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  • Hasselblad XCD 21mm sample gallery

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    It’s not everyday you have the opportunity to shoot with a lens like the Hasselblad XCD 21mm F4. It’s currently the widest lens in the company’s medium-format lineup (and the widest lens on the roadmap, for that matter). It’s also, as we discovered, incredibly sharp. You’ll see plenty of detail in the 50MP image files in the gallery above, and if there’s a 100MP future for Hasselblad’s XCD system, we think the 21mm will do just fine.

    Take a look at a selection of sample images from DPR contributor Damien Demolder, and be on the look out for more to come as we get our hands on one in Seattle.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Weekly Photography Challenge – Backlighting

    Light is the most important thing in photography – you’ll hear that from many pros and teachers. There are many creative ways to use light, different colors of light, and direction of light.

    This week we’re going to focus on one particular direction of light – backlighting – for this week’s photography challenge.

    With the sun behind the subject here, it gives her a nice outline or rim lighting effect. A reflector was used to add light back into her face so it wasn’t too dark. 

    There are many subjects that look great with backlighting – in particular flowers and leaves. As they are slightly translucent objects, the light comes through them and gives them a nice glow. Other items have unique shapes or texture are highlighted with backlighting.

    The color of leaves really jumps out when they are backlit.

    The sun hitting this yellow leaf from behind really makes it stand out against the dark wood of the old bridge.

    This little cactus has all of its spines really stand out due to the backlighting.

    If you need more help on this topic, read: How to Understand Natural Light Part 3: Direction of Light – or How to Backlight Translucent Objects for Dramatic Effect

    Backlighting can make your subject in shadow so be conscious of that.

    Weekly Photography Challenge – Backlighting

    Simply upload your shot into the comment field (look for the little camera icon in the Disqus comments section) and they’ll get embedded for us all to see or if you’d prefer, upload them to your favorite photo-sharing site and leave the link to them. Show me your best images in this week’s challenge. Sometimes it takes a while for an image to appear so be patient and try not to post the same image twice.

    Share in the dPS Facebook Group

    You can also share your images in the dPS Facebook group as the challenge is posted there each week as well.

    The post Weekly Photography Challenge – Backlighting appeared first on Digital Photography School.


    Digital Photography School

  • Sony announces Cyber-shot RX100 VI with 24-200mm zoom

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    Sony has announced the Cyber-shot RX100 VI, a 1″-type compact camera with a 20.1-megapixel Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor, 24-200mm equivalent F2.8-4.5 zoom lens, 315 phase detection points covering approximately 65% of the sensor, and the ability to shoot at 24 fps with autofocus.

    The RX100 VI becomes the first in the Cyber-shot RX100-series to gain a touchscreen, allowing both touch shutter and touch focus. The screen can tilt up to 180 degree upwards and 90 degree downwards, extending shooting flexibility. The new camera is essentially the same size as its predecessor the RX100 V, but its depth has been increased slightly, by 1.8mm.

    The RX100 VI includes the latest Bionz X processor with front-end LSI, as used in the most recent Alpha cameras

    Sony says that the RX100 VI contains processing and experience developed in the creation of the a9 sports camera. It includes the latest Bionz X processor with front-end LSI, as used in the most recent Alpha cameras. This helps give what the company says is the world’s fastest AF (measured at 0.03 seconds) and with twice the EyeAF tracking performance of the Mark V.

    The RX100 VI’s Hybrid AF system includes 315 phase detection points, covering approximately 65% of the sensor for ‘high-density tracking’.

    The RX100 VI’s 24-200mm lens comprises 15 elements in 12 groups, featuring two ED (extra-low dispersion) aspherical glass elements and eight aspherical lens elements including four AA (advanced aspherical) lenses. Sony describes the pocketable camera as having “two lenses worth of interchangeable lens”, incorporating the range of a 24-70mm lens and a 70-200mm in one “do anything” camera. Meanwhile, it offers a claimed 4EV of image stabilization. Unlike its predecessor, there is no ND filter for video shooters.

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    The RX100 VI’s XGA OLED pop-up EVF is similar to previous models in the series, but once popped-up, the finder optics no longer need to be manually extended for use.

    Sample Gallery:

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    On the video front, the RX100 VI is capable of full-width, oversampled 4K video with support for 8-bit HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) for easy HDR capture. The RX100 VI is also able to record superslow motion video at either 250, 500 or 1000 fps.

    The new Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI will ship next month, priced at $ 1200 (£1,150 in the UK).

    At the same press conference, Sony also announced the VCT-SGR1 shooting grip, designed for the RX0 and RX100-series cameras. The VCT-SGR1 includes camera controls, an adjustable head and built-in tripod. It will be available in September for around $ 100.

    Press release:

    Sony’s New RX100 VI Combines Versatile 24-200mm Large Aperture, High Magnification Zoom Lens with World’s Fastest AF Speed

    • Maintains compact body size of acclaimed RX100 series while adding a ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm F2.8 – F4.5 Large Aperture High Magnification Zoom Lens
    • World’s Fastest 0.03 seconds AF speed combined with 315 focal-plane phase-detection AF points covering approximately 65% of frame
    • 1.0-type stacked 20.1 MP Exmor RS™ CMOS image sensor with DRAM chip and upgraded BIONZ X™ image processor and Front-end LSI
    • High-speed continuous shooting at up to 24 fps with full AF/AE tracking
    • Optical image stabilization equivalent to a 4.0-stop faster shutter speed
    • High Resolution 4K Movie Shooting with full pixel readout and no pixel binning plus 4K HDR for instant HDR workflow

    NEW YORK, Jun.5, 2018 – Sony – a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer – has today announced another exciting model for their popular Cyber-shot RX100 series of compact cameras, the RX100 VI (model DSC-RX100M6).

    The innovative new RX100 VI camera is the first of all the RX100 models to include a high magnification zoom lens, as it packs in an impressive ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm F2.8 – F4.5 lens yet doesn’t sacrifice the pocket-size portability, fast responsiveness and high image quality that has become the hallmark of Sony’s RX100 lineup. It’s extensive zoom, impressive image quality and versatility for both still images and video make it an ideal choice for capturing daily life, cityscapes, portraiture, sports, wildlife and everything in between.

    The new model is equipped with a 20.1 MP 1.0-type stacked Exmor RS™ CMOS image sensor with DRAM chip and an upgraded BIONZ X™ image processing system with a front-end LSI that maximizes processing speed and optimizes image quality in all shooting environments. Additionally, the RX100 VI features an incredibly efficient Fast Hybrid AF system with 315-point phase-detection AF points on the sensor that can acquire focus in as little as 0.03 seconds, the world’s fastest AF acquisition time for 1.0-type sensor cameras. It can also shoot at up to 24 fps at full resolution with continuous AF/AE tracking and produces beautiful 4K video with full pixel readout and no pixel binning.

    “We’re continuing to innovate our RX camera lineup, providing our customers new and different ways to capture what they’ve never been able to capture before,” said Neal Manowitz, Vice President of Digital Imaging for Sony Electronics. “The new RX100 VI is the latest example, delivering extensive reach, extremely advanced autofocus, high-speed shooting and more, while still being able to slip easily into your pocket. It’s the ultimate pocket travel camera.”

    New High-Magnification 24-200mm Zoom Lens plus Outstanding Image Quality

    A first for Sony’s RX100 series of cameras, the new ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm F2.8 – F4.5 lens packs the power of both 24-70mm and 70-200mm focal lengths into a singular compact design. This is achieved thanks to its unique design featuring two ED (extra-low dispersion) aspherical glass elements and eight aspherical lens elements including four AA (advanced aspherical) lenses. All pieces work together seamlessly to deliver outstanding sharpness from corner-to-corner at all focal lengths, maintaining the acclaimed image quality of the RX100 series.

    The impressive new lens on the RX100 VI maintains a large aperture throughout the entire zoom range, ensuring portraits can be created with beautiful background defocus, fast moving subjects can be captured with crisp focus and no blurring, and much more. Additionally, the lens has built-in Optical SteadyShotTM image stabilization that is equivalent to a 4.0-stopvifaster shutter speed, helping to prevent camera shake or blurry imageseven in a low-light condition or at telephoto zoom range.

    Lightning-Fast AF Performance and Shooting Speeds

    The new RX100 VI model features a Fast Hybrid AF system that ultimately allows the camera to lock focus in as little as 0.03 seconds. This innovative AF system combines the respective advantages of 315-point focal-plane phase-detection AF points that cover approximately 65% of the sensor and contrast-detection AF. This high speed focusing complements the versatile 24-200mm range of the lens, ensuring all subjects can be captured with precise detail and clarity.

    Additionally, a first for the RX100 series of cameras, the RX100 VI includes Sony’s advanced High-density Tracking AF technology, which concentrates AF points around a subject to improve tracking and focus accuracy. The popular Eye AF technology is also available with approximately 2x the tracking performance of the current RX100 series model[ix]. Further, the camera has LCD touch focusing and touchpad focus point control for users that would like to drag their fingers to ideal focus points of their choice.

    An ideal complement to the AF system, the RX100 VI offers continuous high-speed shooting at up to 24 fps with full AF/AE tracking, with an impressive buffer limit of up to 233 images. The display lag of the EVF has been substantially reduced compared to prior models, allowing shooters to capture the decisive moment with ultimate confidence. Also, for convenience during image playback, continuously shot images can be displayed in groups instead of individual shots.

    The RX100 VI also has a high speed Anti-Distortion Shutter (maximum shutter speed of up to 1/32000 second) that reduces the “rolling shutter” effect commonly experienced with fast moving subjects, and can shoot completely silently in all modes, including continuous high speed shooting, when electronic shutter is engaged. A mechanical shutter mode is also available as well if required by the user.

    Advanced Movie Capabilities Including 4K HDR

    The pocket-friendly RX100 VI is packed with a variety of video capabilities that will satisfy even the most demanding video enthusiasts.

    With Fast Hybrid AF, the focal-plane phase-detection AF points ensures accurate focusing and tracking performance, even for the severe focusing requirements of 4K movie shooting. AF drive speed and AF tracking sensitivity can also be adjusted via the menu system, giving shooters plenty of flexibility based on their focusing preferences.

    In 4K mode, the new RX100 VI utilizes full pixel readout without pixel binning to ensure that all the finer details of 4K video are captured with minimal moire and ‘jaggies’.

    For the first time in a Cyber-shot camera, the RX100 VI features 4K HDR compatibility thanks to its new HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) picture profile that offers an instant HDR workflow solution. Additional professional caliber video features include S-Log3/S-Gamut3, 120p Full HD mode, Picture Profile, proxy recording and more. The RX100 VI is also able to record super slow motion video at either 240fps, 480 fps or 960 fps.

    Premium Design, Control and Convenience

    The new RX100 VI is equipped with a high-contrast 2.35 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ with ZEISS®T* Coating, ensuring true-to-life image preview and playback functionality. The EVFitselfretracts in and out of the camera body based on user preference, and can be activated instantly by asingle One-push Access button.

    A first for Sony’s RX series, RX100 VI has a touch shutter that can be activated by tapping the back LCD screen, a zoom lever with customizable zoom speeds and an LCD that can be rotated 180 degrees upward or 90 degrees downward for a variety of shooting angles for the creator. There is also aMonitor Auto OFF function that boosts max number of still images by up to 30%, and the camera is also Wi-Fi®, NFC™ and Bluetooth® compatible.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI compact camera will ship next month for about $ 1,200 US and $ 1,600 CA.

    Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI specifications

    Price
    MSRP $ 1200/£1150
    Body type
    Body type Compact
    Body material Aluminum
    Sensor
    Max resolution 5472 x 3648
    Other resolutions 3:2 (3888 x 2592, 2736 x 1824), 4:3 (4864 x 3648, 3648 x 2736, 2592 x 1944), 16:9 (5472 x 3080, 3648 x 2056, 2720 x 1528), 1:1 (3648 x 3648, 2544 x 2544, 1920 x 1920)
    Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
    Effective pixels 20 megapixels
    Sensor photo detectors 21 megapixels
    Sensor size 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
    Sensor type BSI-CMOS
    Processor Bionz X
    Color space sRGB, AdobeRGB
    Color filter array Primary color filter
    Image
    ISO Auto, 125-12800
    Boosted ISO (minimum) 80
    Boosted ISO (maximum) 25600
    White balance presets 9
    Custom white balance Yes
    Image stabilization Optical
    CIPA image stabilization rating 4 stop(s)
    Uncompressed format RAW
    JPEG quality levels Extra fine, fine, standard
    File format
    • JPEG (Exif v2.3, DCF v2.0)
    • Raw (Sony ARW v2.3)
    Optics & Focus
    Focal length (equiv.) 24–200 mm
    Optical zoom 8.3×
    Maximum aperture F2.8–4.5
    Autofocus
    • Contrast Detect (sensor)
    • Phase Detect
    • Multi-area
    • Center
    • Selective single-point
    • Tracking
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Face Detection
    • Live View
    Autofocus assist lamp Yes
    Digital zoom Yes (3.8x)
    Manual focus Yes
    Normal focus range 8 cm (3.15)
    Macro focus range 8 cm (3.15)
    Number of focus points 315
    Screen / viewfinder
    Articulated LCD Tilting
    Screen size 3
    Screen dots 1,228,800
    Touch screen Yes
    Screen type TFT LCD
    Live view Yes
    Viewfinder type Electronic
    Viewfinder coverage 100%
    Viewfinder magnification 0.59×
    Viewfinder resolution 2,359,296
    Photography features
    Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
    Maximum shutter speed 1/2000 sec
    Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
    Exposure modes
    • Auto
    • Program Auto
    • Aperture Priority
    • Shutter Priority
    • Manual Exposure
    Scene modes
    • Portrait
    • Sports Action
    • Macro
    • Landscape
    • Sunset
    • Night Scene
    • Handheld Twilight
    • Night Portrait
    • Anti Motion Blur
    • Pet Mode
    • Gourmet
    • Fireworks
    • High Sensitivity
    Built-in flash Yes
    Flash range 5.90 m (at Auto ISO)
    External flash No
    Drive modes
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Self-timer (single, continuous)
    • Single/continuous bracketing
    • WB bracketing
    • DRO bracketing
    Continuous drive 24.0 fps
    Self-timer Yes
    Metering modes
    • Multi
    • Center-weighted
    • Spot
    Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
    AE Bracketing ±3 (3 frames )
    WB Bracketing Yes
    Videography features
    Format MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
    Modes
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 16 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 16 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
    • 1280 x 720 @ 30p / 6 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    • 1280 x 720 @ 25p / 6 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
    Microphone Stereo
    Speaker Mono
    Storage
    Storage types SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
    Connectivity
    USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
    HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI with uncompressed 4K/30p output)
    Microphone port No
    Headphone port No
    Wireless Built-In
    Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n with NFC
    Remote control Yes (wired or smartphone)
    Physical
    Environmentally sealed No
    Battery Battery Pack
    Battery description NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery & USB charger
    Battery Life (CIPA) 240
    Weight (inc. batteries) 301 g (0.66 lb / 10.62 oz)
    Dimensions 102 x 58 x 43 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.69)
    Other features
    Orientation sensor Yes
    Timelapse recording No
    GPS None

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Video Tips: How to Photograph Lightning

    Storms and bad weather doesn’t mean you have to stop shooting and go indoors. In fact, sometimes you can get more dramatic images in bad weather. So in this article, we’ve found two video tips to help you learn how to photograph lightning.

    Adorama TV – Shooting Lightning

    In this video, Mark Wallace gives you the 8 steps he uses to photograph lightning.

    ?

    Here are the 8 steps Mark recommends:

    1. Set your camera to Manual Mode.
    2. Set your shutter speed to 30 seconds.
    3. Select an aperture of f/10.
    4. Set the ISO to 100.
    5. Shoot in RAW format.
    6. Set your focus on manual mode, and focus just shy of infinity.
    7. Use a wide-angle lens.
    8. Put your camera on a tripod.
    9. BONUS: Use a remote shutter release to trigger the camera.

    Lightning Photography Tutorial

    Next, photographer Pecos Hank has a great tutorial on photographing lightning.

    ?

    He covers some of the same tips as the first video, and a few others as well such as the opportunity to also make a time-lapse of your lightning photos.

    For other storm photography or chasing tips read:

    •  7 Things I’ve Learned from Photographing Storms
    • 5 Incredible Storm Photographers and Their Best Images

    So get out there and photograph some lightning, but stay safe!

    The post Video Tips: How to Photograph Lightning appeared first on Digital Photography School.


    Digital Photography School

  • Apple is quietly introducing new features, improved support for RAW photos in iOS 12

    It wasn’t one of the standout details featured on stage at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this week, but improved RAW photo support is coming to the next version of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 12.

    Apple doesn’t seem to have many details on what new features or functionality will be included in the final version of iOS 12, set to be released later this year. But with a little digging through the iOS 12 developers beta on a 12.9” iPad Pro, we’ve been able to discover a handful of improvements.

    As of iOS 12 Beta 1, most of the changes appear to be related to the import workflow.

    Now, when you plug in Apple’s SD card to Lightning adapter (or camera connection kit), the Photos app will show up as an overlay on whatever app you’re using. This comes as a much less invasive method than previously used in iOS 11, wherein whatever app you were in would be switched over to the full-screen Photos app for importing. It also means you can multitask more efficiently, importing photos while getting other stuff done.

    As for the import module, at surface level it doesn’t appear as though much has changed. But thanks to a few UI changes, importing photos and videos has become a lot easier and has taken out a lot of the guesswork previously required.

    Now, when photos are detected on a card, iOS 12 will automatically sort through the content and determine if any of the photos have already been imported. If they have, they will be put in a separate area so you don’t accidentally import duplicates. Another new feature is a counter on the top of the screen that lasts you know how many photos are being displayed and how much space they take up on the memory card. This should help alleviate the guesswork involved when trying to determine whether or not you have enough storage on your iOS device.

    The importing progress bar can be seen in the upper-right-hand corner of the screen.

    There’s also a new progress circle that appears when importing. If you tap it as photos are being imported, you’ll get a counter that shows how many photos have been importing out of the number you’ve selected.

    One of the most welcomed new features we’ve come across is the ability to preview your photos full-screen. Before iOS 12, you could only see small thumbnails of photos when importing, which made it all but impossible to select a particular image in a sequence if there wasn’t much visual difference. Now, you can pinch out on a thumbnail and see a full-size preview.

    The full-screen preview makes it easier to choose between similar images.

    The last improvement we noticed was in importing speed. In testing, we noticed a rather drastic improvement in how fast photos transferred from an SD card to the iPad Pro. Based off 25MB RAW files, imported using Apple’s latest SD card to Lightning adapter, the transfer rate jumped from 1.2 seconds per photo on iOS 11 to approximately 0.8 seconds per photo on iOS 12 Beta 1. We’re not sure what particular magic is going on here, but that’s a 33% improvement.

    As future iOS 12 betas are launched, it’s inevitable more features will be brought to light. If we come across anything else in the meantime, we’ll update this article accordingly. If you notice something we missed, be sure to let us know in the comments below.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI sample gallery updated

    $ (document).ready(function() { SampleGalleryV2({“containerId”:”embeddedSampleGallery_8189628340″,”galleryId”:”8189628340″,”isEmbeddedWidget”:true,”selectedImageIndex”:0,”isMobile”:false}) });

    The Sony RX100 VI is only a few days old, but we’ve already been out shooting with it quite a bit. Sony’s RX100 series represents some of the most advanced technology we’ve ever seen in a compact camera, and the latest iteration makes an interesting shift to a longer lens range. Take a look at the latest images we’ve added to our existing sample gallery.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    Inspiration and influence are important to every creative person. Being motivated to pick up your camera and make fabulous photographs is an essential part of your on-going development. But how to find inspiration for your photography?

    It’s easy to get stuck in a rut. Always taking the same subjects, using the same lighting. Sticking with a composition style because you are comfortable with it. This will make you creatively stagnant. But how do you avoid that? Especially if you have enjoyed this method for some time.

    wetlands landscape photo - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    I don’t often take landscape photos. Now that we are living in a rural environment, landscape photography is my new challenge.

    Find motivation in other photographers’ work

    Stat motivated by looking at the pictures by photographers whose work you admire. I’m not talking about drawing an emotional charge from the photo of your girlfriend’s lunch she’s posted on Instagram. Find some successful photographers who have good collections of images that you love.

    food photography - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    If you like to photograph your food, push yourself to get more than snapshots.

    Bookmark their website. Buy a real physical book of their work. Follow the photographer on Instagram. Research to find documentaries about the way they work and think. Find out what motivates and inspires them.

    If you are not sure where to start, look at your own photos, especially ones you want to improve upon. What style are the images? What are your subjects? Are the images predominantly color or black and white? Search for photographers who like what you do and follow them.

    How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography - desert image with one tree

    I will continue to photograph the landscape around where I live. To find more ideas and inspiration I will be researching accomplished landscape photographers.

    Check the source

    To find the best, look at where their work is published. Or check out photographer’s collectives, such as Magnum. Or research which photographers have won major photography competitions, like Pulitzer or the Sony Photography Awards.

    These days there are few magazines specializing in picture stories. National Geographic is always good for inspiration in general. Look up some of the historic magazines like Life, Picture Post, and Look. These magazines featured top photographers. The best fashion magazines may be a good place to look to trigger your creativity.

    water buffalo - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    The internet is also a massive source, but be careful. Anyone can publish their photos online (we all do) and call themselves an expert. Sources of photographs which are not self-published generally are more credible. I think you are more likely to find more experienced, successful photographers will have a body of work you can admire. But do look at Instagram and photo sharing sites like 500px. Seek inspiration from the best you can find in the genres you love the most.

    Go to photography exhibitions

    Exhibitions of photographs can also be immensely inspirational. Seeing actual photographic prints, framed and hung is such a pleasure. If you have galleries close to where you live, watch for dates they will have photography exhibitions.

    When you travel, seek out the galleries showing the work of photographers.

    Landscape photo of Thai mountains - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    Books

    I love photography books. I was bought up visiting libraries. Once I became interested in photography I worked my way through all the relevant books in my local libraries. Unfortunately, there were not that many. The ones which interested me most were the ones showcasing the photos of individual photographers. Books showing their photos and giving a little background on them, rather than the how-to books.

    Now I have a collection of books on photography. Most of them are on individual photographers or are collections of photographs. Two of them are catalogs of Magnum exhibitions I have seen. I pick one up from time to time and am always uplifted, encouraged, and inspired to do better.

    Tricycle taxi rider in a market in Chiang Mai - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    I have been more drawn to street lifestyle photography and influenced by many magazine photo essays.

    Pick your faves

    Find yourself a selection of photographers whose work you admire and look at them often. Maybe they are more historic and no longer producing pictures. Keep looking back at your favorites and study why you like them so much.

    More contemporary photographers will be updating pictures on their websites and Instagram feeds. My Instagram feed photos are from people who have taken a workshop with us and photographers who inspire me.

    Natural light outdoor studio portrait of a Karen man - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    I have been greatly inspired by the work of Irving Penn. Especially his use of a natural light outdoor studio.

    I love the work of Irving Penn and have some of his books. You can find his images on Instagram, even though he passed away in 2009. I never get tired of looking at the way he exposed and composed his images. I’ve never been into fashion photography, but Penn did so much more than what he is most known for and it is the style of his work that has inspired me.

    Documentaries on photographers can also provide insight. Seeing how they work and hearing them speak about it can be very motivational.

    Photo montage of the Iron Bridge in Chiang Mai at night made in a similar style to Daivd Hocknet joiner photos.

    The historic Iron Bridge in Chiang Mai. Photographed from three different positions and compiled into a photo montage.

    Shortly after buying my first camera I watched a documentary about David Hockney. He was making one of his photo-montages he called “joiners”. I loved the process and results. Because of this one short video I was inspired and have been creating my own photo collages for over 30 years.

    Many photographers are also teaching online. Find one who’s photography and teaching style you like. They will help keep you inspired and educate you at the same time.

    Young Thai couple pose for a photo montage in Chiang Mai, Thailand. - How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography

    This photo montage was made for an exhibition I had at the Le Meridien Hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

    Look at the work of other photographers who inspire you. Your style and your passion will be positively affected.

    Remember, Picasso suggested, “Good artists copy. Great artists steal.” Copy what you like. Steal their ideas, and make them your own.

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    The post How to Find Inspiration for Your Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School.


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  • Manfrotto adds Befree Advanced Carbon, GT and Live Carbon models to travel tripod line

    Manfrotto has updated its travel tripod range with three new tripod models: the Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber ($ 319.99 USD), Befree GT ($ 239.99 USD), and Befree Live Carbon Fiber ($ 349.99 USD). The first two models feature Manfrotto’s M-lock twist lock, which the company says improves both speed of use and compactness. The Befree Live Carbon Fiber, meanwhile, is designed for recording video using a DSLR or similarly sized cameras.

    The Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber tripod, as the name suggests, is a version of the model that features carbon fiber, rather than aluminum, legs. This model feature the 494 Center Ball Head and weighs 1.2kg / 2.75lb.

    The Befree GT model brings the Advanced’s ergonomic design and pairs it with the ability to fold down to 43cm / 17in while supporting up to 9.9kg / 22lb of equipment. The latter model is offered in both carbon fiber and aluminum and features the 496 Center Ball Head.

    Finally, the Befree Live Carbon Fiber tripod is described as a video travel tripod with an ergonomic, lightweight design. This model weighs 1.3kg / 3lb and features the same carbon fiber legs used with the Befree Advanced Carbon. However, the Befree Live adds a leveling column and includes the Befree Live Fluid Head with a fluid drag system and knobs to independently lock/unlock pan and tilt.

    Manfrotto is offering all three new travel tripod models through its website and authorized dealers. The Befree Live Carbon Fiber model will be available starting later this month.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Parrot launches Anafi, a foldable 4K drone that shoots HDR video

    Parrot, a French drone company known for its Bebop drones, has unveiled its latest consumer drone, the Anafi. Both on paper and in photos, this consumer-centric drone appears to be a direct competitor to DJI’s Mavic Air.

    Its fold-out design is almost identical to the Mavic Air. It weighs just 0.7 pounds (320 grams) and folds up nice for slim packing in your bag. At the core of the drone is a 21-megapixel camera on a 180-degree tilt gimbal that shoots 4K HDR video at 30 fps or 1080p HDR video at 60 fps. For image stabilization, the Anafi features two-axis optical stabilization, while software compensates for the third axis.

    The battery life of the Anafi is rated for 25 minutes, which seems par for course in the compact drone market. For comparison, the Mavic Air is also rated for a 25-minute fly time. Additional batteries, which are charged via USB-C, can be purchased for $ 99. The compact drone features a 2.5 mile range and has a top speed of 32 mph.

    The Anafi comes with a physical controller alongside an all-new smartphone application to control the drone—FreeFlight 6. The updated app includes a slew of new shooting modes, including AI-based tracking, selfie capture, slow-mo capture, hyperlapse video and automated video modes for capturing landscapes. One downfall is your smartphone will need to be tethered via USB-A cable to the controller—apparently it’s needed to stream the full-quality video to your device.

    The Anafi will retail for $ 699 and will be available starting on July 1st, although you can pre-order one now to secure your spot.. $ 700 is still a lot for a consumer drone, but compared to the $ 800 Mavic Air, it’s a slightly better value, if you don’t mind a few inconveniences.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    Cleaning out my bookshelf the other day, I rediscovered a bunch of old photography books I bought from a second-hand store some time ago. Leafing through the pages and taking in that unmistakable “old book smell”, it got me thinking about the value of reading older books as opposed to shiny new publications and PDFs on a laptop.

    Aged coffee table books, magazines, essays, how-to encyclopedias, and guides – there is just something about old books that capture the heart. And they continue to be relevant today, sometimes in new and surprising ways. Here are some ways old photography books and magazines are still valuable.

    folded book pages - Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    Why read photography books?

    With the abundance of on-screen resources available nowadays, it’s easy to dismiss hard copies of books and magazines, even brand-new publications, as a step behind the cutting edge. But books, especially older ones, offer something that the modern iPad screen lacks. They offer an experience.

    The physicality of the printed text lends the feeling of a place. And the presence of a physical book discourages multitasking, focusing the mind solely on reading and absorbing information. The smell and texture of old paper, tinted with age. The turning of the page – it all contributes to a sense of knowledge, history, and sometimes nostalgia too.

    It’s the same for old magazines, with each glossy print serving as a time-capsule for photographic history.

    pile of photography books - Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    Trends and culture

    Studies have shown that reading physical books has a positive effect on the brain. It expands memory and imagination and inspires you, the reader, to develop new concepts and ideas. But older books have the additional charm of age, they are a photograph of their time.

    But it’s amazing how little the groundwork of photography has changed. Although trends come and go, the foundations of photography have remained the same. Open up an old photography guide and you’ll see practical information that looks remarkably similar to many present-day photography guides.

    Everything old is new again

    Just like in fashion, trends in art are often recycled and re-invented. Recently, the “soft focus look” came back into vogue, gracing the covers of magazines and fashion shoots. Street photography has had a major resurgence on Instagram and the use of old film cameras over digital technology has also garnered popularity recently.

    Old photography books are full of inspiration for trends like these, with guides on how to put them into practice and an abundance of imagery to study. You may even want to re-spark a trend on your own, plus, you might discover a few out-dated tips and tricks that will put you ahead of the trend.

    close up of words on a page - Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    A sweet deal

    Unlike hot-off-the-press publications that haven’t filtered through to the second-hand market, old photography books are often incredibly economical. You could purchase three older books for the price of one new one. Maybe even more! Recently I bought a whole stack of beautiful, full-color photography magazines for 10 cents a pop. I couldn’t believe my luck.

    Try looking for old books and magazines at book fairs, online, used bookstores, charity stores, and garage sales. You never know what you might find, a special kind of excitement reserved for photographers and book lovers alike!

    an open book with photos inside - Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    Back to basics

    While we all know that editing and photography often go hand-in-hand, books that predate Photoshop and digital technology can introduce you to a world of photography with an often overlooked method of execution – getting it right in-camera.

    With the ability to take thousands of photos in a single day, modern photographers can get in the habit of taking numerous photographs and hoping for the best. Older photography books and magazines that rely on film or limited memory space depict a slower, more deliberate methodology which can be a refreshing way of shooting.

    inside a photo book - Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

    Conclusion

    Photography has a long history recorded by countless publications. While brand new books and magazines may have the advantage of cutting-edge photography, older generations of print material hold a nostalgic charm and an alternative perspective to current photographic trends.

    And they are cheaper too! So next time you visit a charity store or a book fair, why not pick up a few older photographic book or magazines? You’ll be surprised how useful and inspiring they really are! Share some of your book finds in the comments below.

    Why Old Photography Books and Magazines are Still Valuable

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