for portrait photography, and while there are certainly reasons why professionals invest in expensive equipment, you can absolutely create professional-level portraits with the most affordable gear — even a shoot-through umbrella and speedlight. This fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.
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The new Sony FE 50mm f/1.4 GM lens is here, and it brings with it some of the company's most advanced features and capabilities along with the promise of top-level performance and image quality, all at a surprisingly good price. Can it provide all that in practice? This fantastic video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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Cosina, known for their Voigtländer lenses, has announced four new lenses, including some impressive options for Canon RF, Fujifilm X, and Nikon F users.
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The 50mm f/1.4 lens is arguably one of the most popular lenses of all time. And Sony just released its second offering for their full frame mirrorless lineup.
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The advice I often hear on the internet is this: choose a photography genre and stick to it. I want to float the idea of developing your style instead and shooting what you’re passionate about. I’m not talking about the jack of all trades approach, but developing your skills in a few genres that you like and come naturally to you.
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In this video from nature photographer Simon d'Entremont, he details many solid techniques to help you improve your photography.
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There are so many cameras out there these days, it can be difficult to see the wood from the trees. As a result, some excellent cameras can be overlooked and this offering from Sony is one of them.
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Most of the problems I get asked to fix in my role as technical support for photographers has to do with Lightroom. This article will show you the way I use Lightroom to be able to find any photograph I've shot in the last 10 years in under a minute. This is how best to organize and categorize your files to best serve you as a photographer and the tips and tricks that you might have otherwise missed.
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Rarely is a landscape photo finished the moment you press the shutter; almost every such image requires some degree of post-processing to create the finished product. It is easy to get a bit mired in the editing phase, though, finding yourself pushing sliders back and forth as you experiment and try to create the best possible version of an image you know has potential in it. How can you be creative but stay efficient? This excellent video tutorial will show you what you need to know.
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Cosina, more commonly known for manufacturing Voigtländer lenses, is teasing the launch of four new lenses, including two Fujifilm X mount options, a Canon RF mount mirrorless lens, and even a DSLR optic. The RF mount option will even include electric contacts, while one of the X mount lenses will be "super-fast."
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Few cameras in recent years have caused as much of a stir as the EOS R5, which brought features like a high-megapixel sensor and 8K raw video, instantly showing the world that Canon was extremely serious about the mirrorless realm. The EOS R5 has been a highly popular camera, but now that it has been 2.5 years since its release, it is about time to start thinking about the second version of the camera, which we may see before the EOS R1.
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It has been about 1.5 years since the Nikon Z9 was announced, and the company is about due for another big camera announcement. It looks like that might be happening soon, with activity ramping up behind the scenes.
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Addiction. Hedonism. Chasing the dopamine hit. Just another taste. Just one more like. Ok, maybe 10, then I’m done. I swear it’s all I need! Here’s what I’m doing. Here’s what I’ve done. Here’s who’s doing this and hey, look, I’m present. Lifting the lid on the banality of everyday life. Journalists of the quotidian. Instagram is not what it used to be. We can all agree to that. And no truer is that than from the perspective of the humble photographer. Surely, it’s time to grow up, isn’t it?
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Rarely is a portrait image finished once you have pressed the shutter; almost every such photo requires some degree of retouching to finish it. If you are not as comfortable at the computer as you are behind the camera, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced portrait photographer showing you a complete portrait retouching workflow sure to help you create compelling images.
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There are probably two main software options when it comes to the processing of Fuji raw files that most photographers tend to use, Adobe Lightroom and Capture One. The choice, however, depends on the user's personal preferences, as both have their strengths and weaknesses.
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If you’re thinking of making your love for photography into the thing that pays the bills, here are a few pitfalls which you might want to avoid.
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It sounds like a strange concept, but the reasoning behind it is sound, and it is straightforward and easy to do. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to edit your photos in reverse and why it will help you make better and more precise photos.
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Videography, unsurprisingly, has the added element of needing to not only frame a shot but consider how a camera might move within the space for the duration of the video.
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We all want to take better photos, but how can you do that? Whether you are an amateur or experienced professional, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced photographer sharing five helpful tips that will lead you to better images.
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DxO PhotoLab 6.3 has just been released, and it's persuaded me to change my workflow. Here's why you should consider giving it a try.
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Miguel Quiles is a studio portrait photographer specializing in creating beautifully lit portraits with lots of emotion. In this video, he walks through the setup and settings for this sci-fi-inspired image.
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I had planned to write a love letter to C-stands, but then I remembered this video that caught my attention a year ago. Trigger warning; this video is not that new, but C-stands aren’t either, and they happen to be one of the most valuable pieces of kit I have ever laid my hands on. The video goes through the many, many ways in which to make use of them, and, I must say, in a very entertaining way.
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With Fujifilm's latest release of the X-T5, I knew it wouldn't be long before brackets and mounting rigs would begin appearing online. For my own cameras, it's always been Smallrig brackets due to the build quality and considered design. So, after purchasing the X-T5, I went directly to their site to see if any were available and promptly purchased one, but that's not all they had available.
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Wedding photography is one of the most challenging genres out there, requiring you to be at the top of your game technically and ready to tackle any challenges that come efficiently and smoothly. If you would like to improve the quality of your shots, check out this fantastic video tutorial from an experienced wedding photographer that will give you five tips sure to improve your wedding photos.
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Being competent with composition, camera settings, lighting, and post-processing and having a strong creative voice are all requirements for becoming a successful professional photographer, but they are far from the only things you will need. Making money from your images is a totally different animal, but this helpful video tutorial will give you some important advice that will give you a better chance of finding success in the professional world.
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Medium format film has seen a real resurgence in recent years, and with the right camera, you can create negatives that are far bigger than even the most expensive digital cameras. This neat video takes a look at one such camera, the Fuji GW690 II, affectionately known as the "Texas Leica," and the impressive images you can create with it.
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As a photographer, it's important for you to understand the significance of branding in your industry. While it may not seem obvious, branding is just as important for small businesses like yours as it is for large corporations. Branding encompasses much more than just a logo. It is the first interaction a potential client will have with your business.
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When you think of portraiture, you might think of large, diffused light. However, there are lots of applications of hard light in portraiture, with beauty being just one genre. In this video, watch as Lindsay Adler creates stunning portraits with harsh lighting.
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According to Taylor Jackson, we're all Sony shooters, whether we like it or not. With the majority of today's cameras carrying Sony's imaging sensors, are we all becoming Sony shooters without even knowing it?
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Some beginning photographers keep on shooting in JPEG because of one reason. They’re a bit of afraid of the raw file format. But shooting in raw is easier than you think. If you want to start photographing in raw but you don’t know how, I’ll show you how it’s done.
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135mm lenses have long been popular as alternatives to the standard 85mm focal length when it comes to portrait photography, and Canon's EF 135mm f/2L was respected as one of the company's best lenses, offering excellent image quality, including deep contrast and colors and supplemented by reliable and quick autofocus. Now, its successor, the RF f/1.8 L IS USM, is here, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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There has been a lot of advancement in lighting technology for LED lights for photography recently, but are they the way to go? Check out this video for a comparison of the pros and cons of each.
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If there is one truth in the photography industry, it is that there is no shortage of 50mm lenses for Sony E mount users. While 50mm options run the full gamut from under $100 to north of $2,000, two lenses, the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art and Samyang AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II, sit in the middle of the pack in terms of price but near the top in terms of image quality and performance. Which is right for you? This excellent video review compares both to help you decide.
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We live in an age of hyper-fast content creative and consumption, and it can be easy to feel pressured to bring home loads of images to continue feeding the machine. There is something to be said for slowing down so you can think more and shoot less, however. This great video explores that idea and why it might improve both your photos and your enjoyment of the experience.
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Seascape photography is a challenging yet rewarding genre of photography. The dynamic nature of the sea makes taking photos at the coast very exciting, but it also requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. And that's what I'll share in this article as seven tips that'll help you take your seascape photography to the next level.
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You can put in the time to become competent with a camera and editing and build out a portfolio you can be proud of, but actually monetizing your photography is an entirely different beast and something many talented photographers struggle with despite their image-making capabilities. If that sounds like the boat you are in, check out this helpful video tutorial that will give you 10 things to consider when building out your photography pricing model.
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Action cameras went from being a niche piece of kit used when skiing, for example, to being a staple camera in many photographers' bags. There are lots of options for action cameras now, so which is the best bet?
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What skills other than knowing your camera kit and how to take a good photo do you need to make your fledgling photography business work, grow, and be sustainable while still standing out from the crowd? What tools do you need and what websites are good enough to bookmark and check daily? These five tips will help you on your way.
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The Mac mini has long been the desktop of choice for many users, offering the Mac experience at a significantly lower price than the Mac Studio or Mac Pro line. In fact, the base configuration of the new M2 model can be had for just $599, and it can handle a wider range of needs than you might imagine. This excellent video review takes a look at the new model and what you can expect from it in usage.
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Glyn Dewis discusses the reasons behind the thinking that printing makes us better photographers. He takes a look at Permajet paper and gives some of the reasons why you'd choose this over other types of paper and educates us as to what makes a good paper for printing. He looks at the components like OBA (optical brightening agent) and tells you why it's good that some papers do not have this.
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400mm is one of the most useful lenses for genres such as sports and wildlife photography, and the options run the gamut from relatively affordable at under $1,000 to quite a way past $10,000, all with different specifications, capabilities, performance, and image quality. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S sits in the middle of the road, and 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.
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Landscapes often have dynamic range that exceeds the capabilities of even the most modern camera sensors, and as such, exposure blending is one of the most common techniques photographers employ to improve the quality of their photos. There are many different ways to go about this, and this fantastic video tutorial will show you one of the easiest and most precise ways to do it using Photoshop.
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If you would put your trust on just one tripod for all the shooting requirements that you commonly face, what features are non-negotiable for you? Let’s see if this carbon fiber tripod from Benro would fit that description.
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Street photography is one of those wonderful genres that encourages us to break convention and what we know to be "right" in the big bad, world of the still image. It's one of the few genres, I feel at least, that can encompass all manner of emotions, from humor and lightheartedness to tone, shape, ambiguity, surrealism, and hard-hitting realism at any time.
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A good travel tripod can be one of the most important pieces of kit you own, particularly if you're often on the move. Is this little tripod the new king of the difficult subset of tripods?
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In my quest to find the best combination of lenses for my photography, I have been trying out various brands and focal lengths to see what would work for me and deliver the image quality I was after. One thing was missing, however, and that was a good, lightweight, affordable telephoto lens for the longer hikes. Enter the Fujifilm XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM OIS WR.
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When Nikon moved into the realm of full frame mirrorless cameras, they generally went for pragmatic lens designs meant to tackle the majority of situations photographers would encounter. However, a variety of interesting lens design patents recently emerged, and they show the company is now thinking about some more extreme options as well.
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The Lumix S5 II is the first full-frame mirrorless camera from Panasonic to offer hybrid phase detect autofocus and a plethora of other cinematic video options. With all of the new improvements on the S5 II, could it be an ideal choice as a full-fledged cinema camera?
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It often takes a ton of work to put together a successful photoshoot, and as such, you want to be sure that you are getting everything you can out of it. This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced studio photographer sharing three quick and easy tips that will not only improve your image quality, but help you come away from the shoot with more worthwhile photos.
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Learning flash can be a scary thing, but it does not have to be. Once you understand how flash works, it will unlock a multitude of creative opportunities that simply would not be possible when working with only natural light. This great video tutorial will show you one of the most important skills you will need: how to properly set your camera when working with strobes.
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With ON1 Photo Raw 2023 having just won a Pop Photo Award for its AI features, it is apt to compare the app with Lightroom next. How would it stand up to different camera raw files?
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The new 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art is awfully impressive, offering loads of impressive image quality at an equally impressive price. Nonetheless, as part of the G Master series, the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM brings with it some of the company's most advanced optical design. So, how do the two compare? This excellent video review takes a look at both.
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Instagram was a fundamental tool of photographers professional and amateur alike, but alas, the algorithm was changed and with it, Instagram's allure. Nevertheless, it is still valuable and with the changes coming in 2023, it might be worth your attention once again.
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Color grading your images can be fun, yet, in some cases, an arduous task. The subtle nuances that it can provide can make or break an image. Learning to color grade effectively takes years, and understanding the subtle differences that adding numerical values can make to the RGB of your image is an art form.
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There are a lot of different ways to edit a photo in Lightroom, but most people probably do not use this slider for the purpose demonstrated here, as it is designed for something else. Nonetheless, it can give your photos that extra bit of pop that makes them catch the viewer's eye without teetering into the territory of the gaudy. This great video tutorial will show you where to find it and how to use it to improve your images.
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Fuifilm's X-T5 mirrorless camera brings with it some of the company's most impressive features and capabilities, most notable being the highest resolution ever seen in an X Series camera. With all those advanced features inside the well-loved X-T style, it looks like quite the promising camera. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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The 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is the go-to optic of choice in the bags of many photographers and filmmakers, able to tackle a wide range of genres and shooting scenarios. For Sony users, the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II offers some of the company's best features and design. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Photoshop is an extremely nuanced and complex program, which means there are often several ways to accomplish what you need to do. One of the application's most useful features, Blend If, is a bit hidden behind those multiple layers of menus, but it is one well worth knowing, as it gives you powerful and versatile capabilities for a range of editing scenarios. This excellent video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of Blend if and demonstrates how it works through a series of double exposure edits.
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Lightroom is one of the most popular programs for editing your photos, and it is surprisingly powerful, able to tackle a wide range of edits entirely by itself. If you are new to photography and working in Lightroom, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you the ins and outs of working in the program through a portrait edit.
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Whether you don't have anyone to help you on a shoot, or you're filming a vlog, sometimes you need to be on the other side of the camera. Here are some tips on how to make that footage the best it can be.
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Nothing is more frustrating than having the wrong camera settings, especially during decisive moments. These images are probably beyond recovery. That’s why you have to check the camera setting every single time you go out. Just assume the settings are wrong. Always.
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Over the years, the fine art and commercial art communities have slowly wised up, learning how to run their businesses as businesses and saying no to free work. So, why are these famous artists working for free when it comes to the Super Bowl? The NFL surely isn't struggling for money, so shouldn't they get paid? Should any artist, famous or unknown, work for exposure?
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As a portrait photographer, learning how to work with artificial light will enable far more creative exploration and free you from needing to rely on certain times of day, locations, and conditions. The best place to start is with a single light. This great video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of working with a single speedlight and how to use it to create a professional-level portrait.
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While things like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are quantifiable, and thus, easy to discuss, composition is both qualitative and a bit more nebulous and thus, a bit harder to nail down. If composition is something you struggle with in your work, check out this great video tutorial that will show you six common composition mistakes photographers make and how to fix them to improve your images.
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Landscape photography is one of the most popular genres out there, and finding success in it takes a combination of good technique, creative vision, the ability to work with changing and often unpredictable conditions, and often, a smidgen of luck. If you would like to improve your landscape photography, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer sharing some very helpful advice.
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In our biggest FAQ about product photography yet, we discuss some of the most common questions a photographer at any skill level might have, from simple ones about settings to complex ones about the type of reflection a leather surface produces under hard light. This article was created to help you create better product images.
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Skin retouching takes time, so any plugin that can help speed up the process is a bonus. Infinite Skin is a Photoshop plugin from the Infinite Tools range and is probably the quickest skin-retouching plugin I've ever used, producing great results in next to no time.
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Approaching people on the street and asking for a portrait can feel uncomfortable — both for you as a photographer and for the person you’d like to photograph. Watch how one street photographer uses his experience to get some fantastic images.
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Elinchrom has long been known for their amazing lights and modifiers. But does their newest release, the Elinchrom FIVE, live up to the hype?
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The Nikon Z9 and Sony a1 are two of the most advanced mirrorless cameras on the market right, capable of capturing high-resolution images at blazing burst rates, all backed up by some of the most sophisticated autofocus systems out there. And so, how do they perform against each other in one of the most challenging genres for a camera, wildlife photography? This excellent comparison takes a look.
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The sky is an integral part of just about any landscape photograph, and as such, it deserves a healthy dose of your attention during the editing process. If you would like to improve your landscape images, check out this excellent video tutorial that will show you three different ways to adjust the sky using Photoshop or Lightroom.
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The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra takes a well-established platform and formula and builds upon it with a number of improvements and new features, one of the most notable being its 200-megapixel wide angle camera. This excellent video review takes a look at the new phone and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Today, I will definitively answer an age-old question. Or perhaps, more likely, pontificate on something that all people and all artists have been asking since the beginning of time.
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A lower ISO means less noise, greater dynamic range, and better image quality. As such, a lower ISO is almost always preferable — almost. ISO is only one of the three exposure parameters, and if you do not consider it in tandem with them, it can seriously affect your image quality. This excellent video tutorial will show you why you should not be afraid to raise your ISO when the situation calls for it.
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Do you have $20,000 burning a hole in your pocket? If you have ever wondered what you can accomplish with a lens that costs the price of a car, check out this excellent video review that takes a look at what is arguably the most extreme lens on the market right now, the Canon RF 1200mm f/8 L IS USM.
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Sigma is known for making high-quality affordable lenses. Here’s why the new Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN lens is a lens you should consider.
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I consider myself a Canon shooter through and through. This article isn’t about one camera manufacturer being objectively better or worse than another.
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2023 is the year of AI, and the industry is exploding with a wide range of tools that can make your life easier, whether that is through editing, running your business, or other tasks. This excellent video tutorial will show you five such tools you should consider taking advantage of to save time and improve the quality of your images.
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The age of AI is here, and like it or not, the barn door is open and the horse is out. With the ability to quickly generate believable images with minimal input, what does it mean to be a photographer in 2023? What is photographic purpose? This worthwhile video essay discusses the subject.
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A fundamental lesson in photography is the exposure triangle. Learning about ISO, shutter speed, and aperture is something all photographers should do.
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Studio photographers are often admired for their lighting skills, and for good reason. Creating compelling portrait lighting is not only extremely difficult, but requires lighting gear, backdrops, and a shooting space. Editing can play either a small or large role in the final image. Have you ever wondered how much of what you see was created in camera, as opposed to in the editing room? In this article, I will show you some before and after images from my own studio work and lift the veil on my editing process.
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The awesome thing about shooting portraiture in a city is that there are so many options for locations and looks, meaning you can easily create a large volume of worthwhile images in the span of just an afternoon. If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options and wondering what some of the best locations are, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you five of the best spots for your next shoot.
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While instant photography cameras like Fuji’s Instax series have gained a large following amongst a younger generation discovering the beauty of instant prints, lugging around a sub-par camera just for the hard-copy photos is a drag. That’s where portable photo printers such as Liene’s Pearl K100 Portable Photo Printer come in.
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Once upon a time, Sigma was a brand thought of by many as the compromise lens if you couldn't afford the household names. Times have changed, though, and Sigma has gone beyond offering competitive lenses to making remarkable lenses and even some notable industry firsts. Being a photographer who works heavily in product work, I decided to put the Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art lens in a shoot-off against the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro, and the results were... well, read on and find out for yourself!
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Sunset portraits are a timeless look that will always be appreciated by a lot of clients, and adding a bit of artificial light can help both to balance the exposure and to add a bit of creative flair that can really take the image to the next level. If you are new to working with artificial light, check out this great video tutorial that will show you how to combine a speedlight with a sunset to create compelling and eye-catching portraits.
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We all know what the rule of thirds is, right? And we all know that in the bottom third of the frame, we often have a foreground element of interest. Take a look here to see how going without any foreground at all can greatly improve your landscape images.
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A $150 DIY camera that is capable of capturing 489-megapixel images sounds too good to be true, right? Let's take a look at how this thing is built and the pictures you can expect to get from it.
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Is it a graphic tablet, a monitor, or both? Let’s take a look at the implications of what a 22-inch pen display can offer for your editing and retouching workflow.
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When you think of compelling landscape imagery, you probably imagine rays of dramatic golden sun cascading across the scene, and while that can make for fantastic images, it certainly is not the only kind of light that makes for worthwhile photos. Flat light can be particularly nice for a range of shots, and this great video tutorial will show you both why it is useful and how to take advantage of it.
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With the advent of the RF mount, Canon entered a new realm of lens design, with some of the most extreme designs ever seen for full frame cameras. Nonetheless, it seems the company is also exploring more measured and pragmatic designs as well, with some very interesting f/4 zoom lens designs emerging in a recent trio of patents.
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Costa Rica is a place of breathtaking beauty, with lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and pristine beaches. From the misty cloud forests of Monteverde to the remote beaches of Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica offers an endless array of photo opportunities. Whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur with a passion for capturing nature's beauty, Costa Rica is a destination you should not miss.
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If you've wanted to try your hand at creating videos, but have dreaded tackling the daunting interfaces of professional editing tools like DaVinci Resolve and Adobe Premiere Pro, here's some good news for you. The tools that you already have on your Mac are probably good enough to help you get started on a YouTube or video production career. It turns out that you don't always need to use professional tools to make good videos.
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I originally heard about the Helios 44-2 lens when my editor said it might be great for the skin. It took four weeks for the arrival and about 12 months before I had the free time to use it for a full day.
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Rarely is a landscape photo finished when you take the shot; most such images require some level of editing to create the finished product. If you are new to landscape photography and interested in improving your work, check out this fantastic video tutorial that discusses some of the most common landscape photography editing mistakes and what you can do to avoid or fix them.
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The RF mount has seen some extreme lens designs, with Canon pushing into new territory with options like the revered 28-70mm f/2L. It seems they have no intention of slowing down, as another interesting design has emerged, this time one sure to please sports and wildlife photographers.
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the photography industry by automating many tasks that were previously done manually. This has the potential to greatly impact the way photos are taken, edited, and shared. Should we be worried about AI or embrace it?
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The beach and a good sunset make for a fantastic combination and a timeless look. There are several ways to approach such a shot, and it takes some careful technique to deal with some often tricky issues, such as large dynamic range. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing a range of helpful advice on when and how to take the photo along with how to post-process it for the best results.
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There are now several manufacturers will fully developed and advanced mirrorless camera lines, and it can be difficult to choose between the many different options. This interesting video features an experienced photographer discussing why he chose to switch to Sony after being a Canon user for over a decade and features some excellent insights into what features and capabilities a modern creative needs and appreciates.
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Pets are some of our closest companions, and even if you do not want to photograph them professionally, knowing how to capture them well can help you create wonderful memories that you will treasure for years to come. If you want to improve your pet photography, check out this helpful video tutorial that will give you a wide range of useful advice sure to improve your images.
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If you want a warm film look for your photographs or videos, you might want to consider one of the easiest ways to come closer to a film look. That is halation, or a light bloom, and I'm going to show you how it's done through a diffusion filter.
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OM System has announced a new 90mm true macro professional lens, which macro photographers have longed for.
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Sigma recently released a prime wide angle lens, which promises to be fabulous. Does it live up to the high standards of the other lenses in its class?
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The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S lens is here, and it brings with it the promise of some of the most uncompromising optical performance ever seen from the company. Can it live up to that promise in practice, though? 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 practice.
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The 85mm focal length is a staple in photography, with many portrait photographers gravitating toward it. Is this new 85mm f/1.2 version the new king of portrait lenses?
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Nobody wants to fail at photography, do they? Success and failure are both achievable, although the latter is easier. This is how to set about failing and, therefore, succeeding.
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Though the words only differ by a single letter, the difference between making and taking an image could not be more immense. One is a passive approach meant to capture what occurs in front of the camera should something interesting cross its view, while the other is an active engagement in the creative process that draws on the technique, imagination, and foresight of the photographer. This great video takes you behind the scenes of a stunning wildlife image to show you the difference and why it matters.
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Have you used this little-known tool in recent versions of Photoshop? Have you even seen it? It makes editing images so much easier. See it in use here.
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A creative and well-executed edit can take a modest snapshot and turn it into an eye-catching image. Lightroom's new masking features contain some impressively powerful tools that allow you to quickly and accurately select and edit different parts of your image, and this excellent video tutorial will show you how to take advantage of them to create a moody, dark-toned edit that helps your subject pop out from that atmosphere.
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DxO PhotoLab is well regarded as one of the finest raw editors available for pro and semi-pro photographers. Although certainly not as well known as the Adobe products like Photoshop and Lightroom, it offers very powerful tools that have gotten a lot of attention.
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The Canon EOS R50 is here, and it brings with it a lot of Canon's advanced mirrorless camera features at a very affordable price. This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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On January 17, 2023, the Oversight Board issued a decision advising Meta to revise its policies on freeing the nipple. Here's what that decision actually says.
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Though it fell out of use for a while, the Fresnel lens has regained popularity for portraiture work, where it can provide a sharp and impactful light quality that is still flattering on the subject's facial features. If you have not used a Fresnel before and want to learn how to employ one to create compelling portraits, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know.
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I have quickly become a big fan of the Sigma Contemporary lenses for Fujifilm X Mount. A few months back, I reviewed the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8, a lens that delivers superb image quality and performance in an extremely small and well-constructed package. More recently, I had a chance to test the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 and 30mm f/1.4 on the Fujifilm X-T5, and I was once again impressed by the results.
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Lightroom is one of the most popular photo-editing programs. We talk a lot about the library module and the develop module. The other available modules are almost never mentioned. What are these modules? But more important, are these useful?
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Samsung's latest update to its flagship phone is here, and the Galaxy S23 Ulta brings with it a range of improvements and new features, including new camera modules led by a 200-megapixel wide angle camera. This great video review takes a look at the cameras on the new phone and everything you can expect from them in usage.
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A couple of weeks ago, I published a piece on the Jack of All Trades Photographer, which covered the plight of the gigging photographer just starting out, doing what he or she can to build portfolio content and generally begin to make a living from it. Imagine my surprise when just a few days later, the topic was covered by straight-talking, commercial super talent and formerly of this parish, Scott Choucino!
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It's devilishly simple, but this marketing tip by a renowned wedding photographer absolutely exploded his numbers. I think it's applicable to many types of photography, so to learn what it is and how you can implement it, take a look.
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Film is enjoying a resurgence right now, and yet, in an age of ever-burgeoning megapixel counts and clinically sharp lenses, it can seem a bit strange to some to purchase an old film camera whose technical image quality could not dream of competing with modern equipment. And yet, that is exactly what you should do, as one photographer argues in this interesting video essay.
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Sigma's Art line of lenses have long been popular for offering superlative image quality at prices that are often significantly more affordable than first-party options. Today, the series welcomes its newest member, the 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art.
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Professional photographers rejoice. Today, Nikon has finally announced the release of two new lenses, including the highly anticipated NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S and the pint-sized Z 26mm f/2.8.
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Learning how to create good headshots is no easy task. With so much advice on the internet available, it can be hard finding a good place to learn professional headshot photography. This is why we here at Fstoppers created this comprehensive article that answers some of the most frequently asked questions.
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When you use a wide angle lens, you can fit so many things in the frame, it can be difficult knowing what you should include and what you shouldn't. Here, we take a look at one simple composition technique you can use to enhance your wide angle photography skills.
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There are a lot of common rules about portrait photography, but rules are meant to be broken, and one photographer shares how he does that in a meaningful way after shooting more than 100,000 portraits.
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Constant lighting has dropped dramatically in price, with companies like SmallRig making excellent products — along with accessories — that are refreshingly accessible. How good is the SmallRig RC120B, a bicolor packing a decent amount of power and coming in at just $259?
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In the past couple of years, Viltrox has established themselves as a manufacturer capable of creating lenses at some of the most competitive prices on the market that often outperform their affordable costs. One of their newest offerings, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, offers Fujifilm X series users the enticing combination of an ultra-wide aperture, a portrait focal length, and an affordable price. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Manual mode can be a bit intimidating to a lot of new photographers, but learning how and when to use it will make you a better shooter and give you far more creative control over your images. This helpful video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of manual mode and how to use it to create technically correct and creatively inspired photos.
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Starting a photography studio can be an exciting and fulfilling endeavor, but it can also be challenging to make it profitable. Here are a few tips to help you create a successful and profitable photography studio.
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Artificial intelligence is coming for photographers, just not in the way you're thinking.
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If you’re relying solely on cloud-based storage alone such as Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, etc., stop! This is a disaster if you’re a professional or a semi-pro photographer. Allow me to explain why.
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While many professionals employ the use of complex setups consisting of multiple lights, even just a single source can create vivid and compelling images when in the right hands. This excellent video tutorial will take you behind the scenes to show you how a photographer shot a striking series of full-body portraits using just one light.
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Phone photography has reached the point where it's good enough for online consumption, but can those photos keep up their appearance printed large?
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Reading is what? FUN-damental! Ok, my bad dad joke aside, books are a great way to gain a deeper perspective on a topic from those making great strides within a field.
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The Canon EOS R6 was one of the most well-balanced cameras of the past few years, offering a range of the advanced features found on the EOS R5 without the more extreme specs that most photographers do not need, making it a practical and well-priced option for a huge range of users. The EOS R6 Mark II follows up on the original with a range of improvements and new features, and this great video review takes a look at how it holds up for wedding and travel photography.
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In the world of cinema camera technology, RED has established itself as a major player. Starting off as the underdog, they have pushed industry stalwarts to innovate or die. However, a recent revelation has sparked concern among competitors and consumers alike. RED is preventing other camera manufacturers like Sony, Nikon, and DJI from innovating by enforcing its broad patent for on-camera compressed raw video.
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This is the video I've been waiting for! SEO is the bane of my life. If I'm being honest, I don't really understand it. Being 48 and a photographer for almost 16 years, I have a good knowledge of my job-related skills and what it means to be able to capture a great photograph. However, I, as I suspect like a lot of photographers, know just enough about social media, websites, and SEO to be dangerous. This video outlines what it takes to get to the top of Google in 2023 and where to go to get more information about the subject.
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Zeiss lenses are loved for their uncompromising image quality, with sharp rendering, deep and contrasty colors, and beautiful bokeh. The Batis 40mm f/2 CF offers the respected Batis design in tandem with a wide aperture and unique focal length. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Besides composition, choosing the correct exposure is essential for your photography. Achieving that requires understanding how metering works and how to control the camera's settings. It's here that some cameras excel and others let you down.
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If you shoot a lot of astrophotos, you know all about gradients. They are almost always present in your images, and they have to be removed to smooth out the sky background and make your images look their best.
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If you enjoy taking photographs at night and want to experiment with different techniques, this is the video for you. Here are 5 slow shutter speed tricks to get some great-looking images after dark.
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CGI is usually associated with movies, but it has its place in photography too. In fact, you create elaborate and creative backgrounds for your shoots using CGI software.
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The Canon EOS R8, the company's latest full frame mirrorless camera, is likely on the way soon, and while we have not learned much about the camera yet, a set of rumored specs have emerged. Take a look at what you can expect.
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As advanced as editing tools have become in recent years, dodging and burning remains as one of the most fundamental and powerful techniques for shaping the light in your images, de-emphasizing blemishes, and drawing attention to your subject in a natural but compelling fashion. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to use dodging and burning for editing portraits in Photoshop.
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When it comes to learning lighting, we often focus on how to light the subject in a flattering way, but of course, the backdrop deserves attention too. It is about more than just getting the exposure on the background right, however. With a bit of know-how, you can drastically alter the appearance of the background just by how you place your subject and source relative to it. This great video tutorial will show you how to adjust your lighting to take full control of the appearance of your backdrop.
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Both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro lines now feature M2 chipsets, and as such, they all offer powerful performance in tandem with impressively long battery life. Nonetheless, there are many distinguishing features between them. So, which is right for your needs? This great video comparison pits the M2 MacBook Air against the M2 Pro MacBook Pro to help you decide which to get.
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Most cameras are similar in many ways, but they also have unique features that other models lack. Choosing the wrong camera can be an expensive mistake. Here are things to consider before spending your hard-earned cash.
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In this video, Glyn Dewis effortlessly explains how he manages to capture the iconic Prince of Wales bridge spanning the border between Wales and England. As a proud Welshman, this was intriguing to me, and as a photographer this is engaging and really shows the potential that mobile technology has to be able to improve the availability and quality of immediate photography.
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As a headshot photographer, it's your job to make sure your clients look their best. However, taking the perfect studio headshot isn't just about lighting and composition. It's also about understanding your client's needs and making them feel comfortable in front of the camera.
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With 28 days to celebrate Black History Month in February, let's take 28 opportunities to celebrate some talented black photographers who are currently making history with their work.
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This review is for you if you’re a Capture One Pro user and are wondering if the iPad version is worth adding to your workflow. It is also for those who don’t yet use Capture One but are looking for a budget-friendly introduction to it and already own an iPad. I will be looking at the application’s features, pros and cons, and comparing them to the desktop version.
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Lightroom for lefties? No problem. Adobe's latest update is designed to make Lightroom Mobile more accessible for everyone. Glyn Dewis shows us what to do if you're a left-handed user in Adobe's Lightroom and Photoshop.
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Do you struggle to get high-quality landscape images when the weather is bad and the light's poor? Here, we look at five important things you can do to get amazing landscape photos in horrible weather conditions.
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One of the challenges of wedding photography is that you are on a tight timeline, and if conditions are not flattering or conducive to portraiture, you have no choice but to power through them and still create the best images you can. So, what can you do when the big day presents with harsh, hard light? This excellent video tutorial features an experienced wedding photographer showing you how she handles harsh light to still create flattering, memorable images.
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Instagram's censoring policies make no sense at all. But the least they could do is not call women prostitutes based on what they are wearing.
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Since the release of the EOS R5, EOS R6, and RF 28-70mm f/2L, Canon has been very aggressive in both the designs of their lenses and the timelines of their releases. It seems the company has no intention of slowing down, with another lens likely to be announced later this month.
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If you look at the work of top photographers, you might be fooled into thinking that the only way to create professional images is through the use of complex setups with several lights. However, you might be pleased and surprised to discover that you can create compelling portraits with just a single light, and this fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you need to know.
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Today, I’ll share a few thoughts on the Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 wide angle zoom after getting to try it hands on for a bit of testing.
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Our allegiance to the big camera companies is weird, isn't it? Sometimes, it's a real badge of honor. Other times, well, I'm a little "meh" about the whole thing. Nikon reds pitched up against Canon reds, in a technical tug-of-war? Stripped to the waist and battling it out to the death? Side-by-side comparisons and sensor wars? Not for me, my friend. If you think I'm going to type out 300+ words on as painfully contrived a topic as Canon versus Nikon, you're wrong. Kind of.
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For Android users, it does not get much better than Samsung's Galaxy Ultra series, and the company's latest flagship, the S23 Ultra, continues to raise the bar. This great video takes a first look at the new phones and just how much you can expect from them.
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The term "boudoir photography" brings to mind scenes along the lines of a woman dressed in lingerie, standing near a window, adjusting her attire. Perhaps we imagine a woman who is partially nude lying on a bed. However, this interpretation of boudoir photography does not have to be the only way this genre is defined. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone and expand your interpretation of what a boudoir session looks like, you may be able to dramatically increase your clientele and sales.
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When it comes to landscape photography, wide angle lenses are the most frequently chosen tools, but they can be particularly challenging to work with. If you are new to landscape photography and wondering how to best handle a wide angle lens, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer sharing useful tips and techniques and a lot of examples images sure to help you improve your photos.
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The beauty of macro photography is that you do not have to travel, book a model, or do anything involved to produce fantastic and compelling work. We are literally surrounded by potential subjects everywhere we go, and with a little bit of knowledge and patience, you can capture an entirely different world hidden in plain sight. If you are new to macro photography, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to get started.
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ISO can be used as a tool to adjust exposure, and you can even use an automatic ISO setting. I’ll explain how you can use auto ISO in the best possible way.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that takes a combination of strong camera technique, planning, the ability to predict conditions, good post-processing skills, and often, just a bit of luck. If you are new to landscape photography and looking to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer discussing six common mistakes and how to fix them or avoid them altogether.
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Light leaks in your camera can spoil the pictures you make. For just a few dollars and a little bit of time, you can easily replace the seals yourself at home.
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Portrait photographers generally prefer focal lengths over 50mm. This is because these types of focal lengths help to produce a more flattering look. Personally, I find a 50mm lens to be slightly too wide and an 85mm lens just a tad too long. For this reason, I thought I'd compare two lenses that sit in-between these focal lengths.
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When you begin your journey into photography, you feel gated by how small your arsenal of equipment is, despite the elders of the craft telling you it doesn't matter. But, is there a negative correlation between creativity and the amount of gear owned? For me, I suspect there might be.
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Here are some helpful tips on camera settings that you should use to capture crisp movement in the studio. I made a detailed video, but here is a breakdown of the settings you need to understand to keep your images sharp.
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It seems like a strange thing to say, but many people actually prefer to shoot using their rear LCDs. On the other hand, viewfinders have a lot of advantages over their rear screen counterparts, and if you do not use yours, it is worth reconsidering it, and this great video tutorial will show you many of the benefits you can get from a viewfinder.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2022, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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The fleet of lenses I use is old. Actually old to the point where I am genuinely surprised how it still works. Nonetheless, the old Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8 IS is still a good choice for many photographers. Here is why I will be holding onto my copy of this excellent lens.
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Running a photography business is a challenging thing that requires a wide range of skills that go well beyond your ability to work with a camera. Whether you are new to running a photo business or a seasoned professional, this excellent video tutorial will show you seven common mistakes that can derail your business and how to fix them or avoid them altogether in the first place.
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100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 lenses have long been popular among sports, bird, and wildlife photographers for offering a very useful focal length range in tandem with maximum apertures that balance performance, bulk, and price. For Fujifilm shooters, there is the XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Along with the umbrella, the softbox is one of the most affordable, versatile, and important light modifiers. Thus, every photographer who is learning to work with artificial light should spend some working with softboxes and learning how to use them to their full potential. This fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you need to know about them, including shape, size, rendering, and more.
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Modern camera lenses are small marvels, absolutely packed with technology and intricate, precise machinery. Rarely do we get a chance to look inside them, however. This neat video takes you inside one of Fujifilm's manufacturing plants to see how they put together one of their newest and most advanced lenses, the XF 150-600mm f/5.6-8 R LM OIS WR.
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Pursuing photography in the modern world, whether as an amateur or professional, is a tricky and complex thing full of many pitfalls that can derail your development and success as a creative. This great video essay discusses one of the most common traps photographers fall into, how to recognize it, and what you can do to avoid it or break out of it.
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A class action lawsuit has been filed in rhe US against Stability AI and other AI art generators. If they are infringing copyright laws, could it bring an end to AI-generated art? What are the real issues? A lawyer explains in this eye-opening video.
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I woke up enlightened, inspired, and in slight disbelief. I had been elevated by Simon Bailey, instructed by Lindsay Adler, photographed by Mark Mann, and chatted up by Peter Hurley. I had watched artificial intelligence write, cull, and edit; and I partied the night away with over 10,000 photographers. Was this every photographer's fantasy dream played out in my sleep? No, it was my first trip to Imaging USA. In this article, I will recount my favorite notes and highlights from Imaging USA. Alas, it's not all glam: I'll also share about the closing keynote which left the crowd shocked and offended. Let's review my first trip to Imaging USA.
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You are a professional photographer as soon as you sell a print or get any money for your photography. Excelling at that requires taking on tasks and responsibilities, some of which apply to amateur photographers too. However, there's much more to it than many people imagine.
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In recent months, AI has become one of the most widely discussed topics. A lot of creatives, not only photographers, are saying that AI will kill professional photography. However, this cannot be further from the truth. Here is why.
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For some photographers, sharpness isn’t that important — and this realization can be liberating.
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As someone who makes 100% of their income by taking pictures, I understand how uncertain, and perhaps unstable, this career is. Spending thousands on gear is easier than ever, and with such a low entry point, everyone wants to be a photographer. It is not easy, and here are some rules I have come up with to survive in this industry.
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Lightroom is beginning to give Photoshop a run for its money as a standalone editing tool. Here, learn 13 essential Lightroom cheat codes you must know if you want your post-production skills to improve.
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Almost every genre places a high priority on sharp images, but sharpness is of a particular importance in landscape photography. So, what can you do to ensure that your landscape photos are as sharp as possible? This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing a lot of helpful advice to make your landscape shots pin-sharp.
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Creating a successful black and white image is about a lot more than simply pulling out all the saturation from a color image. If you are new to editing and wondering how to create black and white photos that really capture the eye, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know to create a stunning black and white shot in Lightroom.
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Nikon cameras and lenses do not always grab headlines for the extremes of design that the likes of Canon and Sony do, but they are the tool of choice for many professionals for many reasons. This interesting video essay features an experienced landscape photographer discussing why he has stuck with the brand for two decades for his work.
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I had to make a TikTok account for this. I’ve been adamant about not doing so for the longest time. However, this is something worth talking about and sometimes even dangerous. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the world of horrible photography TikToks.
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Sigma's new 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens is potentially one of the most versatile lenses on the market right now, covering a massive focal length range that should be appealing to bird, sports, and wildlife photographers. Can it still offer the kind of image quality and performance we have come to expect from Sigma despite that extreme design? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect from the lens.
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Thinking about turning your hobby into a jobby? What are the essential points you will need to consider when taking your hard-earned savings and convincing your better half that this will be the new, next chapter in your life? With over 15 years as a professional photographer and more than 25 years being self-employed, here’s what you need to know to make your dream a reality.
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Bird photography is a challenging genre that often requires extremes of gear, particularly when it comes to lenses, where you often need very long focal lengths and wide apertures in order to reach the birds and keep your shutter speed fast enough to freeze them. So, is the versatility of a zoom lens better, or should you opt for the wider aperture of a prime? This great video features an experienced bird photographer discussing the pros and cons of each.
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The UK Department for Work and Pensions has shared a series of photos that show benefits fraudsters caught in the act thanks to their poor Photoshop skills.
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On December 20, 2022, Ricoh Imaging made an announcement that few in the photography community saw coming. The owners of the Ricoh and Pentax lines of cameras announced that they are looking at making film cameras again.
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The wonderful thing about landscape photography is that you can do it with anything from the most bare-bones, budget camera to the most expensive and modern options. If you are wondering which camera is right for your needs, check out this excellent video guide that will show you a range of great options for every price point, from under $1,000 to no budget whatsoever.
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Film is enjoying an extended resurgence in popularity at the moment, but many of us do not own a film camera or wish to spend the money that goes into buying and developing film. However, with a bit of technique and know-how, you can get a pretty reasonable approximation using a digital photo. This excellent video tutorial will show you five different ways to do that.
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Having been an active member of the photography community for the past few years, I started to notice some toxic traits. In a community this small, how can everyone seem to hate each other this much sometimes? Let’s dive deep and see just how bad it gets here.
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Having met and talked with quite a few photographers, I have seen that there are a lot of things we do which, to me, a fellow photographer are annoying. Some are innocent enough such as asking for the lighting setup, but others sit on the fence about being illegal.
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Wedding photography can be a lucrative genre, but it can also be extremely challenging and taxing, and it certainly is not for everyone. If you are newer to photography and wondering if it is the genre for you, check out this great video essay that features an experienced wedding photographer and friend of Fstoppers discussing the five best and worst aspects of the profession.
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Knowing how to light, pose, and shoot a portrait is only half of what it takes to make a compelling final image. You also need to have strong post-processing skills. If you are new to portrait photography and wondering how to go about editing your images, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you an effective and straightforward workflow for creating polished results using Photoshop.
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When do you start thinking about cropping? Although it is something most of us usually do in editing software after we’ve taken our photos, I’d suggest thinking about cropping before pressing the shutter.
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The EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM was long popular with Canon DSLR users for offering a versatile wide angle focal length range in a small body together with great image quality, all at a very affordable price. Now, with Canon developing a line of APS-C RF-S cameras, the 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 is relevant again. Can it keep up with the higher-resolution sensors on modern mirrorless cameras like the EOS R7, though? This excellent video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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As someone that is as deep in the Apple ecosystem as it gets, I will still pick the BenQ PhotoVue SW 321C over both Studio Display and even the ProDisplay XDR. Not only is this monitor objectively better, but also way more affordable. In this article, we will review the BenQ PhotoVue SW321C.
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Have you ever seen the camera pan across the photographers during the World Cup and wondered: "How did they get that job? What is that lens they're shooting with?" Well, Fstoppers, I have all the answers for you. I had the privilege to chat with Ammar Hassan, who covered not one, but four World Cup championships, and he was gracious to tell us all about what it's like to photograph the world's most watched sporting event.
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For Fujifilm photographers who want the ultimate levels of reach, the XF 150-600mm f/5.6-8 R LM OIS WR offers a full frame equivalent of 229-914mm, making it quite the intriguing choice for sports and wildlife photographers alike. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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He has played a significant role in making me into the photographer I am now, so much so that I would've quit without getting started if it was not for his content. This is probably true for a lot of "new generation" creators. Yet, there is a lot of debate surrounding him, as well as other creators. The core of this debate is simply that YouTubers are not "real" photographers and should not be listened to. In this article, we will discuss the importance of educators, presenters, and, of course, real photographers.
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I ate it. I ate it with my partner and made soup out of it the next day. Damn, I hate spoilers. Nevertheless here’s the full lowdown on how to orchestrate a simple food shoot when you’re technically meant to be cooking dinner in a pokey kitchen.
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In this video, Lindsay Adler walks through her pre-planning, shooting, and post-processing of a themed photo shoot and explains from start to finish how to recreate this image.
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When it comes to zoom lenses, the professional standard is f/2.8, which offers a suitably wide aperture for isolating subjects and working in low-light situations. However, many f/2.8 zooms also have f/4 variants, which are both far cheaper and much more portable. This great video essay discusses why you might want to consider f/4 options for your camera bag.
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Ever since the arrival of the RF mount, Canon has shown they are willing to push the boundaries of lens design to new levels. It seems they don't plan to slow down, with two new patents emerging, including one for a 300mm f/2.3 mirror lens with autofocus.
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A photographer who spent $3,000 on a Sony camera was shocked to discover nothing but an empty box and bags of mysterious white powder when it was delivered.
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The wedding season typically runs in the summer months in most countries. However, winter wedding photos can look magical if done right. I spoke to Finnish photographer Lauri Hytti about his experiences and tips on how to master shooting the perfect snowy scene.
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We are lucky to have a huge range of quality supertelephoto zoom lenses to choose from nowadays — so many, in fact, that it can be difficult to know which is right for you. This excellent video review takes a look at three of the best options: the Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports, Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports, and the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS.
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One of the funniest jokes about being a freelancer goes as follows: I did not want to work 9-5, so I quit my job and became a freelancer, and now, I work 24/7. While it sounds funny, it is largely true. Most freelancers work way more than people in regular jobs. But, there is a way to have a freelance job while working normal hours. The secret is staying productive. Here is how I do it.
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There is a common myth about commercial photography: it is a genre just like landscape, macro, and product. However, this could not be further from the truth. As someone who thought so, I spent too much time creating “commercial” work. What I should’ve done instead is this.
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When it comes to creating compelling, professional-level portraits, it can be easy to think that you need a complex, multi-light setup in order to get worthwhile results. And while two or three lights can certainly give you more versatility, you can absolutely create compelling results with just one light. This excellent video tutorial will show you two effective and straightforward one-light setups for portraits.
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If you've ever had to make complex selections in Adobe Photoshop, you know how frustrating it can be. Well, in this video, learn five tips for ensuring you get it exactly right with the easiest method possible.
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Film continues to enjoy a steady resurgence, and one of the most intriguing ways to differentiate it from working with digital is to pick up a 645 medium format camera, which produces negatives far bigger than even the most expensive digital medium format cameras. One of the best such options is the Mamiya 645 AFD, and this great video review takes a look at the camera after running 250 rolls of film through it.
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The 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is the workhorse of choice for many creatives, offering a useful range of focal lengths and a decently wide aperture. However, for those who do not need that fast aperture, an f/4 option is both far cheaper and more portable, making it a nice alternative. Sony's FE 20-70mm f/4 G is one such option, and it offers extra reach at the wide end, making it more versatile. This excellent video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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2022 departed with bad weather, and 2023 roared in with even worse weather, bringing waves of storms marching across North America. Sometimes, bad weather brings opportunities to photograph interesting atmospheric sights, but on balance, as an astrophotographer, I’d rather see clear skies!
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Being a freelancer, I used to love going to coffee shops and working away there. It seemed convenient at first, as there were plenty of like-minded people doing freelancer things. Little did I know that by going to coffee shops, I was actually harming my productivity.
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Having multiple cameras as a photographer is always a good idea as it gives you security and versatility. The good news is you can easily add an extra camera to your arsenal for less than $100.
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Have you had any trouble figuring out the proper exposure when using ND filters for landscape photography? This guide offers various ways to get you started.
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Browse any amateur fashion photography page, and you will quickly discover that a lot of the work is just pretty girls in average outfits. It almost seems like a lot of this “photography” is not so much about the clothes as it is about the girls. In this article, we will discuss the causes of this phenomenon and answer the question: what is real fashion photography?
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The Mac mini has long been a favorite of casual users and creatives alike who want the Mac experience in a desktop without dropping top dollar on a Mac Studio or Mac Pro. And now, with the ability to add an M2 Pro chip, the mini is more capable than ever. This great video review takes a look at the new Mac mini with the M2 Pro chip and just what you can expect from it.
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While the Canon EOS R5 got a lot of the accolades upon its release, the EOS R6 is arguably the most practical workhorse in Canon's lineup, with a balanced feature set that borrows a lot of the advanced capabilities from its bigger sibling without the added luxuries that would drive its price up. The EOS R6 Mark II takes that foundation and includes a range of improvements and new features that add up to a refined and well-rounded professional instrument. This great video review takes a look at the camera for stills work and how it compares with the latest options from Sony and Panasonic.
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Long exposures of moving water are some of the most popular images in landscape photography, as they can calm turbulent motion and reveal patterns and motion that would not be visible otherwise. Creating a successful long exposure is about more than just setting a lengthy shutter speed, though. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer giving you some helpful advice for creating better long exposure seascape images.
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There are some types of clients who I tend to avoid at all costs. This may mean less income, but trust me, the stress is not worth your time and money. At first, it is scary declining a job because you don’t like a client, but trust me when I say it is better to decline the following ones.
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Lightroom has evolved into a tremendously versatile and powerful program, capable of tackling many things that one used to have to switch to Photoshop for. Nonetheless, there is always room to grow. This great video essay features a seasoned Lightroom educator discussing five things he would still like to see Adobe add to the program.
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If you have some trips booked, perhaps you're considering creating your first video of it but aren't sure where to get started. Well, in this video, you'll get some great tips on how to begin and turn that journey into more than just an album of snaps.
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Email marketing is one of the most commonly used tools when trying to land a new job. However, knowing what to write, who to write to, and how to follow up can make or break your campaign. In this article, we will take a look at some dos and don'ts of email marketing.
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Katelyn James breaks down the essential (in my opinion) options you need to know and master on Canon's EOS R6 to be able to nail AF and eye-tracking options ensuring a sharp and tracked subject every time. Her style is easygoing and she's great to listen to and I love her videos and explanations which make sense and put everything into perspective.
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The MacBook Pro has long been the workhorse of choice for many creatives, able to handle the needs of even the most demanding photo and video projects. Apple's transition to their own silicon has revitalized the lineup with improved performance and battery life. The latest model features the new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, and this great video review takes a look at what you can expect from it.
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Aperture is one of the most fundamental and powerful tools you have at your disposal for controlling the look of your images. As such, understanding and mastering every property of it and consequence it has on your photos is crucial. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer giving a nuanced approach for choosing the right aperture for your images.
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We spend years at school learning to read and write text: the meanings of words, what happens when you put them together, how to make yourself more easily understood, methods for convincing others of your point of view, etc. But for many of us, images and visual language are left for us to work out for ourselves. If a picture is worth a thousand words, why do we neglect visual language so much?
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Identifying trends in commercial photography is important. It helps you develop your practice and keeps you on your toes! One of those trends right now is hard light. Hit that subject hard, cast some shadows, and make it look like we're all shooting poolside, sipping piña coladas!
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Canon has been quite aggressive in the development of RF mount lenses, releasing some extreme designs, such as the RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM and the RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM. They seem to have no intentions of slowing down, as another boundary-pushing design has emerged in a recent patent.
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Nikon’s newly released MC-N10 handgrip might be the accessory you need, even if you didn’t know you needed it.
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Lightroom preset maker DVLOP and photo educators SLR Lounge have launched a new take on AI photo editing with their project called Impossible Things. Entering the relatively new, yet increasingly competitive world of AI photo editing, Impossible Things promises to be the fastest and easiest AI photo editor.
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Canon has developed a new sensor that employs a clever trick for increasing dynamic range.
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While Photoshop is still the destination of choice for the most involved and detailed edits, Lightroom has evolved into a tremendously versatile and powerful tool that can tackle quite a few images on its own. Three of its most useful tools for landscape photography are texture, clarity, and dehaze, and this excellent video tutorial will show you how they are used and how to leverage them for better images.
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I tested a range of raw camera files in different development programs in a quest to find the ultimate development tool. This time it is the turn of DxO PhotoLab 6. Lightroom is good, and Capture One was better. How does Photolab 6 compare, and is it worth the investment?
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Photo festivals are a great way to show work outside of where you live. Many of them, such as Arles or Photo 2022, have open calls to pitch work. Since these festivals often show early career artists with established names, they offer deeper insight into current ways within photography.
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Everybody's got to start somewhere. The difference these days is about where you want to start. Whether it's vlogging, still photography, or making feature films, beginner cameras have really branched out into specialized tools in recent years.
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Over the past 13 months, I've been traveling the world, visiting and photographing many beautiful landscapes and cityscapes. But how did I find all those photogenic places? A few months ago, I wrote an article about how to level up your photography through scouting and exploring new locations. But to achieve a good balance while traveling, you should also have a base of known photo spots available. In this article, I show how I find and organize those.
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The Sony a7R series of mirrorless cameras has long been popular for offering some of the highest levels of resolution and image quality available in a full frame camera, but now in the fifth iteration, the a7R V is far from a one trick pony. A range of new and improved capabilities make it a powerhouse camera capable of tackling a variety of scenarios and needs. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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The Canon EOS R5 signaled to the industry that Canon was deadly serious about the professional mirrorless space, but along with it came the EOS R6, which kept many of the former's most impressive capabilities without such a high-resolution sensor and features like 8K raw video, which the vast majority of professionals do not need. It was also significantly cheaper, making it quite the intriguing camera. Now, the second iteration, the EOS R6 Mark II, is here, and it brings with it a number of worthwhile improvements. This great video review takes a look at the performance you can expect from it.
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A few months ago, I reluctantly took the plunge into Instagram reels, like many other still photographers. My most popular reel by a wide margin was a joke comparing “amateurs” to “professionals.” And, although my point was not so much to make a distinction between two classes of photographers, but rather to comment on photographers’ common obsession with gear, sometimes at the expense of fundamentals, I touched a nerve with some people who took exception to what they saw as an insult to amateur photographers.
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Smartphones have built-in cameras that are more powerful than ever, and most of us have one in our pocket just about everywhere we go. And as the classic saying goes: "the best camera is the one that you have with you." So, what can you do to get the most from your smartphone's camera? This excellent video tutorial features 13 tips sure to help you maximize your results.
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Canon has filled out the RF mount lens library at an aggressive pace, with many options that offer impressive performance and push the boundaries of lens design. Nonetheless, there are still some missing lenses. Some new patents have emerged that indicate Canon is working on filling those holes, and they might do so with some fairly extreme designs.
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Most of the time, we try to avoid blur in a photo. But sometimes, it can be nice to add some kind of blur to make it special. I have listed seven ways to add blur to a photo or the illusion of blur. It may help you find inspiration for your photography.
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Our aspect ratios have been trending toward wider dimensions for some time and that makes perfect sense. But, should we cast out a previously staple aspect ratio for good? Does it have any uses?
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While features like lighted buttons have slowly become a bit more popular in the industry, haptic feedback has been largely ignored, despite being an extremely common feature in other technology. However, that might change eventually, as a Canon patent for a vibrating shutter button has appeared.
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They say variety is the spice of life and in the world of the freelance photographer, a broad and knowledgable skill set goes a long way. So, why does knowing your way around a multitude of photographic genres breed so much disrespect in the professional world?
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Do you run a photography business? Do you want to run a photography business? Do you make a tiny amount of money on the side from your photography interests? Do you want to? If you answered yes to any of those questions then this is for you: three big money mistakes people make when it comes to photography and the business side of things.
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Cameras like the Fujifilm GFX 100S have revolutionized the paradigm of medium format gear in the last few years, bringing features and capabilities typically reserved for smaller systems and doing so at a price that competes with the upper levels of full frame. This has made medium format a viable alternative for many photographers, particularly landscape, portrait, and wedding shooters. So, what all can you expect from the switch? This great video features one photographer who made the switch discussing his experience.
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The 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from Sigma is an affordable, fast prime lens. On paper, it looks like it should be a fabulous piece of glass. I put it through its paces to see if it lived up to its marketing blurb.
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Traditionally, professional photographers have shied away from superzoom lenses, as the sacrifices it took to create such a large focal length range were simply too great to make them viable for their demands. On the other hand, they might be worth a second look, especially if you are a landscape photographer. This great video essay discusses why a superzoom lens can often be the ideal choice.
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The Canon RF lens lineup is growing nicely, though there is still a hole at the ultra-wide angle end of the lineup. Thankfully, however, that will likely change soon, with a premium ultra-wide angle lens on the way.
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Many of us are stuck in the middle of winter right now, surrounded by snow, ice, and cold. And while we might want to avoid the cold, if you are willing to bundle up and head outside with your camera, you will often be rewarded with images that range from abstract to ethereal and entrancing. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing three tips sure to improve your winter landscape images.
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For Fujifilm photographers, the XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR and XF 33mm f/1.4 R LM WR offer both a wide angle and a normal focal length in tandem with a wide maximum aperture, making them versatile options for a wide range of genres, including wedding work, street photography, portraiture, and much more. How do they hold up over time? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from them.
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I look back at past work to see how I've come as a photographer and wonder: what's changed in the 15 years since I started taking photographs professionally? How can I use my previous body of work to improve and give me confidence for what is to come?
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Don't let anyone tell you gear doesn't matter. It does. It might not be the only thing that goes into getting good images, but it's certainly a big factor. But not all the gear you need has to be bodies and lenses. Here, learn about five purchases you can make to transform your landscape photography overnight.
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In this informative video, "The Outsiders," Rob Cottle and Geraint Radford head out into the wilds of South Wales to photograph deer. Along the way, they talk about wildlife photography techniques, the kit they use to get the photos, and dabbling in close-up and macro photography.
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I've spent years picking up odd tips, completing online courses, researching techniques, and now, I'm confident in sharing some of that knowledge with the world. Of course, I'm still learning and will continue to pick up tips for the rest of my career. For now, though, I'll share some I wish I had known sooner.
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Lens makers these days are coming up with some incredible options that were unheard of just a few short years ago. That continues here, with the Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 lens put up against the Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 in a battle for the title of best wildlife lens. You could also make a case for it being an action sports lens shootout too. So, how do they perform, and which comes out on top?
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Fujifilm's latest entry in the X Series, the X-T5, brings with it some of the company's newest and most advanced features and capabilities in its most well-known design. Can it compete with the many powerful full frame options on the market? This excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you will be able to expect from it.
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Sony just announced an all-new full-frame lens, the FE 20-70mm F4 G, which combines an ultra-wide focal length with a standard zoom.
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Having recently written a piece in which I explained how my iPhone 14 Pro replaced my professional camera in some cases, I was wondering, in what ways is my phone actually, technically better than my DSLR? It turns out there are a bunch of features that I wish cameras had.
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Pets are one of the most important presences in the lives of a lot of couples, and it is only natural that they might want to include them in engagement or couples portraits. Of course, adding a rambunctious dog or the like to the mix can make your job substantially more difficult. So, how do you satisfy the desires of your clients without pulling out your hair? This helpful video tutorial will give you some useful advice.
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You would be surprised how many times you might want to change the color of something in post-production. This video shows you how to do it quickly and easily in Adobe Lightroom.
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Astrophotographers and even regular photographers have a chance at a comet that is now appearing in our early morning, pre-dawn skies. I'm talking about Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF, rapidly approaching its closest encounter with our sun. It hasn't been to our part of the solar system for about 50,000 years. It's a striking green in color, and not all comets are, so it's created a stir among astrophotographers.
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The new Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens is one of the company's most versatile lenses yet, covering everything from normal to supertelephoto focal lengths and promising to do so with great performance and image quality, making it a potentially fantastic option for sports photography, wildlife work, and more. Can it live up to its potential? This excellent video review takes a look at everything you can expect.
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Modern cameras are impressively capable machines, full of a range of advanced features and capabilities. One of the most useful features has been around for much longer than mirrorless cameras, though; in fact, it goes back to the film era. This great video tutorial will show you where to find it and how to take advantage of it to make your workflow easier and to help you get more shots.
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Sony announced the development of the 300mm f/2.8 G Master OSS lens, with an expected arrival date of early 2024. The lens is sure to be welcomed by a variety of professional sports and wildlife photographers.
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Photography seems like a noble enough activity, but is it really the thing we should be spending all our time, money, and energy on? Here's how to work out if photography is what you should be doing with your life.
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Today, Apple announced the next generation of the Mac mini, powered by the M2 and new M2 Pro chips, as well as the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, powered by the new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips.
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I started my YouTube photography channel a little more than a year ago ,and it's been quite an interesting journey. At first, I just wanted to post some videos as a tool to help me improve my own videography skills, but I quickly realized that I enjoyed creating content and watching the channel grow. Having now created videos including tutorials, gear reviews, and even tongue-in-cheek commentaries for a year, I wanted to give you a glimpse into what it's like and dispel some common misconceptions about what it really means to be a small photography "YouTuber."
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In this video, I test the new Fujifilm X-T5 against the Canon EOS R5, which is my go-to studio camera. Originally, I intended only to compare the image quality of Fuji's new 40-megapixel cropped sensor against Canon's 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, but after using the X-T5 for a number of sessions in my studio I decided to make a friendly general comparison of the two cameras.
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Fujifilm's mirrorless cameras are highly respected for their design, capabilities, and innovative features, and they have become the system of choice for many wedding photographers. This great video essay features a wedding photographer taking you through the Fujifilm cameras, lenses, and accessories he uses for the big day.
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Some of the most stunning images have the simplest color schemes, which is why Gurushots "Mostly White" challenge produced some stunning photos. Gurushots hosts "The World’s Greatest Photo Game,” with regular challenges in which they invite participants to submit and rate photos within a certain theme. In this latest challenge, thousands of entries and millions of votes were submitted. Here are the three winners of the challenge as well as the top 60 rated images.
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Maybe you’ve heard the term "Drip Email" or "Drip Email Campaigns?" Perhaps you’re not exactly sure what that is or how it is one of the most effective ways to retain and convert leads.
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Sony's a7R series has long been respected for offering extremely high levels of resolution (the highest available in a full frame camera, in fact), along with a range of advanced features that make it the workhorse of choice for a wide range of applications. Now in its fifth generation, the a7R is quite refined and can satisfy the needs of many users. This great video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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There's definitely more than meets the eye with this new standard zoom lens option. Aside from a wider range and a smaller size, let’s see what else this has to offer.
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If you're a portrait photographer, you'll know the feeling of getting a new lens and going on your first portrait shoots with it. That feeling was strong for me over a decade ago and it's just as strong now!
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Fujifilm has established itself as a leader in the photography industry with cameras that have earned devoted fans from all genres. Just like any other company, though, there are good and bad aspects. What are the pros and cons of Fujifilm cameras? This excellent video essay takes a deep look at Fujifilm cameras and how they perform in a competitive world.
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It sounds counterintuitive for the once photo-only Instagram to be minimizing photos in favor of video, but it's exactly what's happening, and if you're not on the bandwagon, your photography brand might get left behind.
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I have been very vocal about phones never being able to replace cameras for professional work. But, as photographers, we also indulge in casual photography of things that simply look good. I looked for a camera for such work for the past two years now, and now I found one. It is the unlikely star: iPhone 14 Pro.
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You've got your subject, you've got your elements, you've got your rule of thirds composition, but you're missing something in the foreground. How do you find the perfect foreground to complement your image and give it that real wow factor?
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Panasonic’s latest and greatest cameras will have a much better chance of success.
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Would you judge a photography competition? Do you compete with other photographers? Although competition is accepted in photography, it has significant drawbacks that prevent you from succeeding.
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The beauty of photography is that there are so many genres, techniques, styles, and philosophies that there is room for just about everyone to find a niche that suits them. If you are new to photography and wondering how to find your place in it all, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you 10 different ways you can explore your creativity with a camera.
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Ricoh's GR series of compact cameras have long been considered some of the best options for street photography, as they offer a wide angle lens paired with a large sensor for a compact body, making them discreet but powerful. This excellent video review takes a look at the latest version, the GR IIIx, and how it performs for street photography.
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While every portrait photographer should learn how to work with artificial light, available light is still a fantastic tool for a lot of applications and can be the better choice in a range of situations. Available light can be more versatile than you might suspect, and this excellent video tutorial five different scenarios that make for fantastic portraits.
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Like it or not, it is going to happen. Even the best photographers in the world have bad days when the creative juices are not flowing, when the shots are not coming together. They do not just pack it in when that happens, though. You can always salvage a tough day if you have the right attitude and the right approach to your work. This great video tutorial follows a photographer when he experiences such a day and shows you what he does to power through it and still come home with worthwhile shots.
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I’ve spent a long time trying not to cringe when I announce myself as a professional photographer. I’m not quite sure why this is.
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There's been a long-held belief that higher-megapixel cameras produce more noise in low-light situations. Here, different models of Fuji, Canon, and Sony cameras are compared side-by-side to prove that high-megapixel cameras do not produce more noise than lower-megapixel models when lighting conditions are poor.
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Topaz Labs' DeNoise AI software does an incredible job of cleaning up images and removing unwanted noise. However, it works differently depending on whether you're using it in Lightroom, Photoshop, or as a standalone platform. Here, we take at look the best way to use it as a Photoshop plugin.
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Photography has an air of mystery around it. Not every client understands how photographers work, which leads them to ask silly questions. Perhaps you have heard some of these yourself, perhaps you haven’t. In any case, here are five of my top favorites and how to answer them.
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When it comes to landscape photography, we talk a lot about how to make photos "pop," but there is a fine line between a photo that pops and one that is gaudy. This great video tutorial will show you a simple and straightforward technique for adding a bit of pop to a landscape photo in a tasteful but effective manner.
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Glyn Dewis takes a look at the Sony A7R V with his usual comedic but incredibly informative style. He compares it to his existing A7R IV and looks at the new updates to the software and hardware on this updated camera model. Now if you managed to catch his earlier video that was recently taken down you'd have seen that the issues he had when using the new Sony A7RV whilst focussing on the subject in the video were less than ideal. This refresh of that video comes as Sony reached out and...
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In the past few years, Tamron has reinvented themselves as a company that offers both lenses that make smart compromises to be highly affordable and lenses that push the boundaries of design. The 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD falls into the latter category, and it looks like an impressive option, particularly for wedding photographers, and this great video takes you behind the scenes with the lens and shows you just what it can pull off.
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TTArtisan makes some of the most affordable lenses currently available, and the 28mm f/5.6 is no exception to that trend, offering a relatively wide angle focal length in a lens that fits in the palm of your hand. Can it offer image quality too? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.
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The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is the new addition to the Sigma range for Fuji X Mount to accompany their three existing contemporary f/1.4 prime lenses. So how does this lens fair when it comes to image quality, value for money, and useability? We test it to find out.
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Tamron has established itself as a manufacturer of both practical and competitively priced lenses as well as options that push the boundaries of lens design. The 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD offers Nikon Z mirrorless users a versatile focal length range for an array of applications, and this excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Lighting is everything to photographers, but how much thought have you put into the place where you work? Whether you shoot in that space, record videos and vlogs, or just are in there a lot, you can use your professional lighting to improve the space.
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Okay, so I know a lot of readers may disagree with me on this and have different opinions. My writing here isn't intended to cause any offense, but more to offer an opinion and start a discussion on the matter. My evidence here is based on having worked in the IT industry for over 30 years and working in the photographic industry with creatives. Hopefully, after reading this you'll come up with an understanding which may help your next (or first) computer storage purchase.
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When Fujifilm announced the X-T5 mirrorless camera, they also announced the XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro lens, which offers the versatility of a true macro lens and a normal focal length in a lightweight and portable package, making it an intriguing option for everything from detail work to portrait photography. 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.
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24mm lenses are favored for offering a reasonably wide focal length without going so wide as to start running into major issues with distortion, making them great for events, astrophotography, weddings, and more. Viltrox's AF 24mm f/1.8 offers those advantages at a very reasonable price, and this excellent video review looks at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Selling your images online can be a hassle, as companies are constantly changing their pricing and payout structures, making it difficult to know where to devote your time and efforts. This excellent video breakdown takes a look at a large number of stock services, how their pay structures and demand have evolved, and where the best place to devote your time and energy is in 2023.
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Traveling with photography equipment can be a challenge. Airlines limit the size and weight of cabin bags so much that it's nearly impossible to bring all gear as carry-on. While I've accepted that my tripod has to go into checked luggage, cameras, lenses, filters, and laptop have to stay with me. In this article, I share a little travel hack that helps to get around hand luggage limitations.
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The Sony a7 series of cameras really accelerated the photography world's transition into the mirrorless realm, and the company continues to offer highly competitive options that keep other manufacturers on their toes. Are they right for you? This interesting video features one photographer discussing his thoughts after a year using the Sony system.
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Have you ever wanted to take photos and videos of the Earth from space? Sony has launched an a7R IV nano-satellite into space, offering a user-controllable space photography service.
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I am going to walk you through how these dramatic food shots were created using only one flash and simple light shapers to imitate light coming through a window frame.
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Creating a compelling landscape photo takes good technique, knowledge of weather and light, planning, and, often, a lot of time and effort. And after all that, it takes strong understanding of post-processing and good taste to produce a finished product. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer who will take you through how to edit a landscape photo using Lightroom.
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A quality 50mm lens is one of the most flexible optics a photographer can have in their kit, with the ability to tackle just about everything from portraits to events, street photography, and much more. Such lenses can cost anywhere from under $100 to well over $2,000, which makes the Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.8, which sits at $379, a nice middle-of-the-road option that offers you higher levels of performance and image quality without breaking into stratospheric price levels. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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We spend a lot of time working on various techniques, thinking about composition, etc., but when you boil it down to its essence, what is it that makes a great photo? Every photo has two important qualities that help it stick in the viewer's memory. This insightful video discusses what they are and shares some examples of how they work together to make compelling images.
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Sigma has announced one of their most versatile lenses yet, the 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports.
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Photography is brilliant! It’s an accessible art form adopted by millions of fabulous people. However, there are some things it should have grown out of by now. Here are my bottom six that we should abandon in 2023.
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Instagram’s navigation is set to change in February with a new update that sees the Reels button lose its prime position and the Compose (plus icon) will be placed in the middle.
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For as long as I've owned Photoshop, I've steadfastly held the belief that post-production skills separate most photographers. Here, we see seven pro landscape photographers given a single raw image to work with, and the final results are not only quite amazing, but incredibly different.
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The holy trinity of zoom lenses is traditionally considered an ultra-wide angle zoom (like a 14-24mm f/2.8), a standard zoom (24-70mm f/2.8), and a telephoto zoom (70-200mm f/2.8), so named because they can competently cover the majority of situations a photographer will encounter. However, since that term was coined years ago, the lens and camera market has changed significantly. Is there a new and better holy trinity of zooms? This great video makes a case for one.
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I’ve been covering the Coney Island Polar Bear Plunge like clockwork for well over a decade now, and I think it’s fair to say that I’ve picked up a few useful habits along the way. For those unfamiliar with the event, imagine several hundred folks in various stages of near-nudity packed into a corner of the beach. It’s typically rather cold - though some years have been colder than others - and everyone’s working themselves up into a fevered lather. In this excitement, a drum team forms up, creating a corridor from the top of the beach to the ocean. As the sound of those instruments gets louder and faster and more aggressive, the signal is sounded and the mob stampedes towards the Atlantic.
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A new year and another Photoshop AI feature to get excited about. This time, we're going to look at how you can take poor, low quality images with tiny file sizes and plenty of ugly artifacts and turn them into images of such quality you could even consider printing them.
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The latest generation of Canon mirrorless cameras brings with it a nice array of features for wildlife photography, including fast continuous burst rates and advanced autofocus features. With such advanced systems, it is worth taking the time to customize the camera to your exact needs to ensure you have the best chances of getting those fleeting shots. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced wildlife photographer walking you through how he sets up his Canon camera.
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DXO has a significant release today for pro and semi-pro users of their software. The DXO optical correction technology updated today appears in their PureRAW, PhotoLab, FilmPack, and ViewPoint software.
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Today, I’ll share a brief story about one of my annual photographic rituals that is crucial to every artist's development.
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The wide angle lens is the tool of choice for a lot of landscape photography, but such focal lengths can also be particularly tricky to work with. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer showing you how to create more effective compositions using a wide angle lens.
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There was a time when you had a few options when buying a camera of a particular brand. That's rarely the case anymore and you can find yourself lost in a sea of acronyms and initialisms.
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The votes are in, and you've helped to choose our Fstoppers Photographer of the Year! We've also randomly selected one reader who voted to receive a free Fstoppers tutorial of their choice!
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As much as we might hate to admit it, we all have things that really get under our skin when it comes to other people or groups of people. Landscape photographers are not immune to our petty grumbles, but what's the most annoying thing about them?
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DjJI has released a miniature version of their popular RS3 gimbal series, reducing its overall size to fit into a backpack and giving it enough power to handle most mainstream camera setups.
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Have you ever looked at a scene and thought it was just a bit too sharp, almost harsh? It can be overwhelming, right? But, at the same time, you don't want to make your shots blurry in an attempt to soften things up. Well, that's where diffusion filters come in.
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Starting a freelance career might be one of the most stressful things a human can do to themselves. I am exaggerating, but you get my point. Naturally, your first instinct might be to start chasing every client possible and get as many jobs as possible. Here is why you should stop doing this and focus on something else.
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Do you sometimes look at your images and think there's something missing? Something you can't quite put your finger on, but instinctively know? Very often your images are flat and lack depth. Here's exactly how to fix that issue and add real pop and life to your photos.
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Apple's introduction of the M1 series of chips was a major paradigm shift for the company, bringing with them some of the efficient performance ever seen, allowing for powerful laptops that still managed to last all day. That, combined with other features, like a large and vibrant display, make the 16" MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip the seeming frontrunner for creatives on the go. Can it keep that title in practice? This excellent video review discusses one creative's thoughts after a year with the laptop.
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It is the dream of many amateur photographers to be hired for celebrity photo shoots and high-status advertising gigs. What could be more exciting than photographing a famous singer in a large photo studio with stylists, digital techs, and assistants at your beck and call? Imagine how great it would be to see your photographs published on a magazine or album cover. Best of all, commercial jobs can pay well over $10,000 for a single day of work. Surely this is better than just photographing ordinary folk, right? Maybe not.
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A well-made camera that can make great pictures and only costs $10 sounds too good to be true, right? Here's why you need to add a point and shoot to your camera bag.
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Many of us are mired in the cold and snow of winter, but that does not mean our creative juices should stop flowing. In fact, winter offers a vast range of unique photo opportunities, some requiring long trips and some only needing you to step outside your back door. Macro snowflake photography falls into the latter category, and this excellent video tutorial features an experienced photographer giving five tips to help you come away with the best possible images.
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Compositing in Photoshop comes in many forms, from product and portrait enhancement to fantasy-style images. Every digital artist will have their own workflow, as there are many different ways to get the final results.
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Traditionally, decent image quality from a supertelephoto focal length costs a pretty penny, which is what makes the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM, which costs less than $1,000, a particularly intriguing lens for many creatives. Can it offer performance and image quality that punch above that budget price, though? This excellent video review takes an in-depth look at what you can expect from the lens.
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Did you know that there are various ways to import images into Lightroom? Here, we look at the most effective method, which will save you time and ensure you don't even have to open the import dialog box.
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Tamron has updated their ever-popular 28-75mm lens with a new second-generation version that packs a punch for Sony E mount users. Read on to see how it performed in the field when challenged by a variety of subjects and lighting conditions.
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Photographing female models can be an exciting and creative process, but it's essential to approach it with professionalism and sensitivity. Here are some tips based on my own experience to help you get the best results during a photo shoot with a new model.
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Photoshop is a tremendously complex and intricate program, and as such, there are many different ways to accomplish any specific task. This means that it is worth taking the time to learn some of the best and most efficient ways of doing things, as it will save you a lot of time and effort over the long run. This helpful video tutorial will show you five ways to make your work in Photoshop better and quicker.
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You are a fabulous photographer. I love your work and find it inspiring. When was the last time you said that to someone? Evidence proves that the more you praise others, the better your own work will be.
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With the release of cameras like the EOS R7, Canon has shown they are dedicated to building their APS-C mirrorless platform alongside their well-established full frame line. If you are shooting with such a camera and looking for a kit lens for shooting a variety of scenarios, check out this fantastic video review that compares two good options.
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If you're hoping to improve your videos this year, there is a wealth of information to tap into. In this video, Vuhlandes goes through some easy filmmaking tips that can make all the difference.
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The Fujinon XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR is hailed to be one of the sharpest Fuji lenses for its size and very reasonable price, so how does it fair on the Fuji X-T5 with its 40mp sensor? It's one on a list of lenses that Fujifilm recommends you use to get the best out of the sensor, and if that in fact is the case it certainly does it well.
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One of the calling cards of the Fujifilm X Series is professional features and image quality in significantly smaller packages, and the XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR continues that by giving photographers a useful wide angle focal length that fits in the palm of the hand. 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.
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Few cameras are as unique as the Leica M Monochrom, which, as its name implies, only shoots in black and white. While that might sound like a gimmick, it can provide a notable difference in image rendition in addition to the shooting experience. This interesting video takes a look at the original Leica M Monochromea decade after its release and discusses why it might be worth a look today.
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Capture One has a great reputation for image quality but comes with a premium price tag. Does it live up to its reputation, and is that extra cost worth it compared to other programs? I tested it side by side with Adobe Lightroom Classic.
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Lightroom continues to advance in its capabilities, making it a more versatile editing platform than ever before. If you have not checked out all the new features yet, take a look at this fantastic video tutorial that will take you through some of the most useful new tools, where to find them, and how to use them for quicker and more powerful edits.
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Food photography, like every other genre, has certain pitfalls that can adversely affect your ability to make a good income from it. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced food photographer discussing three common pricing mistakes and how to fix or avoid them.
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I’ve always had a set of “work” cameras and “fun” cameras, the former being big, heavy professional tools and the latter being the kind I’d bring on family trips and for street photography.
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Fujifilm's new X-T5 mirrorless camera brings the beloved X-T series to the next level, offering a range of new features and advanced capabilities paired with a new 40.2-megapixel sensor, making it the most versatile option yet. This great video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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In the last few years, Viltrox has earned a reputation for manufacturing lenses at some of the lowest prices out there that somehow still compete with more expensive options. Their latest offering, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, offers Fujifilm X Series users a nice combination of an ultra-wide aperture and a portrait focal length at a very reasonable price. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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At first sight, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II doesn’t seem to be much different compared to its predecessor. But looks are deceiving. Perhaps it’s the best mirrorless camera for a reasonable price you can buy at this moment. Canon Netherlands gave me this camera for a review.
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In the past few years, Sigma has mostly focused on standard focal lengths between about 20mm and 135mm, but that does not mean they do not have their eyes on more extreme options. In fact, three new patents have emerged for lenses with long focal lengths ranging from 400mm to 700mm.
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When starting out with off-camera flash, especially in portraiture, we don't always have access to a lot of high-tech or expensive strobes and modifiers. Here's a simple setup that will help you create stunning low-key rim lit images with very little equipment required.
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Painting is an art form. So are music, prose, and dance. No one argues otherwise. But photography, since its very inception, has had to justify itself as a legitimate art form.
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What do you think it takes to become a pro landscape photographer? You might come up with a whole range of possible options, but according to this pro, you might be thinking about it all wrong. See what he says it takes.
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24mm prime lenses with wide maximum apertures are popular for a variety of applications, as they offer a versatile wide focal length that is not so wide that significant issues with distortion or composition start to creep in, making them a favorite for everything from events coverage to nightscapes. For Sony users, there is the Sonnar T* E 24mm f/1.8 ZA, and this excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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To improve as a photographer, sometimes, it pays to stop worrying about what others are doing, and, instead, focus on what you do best.
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Digital cameras have been around for just a moment compared to the long history of film photography, and that means within those many decades are some truly interesting and unique cameras. One of the weirdest and most beloved among those is the Rollei 35, and this great video takes a look at five reasons why it was such a fun and interesting camera.
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Photographers who are new to working with artificial light often think that strobes always look distinctly different from natural light. And while it is true that you can shoot creative, highly stylized images that would not be possible with just sunlight, you can use strobes to emulate natural light to make subtle, natural looks. This excellent video tutorial will show you three off-camera flash lighting techniques that will allow you to create effective and compelling portraits.
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If part of your business is capturing headshots, then this is for you. Even if you're thinking of adding it to your portfolio, it's worth checking these essential tips and tricks as, if you're a commercial photographer, you can up your customer's average spend by offering this essential service.
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Now in its fifth generation, the Sony a7R series has earned a reputation for offering a wide range of impressive features paired with the highest-resolution sensor available in a full frame camera, making it the workhorse of choice for a lot of photographers and filmmakers. Is it the best hybrid camera on the market right now? This excellent video review takes a look.
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We're now into 2023, and the Internet still feels a little like the Wild West when it comes to content sharing. There's so many places to share your work with the world. With lots of criticism of popular content sharing platforms, where should you be posting in 2023?
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Nikon has announced the development of two exciting new lenses, the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S and NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8.
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High-end retouching is normally done in Photoshop, so can similar edits be achieved in Lightroom without ever leaving the software? The following tutorial is based upon the tips and techniques provided in lesson 19 of Mastering Adobe Lightroom by Pye Jirsa and is only part of the 49 lessons available in the tutorial.
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With the January sales looming and every company likely offering discounts on new and existing cameras and kit, is it worth considering a new camera body? Is it worth upgrading from your existing equipment to a newer model or even switching from DSLR to mirrorless?
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Architectural photography can be described as one of the more technical kinds of photography. Photo compositions generally need to have a more structured aesthetic. Vertical lines need to be straight, and the best way to ensure this is by using a tilt-shift lens. The question is: which lens is best for architectural photography?
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As part of Sigma’s Contemporary lens line, the 56mm f/1.4 DC DN is designed to offer exceptional image quality and performance all in a small, convenient package. With a 35mm equivalent of 84mm, this lens is great for portraiture, street photography, pet photography, travel work, and any low-light shooting situations.
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Panasonic's LUMIX cameras have been a quiet but profound success in photography. Now, the company has announced the sequel to the beloved mirrorless and it has one improvement that caused quite the stir.
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Photography is a lifelong commitment. There is always something new to learn, an interesting subject to photograph, and a skill to improve. How do you avoid stagnating? This great video discusses the topic and how one photographer keeps himself motivated to continually evolve and grow as a creative.
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It's very easy to find information online about new cameras, news, rumors, reviews, and which camera you should be using right now. But there's far less information to be found about older cameras. Like many photographers, I find it interesting to look at the origins of photography and how far the science and technology in cameras has come in a relatively short period of time.
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When Canon got serious about mirrorless camera and lenses, they put all their attention into developing full frame options. Of course, many users prefer APS-C cameras for their lower prices, smaller form factor, and extra reach. It looks like those users will be happy in 2023, with more APS-C cameras and lenses on the way.
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Impostor Syndrome can be an insidious thing: you work hard at your craft and develop a strong creative voice, and yet, despite all that effort and experience, you feel as if you do not know what you are doing and your work is not worthwhile. Why do so many photographers experience Impostor Syndrome, and what can they do about it? This excellent video features an experienced creative discussing his experience with the issue and how he tackles it.
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A new year brings thoughts of new beginnings and new opportunities. Resolutions are common this time of year. You undoubtedly have plans to join a gym this year, but why not also make a goal of working on a new photo project? There are several projects you might consider undertaking in 2023, ranging from those that require you to create something original each day to those that will be successful with a less frequent contribution on your part.
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Around 2010, I upgraded computers and was very disappointed that I’d lost my CD of Photoshop. I was even more disappointed when I went to the store and remembered how expensive it was. Begrudgingly, I did re-purchase Photoshop.
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Many photographers do not want to spend top dollar for high-level bodies, but still need and appreciate advanced features like fast burst rates and powerful autofocus. For Canon shooters, two options that fit that bill are the EOS R6 Mark II and EOS R7. Which is right for you, though? This interesting video discusses the two in the context of a demanding genre, bird photography.
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Here are some tips and tricks that help make a wedding photography business successful.
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The a7R V is the first AI-based camera from Sony. It has a dedicated AI processing chip, deep-learning algorithms, human pose detection, 8 stops of IBIS, and 61 megapixels of resolution. But is it really the best Alpha ever?
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Canon cameras are some of the most popular out there, but just like every other brand, they are not perfect. How do they compare to other options? This excellent video discusses the good and bad of Canon cameras.
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Make 2023 a year of creative breakthrough. We all know the key to getting better is consistency. Doing something over and over again will eventually make you better at anything. 52Frames is a photography community that encourages you to improve by prioritizing consistency over perfection: a photo every week for a year. Photography, like any other skill, requires practice. It’s like going to the gym: you need a training plan, with clear goals and ways to achieve them.
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This is an essential watch if you love taking photos with your phone but aren't sure whether you can get a great image or not. In this video, Glyn Dewis shows how mobile photography is possible for everyone using Adobe's Lightroom and Photoshop Mobile software.
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Medium format cameras mostly live in studios, where the controlled lighting and less demanding autofocus and burst rates allow them to shine. What happens if you take them out of that environment and put them in the hands of a wedding photographer? This great video shows the results.
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While so many resources about both the technical and logistical sides of photography can be found in books and video tutorials, there are things that only time can teach. Here are some of the things I’d love to whisper to my younger self that might be of help to others as well.
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Color range masks are nothing new within Lightroom. However, they have become increasingly powerful the last couple of years, and you absolutely should be utilizing them in your work.
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I'm very much an advocate of the year-in-review photo post as a step on the path to self-improvement. Landscape photographer and YouTuber Mark Denney has an even better idea you should consider, though.
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Want to start the new year with a free tutorial from Fstoppers? All you have to do is help us choose our Photographer of the Year!
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The fight for making the best premium portrait lens normally comes down to a few properties: a short telephoto focal length, a wide aperture, stellar sharpness (even wide open), and great bokeh. This lens offers all four of those things, often in spades. Is it the ultimate option for portrait photographers? This excellent video review takes a look.
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When it comes to lenses that punch above their weight, Viltrox is quickly becoming one of the photography world's favorite manufacturers, releasing many ultra-affordable lenses that offer decent or even good performance and image quality despite those rock-bottom prices. Their latest offering, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, offers Fujifilm users an ultra-wide aperture paired with a useful focal length. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in use.
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With AI being all the rage lately, I thought I would test run a plot generator story of Canon versus Sony. I put in some spicy adjectives and plotted the main storyline: the photographers cross paths at the Imagining USA Nikon booth, and I let AI write a plot that will have you both roaring with laughter and fuming with offense. Grab your popcorn, and enjoy a good laugh.
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Along with only a few other luminaries of his generation, Gian Paolo Barbieri helped to create the foundations of modern fashion photography. By pushing fashion photography beyond fashion commerce, the depth of Barbieri’s images forces us to consider them as art as much as commerce. I had the chance to ask Barbieri a few questions about being a pioneer in his field and what it takes to create a legacy.
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The new Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera offers some of the company's most advanced features and capabilities, all in the popular and beloved X-T style body. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Lightroom has a wide variety of tools for organizing and finding your images, and one of the most useful features is Smart Collections. If you have not yet taken advantage of Smart Collections, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you what they are and how to take advantage of them for organizing your photos.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2022, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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Many people think of Lightroom as a place for cataloging their photos and doing some light edits and Photoshop as the destination for serious post-processing, but in recent iterations, Lightroom has come a long way in its capabilities. You can now do quite a lot in the application, and this excellent video tutorial will show you 10 such techniques to take your edits furthers.
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When it comes to choice of camera, we have more options than ever, each with an array of powerful and useful features. Sony offers some of the most capable cameras on the market. This video takes a look at Sony's offerings and discusses five reasons why they are worth shooting with.
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Adding a finishing touch to your photos can be done in many ways. You can do it yourself, or buy presets online and uses the look someone else has made for you and many others. You can also make your own preset from unique post-processing in your favorite editing software.
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Canon has continued to plow full speed ahead with their mirrorless camera and lens development. It looks like they have no intention of slowing down either, with a new camera coming in February.
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Wildlife photography is a challenging but rewarding genre that requires a lot of solid technique and specialized knowledge in order to create compelling images. If you are new to the genre and looking to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will give you five helpful tips sure to put you on the right track to better wildlife shots.
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I don't hide that I'm a Fujifilm fanboy. My last article described how it's the perfect system for me. I purchased two Fujifilm XT-5 camera bodies the day they were released and used them at weddings just a few days later.
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Fujifilm X-T5 and X-H2 were major steps forward for the company, offering a brand new high-resolution sensor in tandem with a range of advanced features that help them compete with a variety of full frame cameras. This excellent video review takes a look at the X-T5 and how it compares with the Sony a7 IV and Canon EOS R6 Mark II.
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Becoming a professional photographer takes a lot more than simply being good with a camera and having creative vision. In fact, a lot of talented photographers languish as professionals because they are not prepared for the demands that come along with tying your income to your images. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced photographer discussing some of the important lessons budding professionals need to learn.
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Many professional photographers are certain to have images that were taken on outdated cameras or taken on low-resolution sensors. But what happens if you want to print these images large or bring them up to current camera technology standards? Well, Luminar Neo might just be the answer for you.
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Wedding photography is a challenging and competitive genre, and it takes a lot of steady work and commitment to build a successful business. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced wedding photographer discussing five helpful tips that will improve your own wedding photography business.
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When it comes to portrait photography, you might think that you need complex multi-light setups in order to create professional images, and while these certainly have their place, you might be surprised by how much you can accomplish with just a single light. This excellent video tutorial will show you three creative and effective one-light setups for portrait photography.
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Viltrox has established themselves as a manufacturer of lenses priced at extremely competitive levels, and despite those low costs, many of their options keep pace with much more expensive offerings. Their latest lens, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, offers Fujifilm shooters a nice portrait focal length paired with an extremely wide maximum aperture, all at a very affordable price. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Fujifilm's GFX series of mirrorless cameras have made medium format more affordable and accessible than ever, but lenses for the GF mount remain fairly expensive. That is why, at $999, the Venus Optics Laowa 19mm f/2.8 Zero-D is a particularly intriguing option, especially when paired with its extra-wide focal length and maximum aperture. 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 practice.
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Do different raw programs develop your camera's raw files the same? Do those programs treat various camera brands equally? Testing them side by side, the answer to both those questions is a definite no. Here's how Lightroom Classic stands up.
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Canon's L series lenses are legendary, known for rugged construction, reliable performance, and class-leading image quality. With all that comes high prices, however. Nonetheless, the L series has been around for over 30 years, and that means there are some gems from past years that cost a fraction of what the most current models do. This great video review takes a look at one such lens, the EF 20-35mm f/2.8L.
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When you are new to photography, it can feel like professionals know exactly what they want and how to achieve it, but that is how social media can be quite misleading. The truth is that professionals make mistakes all the time; in fact, they embrace them. This excellent video tutorial will take you behind the scenes of a photographer's portrait lighting process and show you how mistakes can lead you to a great final image.
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Today, let’s have a look at specs that really matter to the life of a photographer.
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Street photography is a challenging genre that requires confidence, solid technique, and fast instincts. If you are new to street work and looking to improve, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced street photographer discussing five important lessons he has learned after a decade of work.
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Of course, it would all be great if every portrait photographer could afford their own studio, but that simply is not feasible for most of us. That being said, you would be surprised how little space you need to make creative, compelling, and professional portraits. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to light and shoot portraits in a small hallway.
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Nowadays, photographers who use APS-C cameras have a pretty good selection of third-party lenses on the market that are capable of professional results, and this is becoming especially true in the ultra-wide arena.
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24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are some of the most commonly used options in a variety of genres, as their versatile focal length range and wide maximum aperture make them at home in plenty of different applications. However, such lenses can be quite expensive, sometimes topping $2,000. The Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 is significantly more affordable. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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A black and white portrait can be one of the most powerful ways to represent a person, but it takes more than just desaturating a color image to make an effective final photo. If you would like to learn how to do that, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will give you five tips sure to help you create better black and white portraits.
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Sharpening your images can either go two ways: oversharpened or not quite the mark of what you are seeking. What if you had full control of the sharpening process in a simple, straightforward plugin? Sound interesting?
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Photographers are constantly asked to work for less than they are worth or even for free, and that can often put us on the defensive, ready to reject any offer that will not bring us meaningful income. That can sometimes stop us from saying yes when it would actually be the best thing for us. This excellent video essay is a reminder of how saying yes can sometimes bring benefits beyond money.
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When it comes to high-end portrait retouching, Capture One is the choice of many photographers, renowned for its handling of raw files. If you would like to learn how to process a portrait using both Capture One and Photoshop, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you how to edit an image for the best results.
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When it comes to landscape photography, the most common type of compositing we engage in is exposure bracketing for increased dynamic range. Of course, you can also use compositing techniques for artistic purposes as well. This excellent video tutorial will show you how an experienced landscape photographer used the power of compositing to create a single compelling image.
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We look at what makes a successful backup system, the components, the ideal outcome, and how we test that all is working before the inevitable happens.
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Learning all the technique that goes into using a camera to create a compelling, well-composed photo is an undertaking all itself, but then comes the post-processing that is required to create a polished, complete image. Just like using your camera, there are some common mistakes new photographers make when editing their images. This great video tutorial discusses five such mistakes and what you can do to avoid them.
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Sony's a7 series has long been respected as some of the most well-balanced cameras available, offering features and capabilities that satisfy the needs of many photographers and filmmakers without more extreme options that often drive prices higher. This great video review features a creative discussing why among multiple brands and camera bodies, the a7 IV was the camera he returned to the most in 2022.
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Photographers and filmmakers can always use more storage. Today only, B&H is offering up to $750 SanDisk and Western Digital memory cards, hard drives, and flash drives.
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I received the brand new Sony a7R V from Sony Netherlands for a review. It was a wonderful opportunity to find out if the autofocus is as good as advertised. Looking at the camera in a critical way makes me wonder: which photographer is the camera intended for?
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Fujifilm's X-H2 mirrorless camera is one of the most major advancements in the popular and highly regarded X Series, bringing a 40.2-megapixel high-resolution sensor and surrounding it with a variety of new features and upgrades, all enclosed in the company's classic design. This great video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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2022 is fast drawing to a close. There have been some outstanding releases this year, including lenses, bodies, and accessories. But what is the camera of the year? Take a look and see what comes out on top in the Pixel Awards, run by influential industry insiders.
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135mm lenses have long been a popular alternative to the classic 85mm focal length for portrait photography, offering a little more flattering telephoto compression and a different perspective that stands out a bit. Sony users have a choice of two standout lenses, the Samyang AF 135mm f/1.8 FE and Sony FE 135mm f/1.8 GM, both of which offer highly competitive performance. This excellent video comparison takes a look at both options to help you pick the right one for you.
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Venus Optics has gained a reputation for producing unique and interesting lenses that allow photographers to explore the boundaries of their creativity. One of their newest lenses is the Laowa Argus 25mm f/0.95 APS-C APO, which offers a wide variety of APS-C users an ultra-wide aperture in tandem with a versatile and relatively neutral focal length. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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The Sony a7 IV and Fujifilm X-H2 are two of the most well-balanced mirrorless cameras currently on the market at their price point, and as such, they are great bread and butter options for a wide range of photographers and filmmakers. If you are interested in the two cameras and wondering which is right for you, check out this excellent video comparison that will help you pick between the two.
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This article could have easily been headlined "the best smartphone camera of 2022" and still been accurate, but in what is an astounding piece of data-gathering work, popular tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee has gathered millions of votes on 16 phones from hundreds of thousands of users to produce what is likely the definitive test for smartphone photography.
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85mm lenses with wide maximum apertures are some of the most prized options out there, where their short telephoto focal length and narrow depth of field capabilities make them ideal options for portrait photographers. However, such lenses can easily run north of $2,000, which is what makes the Meike 85mm f/1.8, which sits at less than $200, so refreshing. Can it provide the performance and image quality pros need at that price? This excellent video review takes a look.
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While most genres place a lot of emphasis on sharpness, it is often of particular importance in landscape photography. Should we be placing so much emphasis on it, though? Are there other factors that should take priority? This insightful video discusses the issue and all of the other factors besides sharpness that we should consider before we edit a landscape image.
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In a previous article, I shared my favorite way of dealing with an overcast sky in photography. Today, we will focus on the opposite: clear skies. Those can also be a challenge for landscape photographers. But there are ways to take great photos under such conditions, and in this article, we'll explore several of them.
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Along with aperture and ISO, shutter speed is one of the fundamental parameters that allow you to create balanced exposures and take creative control over your photos. If you are new to photography and interested in learning about how to use shutter speed more effectively, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you what you need to know.
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There is probably no camera brand more polarizing than Leica, with some seeing their cameras as overpriced status symbols and others absolutely swearing by the experience and the image output. So, is it worth it? This great video review takes a look at the new Leica M11 to answer that question.
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It's a mystery how this little one-inch wonder remained unknown to me for so long. I finally discovered it when — bemoaning my fate to spend over two thousand on a Canon tilt-shift macro — a colleague suggested trying an extension tube.
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The Fujifilm X-T5 and X-H2 mirrorless cameras are two of the newest and most capable options from the company, offering users a wide array of advanced features and capabilities that make them competent in just about any situation you can throw at them. With a lot of similarities between the two cameras, it might be hard to know which is right for your work. This excellent video will help you pick between the two options.
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The clean, white background portrait style is a classic look that will always be in demand for a wide range of clients and applications. However, it takes a bit of lighting savvy to create a pure white background while retaining crisp contrast and defining shadows on your subject. If you are wondering how to achieve that, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know.
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Optimize and save a ton of space, speed up your computer, and make it easy to find your files.
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Are you struggling for Christmas gift ideas for friends or family members who love photography? Here's a list of great items that all come in under $100.
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Do you think you know how to take good portrait photos? Here, a highly credentialed professional portrait photographer gives his top five tips for improving portrait images. How many of them do you use?
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There are quite a few extensions available by Luminar. Deciding which one is right and if it does what it says can take a while. This excellent video takes a look at all of the extensions and explains how each one works and what it does.
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Canon's RF lenses have received a lot of acclaim for their high performance and image quality and boundary-pushing designs, but with all those things come high price tags. At $299, the RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is a breath of fresh air, and on an APS-C camera, its 26mm equivalent focal length makes it a potentially interesting option for a variety of needs. This great video review takes a look at the lens on the EOS R7 and if it can provide the performance and image quality you need.
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Street photography is an exciting genre that can quickly sharpen your technical and creative skills, but it also is not for the faint of heart. If you are interested in street photography but find yourself a bit shy to tackle it, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced shooter giving five helpful tips for apprehensive photographers.
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Video post-production leader DaVinci Resolve has just released its newest version for iPad.
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Sometimes, loyalty is the gift that keeps on giving. Now, before a large sector of the reading audience skips straight from the title of this essay to the comment section to tell me I’m a fanboy or being foolish for proposing the idea that committing to one brand is sometimes a good idea, let me start off with a few concessions.
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If you are new to photography, you have probably noticed professionals talking about the need for dual card slots a lot, sometimes so much so that they will refuse to buy a camera that only has a single card slot. Why is that so important? Do you really need two card slots? This excellent video features an experienced photographer discussing some of the reasons photographers use two card slots and how they can benefit you.
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The Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers a lot of the capabilities of the EOS R5 at a lower price, making it appealing for many filmmakers who do not need capabilities like 8K raw output. This excellent video review takes a look at the EOS R6 Mark II for video work and the sort of quality and performance you can expect from it in use.
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This is an excellent time of year for photography. Here are some tips for getting better photos to help preserve your memories of these celebrations.
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Photographers often look down on superzoom lenses, viewing them as too much of a compromise in image quality for the convenience they offer. However, they offer more than convenience, and with advances in image quality in recent years, they are much more viable than in the past. This great video essay discusses some of the reasons why you should consider adding one to your kit.
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The Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G lens is a portable and remarkably versatile wide angle zoom lens that is also relatively affordable for a professional-level option. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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The fifth generation of Sony’s a7R line is expected to be a very capable camera for a wide variety of photography styles. Let’s see what aspects of this camera will be useful for landscape photography.
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Believe it or not, 2023 is just about upon us, and camera technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace. It is an exciting time for gear nerds, but of course, no camera is perfect. If you could pick a feature to add to your camera, what would you choose? This neat video discusses some many of us would like to see in the coming year.
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Many of us have pets at home, and what better way to put your photographic skills to use than to create memorable portraits of your furry friends? This great video tutorial will show you how to use one light to create portraits of your pet that capture all their happiness and personality.
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I often hear people dismissing compositional rules, especially the Rule of Thirds. However, there is an excellent reason why rejecting them can often lead to failure. Therefore, adopting them will make you a better photographer.
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Samyang has established themselves as a creator of very competitively priced lenses that still offer impressive image quality. After a few years of building out their autofocus lineup, portrait photographers now have the choice between the AF 75mm f/1.8 FE and AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II. So, which is right for your work? This excellent video comparison will help you choose the right one for you.
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When it first came out in 2013, the Sony a7R was one of the most powerful and impressive mirrorless cameras ever made, particularly at a time when the technology was still fledgling and finding its footing. Now in its fifth generation, the a7R V is widely regarded as one of the most advanced mirrorless cameras on the market. How far has image quality really come, though? This great video takes a look.
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When Techart sent for review the TZM-02 Leica M to Nikon Z autofocus adapter, there was one small problem in that I couldn't source any Leica lenses for the review, only Canon EF. But the great thing about the adapter is that it can be stacked with additional adapters, allowing for versatility for a wide range of lenses, including the Canon EF mount. Armed with both adapters, I set about testing the capabilities of these on the Nikon Z 7II.
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When they came to the scene with the a7 series, Sony set the camera industry on fire by bringing a range of innovative designs and features and an aggressive upgrade cycle that kept the likes of Canon and Nikon on their toes. After almost a decade on the market with their full frame cameras, the company's gear is now in the hands of countless photographers. So, how do they compare to other major brands after all this time? This great video features an experienced photographer discussing his thoughts after eight years.
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Tamron has earned a reputation for producing lenses that make smart compromises to allow them to offer excellent performance and image quality at prices that are significantly more affordable than many first-party lenses. The new 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD is one of their more interesting lenses, offering an unusual focal length range in a small package. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Getting it right in camera is definitely the best thing to do. If you can correctly light, compose, and white balance your footage and images, then you're probably going to have an easier time. However, there are situations when the lighting just isn't working or you need to capture footage in less-than-ideal situations. In those situations, use Topaz Labs. Right now, they're having a Hholiday sale.
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Christmas is almost upon us and many people are still struggling to find a thoughtful and useful gift for friends and family. If they're an avid photographer, that might seem like a path to a successful present, but it's a minefield. Here are five last-minute ideas.
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No one really enjoys being out in heavy rain or other bad weather, and it can certainly be tempting to leave your gear in the bag and avoid heading outside. However, if you are willing to bundle up and brave the elements, you will often be rewarded with moody, compelling images that would not be possible in sunny skies. This great video tutorial will show you how bad weather can lead to great landscape photos.
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In photography, the term leading lines is a compositional technique used to draw a viewer's eye to the subject of the photo. These lines can be created by any object in the scene like a road or path, a fence or railing, a distant object like a mountain, and any other structure that creates a real or imaginary line in your image.
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Strobes have long been the choice of artificial lighting for photographers, but in recent years, there have been major advancements in the power and capabilities of constant lights, and some photographers have begun to use them for their work. This excellent video tutorial discusses the pros and cons of each to help you choose the right option for your work.
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Wide angle lenses are highly useful tools that have a place in many genres, but they can also be quite challenging to create compelling images with. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing one of the most common mistakes photographers make with wide angle lenses and how to fix it.
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A lot has changed from the previous version of ACDSee. It has new tools and powerful AI features. If you are looking for Digital Asset Management, developing, and editing tool, the ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate 2023 may meet your needs. Here's a workflow introducing you to and guiding you through the main features of this dynamic software.
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Mount Fuji is one of the most iconic locations on the planet and it is often photographed. However, shooting it at sunrise, in the fog, and with a drone are three slightly rarer occurrences, and all feature in this video!
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In 2013, Tamron released the SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD, which became a runaway hit for the company, offering access to extreme focal lengths at a much more affordable price than before. In the decade since, 150-600mm lenses have exploded on the market, with many options available. This excellent video review takes a look at one such option, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports, and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Adobe ruled the waves for image processing. However, evermore people are jumping that ship in favor of alternative methods. Most have similar functions, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. If you are thinking about changing, here are some alternative combined digital asset management, photo development, and editing options.
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Many photographers find themselves spending hours in Lightroom performing many of the same tasks over and over, and as such, taking the time to make your workflow as efficient as possible will pay off in the long run. This excellent video tutorial features 10 of the most useful keyboard shortcuts in Lightroom to help you complete your edits more quickly.
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Do you think your editing skills can match the pros? Check out these five masking techniques that the pros use in Photoshop to see if you're as skilled as you think you might be.
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Certain tools, including lenses, are often intended to be used in specific ways. However, by working in an unintended manner, you can create something unique and unexpected.
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2022 has been quite the year for the industry, with a variety of impressive cameras and lenses making their way to the market. 2023 looks like it will be another exciting year, with a lot to come from all the big players in the industry. This great video essay discusses what we can expect from the likes of Canon, Nikon, Sony, and more.
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One of the most challenging aspects of landscape photography is that we have no control over the light or the conditions. And while bad light and weather can be frustrating to experience, you should not let them stop you from making photos. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to create compelling landscape images even when the light and weather are not cooperating.
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When I was working in the photo industry in the late 90s and early 00s, Nikon was king. Canon was already a close second or even considered the leading brand, depending on which photographer one spoke with. Both companies offered a robust selection of lenses, advanced camera bodies, and excellent autofocus systems. And then there were the outlier brands, like Minolta, Olympus, and Pentax, all who made some wonderful cameras, but were not nearly as popular as tools for professionals. Minolta was, perhaps, one of the most adventurous camera makers.
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Do you know what the Luminance slider in Lightroom does and why it's so important that you do? Sure, you can slide it left and right and watch your image change before your eyes, but do you actually know what's happening and why this slider is so powerful?
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I took a look at Radiant Photo when it first came out in September. I found it a capable editor, aimed mostly using AI to improve your color and the overall look of shadows, highlights, and other image parameters. It uses a pixel-by-pixel approach, which the developers claim gives you more creative control of the final result.
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There are a lot of ways for a photographer to make a composition. Although some won’t like to accept it, the rule of third often fits quite nicely. But no matter what you use as a basis for composition, we always use negative space. Most of us just don’t realize it.
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Samyang has long had a reputation for producing sharp and highly affordable manual focus lenses, but in recent years, they have expanded into autofocus options while still keeping them at highly competitive prices. One of their most impressive lenses is the AF 135mm f/1.8 FE, which combines a useful portrait focal length with a very wide maximum aperture. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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As a sub-genre of landscape photography, forest work shares a lot of similarities with its larger parent genre, but there are some distinct differences one must be aware of to create the best possible shots. If you would like to improve your forest imagery, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you three helpful tips sure to improve your work.
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Sigma makes some of the most popular and capable lenses available today. And until the end of Saturday, you can save $250 on one of their best options.
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With Adobe just releasing their latest iteration of Lightroom Classic, I thought now might be the time to look at how to optimize and speed up Adobe's favorite image management and editing application.
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Along with aperture and shutter speed, ISO is one of the three fundamental parameters that control the balance of exposure in your images, and as such, mastering it is crucial to becoming a competent and confident photographer. If you are new to photography and looking to improve, check out this great video tutorial that will give you a practical guide to ISO and how to use it in your work.
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When I worked in camera marketing, one of the toughest sells around the mid-2010s was camcorders. Why spend hundreds or thousands of dollars when a DSLR can give you equivalent image quality and, on paper, do more? YouTuber Tom Buck answers that question after a couple of months of using one.
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ACDSee is becoming a household name in the photography industry. The latest software from the company boasts a whole host of incredible new features.
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As Canon keeps filling out their RF mount lens library, more patents of interesting and innovative lenses have continued to emerge. Two new patents recently came to light, and these lenses look like potentially fantastic options for sports and wildlife photographers.
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The drone market has matured considerably in recent years, and photographers and filmmakers now have a variety of devices to choose from that fit just about every budget and set of needs. One of the more affordable options is the new DJI Mini 3, which packs a remarkable amount of tech is an extremely portable package. This great video review takes a look at the new drone and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Today, I’m taking a look at the new Sony FX30, the latest entrant in Sony’s cinema line.
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Few things are more hyped in photography than the development of global shutters, which offer a wide range of advantages over more traditional counterparts. The holy grail is a consumer-level full frame global shutter, and thanks to Canon's recent announcement, we are getting closer to that.
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The new Fujifilm X-T5 is the latest entry in the company's highly popular X Series line of mirrorless cameras. It brings with it some major steps forward, most notable being a major bump in resolution over the X-T4, which makes it quite appealing for genres like portrait and wedding photography. This excellent video review takes a look at the new X-T5 for wedding work and how well its performance and image quality stand up in a demanding genre.
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Lightroom is full of powerful tools for all types of photography. None of them are as effective as radial filters to create dramatic results like these.
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Canon's mirrorless lenses have generally been quite impressive, offering exciting levels of image quality and performance, even better than some of the most respected EF lenses. Nonetheless, the RF lens library still has quite a few missing lenses. It looks like Canon will get off to a quick start in 2023, though, with some new high-level options on the way.
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There are few better feelings than a great lens, a great model, and a great location. In this video, go behind the scenes with Mitch Lally as he roams an autumnal Tokyo taking portraits with a much sought-after Sigma prime.
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With SmallRig’s multitude of tools and support gear, you’d probably have a lot of expectations for their tripod. Let’s see what this carbon fiber travel tripod has to offer.
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While Photoshop is where the most serious editing generally takes place, you can accomplish quite a lot in Lightroom, especially with the newer versions of the program. If you would like to improve your Lightroom skills, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you three different ways to make your subject pop using the program.
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Wide-aperture 85mm lenses are some of the most popular out there, and both Canon and Sigma make some of the most impressive options out there. If you are looking for a high-quality portrait lens, check out this excellent video comparison of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM and Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art.
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A couple of days ago, my colleague, Ivor Rackham, had a positive review of Affinity Photo 2. What many people miss is that Affinity Photo is also an excellent astro image-processing tool.
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A lot of photo editing focuses on adjusting the shadows and the highlights of an image, as they are the extremes of a photo and thus, what the eye is drawn to. That being said, a normal image consists mostly of midtones, so knowing how to select and edit them independently of the shadows and highlights is a crucial skill for any photographer. This excellent video tutorial will show you how to select and edit the midtones of an image in Photoshop.
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Photographing male models can be a challenging but rewarding experience for a photographer. In order to create stunning and memorable images, it's essential to direct the model and guide them into confident poses that showcase their best features.
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Here are 20 quick, essential tips on how to keep your photography business running and up to date in an age where technology changes day to day.
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The 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is the workhorse of choice for a huge range of professionals, suitable for portraits, weddings, events, and much more. For Fujifilm shooters, there is the XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can except from it in practice.
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With all the different aspects that go into creating a successful image, landscape photography can be a daunting genre to get started in. If you are new to the genre and looking to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you seven common mistakes new photographers make and how to fix them or avoid them in the first place.
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We cannot live without our phones. Furthermore, phone apps that access your photos can be a lot of fun. However, they have a dark side, and maybe we should start to be more cautious about using them.
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Many people believe that size matters, especially when it comes to photography. But what if you could get a high-quality camera worth $6,000 and almost do away with all your bulky gear? Check out the new Leica Q2 Ghost camera.
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TikTok studio rentals are going to be a huge trend in the future for photo studios looking to increase their profitability. With such a competitive market, it can be difficult for photo studios to succeed.
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In landscape photography, we do not get control over the light on the scene, but just like any other genre, light can make or break an image. Knowing how to read the light, predict its evolution, and wait for it to be just right is crucial to creating successful images. This great video tutorial will show you why just how much of a difference it can make.
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Hop on Instagram or the like, and you will find plenty of nearly identical photos of famous locations, often to the point that it would be essentially impossible to create an image of such a place that would actually stand out from the crowd. So, is it even worth taking the time and putting in the effort and resources to make such images? This excellent video essay discusses the topic and offers some worthwhile advice.
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With ever-increasing lens choices from both first-party and third-party manufacturers, how do you know what lens is going to be right for you and your needs? Articles such as this on Fstoppers and YouTube videos all help in your search, but how do you narrow your search to the best lens for your requirements?
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Just in time for holiday photos, Skylum has a new extension for Luminar Neo. It's the seventh extension offered this year, and it's called Magic LightAI. The release is scheduled for December 15.
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One of the wonderful things about landscape photography is that there are so many ways to photograph a single scene, and because of that, one location can yield dozens of photographs. If you are not taking the time to explore your creative voice through experimentation, though, you might be missing out on a lot of opportunities. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing why experimentation is so crucial to finding success.
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A question to ask yourself before composing your landscape photos is: what's the subject? Having a clear answer to that will help you create good photographs. But there are situations where no matter how you position your camera, some elements in the frame will distract from the main subject. In this article, I share editing techniques you can use to alleviate that problem.
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While many pros working in studios will use complex multi-light setups for portraits, when you are shooting on location, it is often much better to employ a single light that allows you to be a bit more nimble. And with a bit of lighting savvy, you can still create fantastic professional-level portraits. This great video tutorial will show five easy one-light setups sure to help you make compelling images.
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The list of monthly subscriptions photographers are pressured to keep up becomes longer every year. From Dropbox to Pixieset, Adobe to Honeybook, and Shootproof to Fundy, photographers' monthly bills multiply annually. Now, Capture One wants a piece of the pie, and its community is not happy about the announcement.
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ChatGPT has been a breakthrough moment for some industries this past week. It can literally turn ideas into reality, but is it good enough to create motion graphics in Adobe’s After Effects?
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We often hear about how gear does not matter, and while that is a well-meaning sentiment, the truth is a bit more nuanced than that. In fact, the right piece of gear can actually make you a better photographer. This great video essay discusses why that is and will help you find a little inspiration along the way.
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35mm lenses with wide apertures are some of the most important and popular options out there, equally at home in a huge range of scenarios, including portraits, weddings, events, astrophotography, and more. Premium 35mm lenses can easily run north of $1,500, which makes the Viltrox 35mm f/1.8 AF a breath of fresh air. This great video review takes a look at the lens and if its performance and image quality allow it to compete with those much more expensive options.
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Santa's coming! And for many photography enthusiasts, that means gear! For the luckiest amongst you, it might mean lenses and bodies. Others might be looking forward to a Loupedeck Live or Simplr Strap. That stuff is fantastic, too. For me, though, wedding photography is my job, and I don't ask Santa for gadgets because I buy them when needed. Instead, my family now usually asks: "which book do you want for Christmas?"
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DJI recently released the Mini 3, the latest entry in the company's respected and widely varied line of consumer drones. Despite coming in a remarkably portable package (8.8 oz or 249 g), the Mini 3 still comes with a wide range of modern features and capabilities. This excellent video review takes a look at the Mini 3 and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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When it comes to post-processing, one of the most useful tools at your disposal is the luminosity mask, which can help you create more precise and efficient edits. If you have not tried luminosity masks if your work before, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you the ins and outs of creating and using them.
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The rule of thirds is the first thing that is taught about composition in photography. It seems to have some similarities with the golden ratio, but in reality, it’s something completely different. Let’s have a closer look at the history of these so-called rules to get a better understanding.
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Wedding photography is one of the most demanding and difficult genres, requiring strong technical and creative capabilities, the ability to quickly and effectively solve problems, and strong interpersonal skills. If you are getting ready to photograph your first wedding and feeling a bit nervous, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced wedding photographer sharing 10 important tips that will help you to better prepare and ease your nerves.
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In the last few years, Tamron has reinvented itself to become one of the most exciting companies in the photography industry, offering a wide range of lenses that are both affordable and rather versatile. Perhaps no lens is more emblematic of that than the 20mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M 1:2, which is both quite cheap and able to tackle a wide range of needs. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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At first glance, Affinity Photo 2 doesn’t seem that different from the previous software version. However, as you delve more deeply into it, you’ll find a host of valuable improvements since the last release of this versatile photo editor. It’s affordable too.
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The advancement of AI in photography and videography spheres has come more rapidly than many people are comfortable with. But there's one issue that hasn't been discussed that could have major repercussions for the industry.
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While there are extreme cameras out there that offer things like ultra-high levels of resolution or super-fast burst rates, for the majority of photographers, they are a bit of overkill. Cameras with more moderate specifications and features will satisfy the needs of most of today's photographers, and two of the best options out there are the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and the Sony a7 IV. This great video comparison takes a look at both to help you decide which is right for you.
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High School, the new bio-series about indie-pop sensations Tegan and Sara, provides a strong example of how filmmakers can use visual language to help to tell their stories. I had a chance to talk to cinematographer Carolina Costa about her work on the series.
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It's the holiday season, and that means that many folks are considering a new camera. That doesn't mean you should run out and by the cheapest DSLR or mirrorless camera, and photographer and YouTuber Tony Northup explains why.
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Many of us know Ringo Starr as the drummer from the Beatles, but did you know he is an accomplished photographer too? I think you may be pleasantly surprised to see what happened when he swapped his drumsticks for a camera.
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Heritage sites around the world are definitely worth seeing for yourself and photographing. A way to start your list is by visiting and exploring Siem Reap.
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Recently, Canon announced the EOS R6 Mark II mirrorless camera, and alongside it came the RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM lens, the update to one of the company's most popular lenses, the EF 135mm f/2L. As such, expectations are high for the new version. This great review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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Samyang has long had a reputation for producing manual focus lenses that are sharp and very affordable, and recently, they have started to add autofocus options, making them viable for many more photographers and situations. One such option is the AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II, which offers photographers the popular combination of a portrait focal length and very wide maximum aperture, all at a price significantly lower than many other options. Can it compete with those more expensive options? This excellent video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect.
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There are several timeless photography debates that are fun to engage in but will probably never be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction. There’s film versus digital, zoom lenses versus primes, small compact minimalistic camera versus fully featured monster-sized pro camera, and of course, continuous lighting versus strobe lighting. This article will not seek to determine whether strobes or constant lights are better for portraiture, but we will take a deep dive into how one photographer used continuous lighting on a recent celebrity shoot.
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Canon has clamped down tightly on the RF mount, disallowing essentially any third-party lenses with autofocus. This has been to the dismay of many photographers who embraced lenses from companies like Sigma and Tamron, which often offered options that were either cheaper or simply not available from Canon itself. At least one company is still highly interested in the RF mount, as recently confirmed by Sigma's CEO, Kazuto Yamaki.
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DxO is well known to our readers. They've been leaders in camera and lens optical testing, and they've offered software like the DxO PureRAW pre-processing software and PhotoLab 6, which is a full-featured raw editor.
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The Canon 7D and 7D Mark II were two of the company's most popular DSLRs, as they offered professionals and advanced amateurs many of the features from higher-level cameras like the 1D series at much more affordable prices. Now that we are in the mirrorless era, the EOS R7 has picked up that torch and has brought with it a huge range of new features and upgrades sure to catch the eyes of a lot of photographers. This great video review takes a look at the camera from a photographer's perspective and the image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Walking photography should be a genre of its own; it is the most popular form. There are simple things you can do that will ensure you come home from your walk with better photos than before. This is the first of two articles looking at ways to improve those images.
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Have you ever seen images and wondered how they create an editorial look that you just can't seem to recreate? It's clean, it's crisp, it may be edgy or sleek... you can't quite put your finger on it, but whatever "it" is, you want it for your work. Here are a few tips, from composition to post-production, that will upgrade your images and give you a more professional look.
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The past few years, Venus Optics has been making great strides in affordable, niche lenses. In this video, photographer Markus Hofstätter shares his experience with the Laowa 25mm f/2.8 2.5-5X Ultra Macro lens.
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Fujifilm's GFX line of medium format mirrorless cameras revolutionized the industry by including an array of modern features traditionally reserved for smaller-sensor bodies and putting them all together at extremely competitive prices. Perhaps the most intriguing option of the line is the GFX 100S, which brings the company's best sensor in a body that competes on price with top-level full frame options. This great video review takes a look at the image quality and performance you can expect from the camera.
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Do you take your camera for a walk? In this second article on that topic, we will be considering why it is good for you and your photography in ways you might not think, why you could leave the telephoto lens behind, and how to improve at photographing animate subjects even with a shorter lens.
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As a medium, photography is all about sight. If you can’t see it, you can’t really take a photograph of it. The alternative is, of course, things like art, music, or prose where you don’t need to see something to make something about it.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that requires a balance of technical abilities, creative vision, the ability to predict and adapt to evolving conditions, and a lot of persistence. If you would like to improve your work, check out this fantastic video tutorial from an experienced landscape photographer that will teach you some important lessons sure to put you on the right track.
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After a year in my bag, it's time for a recap of the first 12 months with the best camera I’ve ever owned.
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An editorial shoot, like any type of photography, requires a perfect blend of planning and play. Timing is critical, especially when working with a celebrity. In this video, London-based photographer Ejatu Shaw shares a behind-the-scenes look of her shoot with radio host Roman Kemp.
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Lewis Potts picked up the cheapest camera he could find on Amazon and tried shooting alongside an Arri Alexa Mini LF.
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Landscape photography can become frustrating if you get too focused on results and constantly compare yourself to other photographers. While browsing the web and visiting social media sites, you see countless photos of spectacular sunrises and sunsets. But getting truly awesome conditions is rare, even for those who are pros at planning. Let me share what the reality looks like.
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Waterfalls are some of the most popular landscape photography subjects, offering the ability to add a sense of motion to otherwise still scenes and to leverage natural leading lines to bring your viewers' eyes through the scene. If you are new to the genre and looking to improve, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you some helpful tips and techniques for improving your waterfall photography.
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Photographers love to talk about gear, but there is also a strong contingent of those who believe that all that discussion is a distraction from what really matters. The truth is probably somewhere in-between: gear does matter, and your choice of it can affect your workflow, but it is still the means, not the end. This interesting video discusses the matter and why gear matters.
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As a digital artist, being able to easily get your hands on overlays and effects for your images can sometimes be a costly experience and, at times, not provide you with enough scope of selections for your edits. One of the plugins I have in my collection is Infinite Texture, which provides a whole host of editing possibilities, from simple sky replacement to more complex edits.
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Along with shutter speed and ISO, aperture is one of the fundamental parameters that helps you create balanced exposures and gives you a ton of creative control over the look of your photos. If you are new to photography and looking to improve your photos, check out this awesome video tutorial that will show you the ins and outs of aperture and how to use it to take better control of your images.
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2022 has been quite the year for photo gear, with a huge range of impressive camera and lens releases. What has been your favorite? What failed to impress you? This hilarious video discusses the best and worst camera and lenses of the past year.
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I’ve been making a tutorial about the Map Module in Lightroom Classic for the Dutch Photographic community. It can be a lot of work collecting and adding GPS data to your images. Does this information have any use at all, or is it just nice to have?
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That's what one of the internet's most popular photographers and reviewers said about the rumored specs on the Canon EOS R5 II, due for release in 2023. Take a look inside to see why he made such a huge statement.
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As the adage goes, “you have to run before you can walk.” This also applies to photography. Once you’ve learned how to consistently make a good image within your camera, what is the next step?
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Since Lightroom and Photoshop introduced their automatic sky selections, changes to the sky in landscape and architecture photos have become very easy. But, how good are those automatic selections? If you edit photos for web representation alone, they are mostly good enough. But if you intend to print your photos, you might want to improve them, which is what I show in this article.
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If you are new to working with artificial light, you might look at some of the complex multi-light setups seasoned professionals use and feel a bit overwhelmed or discouraged. However, you can absolutely make creative, compelling, and professional-level portraits with just a single light, and this neat video tutorial will show you one of the more unusual but effective ways of doing so.
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When you are new to photography, you spend most of your time focusing on the image-making process, but as you start to charge for your work, there are important fundamentals of business you must learn as well, one of the most crucial being the contract. This important video discusses why you should really have a contract, even if you think you don't need one.
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After many years of non-pro iPhones, Apple’s new 48-megapixel iPhone 14 Pro was enough to convince me to pull the trigger. I was ready to fall into the embrace of Apple’s AI-assisted ProRAW format. While it has its uses, in its current state it’s still kind of a mixed bag.
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When it was first released, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art was one of the most exciting and innovative lenses ever seen, being the only standard zoom with an aperture below f/2. Nonetheless, the lens is almost a decade old now, and in the meantime, sensor resolutions have increased. So, can this famous lens keep up with the demands of a modern camera? This excellent video review takes a look.
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In recent years, Tamron has shown that they intend on creating impressively versatile and often innovative zoom lenses that can take the place of several others in a photographer's bag. One such lens is the 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD, which covers everything from normal to supertelephoto focal lengths. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Laowa now has a total of six lenses with an aperture of f/0.95, so how useful is it to have this aperture, and what are the results? As a landscape photographer mainly, this maximum aperture is something I had never really considered, although I do understand the usefulness of such an aperture for different types of photography, especially in low light and video. So, how does the lens perform throughout the apertures, and does it have the ability to provide results that are in line with or better than similar lenses in this price range? I tested it to find out.
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Wedding photography is notorious for being a demanding, high-stakes genre, and as such, it is natural that with that comes a fair amount of stress. Nonetheless, that does not mean you can't do certain things to reduce that stress. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced wedding shooter discussing five reasons why you might be overly stressed shooting weddings and what you can do to fix that.
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There are many different techniques for getting consistently sharp images, but I think this one is the best of them all. Take a look to find out why.
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Photographers have preferences on everything ranging from their favorite camera to their best lens, how they edit their photos, and what photo paper they use to make prints. What if your own preferences aren't aligned with what your potential clients enjoy? We asked dozens of normal people which photo papers and print products they prefer, and the results were not exactly what I had expected.
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While Photoshop remains the place where the most complex and intricate edits are done, Lightroom has become far more capable in recent iterations, and you can now finish many photos without ever leaving the program. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing how to edit photos from start to finish in Lightroom.
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Today is the day we learn which color will take the crown as the color of the year for 2023. Are you ready to start seeing the unconventional new shade everywhere?
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The value of participating in non-commissioned projects in a photography career is very high, and photo competitions are a good example of that.
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When Fujifilm announced the new X-H2, I was immediately interested to test it out against my current camera, the Canon R5. Featuring a 40-megapixel sensor, much improved autofocus, and other advancements, on paper, it hits all the marks for my type of work.
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If you're a steadfast Sony loyalist, you might want to look away now, because a dedicated Sony shooter just got his hands on the Canon EOS R5 and a bunch of Canon lenses and absolutely loved the ecosystem. Take a look to find out why.
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I keep on seeing the advertisements about software for reducing noise in digital photos. It gives the idea noise is always a huge problem that needs to be addressed. This is advertising, of course. Or is it indeed an issue that we have to solve with specialized software?.
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Apple's MacBook Air line features some of the most popular computers in the world, and since the move to the company's own silicon, they have become legitimate tools for creative professionals, able to tackle demanding tasks formerly left for larger and more expensive options. The new M2 model has now been on the market for about five months, giving creatives a good chunk of time with the device, and this excellent video review discusses one such user's experience with the computer in that time.
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Between coming out to the worst of the pandemic, the rise of AI, and people producing and consuming more images than ever before, 2022 has been quite a year for the photography industry. What will 2023 bring to us? This interesting video discusses six trends we will see in the new year.
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Nikon has made their way into more specialized mirrorless lenses in recent months, with the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S being one such option. The 800mm f/6.3 might be one of the most competitively priced lenses in recent memory, and it offers top-shelf sharpness and portability on top of that. This great video review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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Technology often follows a path where it begins life large, slow, and expensive, and then gets smaller, faster, and cheaper as time passes. Digital cameras have not followed this trend for a number of reasons, and every time I think I can predict where the industry will go, a curveball is thrown.
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This one will be a subjective post, but I will not make it a praise piece for my camera brand of choice. Instead, I'm talking about the pain points that led me to a particular brand over any other.
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The beauty of digital photography is that once you have paid for the camera and storage, you can take as many images as you want at essentially no additional cost. Of course, on the other hand, when it comes to film photography, every press of the shutter incurs an additional cost. So, a film camera that promises to double the number of images you can take with every roll sounds quite intriguing. This neat video will show you one such camera.
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Landscape photography is a tricky genre that takes the confluence of multiple skills to get right, but there are some overarching philosophies that can guide you to consistently better images. This excellent video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer sharing three helpful tips sure to improve your photos.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2022, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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The creative process is rarely one in which you move straight ahead; instead, it is often two steps forward, one back, and maybe a few to the side. When you are feeling discouraged, one of the most important things you can remember is that the best creativity often happens in bursts. This great video essay discusses the topic and offers a lot of meaningful wisdom.
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The last few years have been packed with some incredible cameras and the list keeps getting longer. Sony's newest body has seen rave reviews as both a stills camera and a video-centric body. So, is this camera the best choice for photographers creating YouTube content?
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24mm lenses with wide maximum apertures are prized by many creatives for their versatility, as they are at home in a wide range of genres and applications. The Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM builds on that flexibility by adding macro capabilities and image stabilization to the equation, making it quite the intriguing lens for a lot of users. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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The World Cup is in full swing, and this year, technology is helping officials to make more accurate calls. This neat video takes you behind the scenes to show you the new “semi-automated AI offsides technology” that uses a combination of sensors, a multi-camera array, and machine learning to help officials to make the correct call each time.
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If you have limited resources available to create your product images is there any way you can make them pop in post-production? In this step by step tutorial we walk through the editing process used to finish this image.
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If you are new to photography, one of the most important distinctions you should learn is the difference between prime and zoom lenses. While neither is better than the other, they each have distinct advantages and disadvantages, which is why some photographers prefer primes and some stick with zooms. This helpful video discusses why one photographer prefers primes.
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With the highest resolution available in a full frame camera, loads of dynamic range, and a host of other advanced features, the Sony a7R V might be the ultimate 35mm camera for photographers. This excellent video review takes a look at the new camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
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I had recent cataract surgery on both eyes, about a month apart for each eye. The doctor told me my vision would improve (a good thing). I was having the surgery because it was getting more difficult to see, especially close up. I knew it was time to do something when I realized I couldn't clearly read my weight on my bathroom scale, and I was sitting closer and closer to the computer when editing.
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Luminar Neo offers a wide range of traditional editing tools in tandem with more innovative features meant to expand your creativity and make your post-processing workflow more efficient. One genre it excels in is landscape photography. This great video tutorial will show how to edit a landscape image in the program from start to finish.
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TTArtisan has established themselves as a manufacturer of ultra-affordable lenses whose performance is often at a level above that dictated by their prices. Their latest lens, the 35mm f/0.95, offers APS-C shooters an ultra-wide aperture paired with a normal focal length, making it a versatile option. 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.
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TTArtisan has established themselves as a manufacturer of often astonishingly affordable lenses that still offer decent or even good image quality, often far outperforming their cost. The 27mm f/2.8 continues that trend by offering Fujifilm X Series users a wide angle lens with autofocus for just $149. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.
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Depending on what you shoot, you might have to take photos at high ISO levels. While modern cameras have made remarkable advancements in their ability to handle high ISOs, you will still have to deal with noise. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to work to reduce that noise and to get clean images.
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Are you a young and budding photographer, looking for your way in a complex world with numerous paths available to you? This fantastic video tutorial features an experienced photographer critiquing a range of images and offering some valuable advice along the way.
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SmallRig has upped its game in the lighting department with four new affordable fixtures to take you filmmaking up a notch.
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Olympus is well known for placing innovative and clever technology in their cameras, but that reputation goes back further than you might think. This neat video takes a look at a camera that is six decades old but features a fascinating automatic exposure system that allows it to function without any batteries needed.
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Recently, Topaz Labs released Photo AI, which merges DeNoise AI, Sharpen AI, and Gigapixel AI into one program, meant to improve the quality of any image with little to no intervention from the photographer. However, most users probably use it in tandem with another cataloging and editing program like Lightroom. So, what is the best way to go about that? This great video tutorial will show a less common way of using the two in combination that offers some useful benefits.
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For decades, color slide film was the industry standard for commercial and editorial work, and the speed of the film was typically 64 or 100. It was standard practice for a portrait photographer to use a high-powered strobe to illuminate the subject. Today, a digital camera can produce clean images at high ISO settings and allows the photographer to forgo strobes and instead illuminate the subject using lower-power continuous light units.
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There are expensive cameras, and then, there are really expensive cameras. The Phase One XT camera system definitely falls in the latter category, but with it, you get highly specialized features and superlative image quality. This neat video shows why the camera is tailor-made for landscape photography and some of the images you can create with it.
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While the latest generation of cameras features some incredibly capable bodies, many photographers and filmmakers simply do not need all that power. Thankfully, the used market has a ton of options to fit just about every budget and set of needs. This great video discusses some of the best deals you can find on used cameras at the moment.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that takes a combination of creative vision, strong technique, patience, and cooperative elements to get just right. If you are a budding landscape photographer and looking to improve your work, check out this helpful video tutorial that will give you 10 tips to put you on your way.
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There are plenty of difficult lighting scenarios when conventional solutions simply can't deliver. Be it weight, space, or any other limitation, small lights are a must in any photographer's kit. Despite not being the most powerful, they are often most used on sets and locations. Among the sea of small lights, a few stand out. One such one is the Specular KYU-6. Here are my thoughts on this light.
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Landscape photography generally requires an above-average amount of post-processing to get to the final results, but the upside of that is that you can take a single image in many different creative directions. One popular style is the painterly look, and this great video tutorial will show you how to create it both Lightroom and Photoshop.
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Remote photography can be really useful in a lot of situations, but rarely is it used in landscape photography. Nonetheless, it can be quite useful, and this fun video will show you what you can accomplish with it.
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One of my favorite books of all time is a little gem by British advertising legend Paul Arden “It’s not how good you are, it’s how good you want to be.” I read this little book about once a year, it’s funny, insightful, and full of advice and inspiration for creative people.
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Dell's XPS line has long been respected as some of the best Windows laptops out there, able to tackle many of the most demanding tasks professional creatives can throw at them. The latest model in the series is the XPS 13 Plus 9320, and this great video review takes a look at the laptop and the sort of performance you can expect from it in practice.
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Wildlife photography can be a tremendously rewarding genre, but it can be a bit hard to break into due to the extreme equipment often required and thus, the high cost barrier to entry. Nonetheless, there are more affordable options that can allow you to partake in the genre without breaking the bank. This great video will show you some of the best camera options at every price point.
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Camera sensors have become remarkably capable in recent years, able to capture scenes with wide dynamic range that would have been impossible for older models to handle. Nonetheless, there are still scenarios that exceed the abilities of even the best sensors. So, what do you do in those situations? Exposure bracketing is a powerful technique, and this helpful video tutorial will show you how to use it to improve your images.
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The Sony a7R V is here, and it brings with it some of the most advanced features and upgrades the company has ever put in a camera, making it quite the intriguing option for a wide variety of photographers and filmmakers. This great video takes a look at the new camera and nine features that make it a fantastic choice for a lot of creatives.
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The Canon EOS R5 was one of the most popular camera of the past few years, showing that Canon was taking the mirrorless market seriously by offering features like a 45-megapixel sensor, 8K raw video, advanced autofocus, and fast burst rates. With the EOS R6 Mark II now here and 2.5 years gone since the EOS R5's release, it is time to think about the EOS R5 Mark II. So, what can we expect?
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There’s nothing worse than visiting a location prior to shooting, only to miss out on important details. Avoid headaches, and make sure that you’re prepared for the shoot day.
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It might seem strange to want to mimic natural window light in studio, but the beauty of having a controlled space is that you can create that light however you want, whenever you want. If you would like to make yourself a more versatile lighting pro, check out this great video tutorial that will show you how to create the look of natural window light in a studio.
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Fujifilm revitalized the popularity of medium format with their GFX line of mirrorless cameras, which offer impressive sets of features traditionally not seen in cameras with larger sensors in tandem with highly competitive prices. For GFX users looking for a wide angle zoom, there is the new GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR, and this great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in practice.
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Canon has demonstrated an aggressive stance on the development and release timing of their RF mount lenses in the last few years. It seems they have no intentions of slowing down, as more interesting designs have emerged.
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Since the launch of the X-T1 in 2014 Fujifilm have a range of cameras that appealed to both amateur and professional photographers alike. So with its 40MP APS-C sensor and up to 7 stops of IBIS is the new Fujifilm X-T5 the best in the range and should you consider upgrading?
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One of the beautiful things about landscape photography is how many ways you can photograph the same scene, giving you tremendous creative potential no matter where you are or the conditions at hand. This great video tutorial follows a landscape photographer as he shoots landscape images, drone photos, time-lapses, and long exposures and shares some helpful tips and advice along the way.
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In the past few updates to the program, Lightroom's masking features have expanded substantially both in precision and capabilities, and if you have not integrated the new panel into your post-processing yet, you are missing the opportunity to vastly improve your workflow. This fantastic video tutorial will show you everything you to know to take full command of Lightroom's masking tools.
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If you are looking to purchase a new camera, you will probably see the terms "native ISO" and "base ISO" thrown around. ISO, being one of the three fundamental exposure parameters, is a term that all photographers should understand. This great video tutorial will explain the differences between native and base ISO and the consequences each have on your photography.
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Lenses can run anywhere from under $100 to well over $10,000, and when you enter that very upper echelon of prices, you often get superlative optics that blow the doors off your wildest expectations. One such lens is the Nikon Nikkor Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S, which runs north of $15,000. So, what do you get for that price? This interesting video takes a look.
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Topaz Labs, the company behind the wildly popular DeNoise AI, Sharpen AI, and Gigapixel AI, has made a huge change. These apps, once a triad of separate programs to fix your photographs, are now combined into one beefy app that is here to save the day. Meet Topaz Photo AI, your new best post-processing friend. Let me show you how I used it to save my low-light wildlife photographs.
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When it comes to photo gear, few things get the attention of more photographers than the promise of extra-smooth bokeh. And while Canon already has plenty of lenses that can offer that, they seem to be investing in taking it even further with several intriguing new lens designs.
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Drones have revolutionized many photography genres, making aerial shots that were previously out of reach for anyone except creatives and clients with the largest budgets accessible to just about anyone. Real estate photography is one such genre where a photographer or filmmaker can augment their services with a drone. This excellent video tutorial will show you everything you need to know to take professional real estate footage sure to please your clients.
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The superzoom lens is a relatively new option for photographers to add to their arsenal, and although initially scoffed at, many are adopting them as a brilliant all-round option.
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Unless you have been living under a rock for the last few years, you'll probably have noticed that many social media platforms have been heading downhill. Here's how to best prepare for the social media storms ahead.
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While you can absolutely create compelling portrait photos using just a single light, moving into using multi-light setups opens a lot of creative and technical options that simply would not be possible otherwise. One of the most useful of these is the hair light, and this great video tutorial will show you how to place one properly to get the best results.
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Wildlife photography is a challenging genre that often requires strong technique, specialized knowledge and equipment, and a lot of patience. Whether you are a new wildlife photographer or a longtime pro, this excellent video tutorial will give you 21 tips sure to help you create more compelling wildlife photos.
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35mm lenses with wide apertures are highly popular because they are so versatile, able to tackle everything from weddings to astrophotography and much more. However, a good 35mm lens can easily run you north of $2,000. So, at $799, the Samyang 35mm f/1.4 AF II looks like quite the intriguing option. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.
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If you are new to photography, you might be wondering about fundamental differences between lenses. Many beginners are drawn to fisheye lenses, which offer a different perspective on the world and the ability to get a massive field of view in one frame. So, what is the difference between a fisheye lens and a more standard rectilinear model? This excellent video tutorial will teach you what distinguishes them.
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The popularity of toy cameras has waxed and waned over the decades. The novelty factor for plastic cameras like the Diana and the Holga is often in friction with the dependability and overall image quality, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In an age of corner-to-corner perfection, the stray light leak or vignette can provide shooters with a way to stand out from the crowd.
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Focus stacking is one of the most useful techniques a landscape photographer can have in their bag of tricks, making it easy to create images that are ultra-sharp across the entire frame. However, it can be a bit tricky when you have moving water in the frame. This great video tutorial will show you how to properly focus stack such a photo to get the best possible results.
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Photography and video have some crucial differences between them, but perhaps the most important similarity between them is that good lighting is crucial to getting the best results. If you are new to video and working on building your skills, check out this great video tutorial that will show you a variety of different lighting modifiers and how to use them to create professional-level results.
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Did your university lecturer radiate an aura of excitement while crawling through a damp forest, seeking subjects that most of us would not notice? Every school and college should have a Geraint Radford. His skill and enthusiasm have just made me want to buy a macro lens and try the techniques I learned while interviewing him.
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As weeks, months, and years go by and your experience and skills in photography continue to expand, it's always nice to get some confirmation that you're actually improving. But, how can you get that feedback? Do this simple test, and you'll immediately see how far you've evolved.
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This is the best time of year to find incredible photography deals. Whether you're looking for new gear, a faster or easier way to edit your photos, or a more efficient shooting workflow, there are tools available that will help. This post lists some of our favorite Black Friday and Cyber Monday specials that are worth paying attention to.
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The new Fujifilm body is getting some rave reviews and if you're lucky enough to own it, you might want to set aside some time to get it firing on all cylinders. This video will help you with exactly that, walking you through the features and hidden tricks and tips.
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Although I've watched videos and read reviews about Topaz products, I had never actually tried them, remaining faithful to my workflow and not venturing farther afield. I do like software and seeing what it can do with my images, but felt safe with what I currently use. So, what could Topaz Photo AI bring to the table that I couldn't already accomplish?
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Whether you are shooting landscapes, wildlife, or something else, many photography genres require you to spend a significant amount of times outdoors, sometimes fairly far from civilization. In addition to all your camera gear, there are some tools that can make those treks both easier and safer. This great video makes a case for why an Apple Watch might be an outdoor photographer's best friend.
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Few things can more dramatically impact the mood and feel of an image than the color grade. We all have favorite color grades, whether from photos or movies. Thankfully, Photoshop has some nifty built-in tools that allow you to easily copy the color grade from one image and apply it to another, and this excellent video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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The Fujifilm X-H2 mirrorless camera is a major step forward for the company's highly popular X Series, bringing with it a variety of impressive upgrades and new features, most notable being a 40.2-megapixel high-resolution sensor, all wrapped up in the beloved design the bodies are known for. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Shooting weddings is stressful, mostly because you only have one opportunity to really make your clients happy. That being the case, you need to use gear that you can rely on to get you exactly what you and the client envision. Does the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM lens fit into that category?
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Our friends over at SLR Lounge make some of the best photography education content available, along with a range of versatile presets that can help you achieve better results more quickly. There has never been a better time to take advantage of their great tutorials and presets, as both are on sale at significant discounts.
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Starting out in photography is a daunting thing, as you have to learn a wide range of concepts, master technical parameters, and develop creative vision all at the same time. Nonetheless, you can boil down operating your camera to a few fundamental things that, once mastered, will allow you to start your journey with much more confidence and control. This helpful video tutorial will show you everything you need to know about those fundamentals so you can get to shooting.
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While the prices of lenses from many first-party manufacturers seem to stretch higher and higher, we have also seen an influx of affordable options from third-party makers. Some of these options have been astonishingly low in price while still turning in acceptable to even surprisingly good performance. One such lens is the TTArtisan 27mm f/2.8 for Fujifilm X Series cameras, and this great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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I always wanted to sell my photography as fine art but always felt like it would take too much time to do it myself or that the quality of online platforms would be too low. That was until I found a solution that meant very little work for me with no compromises on quality, pricing, or customer support. If this sounds too good to be true, then keep reading for an in-depth look at the new Darkroom.com storefront that is now offering you more tools and features to sell your prints online during the holidays, the easy way.
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Each week, we are assaulted with an endless barrage of new photography-related products promising to make us better photographers. For a beginning shooter, this must be overwhelming. If someone asked you for a short list of essential items necessary for the specific genre of photography that you partake in, what would those items be?
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With every new Photoshop update, the selection tools get more and more sophisticated. However, with the most recent update, there's a new hack that makes selections as accurate as I've ever seen them.
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We take a lot for granted in the digital era, particularly the automation of a lot of functions. In the early days of film, everything was fully manual, and even one parameter set incorrectly could ruin an entire roll. Later in the 20th century, a standard called DX (Digital indeX) was introduced, and it automated a lot of settings, reducing errors and making photography more accessible to amateurs and casual users. How did it work? This neat video takes you behind the scenes of the surprisingly sophisticated system.
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One of the most common and annoying issues portrait photographers will have to deal with is flyaway hairs, which can be particularly distracting when they run across your subject's face. Nonetheless, you can get rid of them quickly and convincingly using Photoshop, and this great video tutorial will show you how to do just that.
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One of the beautiful things about landscape photography is that there are so many ways to approach how you create images. If you are working on your own approach, check out this great video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer discussing an effective approach for the genre.
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Haida has released two filters specially made for the Fujifilm X100 series. There is also a dedicated lens hood available. Do you own a Fujifilm X100 camera? Perhaps these filters are interesting for you.
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Venus Optics has established themselves as a maker of unique lenses that often push the boundaries of design, and the new Argus 18mm f/0.95 MFT APO continues that trends by offering Micro Four Thirds photographers a versatile focal length paired with an extremely wide maximum aperture. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Lightroom and Photoshop have made some major steps forward in masking capabilities, and complicated masks that used to take a lot of intricate and time-intensive work can now be made in mere seconds with just a click. This great video tutorial will show you where to find Photoshop's new AI masking features and how to use them for quick and precise edits.
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Criticism of photography is commonplace. Sometimes, it is invited and genuine, other times, not. How you decide to give or receive it can affect your self-esteem as a photographer. Moreover, it says much about your own creative abilities. Here's how to appreciate criticism and avoid being a criticaster.
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It used to be that if you wanted to edit portraits, you would head to Photoshop. However, in recent years, Lightroom has gained more advanced capabilities, and now, with its powerful new masking features, it stands as a viable alternative for at least basic to moderate portrait edits. This helpful video tutorial will show you how to take advantage of those new features to edit your portrait shots in Lightroom.
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Depending on your perspective, street photography is either one of the easiest or most difficult types of photography one might pursue. The barrier to entry is low, with a small camera and fixed lens being all you need to get started shooting. Just step outside your door and capture what is happening on the street in your town ,and you are a street photographer. The problem is, although it is simple to get started in street photography, it is not easy to create compelling imagery.
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We are quickly approaching the three-year mark since the pandemic, and most creatives have found their new normal. Our new "normals" are all unique, but the common thread is a re-evaluation of our goals, priorities, and non-negotiables as working artists. WeTransfer and TRIPTK polled over 6,500 artists from 180 countries about success, fulfillment, and happiness. The 57-page report was released as The 2022 Ideas Report, and I'm here to share the results. First, let's start with a quiz. Grab a pen, and let's see how on target you are with the state of the industry.
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Landscape photography is a challenging genre that takes a variety of different aptitudes coming together simultaneously to create successful images. As such, there are a lot of things that can inadvertently derail your process. This great video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing five such things and how to fix or avoid them in the first place.
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50mm lenses can cost anywhere from under $100 to well over $2,000, with options at just about every level in between. At the very lowest end of the spectrum sits the TTArtisan 50mm f/2, which retails for just $69. Can it produce worthwhile images at such a low price? This great video review takes a look to answer that question.
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Every year, mobile camera technology improves, and every year, I see more articles comparing phones to professional cameras. I decided to carry out my own comprehensive test to finally decide which device is better, the phone or the DSLR.
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There’s a lot of press about how phones are hanging right in there with “real” cameras. And while sometimes this is true, for the most part, a Canon EOS R5 is still going to be much more capable than a cell phone. It’s just a shame that major camera brands’ marketing departments haven’t figured out how to show that.
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You're going to book more photography clients in 2023 because we're going to uncomplicate things. People are people, and photo clients are the same, whether it's an ad agency, a new mom, a bride-to-be, or the CEO of a startup.
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Social media has led us to believe that most people take only incredible shots, look like catwalk models, and live like billionaires. We know that isn't the case, but still, we can't help but be affected by the data in front of us. Well, one successful photographer and creator takes you behind the scenes of all of their shots from a trip.
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Canon's 7D line of APS-C DSLRs were very popular during their time, offering many features and capabilities from high-level professional cameras in much more affordable bodies. The EOS R7 has continued that in the mirrorless age, and in the meantime, it has also brought with it a wide range of new features and upgrades that make it appealing for a lot of creatives. This great video review takes a look at the EOS R7 in a challenging scenario and just how far you can push those capabilities.
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I'm probably preaching to the choir here, but, I think it's a good idea to hire a professional photographer that specializes in what you need. It's for this reason that I hired a professional photographer, despite the fact that I too work as a professional photographer. In this article, I'm going to discuss why.
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The winners have been announced for the second annual Natural Landscape Photography Awards. This new and refreshing competition exhibits landscape and nature photographers who are committed to maintaining authenticity and realism in their images
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There are many kinds of professional photographers and videographers. However, if you take two professionals from different disciplines, how much of a difference is there? This video gives you an idea of what specializing in your field can do.
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There is certainly no shortage of powerful and capable mirrorless cameras available today, and as such, it can be a little difficult to know which one is right for you. Three of the most well-balanced and reasonably priced options are the Sony a7 IV, Canon EOS R6, and Fujifilm X-H2, and this excellent video review compares the three to help you pick the best one.
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It might have once been an absurd thing to contemplate, but has the day finally come where landscape photographers do not actually need to use Photoshop?
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Some time ago, I wrote an article about the worst photography purchases I ever made. These were some specific things, as well as some categories of items. In this article, I will talk about some of the best purchases I was fortunate enough to make. Again, specific items.
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While we spend a lot of time talking about the choice of key light and how it is used in a portrait, it is often not the only light source present in a shot. The fill light makes a large difference in the final look of your image and deserves just as much attention as the key. This great video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of different fill lights and how they affect the final look of your portrait photos.
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If you want to get into filmmaking, one of the most fundamental and powerful tools you will need to get a grasp of is the use of diegetic and non-diegetic sound. If you are unfamiliar with the concept and how you can manipulate it to your advantage for more powerful storytelling, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything you need to know.
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The big names in the photographic industry have made some mistakes. Some have been addressed, while others are rearing their ugly heads. It's time they cleaned up their acts and served photographers and not their investors.
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Sometimes the simplest desires in post-production can prove to be the trickiest. Color is a common example of this where you just want to grab the color of one thing and make the color of something else match it. Well, here's how to do it quickly and easily.
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In what is becoming a disturbing trend, photographers are being attacked and robbed in broad daylight at San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts. The latest attack, which was caught on video, has photographers who work in the area on edge.
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The Holidays are here and we are celebrating with our best sale of the year! Right now, all Fstoppers photography and video tutorials on sale. Every Fstoppers photography or video course is automatically 30% off but when you add additional products to your cart, you can get up to 60% off each tutorial.
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Over the past two years, I've been trying to replace my Induro CT-114 tripod. Looking through countless offerings of various brands, I learned that finding a tripod that fulfilled all my requirements and didn't cost a fortune wouldn't be easy. As Leofoto released their LQ-365C, I thought I had finally found the perfect tripod. In this article, I share if this assumption turned out to be correct or if I regret my purchase.
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I have a photographer friend who consistently gets flagged on Instagram for posting images which violate Instagram’s terms of usage. The reasoning: he photographs mostly nudes.
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You have probably seen black and white architectural images of single buildings edited to have dramatic, contrasty lighting against an inky black background. Of course, this is not how it looks in real life and takes some Photoshop savvy to achieve. This great video tutorial will show you everything you need to know to achieve that look.
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With Black Friday approaching day by day, we are all excited about the massive rebates on photo gear this 2022 peak season. Indeed, there were exciting new releases by a lot of camera brands that make this season like no other. If you want to learn how you can afford all the cool purchases, this article is for you.
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Fujifilm's new X-T5 mirrorless camera is an exciting step forward for the ever-popular X-T series, bringing with it a wide range of upgrades and innovative features. How does it stand up in practice? This excellent video review takes a look at the camera specifically for photography work and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in those scenarios.
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If you want to improve at something, one of the best ways to do so is to find masters of their craft and simply emulate them. But how do you know which things to copy and which to ignore? Here, you'll learn seven skills that good photographers have that you can easily add to your skill-set.
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Canon has released a series of nice primes that are reasonably priced and in a friendly size and weight. Most of these lenses also have 1:2 macro abilities. The latest one is the RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. Let’s find out if it's just as great as its siblings.
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The road to becoming a successful professional photographer has many aspects to it, ranging from the photo work itself through business practice and more. If you would like to one day make money from your images, check out this helpful video tutorial that features an experienced pro discussing four things you need to learn on the photography side of things.
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Winter will be upon us soon, and seemingly familiar landscapes will be totally transformed into entirely different worlds. As such, it takes a different approach to create compelling landscape images. If that is something you struggle with during the colder months, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will give you 12 tips for better winter landscape photo compositions.
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Pen tablets and controllers for editing and retouching definitely help photographers, especially when working on large batches of images. These editing tools from Xencelabs seem to expand that to a whole new level.
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Capture One 23 is here, and fans of the program will be pleased to see that it brings with it a variety of new features and upgrades that make editing easier, more powerful, and more efficient. This helpful video tutorial will show you the new features and how to employ them in your own workflow for better edits.
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Drones have quickly evolved into powerful and sophisticated tools for aerial photography and filmmaking, making them desirable tools for a wide range of creatives and applications. In all that sophistication are a lot of nifty and useful features that are easy to overlook. This great video tutorial will show you nine great features you should check out on your drone.
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For those of you in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s now coming into the cozier and colder time of year. Fall is great with all its colors, but the dead of winter can leave photographers feeling drab and uninspired. Check out my four spots to photograph when the weather turns inclement to keep you photographing all through the seasons.
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As a photographer who works primarily within an art context, I often find myself seeking opportunities to share my work. In saying that, I would imagine being able to convincingly write and communicate about your work is a skill all photographers might find useful.
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The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens is a small, light, and fast zoom lens suitable for a wide range of subjects. I spent a week testing the 18-50mm, and I was very impressed with this tiny powerhouse of a lens, which is now available for Fujifilm X Mount cameras.
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Autumn is just about over, and though the leaves are no longer on the trees, that does not mean we do not have any use for them anymore. If you gather a pile of leaves and bring them into your studio, you have a wonderful prop for a wide variety of portrait looks with all the control of studio lighting. This great video tutorial will show you how to take fallen leaves and turn them into an eye-catching and versatile props for studio portraits.
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If you've ever found yourself posting a photo in which you've masterfully designed your shadows, created asymmetrical balance, and selected a brilliant color palette just to see it wildly out-performed by a reel of a 20-year-old aimlessly walking down a sidewalk and spiraled into complete despair, then this is for you. In this article, I will walk you through how to shoot skillfully crafted images and easily stitch them into a stop-motion. The artist strikes a treaty with the Insta.
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Earlier this year, the scientific community was abuzz when an image of Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the galactic center of the Milky Way, was released. How did scientists actually create the image, though? It took petabytes of data from a virtual telescope that size of the entire planet. This interesting video will take you behind the scenes to see how it all came together.
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DJI has just released the Mavic 3 Classic. Very similar to the standard Mavic 3, the new DJI Mavic 3 Classic has one major difference that brings the price down significantly. Does that change compromise its performance or make it less attractive? Take a look at this pilot's first impressions.
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If you are a Lightroom user I'm sure by now you have experimented with most of the newly updated features. One feature, in particular, I was very interested in is the AI-powered Person Mask Option and how it actually performed.
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All of us have spent hours editing a shoot or if you’re like me, procrastinating editing that shoot. Spending less time editing and more time shooting is what most of us ultimately want. If only there was a way to automate editing at a low price and high standard. If this sounds like you, this may be the solution.
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One of the most important traits of being a successful photographer is creating a style that is unique and original. There are many ways to do this, and one of them is to use unconventional equipment. This lens may be one of the weirdest you'll ever see.
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Many photographers have become increasingly disillusioned by Instagram. Where once there was an app that placed top priority on sharing images, making it an invaluable tool for networking and connecting with potential clients, there is now a feed stuffed with videos, ads, and, of course, the dreaded algorithm. This has left many photographers looking for an alternative, with one of the current frontrunners being Vero. Is it worth investing time and effort in it? This photographer used it for 30 days to answer that question.
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We spend a lot of time talking about when it’s the best time to buy new gear. But it can be harder to know when is the right time to let go of the old gear as well.
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The role of AI is being discussed more than ever in creative fields, even where we previously thought it had no application. Among the various thoughts and emotions that arise when discussing AI in the creative arena, there is one that sees it as a tool — one of many that an artist may call on. Today, we're looking at a video that approaches a graphical AI tool, Midjourney, with that mindset.
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One of the trickiest parts of landscape photography is that unlike most other genres, you get no control over the arrangement of the elements in the scene, which can make composition a particularly tricky aspect. A common problem is an overly busy frame. What can you do to create simpler, more compelling photos? This excellent video tutorial will show you seven helpful tips to put you on the right track.
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Have you found the perfect place to host your photos? I've been hunting everywhere for the best site to upload my images to and share them. After my research, what I concluded was the best for me took me completely by surprise.
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It's been a fair while coming, but Canon's new EOS R7 is getting some rave reviews. This reviewer says it's been a "runaway success," so see what all the fuss is about.
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I'm not a fan of Canon's recent decision to ban some third-party manufacturers from selling RF mount lenses. It's a smart short-term financial decision, but the long run is a different story.
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You’ve been commissioned to photograph new images for a restaurant, but there’s a lot of spinning plates and moving parts. In this article, I share my essential steps for preparing for and running a photoshoot at a restaurant.
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When you are creating a lighting setup for a portrait, you probably approach it from the standpoint of adding lights and modifiers until you get the result you want. However, while adding light is, of course, important, it is also crucial to know where to take it away. This is where the idea of negative fill comes in. However, negative fill can sometimes be misunderstood. This great video tutorial will show you how negative fill really works and how to use it for your portrait work.
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Canon's RF lens lineup has been filling up rapidly with both standard choices and more extreme designs, but there are still some notable absences, particularly in the supertelephoto range. That will surely change eventually, and it seems we're on the way to that, as multiple patents have emerged with some innovative and versatile designs.
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Building a website that helps potential clients choose you over others is not always an intuitive process. Here are six ways that you can upgrade your website.
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In the digital age, many of us go years without ever printing our photos, which is a real shame, because no matter how sharp the screen, there really is no substitute for the tactile impression of holding a physical representation of your work in your hands. If you are new to printing your work and wondering what you need to know, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will show you everything it takes to get up and running.
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Wednesday upgraders and new customers will see PhotoLab 6 and ViewPoint 4 on offer. Photolab 6 has a lot of new features, most notably an update to DXO's popular DXO PureRAW technology, arguably the best software available to fix color, noise, and optical issues in RAW files.
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Learning how to work with artificial light will make you a far more versatile photographer and enable creative opportunities that simply would not be possible otherwise. However, there are a couple of ways to approach building a lighting kit, and if you plan to be on the go quite a bit, you should carefully consider the size, weight, and power requirements of your equipment. This excellent video tutorial will show you a portable, versatile, and effective minimalist flash setup.
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When I travel, I stay in each location I visit for several days to increase my chances of encountering great light. But even a week is sometimes not enough to get a single colorful sunrise or sunset. Either the sky remains free of clouds or it's completely overcast, preventing any interesting light from breaking through. Night photography is one way of dealing with a clear sky. But what can you do during gray weather?
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50mm lenses are some of the most popular and versatile options out there, able to tackle a wide range of scenarios with ease. They are available at prices ranging from below $100 to well over $2,000. At $598, the Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G sits in the middle of all that. So, does it offer premium image quality and performance for that mid-range price? This excellent video review takes a look at the 50mm f/2.5 to answer that question.
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With the release of cameras like the EOS R7 and EOS R10, Canon has shown they are interested in developing APS-C mirrorless cameras alongside their full frame mirrorless line. In tandem with that, we have seen the introduction of RF-S lenses specifically designed for the APS-C format. This excellent video review takes a look at one such lens, the Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Having really expensive gear can make you a versatile photographer with an advantage over your peers. In my opinion, knowing how to use gear creatively is a much more critical skill.
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Sigma's Contemporary line intends to bring you a quality lens in a light and compact package. This isn't Sigma's flagship line, but does this lens have what it takes to go up against the others? It's light, small, fast, sturdy and cheap. Does this Sigma lens check all the boxes on our list?
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You’ll get many opportunities to photograph someone for free or to offer you work for less. You don’t have to take all of them or even any of them. As a successful photographer, you’ll need to learn to say "no" more often than "yes" and how your career development depends on saying "no" to the wrong people. This blog post will guide you through the different scenarios and how to protect yourself.
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For those who don't know, Sony hosts a yearly event called Kando. Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to "the sense of awe and the emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time." So, does this experience live up to its name?
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Up until now, YouTube users could enjoy all the video features of the site so long as they were willing to sit through ads. That might change soon, as some users have reported that 4K video resolution has been removed as an option unless they pay for the $12 per month Premium subscription.
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One of the challenges for photographers who post online is learning to cultivate what we decide to post. When I was just getting started as a headshot photographer, I only had an occasional client, and the fact that I created a headshot at all was a huge accomplishment. Because of this, I would immediately post images from the session on my Instagram feed and website. As my clientele grew and I developed my own style, however, I realized that I needed to be much more selective in deciding why and when I post an image.
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2022 has been a busy year for Canon, with multiple cameras and lenses released, but it is not over yet. It appears Canon has one more camera in store before the end of the year.
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Many of us know Lenny Kravitz for his music but did you know he was a successful photographer too? I think you may be pleasantly surprised at the quality of his work.
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Queen Elizabeth’s passing has received quite a bit of coverage here in the United States. Millions of people turned out not only in London but all over the UK and the globe for various services held in her honor. The coverage has shown the sincere outpouring of respect and affection that the people of her country have for her, but there is a noticeable emphasis on the scale and spectacle of the event.
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Olympus has been assigning the Zuiko name to its range of high-quality lenses since 1936. Zuiko-branded lenses were made for SLR, rangefinder, and automatic point-and-shoot cameras in medium format, 35mm, and even half-frame formats. Assessing the best of anything in photography leads to vivid debate and lots of room for subjectivity. Here are my 5 reasons why I believe Olympus knocked it out of the park with their Zuiko range, and when you look at all factors are the best film lenses ever made. Be sure to leave a comment to let me know your thoughts.
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We all dream of becoming full-time doing what we love, and in 2022 it seems more possible than ever. The landscape photography genre, however, isn’t always as lucrative as wedding or portrait photography can be. So how do you create a sustainable and solid income in this field, which channels are the ones to focus on, and which are not worth your precious time?
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In the post-production process, it's very easy to get carried away and go a little too far with our edits. But sometimes, it's hard for us to tell if we've actually overdone things. This under-used Lightroom tool is great for exposing over-edited images.
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Part of the challenge of environmental portrait photography is giving your subject the context around them to make the image compelling, but still bringing the viewer's eye to them first and foremost. There are many ways to emphasize your subject, and this excellent video tutorial will show you how to do it using two of the most powerful methods: composition and post-processing.
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We work a lot on learning how to create good images, but most of that work focuses on a single photo at a time. But the mark of a successful photographer is a readily identifiable style that unifies all their work as one. So, why do so many photographers struggle to develop a style? This excellent video dives into the topic and offers some helpful advice along the way.
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When it comes to working with artificial lighting, there is sometimes the misconception that professional images require multiple sources, all of which are big, heavy, and expensive. That is not always the case, though. In fact, you can create professional-level shots with just a single speedlight, and this excellent video tutorial will take you through the entire process, from setting up the shot through post-processing.
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All this hype and scaremongering about AI in photography is missing one crucial point. No matter how good it gets, far from taking over the world of photography, AI will always fail at one critical point. Our recent history tells us why.
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Every genre comes with its own unique challenges, and landscape photography is no different. Beyond all the skills one must have, there are certain personal qualities that set you up for success, and this awesome video tutorial discusses what they are and how they can help you realize your potential.
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Zoom lenses have come a long way in the last decade, but primes still hold the advantage in maximum aperture, portability, and often, image quality. All this is why a lot of photographers steadfastly stick with bags of prime lenses instead of just a zoom or two. So, why would a prime enthusiast use zoom lenses? This great video essay features an experienced photographer discussing the issue.
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The Fstoppers community is brimming with creative vision and talent. Every day, we comb through your work, looking for images to feature as the Photo of the Day or simply to admire your creativity and technical prowess. In 2022, we're featuring a new photographer every month, whose portfolio represents both stellar photographic achievement and a high level of involvement within the Fstoppers community.
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There's expensive. Then there's very expensive, and at $12,000, the Sony 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens falls into the latter category. So, what makes it so expensive, and most importantly, is it worth it?
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There are a lot of ways to approach landscape photography, but when you are thinking about what gear to take, it is worth considering the fact that you will often have to hike several miles with a bag of cameras and lenses on your back. So, should you reconsider what is in your bag? This excellent video essay discusses why a more unusual lens choice might be the best for your landscape photography.
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The Canon 7D line of APS-C DSLRs were quite popular during their era, as they offered professional features seen in much more expensive lines like the flagship 1D series at a much more affordable price. In the mirrorless era, the EOS R7 has taken over that role, and it brings with it an impressive range of new features and upgrades that make it an intriguing option for a wide range of options. This excellent video review takes an in-depth look at the camera and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Although depth of field is often discussed in portrait photography, the conversation tends to center around background bokeh. In this article and the accompanying video, however, I would like to address depth of field as it relates to the face itself and attempt to answer the question as to which aperture is best for photographing faces.
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Every photographer worries strives for the best possible photos, and high-ISO noise is one of the most common reasons for a reduction in image quality. It might be something we worry about just a little too much, though. This excellent video essay makes a case for why we should be willing to embrace high ISOs a bit more.
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Landscape photography takes a range of aptitudes to make successful images: technical skills with your camera and equipment, creative vision, the ability to forecast and respond to evolving conditions, and strong post-processing technique. If you would like to improve your landscape work, check out this fantastic video tutorial from an experienced photographer that offers a wide range of helpful advice sure to put you on the right track.
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Skylum has been one of the leading software companies providing AI-based editors for pro and semi-pro photographers. Luminar Neo has been a big seller, and it has fans and critics, but it has moved the market. Even Adobe and some of the other "big players" are embracing AI.
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The beautiful thing about photography is that no matter how new or advanced you are, there is always something new to learn. This excellent video essay features an experienced photographer offering 10 important bits of advice on a range of topics and will help you become a better and more content creative.
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As a portrait photographer, I often struggle to create new work. To add a new image to my portfolio, I must involve at least one other person who will be photographed by me. Contrast this to a landscape photographer, who can get into her vehicle, drive to a cool shooting location any day she desires, and create new images with relative ease.
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Every genre has different optimal gear setups, which is why it is important to sit down with your camera and take the time to adjust its settings to fit your subject matter and workflow. This helpful video tutorial features an experienced landscape photographer discussing seven camera settings you should turn off to make your workflow more efficient and to improve that quality of your images.
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What happens when a non-vlogger takes a spin with Nikon’s new social media-focused Z 30 compact camera?
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Canon's 7D line of advanced APS-C DSLRs were some of the most popular cameras of their time, offering professional-level features in a much more affordable body, making them attractive to a wide range of photographers. The EOS R7 is the mirrorless successor to the 7D line, and it inherits that heritage and modernizes it with some impressive new features and upgraded capabilities. This great video review takes a look at the camera and if its performance and image quality can compete in a crowded mirrorless marketplace.
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It might seem oxymoronic to talk about using color to improve your black and white photography, but understanding this process will take your imagery to new levels.
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The Fujifilm X-H2S is one of the most buzzworthy cameras of 2022, and for good reason.
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Social media sometimes feels like the devil incarnate. But if you're a photographer trying to harness social media for your business or your brand, then you have to play the smart game. For Instagram users, this will help you.
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News recently broke that Viltrox, a brand known for their affordable lenses, has stopped manufacturing for the Canon RF mount after rumors that Canon had asked them to pull their products. Canon recently confirmed that news, and it certainly raises questions about the future of third-party lenses for their mirrorless cameras.
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Profoto is busy developing their A series line of flashes. Just look at the recent focus the company has put out on the Clic modifiers, notably, launching the Clic softbox, which we reviewed some time ago. A few users commented that the A1 series flashes will be too weak to be used under certain settings with the Clic softbox, which got me wondering if there is a more powerful flash coming along soon. There was: the Profoto A2.
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A 24mm lens with a wide aperture is already quite versatile, but add in image stabilization and macro capabilities, and it becomes one of the most useful you can carry. For Canon shooters, there is the RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM, and this excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
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Before Canon's RF mount, there was the EF mount, and before the EF mount, there was the FD mount. The FD mount is over 50 years old, but it had some groundbreaking lenses, and with the ability to adapt them to mirrorless lenses, we are seeing a real resurgence in popularity. This awesome video review takes a look at one of the most legendary FD lenses, the 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. Aspherical.
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There’s no single sure way to being successful as a photographer. However, there are a handful of examples around that definitely teach you what not to do if you want to attain success.
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A key component for many street photographers is context in a scene. To many, an image without space in the frame for the setting may be considered as a portrait and not belonging to any particular genre or style. Street photographers are so focused on context they gravitate towards rangefinders that let you see outside the frame. This commonly held approach to street photography lends itself to the ubiquitous use of wide angle lenses.
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In some sense, the objective, quantifiable nature of things like exposure settings and lighting ratios makes them a little easier to learn than something more subjective like posing, which is why a lot of photographers struggle with it. If you would like to improve your portrait posing, check out this great video tutorial that will show you three surefire poses for photographing women.
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Tamron has released some mightily impressive lenses in the last years, including some that push the boundaries of design, such as the 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD. The company recently announced the 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD, which offers a huge range of focal lengths all in one package. What sort of performance and image quality can you expect from it? This great first look video takes a look.
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Feeling lost on your photographic journey is common. So are being in a creative rut or having periods of low motivation. At times, we can all struggle to feel inspired to pick up the camera and get out there. A lack of direction, purpose, and reason can be the culprit for these aforementioned photography ailments. So, let’s dig into these questions and uncover the possible “whys” behind your keen need to capture.
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If you're a Leica fan who also enjoys watching movies and television shows in the best possible image quality, you're going to like this.
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It's not often you associate Leica cameras with being affordable, but if you do some digging, you can find some very attractive options.
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The whole point of a studio is being free of the outdoors and having complete control over the shooting environment, so it would seem a bit strange to drag a multi-light setup and backdrop system into the middle of a field, but that is just what this photographer did, and the results are quite intriguing. This great video tutorial will take you behind the scenes and show you how it was done.
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There are two new Canon APS-C mirrorless cameras available. There is the EOS R10, a relatively simple camera, and there is the EOS R7, a camera that promises a lot of things and also delivers a lot. Canon Netherlands gave me this camera for a week when I went on a holiday. These are my findings.
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Do you want to get pin-sharp photos with amazing dynamic range every time? Then, use this very simple technique.
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When you are shooting, do you think about what aspect ratio you need your finished shots to be in? Where will the photos go? Will they need to fit multiple aspect ratios for social, web, and other places? Here's a way you can make sure your images are perfect for each final ratio you need.
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Photographing sand dunes can be a very productive photographic endeavor if you find a stretch of desert remote enough that not every inch of it is covered in footprints. In this article, I show you my favorite place to photograph dunes, and I give tips on how to get the most out of this sandy subject matter.
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If you've ever dreamed of owning a Leica but quickly given up because you thought adding lenses to the bodies would send expenses into outer orbit, this will bring a big smile to your face.
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Clamshell lighting is one of the most classic and commonly used setups for portrait photography, and when done right, it can produce eye-catching and flattering results. If you have not used it before, check out this great video tutorial that will show you how to create a proper clamshell setup for portraiture.
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Have you found yourself frustrated by being nickeled and dimed for your work? Does self-doubt about your skill and imagery creep in as a result of the prices you are asked to shoot at? You’re not the only one.
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Finding the best light to bathe our subjects can be one of the most challenging parts of planning a photoshoot. We strive for those beautiful golden hour photos and sometimes completely dismiss other parts of the day. Harsh sunlight can be difficult and cloudy can be flat, but what about blue hour?
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The late 1990s and early 2000s were the infancy of professional digital photography, and as such, they brought with them some groundbreaking cameras that laid the foundations for those we know today. One such camera was the Nikon D1, and this neat video review takes a look back at the camera, its performance and features, and what made it such a pivotal body.
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Headshot photography has been making major headlines recently. A few weeks ago, the Wall Street Journal interviewed headshot guru Peter Hurley about the importance of a professional headshot in a quickly changing business landscape (The Perfect Professional Headshot Is Worth $1,000, and Maybe Even a Job).
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