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BTS: A look at the incredible planning, camera work and editing that went into the WWI film ‘1917’

22 Jan

Movies Insider has released a ten-minute behind-the-scenes look at the Golden Globe-winning film ‘1917,’ showing the incredible amount of thought, planning, camera work and editing that went into the World War I film that’s made to look as though it was captured in one, continuous shot.

The behind-the-scenes video shows how meticulously Cinematographer Roger Deakins (The Shawshank Redemption, Fargo, A Beautiful Mind, Skyfall and Sicario) and director Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Skyfall, Spectre) worked together to plan each and every shot, down to the second. From creating miniature dioramas to plan out the paths of the actors, cameras and lights to the vast array of gimbal and camera setups used, the video covers it all with great snippets of pre-production footage and interviews with the film’s creators.

Do yourself a favor and set some time aside to see the cinema magic that went into this Oscar-contender film.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Paris Musées launches online portal with thousands of historic photographs

22 Jan

Eugène Atget (Jean Eugène Auguste Atget, dit) (Libourne, 12–02–1857 – Paris, 04–08–1927), photographer

Paris Musées, the public institution that manages all of the museums in Paris, has launched a new Collections portal that offers the public access to more than 100,000 high-resolution digital reproductions of classic artwork and photography. All of the content offered in the Collections portal is available under a CC0 license.

In addition to high-resolution images of artwork from such notable names as Rembrandt, the online collection also includes a portal with more than 62,000 high-res photo scans showcasing some of the nation’s earliest photography from photographers that include Pierre Emounts ou Emonds, Eugene Atget, Ernest Charles Appert, Hippolyte Blancard and Roger Henrard.

Maison de Balzac, 16th arrondissement, Paris. Eugène Atget (Jean Eugène Auguste Atget, dit) (Libourne, 12–02–1857 – Paris, 04–08–1927), photographer

Because the photos are all under a CC0 license, anyone can download high-resolution copies of the images alongside documents with full details on the photos, including when and where they were taken, which museum they’re located at and the materials and techniques used to produce each print. The institution will also make copyrighted images from its museums available as low-resolution previews.

In its announcement of the new online collection, Paris Musées explains that it receives a large number of requests from students and others who want to view and/or use some of the images from its museum collections. This portal now makes it possible for anyone to quickly locate and download the content.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS)

22 Jan

The post The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

It might come as a bit of a surprise, but it looks like we’re getting a Fujifilm X-T3 successor earlier than expected:

The Fujifilm X-T4.

(While the “X-T4” moniker isn’t official, we’re definitely talking about a successor to the X-T3.)

According to Fuji Rumors, the X-T4 will drop in March, with an official announcement on February 4th. This breaks the common two-year upgrade cycle that Fujifilm generally follows; the Fujifilm X-T3 was released in late September 2018, and the Fujifilm X-T2 was released just over two years prior, in early September 2016.

It’s possible that this faster upgrade indicates only minor changes between the two cameras. But I find this unlikely, given the high expectations Fujifilm has created for itself after producing the phenomenal X-T3.

So while the details are sparse, let’s talk about what we know (or suspect) will be present in the Fujifilm X-T4.

First, the most persistent rumor addresses what might be the biggest complaint regarding the X-T3:

In-body image stabilization.

The Fujifilm X-T4 will have IBIS, according to Fuji Rumors. To date, the only Fujifilm camera with IBIS is the Fujifilm X-H1, which sacrificed a compact build in order to include the IBIS tech. Hold the Fujifilm X-H1 and you get a DSLR-like experience, compared to the compact, travel-ready build of the X-T3.

Fortunately, it seems that we won’t see a Fujifilm X-H1 build for the X-T4. Instead, Fuji engineers have likely compacted the IBIS tech, so the X-T4 will feature IBIS will little-to-no increase of size.

As for other Fujifilm X-T4 features, while nothing has been confirmed, we can predict a modest upgrade in resolution (perhaps from the current 26 MP to a 28 MP or even 30 MP sensor). And we can expect at least equivalent continuous shooting speeds (30 fps with 1.25x crop, 20 fps with the electronic shutter uncropped, 11 fps with the mechanical shutter) to the X-T3, as well as dual card slots, impressive autofocus, and (maybe) a fully-articulating touchscreen.

There’s also a possibility of 6K/60p video, which would be a clear step up from the 4K/60p offered by the X-T3.

Regardless, we don’t have long to wait.

So keep your eye out for further updates on the X-T4, which is bound to be an incredible addition to Fujifilm’s already-formidable APS-C mirrorless lineup.

The post The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

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Edelkrone launches JibONE motion control with mobile app and motorized head support

22 Jan

Edelkrone has launched a new app-controlled jib called JibONE that can be used with the HeadONE and HeadPLUS motorized heads for capturing a variety of shots. The jib supports 50cm (19.6in) of horizontal, vertical and diagonal motion in any direction, including looping motion. Despite its capabilities, Edelkrone says the model is compact enough to store in a backpack.

The JibONE is made from CNC machined aluminum and stainless steel; it measures 61 x 17 x 15cm (24 x 6.7 x 5.9in) when folded and weighs 5.5kg (12lbs) when used with the 1kg (2.2lbs) counterweight. Edelkrone recommends that users keep their setup load to less than 5kg (11lbs). The company says that all DSLR models are compatible with the JibONE.

HeadONE and HeadPLUS motorized heads used with the JibONE.

Operators have two different battery options to choose from for powering the JibONE: LP-E6 and NP-F batteries. Battery life varies based on which are used, but when the JibONE is powered with two Canon LP-E6 14.4Wh batteries (for a total of 28.8Wh), users can expect two hours of continuous operation at full speed or up to 12,000 still images when used in time-lapse mode.

Connectivity comes in the form of Bluetooth LE which enables users to control the jib using an iPhone running iOS 11 or newer or an Android handset running version 5.0 or later. The mobile app offers a simplified interface for recording poses, setting up motion loops, adjusting speed and more. Users can also program camera motions with the jib by manually adjusting the device.

The JibONE is available from Edelkrone now for $ 1000.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Confirmed: Venus Optics working on new line of ultra-fast ‘Argus’ F0.95 lenses

21 Jan

Update (11:30 EST, January 20): Venus Optics has confirmed to DPReview that it’s working on not just one, but multiple F0.95 lenses. A Venus Optics spokesperson says Venus Optics does ‘not have further information about these lenses’ at this time and concluded their statement saying ‘As usual, we are just trying to create something unique, good quality and affordable for photographers.’ The headline of this article has been changed to reflect this confirmation.

According to a report from FujiAddict, Venus Optics, manufacturer of the Laowa lens brand, is working on a new ultra-fast F0.95 lens for DSLR and mirrorless full-frame and APS-C camera systems.

FujiAddict’s report, which says the lens will be denoted by the ‘Argus’ moniker, is substantiated by an image posted to Chinese social media platform Weibo that claims to show a frame from a presentation that simply shows the words ‘Laowa F0.95.’ At this time, no information is given regarding the focal length or specific mounts this purported lens will be available for. However, FujiAddict claims ‘Many are speculating it will be wide and my contact says they expect it to be between 20–35mm.’

As noted in the report, Venus Optics isn’t the first third-party lens manufacturer to create an ultra-fast prime lens. In addition to the legendary Leica Noctilux F0.95 lens, SLR Magic has a slew of ‘HyperPrime’ lenses for both still and cinema photography.

We have contacted Venus Optics in an effort to confirm this report. This article will be updated accordingly if we hear back.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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DIY Photography: How to Make Your Own DIY Lightstick for Cool Photos!

21 Jan

The post DIY Photography: How to Make Your Own DIY Lightstick for Cool Photos! appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Simon Bond.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make your own DIY lightstick.

You’ll be able to use this to create fascinating light paintings, and the best thing is, you can do it on a budget!

The simple DIY lightstick is made with easily available household objects and a set of fairy lights. Once it’s made, you’ll be able to create beautiful light patterns during long exposure photos.

Using a light stick for light painting can transform a scene.

What is light painting

Light painting is a long exposure technique.

To achieve this kind of photo, you’ll need a camera on a tripod, and usually, the photo will be taken at night. The exception to this would be a studio that is completely dark – this too can be used for light painting.

Most people will know light painting as simply spelling something in the sky with a torch.

There are two main forms of light painting, kinetic light painting, and regular light painting. In this article, you’ll learn about using a light stick to create regular light paintings.

There are light sticks out there you can buy. This photo was taken using a pixelstick.

Lightsticks you can buy

You can buy a ready-made lightstick.

Indeed, some of these are already quite cheap and will give you the chance to practice some of the ideas presented in this article. There are also those sticks that are more expensive.

It’s worth keeping the more expensive sticks in mind, as they will give you more options when compared to a stick like the one you’ll be shown how to make in this article.

LED light sticks – The creme of the crop are the LED light sticks made by pixelstick and magilight.
Glow sticks – The glow sticks often seen at parties and festivals. They’re cheap, and can be used for light painting.
Toy light stick – Head down to your local toy shop and pick up a light saber. Indulge your inner child, and it also makes some great photos!
Light painting swords – These are similar to kids’ toys, but are made specifically with photographers’ needs in mind. They are available through this site.

You’ll use tie straps to attach the wire to the tube.

How to make a DIY light stick

There are some very good cheap options when it comes to light sticks, and you might decide to pursue one of those instead of making a DIY lightstick. If you want a little challenge, then read on and see what you can make.

The supplies you’ll need

First of all, let’s gather the supplies you’ll need. You can find most at home, however, you may need to visit your local DIY store or look online for some too.

Battery operated fairy lights.
A piece of plumbing pipe. Around one meter long, and 2cm in diameter.
A plumbing pipe connection piece. A t-shape variety is best, and also 2cm in diameter.
A set of tie straps.
A copper piping half-circle bracket.
Wire cutters.
A saw.
Solder and soldering iron.
Electrical tape.
Glue gun.
Bungee cord.

The battery pack needs to be glued onto the stick as well.

Putting the whole thing together

Now you have everything you need, take the following steps to put it all together.

The task is fairly simple. It’s really just attaching some fairy lights to a stick. Why the plumbing tube? That’s so you can break it down to a stick that’s half of its size in an easy way.

Attaching the fairy lights

Take your length of plumbing tube and use the saw to cut it in half. The length of the 2 halves is optional. In my case, I went with 50cm.
Attach the two pieces together using the connection piece.
Now Attach the end of the fairy light wire to the end of your tube use a tie strap.
Pull out the fairy lights to the length of the tube. Then give a little slack to allow the tube to be detached at the connection point.
Use another tie strap to attach the fairy light wire to the other end of the tube.
Run the wire back down the length of tubing again, and then attach the wire to the tube using another tie strap.
You’ll now have excess wire and fairy lights left over. You could repeat steps 4,5 and 6 if you wish, or continue to the next part.

This stick divides into two. This makes it easier to carry around and gives you the option of using the stick at half its full length.

Putting the battery pack on, and finishing the stick.

Use the wire cutters to cut away the excess wire, leaving around 20cm to the battery pack.
Strip away some of the plastic coatings on the wire on the side with the battery pack, and the side attached to the piping.
Solder the two pieces of wire back together again. Make sure the correct wire is soldered together or the lights won’t work. When you cut the wire, two wires will be revealed on each side of the wiring. You need to solder this back together to re-complete the circuit.
Use the electrical tape to cover up the soldered wire, or if you have it, plastic that shrinks when heated to cover the join.
Test the lights, they should now work, and you should now have a light stick!
Take the copper bracket and hoop it around the pipe, and touch it to the battery pack to ensure it connects.
Use the glue gun and add glue to the joining section on the battery pack, the pipe, and the copper bracket.
Hold everything in place until the glue has dried hard.
Finally, run the length of the bungee cord through the piping, and knot it at both ends. The cord should be tight enough to hold the pipe together, but loose enough that you can easily detach the two halves of the stick.

The stick is now ready, it just needs the bungee cord put through the middle.

Light painting with a lightstick

Now you have a DIY lightstick you can use to create interesting light paintings.

Lightsticks work because of the repetition factor – lots of lights moving altogether in a uniform pattern. It’s best to keep your light paintings relatively simple. Use defined movements, like spinning around, to create light cones. Spin the stick around to create circles, or simply walking along with the stick to create light ribbons.

What you do creatively with the stick is now up to you, but enjoy experimenting!

It’s usually a good idea to keep light paintings simple, with a defined message.

Conclusion

It’s always fun to make something for your photography. Have you ever tried to make an accessory yourself? Maybe it was for flash photography, something like a snoot?

Here at digital photography school, we love to hear from you, so please share your experiences. If you have any light painting photos taken with a light stick that you would like to share, that would also be great!

Following initial reports, Fujifilm confirms ‘small percentage’ of X-Pro3 units have an EVF defect

21 Jan

DPReview reader and Fujifilm X-Pro 3 owner Etienne Waldron shared the above photo in an attempt to demonstrate the brightness issue with the EVF display inside his unit.

Following concerns shared in the DPReview forums and on Fuji X Forums, Fujifilm has confirmed to DPReview that a ‘very small percentage’ of its X-Pro3 cameras are experiencing an issue that impacts the electronic viewfinder. As reported by impacted camera owners, including DPReview reader Etienne Waldron, who kindly shared the photos in this article with us, this issue causes the display in the EVF to appear substantially overexposed, though the problem doesn’t impact the model’s LCD.

The brightness issue doesn’t just affect the image either—reports note it’s apparent throughout the menu as well.

The exact cause of this issue is unclear at this time, and Fujifilm’s below statement doesn’t divulge what exactly is going on, but it appears to be a hardware defect rather than a software problem. Fuji is merely advising impacted customers to get in contact with its customer service for help, with a Fujifilm spokesperson telling DPReview the following in a statement via email:

‘Our customers are always our number one priority. We take feedback to heart and always strive to provide the highest possible quality in our products. We are aware of the phenomenon affecting the viewfinder in a very small percentage of X-Pro3 units. We advise our customers to contact Fujifilm customer service directly to solve any questions or concerns they may have about the camera.‘

Note the difference between the flip-down LCD and the EVF.

This issue is particularly frustrating for users in light of the camera’s EVF-centric design. The model features a hidden flip-down LCD that limits the ways in which the camera can be used in the absence of the viewfinder. Because the defect is causing a very overexposed image, the EVF is essentially unusable for impacted camera owners. Unfortunately, replacing the faulty camera is the only known solution to the problem at this time.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The Fragment 8 is a retro-inspired video camera that records to GIFs instead of film

21 Jan

Super 8 cameras were the consumer’s tool of choice for recording images before VHS and other video systems became affordable. The Fragment 8 from Loft Factory is a digital camera that aims to replicate the look, feel and image quality of 1960s and 70s Super 8 cameras using modern technologies.

It can record in either MP4 or GIF formats at 720p resolution on a 1/3 CCD sensor and is targeted of users of Instagram, TikTok and other social media platforms that can process short video clips and animated GIFs. It produces the characteristic Super 8 shutter sound and the frame rate can be set to either 9 or 24 fps for authentic results. An optional filter attachment lets you use three effect filters: Kaleidoscope Six, Star Filter and Radial Filter.

Operation is deliberately kept simple, with a fixed-focus lens, no manual controls and a built-in viewfinder. The camera features a tripod mount on the bottom of the handle and weighs just 250g (8.8oz), which should make it fairly portable.

The team behind the Fragment 8 is currently looking to raise funds for large scale production on Kickstarter and pledge options are plentiful. You can pledge as little as $ 78 for the Fragment 8 camera and one basic lens, or up to $ 128 which includes the camera body with genuine leather trimming, the basic lens, one rotating lens plate and three filter lenses. Shipping is estimated for May 2020.

More information is available on Kickstarter or on the Lofty Factory website.

Disclaimer: Remember to do your research with any crowdfunding project. DPReview does its best to share only the projects that look legitimate and come from reliable creators, but as with any crowdfunded campaign, there’s always the risk of the product or service never coming to fruition.

New Kickstarter Project Revives the Super 8 Retro Camera with GIF Format

“Fragment 8,” the World’s First Camera to Directly Shoot GIF’s is a Perfect Replica of a Super 8 Camera, Including Shutter Sound, 2-Minute Time Limit and Vintage Image Look

Introduced in 1965, Super 8 cameras launched a home movie revolution by giving regular people the ability to instantly capture a moment of their lives using a small, affordable hand-held film camera. The nostalgic feel of Super 8 movies is instantly recognizable in their characteristic faded color tone, graininess, slightly jerky motion and the short lengths (typically 3 minutes max per Super 8 film cartridge) which made them feel so spontaneous. A new Kickstarter project called the “Fragment 8 Retro Camera” has launched for a new camera that not only duplicates the visual look of Super 8 movies – in MP4 or GIF output so they can be shared online in seconds – but faithfully recreates the actual act of using a Super 8 camera itself, complete with clacking shutter sound.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fragment8/slice-of-life-fragment-8-retro-camera

Produced in Hong Kong by the Lofty Factory, Ltd., the “Fragment 8” camera uses modern digital technology to faithfully recreate the authentic look of Super 8 home movies, but with the convenience of USB output in either MP4 or GIF formats at 720p resolution. The Fragment 8 can shoot in either 9 frames per second or 24 and options include three different add-on lenses – Kaleidoscope Six, Star Filter and Radial Filter – for specialized effects – as well as a standard 17mm lens mount. The camera is faithfully made with a simple built-in viewfinder and focus-free operation. The artfully crafted curves are accented with optional genuine leather and there’s a standard tripod mount on the bottom. The camera weighs only 250 grams – easy to carry anywhere, all day.

Kickstarter pledges begin at HK $ 600 (USD $ 78) for the “Dare to Try” level which will be rewarded with one of the first 100 pieces of production in the “Classic Package” which includes the Fragment 8 camera, one basic lens and beautiful gift packaging. Kickstarter Early Bird pledges are HK $ 700 (USD $ 90) for the Classic Package (USD $ 128 retail value). The third Kickstarter level is at HK $ 980 (USD $ 128) for the “Combo Pack” which includes the Fragment 8 body with genuine leather, the basic lens, one rotating lens plate and three different filter lenses (Kaleidoscope Six, Star Filter and Radial Filter) and beautiful gift packaging (USD $ 198 retail price).

Reward delivery is estimated for May 2020.

The Fragment 8 camera was developed by Hong Kong software artist Manhin, who completed the ID & MD design and software development, in cooperation with the graphic and film director Chun Yin.

There’s nothing quite as uniquely beautiful as a Super 8 movie,” said Fragment 8 camera co- creator Manhin. “And the short Super 8 format makes perfect sense with today’s popularity of GIF loops and TikTok videos. Inspired by natural aesthetics, your story can be shared with friends at a new level with romantic and retro effects. You don’t have to fiddle around with

aperture, IOS, or white balance. All you need do is experience the gorgeous vintage feel in your own videos.”

“The Fragment 8 Retro Camera embodies the bright and soft appearance of the mid-century classic analog film. With natural tones, subtle color changes and slight discoloration, it makes a video of even the most mundane subject look artistic, nostalgic and well- composed,” said Fragment 8 co-creator Chun Yin.

FRAGMENT 8 TECHNICAL DETAILS

1/3 inch CCD sensor
720p HD resolution
Built-in viewfinder
9 or 24 frames per second
MP4(H.264) or GIF output
F/2.5 with a 4-Element Lens
17mm mount compatible
Electronic shutter
Focus-free
Li-ion battery pack
Aluminium, metallic printed ABS and Leather
110 W x 90 H x 40 D mm (body)
250g (body)

For complete information, sample videos, tech specs and to pledge, visit the Fragment 8 Kickstarter page at – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fragment8/slice-of-life- fragment-8-retro-camera

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Venus Optics adds Canon M, Fuji X and Sony E mount options to its 4mm F2.8 circular fisheye lens

21 Jan

In addition to DPReview receiving confirmation that Venus Optics is working on a new ultra-fast F0.95 ‘Argus’ lens lineup, Venus Optics has also announced it’s adding new mount options for its 4mm F2.8 circular fisheye lens.

Now, in addition to Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras, the 4mm F2.8 circular fisheye lens will be available for Canon M-, Fuji X- and Sony E-mount camera systems. The updated models will feature the same optical design constructed of seven elements in six groups. The lens features a 210-degree angle of view, 8cm (3.14in) minimum focusing distance, seven-blade aperture diaphragm and weighs just 135g (4.7oz).

Below is a gallery of sample images, provided by Venus Optics:

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The new Canon M-, Fuji X- and Sony E-mount versions of the 4mm F2.8 circular fisheye lens are currently available on Venus Optics’ website for $ 200.

Venus Optics adds Fuji X, Sony E & Canon M options to the Laowa 4mm f/2.8 Circular Fisheye Lens

Anhui China, Aug 7, 2019 – Venus Optics, the camera lenses manufacturer specializes in making unique camera lenses, add new Fuji X, Sony E and Canon M variants to the Laowa 4mm f/2.8 Circular Fisheye Lens.

Laowa 4mm f/2.8 Fisheye lens is an 8mm equivalent fisheye prime specially designed for mirrorless cameras with APS-C and MFT sensors. On the contrary to the Laowa ‘Zero-D’ wide angle lenses, the new 4mm fisheye lens is designed to create an extremely distorted circular fisheye perspective.

210° angle of view The lens features an ultra-wide 210° angle of view. Photographers can take advantage of the dramatic field of view to capture more than what your eyes can see. A full 360-degree panorama can also be done using just 2 images as opposed to shooting 6 or more images with conventional fisheye lenses. This lens is also particularly good for VR photography, shooting virtual tour, skateboard shooting and spherical panorama.

Fast f/2.8 aperture The ultra-fast f/2.8 aperture makes it an ideal option for astro-photography and shooting in lowlight condition.

Focus as close as 3.14” (8cm) from sensor Photographers can take advantage of the super close focusing distance to capture some heavily distorted & impactful shots.

Drones friendly The MFT version of the lens can be mounted on DJI Inspire X5 drones to create some epic ‘God’s vision’ shots.

Outstanding sharpness Houses with 7 elements in 6 groups, the new 4mm has an outstanding sharpness throughout the frame. Along with the 210o ultra-wide angle, photographers can either ‘de-fish’ the image in post-processing or crop to transform the image into a rectilinear image.

Super Tiny & Lightweight The lens is extremely tiny and lightweight. Measuring only 1.77” (45mm) long and weighing 4.7 oz (135g), the lens is so small that can be put into pocket for shooting anywhere, anytime.

Huge Depth of Field The depth of field of this lens is so deep that no focusing operation is required. Simply park the focus ring at infinity focus and stop down the lens to around f/5.6, everything will be in focus.

Pricing & Availability The lens is currently available to order from authorized resellers and in Venus Optics official website (http://www.venuslens.net/). It is ready to ship now. The ex-VAT retail price in US is USD 199/pc. Pricing may vary in different countries.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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5 Tips to Get Out of a Photographic Rut so You Can Get Back to Doing What You Love!

20 Jan

The post 5 Tips to Get Out of a Photographic Rut so You Can Get Back to Doing What You Love! appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.

Creative ruts happens to the best of us. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat the dreaded photographer’s block. Here are 5 tips to get out of a photographic rut and back into doing what you love!

Canon 5D MK II 50mm lens with Kenko extension tubes, f/1.8 at 1/80th of a second ISO 800

Research

Canon 5D MK II Canon 50mm lens with Kenko extension tubes, f/8 at 1/40th of a second ISO 200

Getting stuck into some artistic research is one of my first tips for getting out of a photographic rut. Whether it’s online or in-print, checking out what other photographers have done can stimulate fresh photographic approaches.

Having a look at contemporary photography can inform your practice with new perspectives. In addition, brushing up on your photo history can give you the motivation to expand on tried-and-true photographic methods.

Don’t limit yourself to researching one area of photography either. Branch out into different genres you are curious about. And don’t forget to explore other types of artistic practice. A lot can be gleaned from disciplines like painting and sculpture – practices that rely just as heavily on light and composition as photography does.

Create a visual diary

Canon 5D MK II Canon 50mm lens f/5.6 at 1/40th of a second ISO 100

Often, writers find that putting ideas on paper helps stimulate creative thought. It’s the same for photographers too.

A great way to organize your favorite research discoveries is to create a visual diary. Visual diaries (or art diaries) have been kept by artists for centuries as a way to consolidate ideas and cultivate inspiration.

Grab a blank visual diary (a portable size works best) and start to add prints, drawings, paintings, notes, journal entries, rubbings, whatever! The idea is that your visual diary is your own physical expression of the creative process. When organized into a visual diary, your photographic trajectory becomes clearer. It can be as neat or messy as you like, don’t overthink it and have fun!

Pick a theme

Tips to get out of a photographic rut blue abstract

Canon 5D MK II Canon 50mm lens with Kenko extension tubes, f/2.2 at 1/320th of a second ISO 100

Another tip to get out of a photographic rut is to choose a single theme to photograph. Pick any theme; abstraction, the seasons, portraits…anything that you find interesting or challenging.

Selecting a specific theme focuses your creativity. Having a theme also simplifies your photographic process, defining a clear goal for you to work on. Furthermore, when you work within a theme, you start to uncover interesting perspectives about a subject you may never have considered before. This feeds your creative momentum, helping to lever you out of photographer’s block.

Try something new

Canon 5D MK II Canon 50mm, f/2.5 at 1 second ISO 100

Photography is made up of an endless amount of techniques and approaches. This provides photographers with many great tools to get out of a photographic rut. Trying something new can be exciting, and it can re-frame your whole photographic practice, kick-starting your creative flow and getting you back in the game.

Investing in new equipment is one way to change-up your photography, but simpler (cheaper) ideas work well too. For example, trying out portraiture or getting into black and white photography can help just as much. You could try photographing a new location or embark on a 365 project. You could also try camera tossing or set your sights on street photography – the choice is yours.

Keep a camera with you

Tips to get out of a photographic rut camera diana

Canon 5D MK II Canon 50mm lens with Kenko extension tubes, f/1.8 at 1/80th of a second ISO 200

Creativity can be fickle, and inspiration can strike at unexpected times. If you are in a photographic rut, capitalizing on these bolts of inspiration is important. The last tip to get out of a photographic rut is to keep a camera with you, ready for action.

Today, many people have a camera constantly within reach on their phones. Concepts like composition and settings on a camera phone are similar to a dedicated camera. This means that taking photos with a camera phone can, in itself, flex your photographic muscles. In addition, you can also record interesting subjects on your phone to return to later with a dedicated camera.

For me, I try to keep a small, plastic camera with me in my pocket or bag. There’s something about having a camera that inspires me to keep a lookout for new photographic opportunities. The whimsical nature of a plastic camera adds an element of surprise to photography too.

Conclusion

Photographic ruts are a stubborn burden suffered by many photographers. Luckily, taking active steps can alleviate the symptoms of a creative dry-spell.

While these tips are drawn from my own experiences, it is by no means an exhaustive list.

Have you been stuck with photographers block? Let me know your tips to get out of a photographic rut in the comments.

The post 5 Tips to Get Out of a Photographic Rut so You Can Get Back to Doing What You Love! appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.

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360Photography

BTS: A look at the incredible planning, camera work and editing that went into the WWI film ‘1917’

Paris Musées launches online portal with thousands of historic photographs

The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS)

Edelkrone launches JibONE motion control with mobile app and motorized head support

Confirmed: Venus Optics working on new line of ultra-fast ‘Argus’ F0.95 lenses

DIY Photography: How to Make Your Own DIY Lightstick for Cool Photos!

What is light painting

Lightsticks you can buy

How to make a DIY light stick

The supplies you’ll need

Putting the whole thing together

Attaching the fairy lights

Putting the battery pack on, and finishing the stick.

Light painting with a lightstick

Conclusion

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Venus Optics adds Canon M, Fuji X and Sony E mount options to its 4mm F2.8 circular fisheye lens

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5 Tips to Get Out of a Photographic Rut so You Can Get Back to Doing What You Love!

Research

Create a visual diary

Pick a theme

Try something new

Keep a camera with you

Conclusion

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