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Slideshow: These are the winners of the 2018-2019 Nikon Photo Contest
2018-2019 Nikon Photo Contest Winners

Nikon has announced the winners of its 2018-2019 international Nikon Photo Contest. The contest, which started in 1969 ‘as an opportunity for photographers to share their unique visions and enrich photographic culture,’ celebrated its 50th anniversary with its highest number of annual submissions since its inception.

Nikon received 97,369 submissions from approximately 33,000 people across 170 countries and regions around the world. The entries were split up into three categories this year: Open, Next Generation and Short Film, the first two of which are split into single photo and photo story subcategories. Below is a brief description from Nikon for each of the categories:
- Open: a single photo or photo story representing the theme of ‘Change’
- Next Generation: a single photo or photo story expressing the idea of ‘Identity’ open to photographers aged 25 or younger
- Short Film: a video submission that tells the story of ‘Hope.’
One additional submission has received the Participants’ Choice Prize, while another has received the Nikon Photo Contest 50th Anniversary Prize, a new prize implemented this year. These will be included in our gallery of the main category winners.

The winning images were selected by a panel of international judges from different disciplines in the world of art. Nikon says the ‘recipients of the gold, silver, and bronze awards from each category were selected based on a variety of aspects, including their suitability to the category’s theme, the strength of the message, and level of creativity.’ Below is a short video Nikon put together about the judges and their outlook on the images and the contest as a whole:

The Grand Prize winner, which is selected from the Gold Prize winners in each of the categories, will be announced at the awards ceremony on August 23, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan.

The accompanying gallery is a collection of the Gold Prize winners for each category. Additional Silver and Bronze prize winners can be found on the Nikon Photo Contest website.

Open Single Photo Winner

Alma and Alzheimer’s — Open Award Single Photo Gold Prize

Photographer: Jason Parnell-Brookes (United Kingdom)

Story: Donald?90, sits alone in the background consumed in his suffering with Alzheimer’s and unaware of his wife, Alma, 84 having dinner just feet away. He came back from World War II, changed from the kind caring man she had married, suffering with shellshock (PTSD). After a violent 60-year marriage with Alma, Donald was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. In the last few years of his life there was a sudden and rapid change of his demeanor rendering him placid, back to the man she had married.

Open Photo Story Winner

hope — Open Award Photo Story Gold Prize

Photographer: Thaib Chaidar (Indonesia)

Story: I took a photo of this series while on assignment about free cataract surgery for people who are not able in remote areas in West Papua, Manokwari Regency, and one of his patients was a mother named Sorina Ullo, who was lucky because after decades she could finally returned to see clearly, the cataract that had long suffered will heal soon

Next Generation Single Photo Winner

Ayimpoka — Next Generation Award Single Photo Gold Prize

Photographer: Sara De Antonio Feu (Spain)

Story: Ayimpoka lives with her family in a little town in Bolgatanga (Ghana). Albinism has been a cause of discrimination and persecution during years, and murders have been committed against albino children because of the popular association with magic and witchcraft. At Ayimpoka’s house, everyone gives her love and protection and a local NGO provides her weekly care. That day?she was recovering from malaria and she had a lot of sunburns because she was in the sun all day.

Next Generation Photo Story Winner

??(Fanghua – Moments in Our Youthful Days) — Next Generation Award Photo Story Gold Prize

Photographer: ? ?? [Jinghan Tu] (China)

Story: The camera I always have hanging around my neck is like another pair of eyes, and has essentially become a part of my body. Having the camera doesn’t affect how I engage with other people of the same generation. I am a part of the things that take place in each moment I capture. For me, pointing the lens at something is the same as taking screenshots of my own personal life. Every drop of rain, every smile, every quick motion, and every droplet when water is sprayed. The things I capture are nothing more than ordinary, yet they are all an important part of moments in the dazzling youthful lives of people, including myself. I continue to take photos to preserve the memories of those precious days which I have experienced.

Short Film Winner

Exulansis (link to video) — Short Film Award Gold Prize

Artist: Sara Crochet (United States of America)

Story: Exulansis n. the tendency to give up trying to talk about an experience because people are unable to relate to it. I made this film in one day to display a haunting memory and how I choose to see that as an experience I can share to bring light to women and men around me. Bringing us all together with understanding and love.

Participants’ Choice Prize Winner

The phoenix — NPC 50th Anniversary Prize

Artist: Helena Pelletier (Canada)

Story: As a young women, Halifax resident Holly Fox survived a terrible house fire?that took her young husband and left her with extensive scars after she ran into the flames to save their infant baby who made it out without injury thanks to the bravery of his mother. The child has grown now an adult man?and her scars a beautiful reminder of her courage and strength. Out of the ashes she will rise, stronger and more beautiful than before. Marked with evidence of such and wearing it with pride.

Nikon Photo Contest 50th Anniversary Prize Winner

????(Harvesting Season) — Participants’ Choice Prize

Artist: ? ?? Huaming Zhao (China)

Story: Fall is the season of harvesting. The tall green bamboos can be cut into strips for creating various crafts. They are dried, disinfected, then made into chopsticks to become a part of people’s everyday lives and bring joy to them.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
August 7, 2019
How to Change a Background in Photoshop for Still Life or Food Photography
The post How to Change a Background in Photoshop for Still Life or Food Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

Food photography is all about communicating an ambiance or mood. Plating, styling, and props will help, and using the right backdrop can go a long way to tie everything together. Learn how to use Photoshop to change the background without having to buy new ones.

To have the right background for every shot means having a lot of tabletops, pieces of wood, linen, etc. These things cost and take a lot of space. If you don’t have the budget or storage capacity for it, this article can help you out. By doing a good selection and using layers, I’ll show you how to change your background in Photoshop.

A precise selection is key to change your background

First, you need to be able to work separately on your background, for this, you have to select it. There are many selection tools in Photoshop, feel free to choose the one you want. However, I recommend the pen tool for more advanced selections. If you need some help with it check out: Why Learning the Pen Tool in Photoshop is Worth the Effort.

Use Photoshop selection tools to change your backdrop without affecting your subject

Once you’re satisfied you can duplicate the layer by going to Menu-> Layer->Duplicate layer.

Now add a mask by clicking on the Create Mask button from the bottom of the panel. Because you had your subject already selected, it will create the mask with that shape.

From now on, your changes will only be seen on the background that you had selected.

If you would like to understand masks better, check out Photoshop Masks 101.

Photoshop layers mask help you change the appearance of your background for food photography

Modify the colors to simulate a different background

Now you can freely modify the backdrop using any adjustment layers that control color, brightness, hue, saturation etc.

Just click on the Create New Fill or Adjustment Layer button from the bottom of the Layers panel to see all the choices.

Since you are working on separate layers, your original remains untouched and you can always go back to it if you do something you are not happy with.

Photoshop have many adjustment layers to choose how you want to change your backdrop in food photography

You can add as many layers as you want. For example, I modified the hue and saturation, then added a warming photo filter. Just be sure to always apply the mask to the layer (not the background) or the adjustments will show in the entire image.

A white background is easier to change

For this option, you need to have a texture ready before you start. You can buy them on stock photography websites, or you can make your own. I find it useful to photograph fabrics, wood, stones or anything I can use later so that I have many options available. For inspiration and details, you can read How to Create Your Own Unique Textures and Apply Them To Your Photography.

A white background allows you to incorporate textures and change the background of your food photography

Select the background like in the other example, only this time it might be easier because of the contrast created by the white background.

Easy to use selection tools like Quick Selection or Color Range can save you a lot of time, just pay attention to the edges and details.

Always zoom in to fine-tune your selection. Then save it by going to the menu Selection->Save Selection.

A good selection helps you change only the backdrop with Photoshop tools

Apply your texture as the new backdrop

Now add the texture you chose for your new background. You can do this by going to Edit->Place if you want it as a Smart Object. However, if you don’t plan to modify it then just paste it on top. Either way, it will create a new layer on top that will cover your original image.

To give visibility to your subject, load the selection you saved by going to the menu Selection->Load Selection. Then click the Add Mask button like in the first example.

Integrate your new background

Now you can see the cherries but they look a bit fake. To improve this, change the layer blending mode. I find Multiply does a very good job for this.

If you want to know more about blending layers watch this Comprehensive Guide to Photoshop Blend Modes.

Once you have done that, you can also adjust the opacity. The shadows now make the photo feel natural.

And you’re done.

It’s that easy to change your background in Photoshop!

If you want you can keep on working on it to make it more dramatic or moody. Make use of adjustment layers, filters, and even more textures until you get the effect that you want.

Photoshop allows you to use layers, filters and textures to create special moods in food photography

I hope you liked these ideas and found inspiration to keep on trying different things.

Go out and give it a try, and share your images with us in the comments section!

And to further improve your food photography, I’ll leave you here a list with some great articles.

Recommended readings
- If you’re feeling more crafty, try making Easy and Affordable DIY Food Photography Backdrops.
- Keep in mind you’ll also need some props, so check out these tips to DIY Food Photography Props on a Budget.
- And if you’re ready to really jump in with both feet, you can’t miss The dPS Ultimate Guide to Food Photography.
The post How to Change a Background in Photoshop for Still Life or Food Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

Digital Photography School
August 7, 2019
Kodak Moments unveils M1 Order Station, scalable photo kiosks with smartphone support

Kodak Moments (a division of Kodak Alaris) has introduced the M1 Order Station, a scalable photo-printing kiosk designed to enable the average consumer to easily print photos from their phone, a USB drive, or an SD card. As demonstrated by Kodak in the video above, the M1 Order Station can be scaled from a small desktop station to a full standing kiosk to meet the needs of different retailers.

Though photo-printing kiosks used to be commonly found in big box and convenience stores, these machines have become scarce amid the rise of digital photography and online printing services. Kodak is aiming to change that with its printing kiosks.

The new M1 Order Station is described as a ‘seamless’ solution featuring the Kodak Moments retail software version 9.0, which presents users with printing options via a 13″ touchscreen. Retailers can pair the station with the Kodak 305 printer countertop enclosure, the 305 print station cabinet, or the 305 printer booster with a print catcher.

In addition to memory cards and USB drives, customers can download the Kodak Moments app to directly print images from a smartphone using WiFi, Bluetooth, or a physical connection cable. The system supports printing 4×6, 5×7, and 6×8 prints, as well as photo cards, collages, and ‘DIY products.’ A brochure fully detailing the M1 Order Station is available here [PDF].

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Nikon Z 35mm F1.8 S sample gallery

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One of three lenses announced alongside the Nikon Z7 last August, the Z 35mm F1.8 S is part of a new generation of primes designed from scratch for mirrorless. We’re working on a full review, but in the meantime, take a look at some sample images, taken in London, Seattle, and all over the Pacific coast this year.

View our sample gallery from the Nikon Z 35mm F1.8 S

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Canon patent application details wireless charging setup for camera systems

Wireless charging has become a standard in flagship smartphones, but like so many other technologies, the camera world seems a bit behind. Canon seems interested in changing that though if a recent patent application is any indication.

United States patent application 10,375,639 B2 details the schematics for a wireless charging setup that uses a combination of a power mat and a compatible device to offer wireless charging capabilities. The patent doesn’t limit the device being charged to cameras, but does explicitly say ‘the electronic apparatus [being charged] can be an imaging apparatus.’

According to the patent application text, the mat would be able to detect when a camera is present via near field communication (NFC) and adapt the power output to match the required power of the camera unit while also monitoring the temperature to prevent overheating.

It’s not clear whether Canon would rely on a pre-existing wireless charging standard, such as the Wireless Power Consortium’s Qi standard, but considering Qi’s ubiquity, it’s likely to be the case. Of course, there’s always the possibility this patent application never sees the light of day, so don’t get too excited.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Photographer turns old computer parts into functional large format ‘Frankenstein’ camera

Iranian photographer Alireza Rostami has introduced the world to his ‘Frankenstein’ camera, a functional product handmade from old and broken computer components. According to Rostami, who recently spoke with DPReview, he purchased his first computer in 1999, a moment he said he’ll ‘never forget.’

Rostami explains that as he upgraded the computer over the years, he saved the older hardware, including the motherboard. ‘One day I thought, I can turn my old computer into a device that works again!’ Rostami said. ‘And I thought, well, why not make a camera?’

Rostami crunched the numbers and developed a design for his large format camera, which features a Linhof large format lens and film back, as well as a low-power battery that powers the camera’s computers fans, adding to the overall aesthetic. Rostami says his computer camera is suitable for landscape photography without adjusting the focus but can be readjusted for other uses by utilizing a universal lens ring and changing the lens.

Below is a video walkthrough of the camera, shared with DPReview by Rostami:

‘Unfortunately, I don’t have access to high-end technology,’ Rostami notes on Instagram, explaining that he’d like to make a different model that functions as both a computer and camera. Despite that, Rostami is pleased with the current version, saying, ‘I find the camera very exciting and beautiful, like something out of science fiction. I have a very unique camera now.’

View this post on Instagram

Part 3 … video This is my Frankenstein camera . I make it with my broken Camputer . #apple #technology #camera #largeformatcamera #Instagram #newyork #usa #windows #google #yahoo #news #microsoft

A post shared by Alireza Rostami (@alirizarostami) on Aug 1, 2019 at 2:54pm PDT

Selfies captured with the Frankenstein camera are available on Rostami’s Instagram account. The photographer has shared a number of other DIY photography projects, including a camera transformed into a watch and a modified lens that produces dreamy, otherworldly images.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Skydio releases sample footage captured with its upcoming Skydio 2 drone

Last month, California-based drone manufacturer Skydio teased a follow up to their premier R1 model. Slated for release this Fall, the company recently updated email subscribers with more details about what they’re calling the ‘Skydio 2,’ presumably for the time being. The reel, above, demonstrates some of the new drone’s capabilities including the ability to navigate and fly through numerous obstacles, track subjects, and even perform a 360° spin.

Besides being able to fly autonomously and avoid obstacles, the ‘Skydio 2’ will also boast a breakthrough algorithm that can determine ‘where and how to fly to get the most stunning cinematic shots possible.’ Perhaps this ability was referenced in the second frame as the ‘Skydio 2’ gradually pulled away from a single beachgoer to reveal a stunning tropical island.

With the R1, Skydio positioned itself as a drone maker for consumers and enthusiasts. Using Nvidia’s onboard computer, the same technology that powers self-driving cars, the R1 can map it surroundings, avoid obstacles in every direction and track a single subject. Remote pilots can launch and fly effortlessly with this built-in technology.

Now, with the ‘Skydio 2,’ the focus has shifted to quality cinematography. A redesigned camera promises polished, professional-grade video. This, alone, makes it a huge improvement from its predecessor. If they offer it up in a compact, light-weight frame with increased battery life, they’ll have created the consumer-grade drone to beat.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Google Pixel 3 camera defect causes loud clicking, OIS issue while shooting

A number of Google’s $ 499 Pixel 3 smartphone units are experiencing an issue that causes the camera to ‘shake’ while recording video even when the device is placed on a stable surface. A large number Pixel 3 owners have published complaints about this problem on Reddit, Twitter, the Google Support forums, and other online destinations.

The issue appears to primarily impact the Pixel 3 model, though there are some reports of it related to the larger Pixel 3 XL. Sample videos from users show the camera’s focus constantly adjusting itself or, in other examples, producing a prominent wobble effect similar to what one would get by shaking the phone.

Though Google hasn’t provided an official statement about the matter at this time, a loud clicking sound produced from the camera while recording indicates the problem may stem from the Pixel 3’s optical image stabilization system. Pixel 3 owner ‘anaymakan’ shared a video demonstrating this problem on the Pixel 3 subreddit in late May.

Because this appears to be a hardware defect, Pixel 3 owners have been unsuccessful in finding a workaround solution. Owners of the faulty devices report having it solved by getting a replacement phone that doesn’t suffer from the same problem.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Samsung announces first 100+ layer V-NAND memory module

Fast storage solutions are essential for efficient digital photo and video workflows and Samsung Technology has announced the start of production of new V-NAND modules with more than 100 layers, which is an industry first and should give a boost to any editing workstation. According to the South Korean company, the 256GB 3-bit V-NAND will be used to make SSD drives for PCs and has already been delivered to a number global OEMs.

The new generation adds around 40 percent more cells to the previous 9-layer single-stack structure. Samsung achieves this by building an electrically conductive mold stack with 136 layers. The company claims this results in the industry’s fastest data transfer rate, citing writing speed of 450 microseconds (?) and a reading response time of 45?. Compared to the previous design performance has been increased by 10 percent and power consumption decreased by 15%.

The company claims this results in the industry’s fastest data transfer rate, citing writing speed of 450 microseconds (?) and a reading response time of 45?.

Samsung says that thanks to the new and faster design, it will be able to offer V-NAND solutions with more than 300 layers by combining three of the new stacks, without any negative impact on performance or reliability.

In addition to the performance increases, the engineers have been able to reduce production steps and reduce chip sizes, increasing production rates by 20 percent.

With the 250GB SATA PC SSD already released, the company is planning to increase production in second half of the year to meet growing global demand and produce SSDs and eUFSs using 512Gb 3-bit V-NAND in a variety of specifications. Samsung is also hoping to deploy the new chips for mobile and automobile applications in the future.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 7, 2019
Entaniya announces 220-degree PL-mount fisheye for Super 35, full frame cameras

Japanese fisheye specialist Entaniya has introduced a new fisheye lens in a PL mount that’s aimed at large format video camera users, and which can offer a range of effective focal lengths using different sized spacers. The Entaniya Fisheye HAL 220 is designed to cover Super 35mm and full frame sensors and can provide focal lengths between 6.14mm and 8.03mm through 15 increments via the included set of zoom spacers.

The lens has a maximum aperture of T2.9 and uses 17 elements in 12 groups to provide a maximum angle of view of 220°. The depth of the spacer used has an impact on the size of the covering circle of the lens, so when the thinner spacers are used—or no spacer—the lens has a smaller covering circle. This is useful for those who want a circular image, but doesn’t leave out those needing the whole recording area covered.

No pricing or availability details have been released so far. For more information and to see how the lens covers different formats go to the Entaniya website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

August 6, 2019