Fstoppers Original Articles
Exclusive articles and expert opinions written by Fstoppers’ talented team of creative professionals. Here we cover everything from the latest photographic techniques to advice on running a successful photography business, to first hand accounts of working in the photography industry.
DXO Is Back With a Solid Update to Nik Collection Version 6.3
I go way back with the Nik Tools software. I bought the set before Google snapped it up, then they let it sit virtually idle. DXO got it six years ago and have added their own deep knowledge of photo editing and, I think, fulfilled the dream of what the Nik Collection should be.
Buying Versus Building a New Editing Computer
Getting a new editing computer can be a confusing process. How do you know when to upgrade? What kind of computer do you get for different kinds of editing? Do you build one or buy one? Well, I hope to answer those questions here in this article in a way that will match your specific situation.
How to Become a DOP for Sherlock, Game of Thrones, and Justice League
As I began my interview with Fabian Wagner DOP, he sits there, totally relaxed and easygoing. Describing himself as just an ordinary guy, it quickly becomes clear that my conversation was going to be a very relaxed affair, without pretenses, and totally open to all questions I threw at him.
How to Use the Depth of Field Scale on Manual Lenses
If you've ever owned a fixed focal length wide-angle lens, you've probably noticed the numbers located between the focus ring and the aperture ring. This is the depth of field scale, and it's a valuable tool that helps you check the depth of field for different apertures and focus distances.
5 Secrets of Shutter Speed for Landscape Photography
Hold on tight, my fellow photography enthusiasts, as we dive into the world of shutter speed! Get ready to unlock the five secrets that will make your photographs freeze time, bend reality, and maybe even make your subjects strike a pose like supermodels on a catwalk. So, grab your camera, put on your photography hat, and let's embark on this adventure.
A Photographer's Guide to Pricing: Balancing Passion, Profit, and Personal Life
Photography is as much a business as it is an art. Amid the myriad choices that shape a photographer's journey, one pivotal decision looms large: pricing. For those straddling photography alongside another profession, striking the right pricing balance can be both an art and a science. Navigating my dual professional roles, I discovered that pricing isn't merely a reflection of an image's worth; it's a strategic tool, ensuring equilibrium between passion, profession, and personal moments.
Leaving Your Comfort Zone: Landscape Photographer Shoots Portraits
As a photographer, my lens has been my window to the world, a conduit through which I've captured the grandeur of nature's landscapes. From the sweeping vistas of mountains to the tranquil embrace of forests, I've dedicated my craft to preserving the beauty of the outdoors. Yet, a whisper of curiosity has tugged at me, urging me to step outside my comfort zone and explore the realm of portrait photography for a long time.
What to Think About When You Want to Photograph in a War-Torn Country
I get questions like these daily, mostly from inexperienced or new photojournalists who want to get into documentary photography. I often repeat the same answers, so I figured it might be useful to put it all into a single article. So, here are the bare basics of high-risk documentary photography.
Think Twice Before You Purchase More Photography Gear
A lot of interesting photography equipment is released almost every week. This could be an upgrade to something you currently are using or something new that you've never considered buying before. However, think twice about spending your hard-earned money on new photography equipment.
One Tool Just as Important as Craft and Aesthetic for Artists
Sometimes, when you want to win the big game, you have to be willing to call your own number.
Like or Loathe Midjourney, Photographers Currently Have an Edge With It
A Beginner's Guide to Virtual Reality Filmmaking With The Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8 L Dual Fisheye 3D VR Lens and The Canon R5 C
Ever wonder about VR filmmaking, but aren’t sure how to get started? Here is a mini-primer using the Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8 L Dual Fisheye 3D VR lens and the R5 C camera.
The Simple Habit Artistic Geniuses Share That You Need to Start Copying Today
Hendrix used it. As did Hemingway. Slash still does, and so too does George Saunders. It's simple, relatable, and easy to implement. Best of all, it really does help take your creative work to the next level. Learn how you can use it, too.
Why Framed Canvas Is the Preferred Method of Delivering Photo Prints
In today’s world of photography where we are spoiled with choices, selecting the ideal method for delivering photo prints can be a daunting task. With an array of options available, photographers often find themselves constantly in a dilemma of choosing the perfect print method that is not only capable of showcasing their work in the best physical form but also provides an exceptional experience for their clients.
From Stuck to Inspired: Breaking Free From Photographer's Block
Photographer's block, also known as creative block, is a common challenge that many photographers encounter during their artistic journey. It is a frustrating and sometimes overwhelming feeling of being stuck, unable to find inspiration or ideas for new photographic projects. Photographer's block can affect photographers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. However, it is essential to recognize that it is a natural part of the creative process. In this article, we will explore the causes of photographer's block and provide practical strategies to unlock creativity and overcome this creative hurdle.
Filmmakers Robbed at Gunpoint: Running The Entire Length of Africa
Over 100 days ago, Russ Cook (aka The Hardest Geezer), who aims to become the first person ever to run the entire length of Africa, set off on this epic 15,000-kilometer journey. Join me in this article as I interview the filmmakers behind this epic adventure and find out what has happened.
Why Embracing Abstract Photography Will Improve All Your Images and How to Do It
Abstract photography, do you hate it or love it? Either way, there’s a lot we can learn from the techniques and utilize them in our other photographic work.
5 Essentials for Beginners to Start Their Seascape Photography Journey
Ah, the allure of the sea! The crashing waves, the salty air, and the breathtaking beauty of the coastline. If you're a beginner photographer looking to embark on a seascape photography journey, you're in for a treat.
What Happened to Photo Credits?
Back in my college days, when I first started taking photographs, I pursued magazine photography because I loved seeing my name printed in the magazine. Often, I wasn’t being paid for my services and the photo credit was payment enough for me. When I incorporated my business some 20+ years ago, I named my company "photo: John Ricard, LLC" because it resembled a photo credit.
Parent Influencers: Monetizing Your Children Now Comes at a Cost
A new Illinois law forces adults who profit from their kids' content to set aside a percentage of their earnings. Does this go far enough to protect kidfluencers?
A Simple Guide to Focus Stacking
Focus stacking/bracketing consists of taking several shots of the same frame (in this case, a landscape) at different focus points within your frame to ensure sharpness throughout. Is it necessary? In most cases, no, as an aperture above f/9 will typically cover any slight variations in depth of field. However, if you are using an ultra-wide lens with subjects close to the lens and a large distance between the foreground and background elements, it is beneficial to ensure sharpness throughout.
Why Wedding Photography Is Harder Than It Seems
AI Editing With Lightroom and Capture One: The Aftershoot Revolution
In the ever-evolving world of photography, the post-processing phase has seen remarkable advancements, shifting from traditional manual culling and editing to the realm of automation with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Seeing If Three Small Lume Cube Lights Can Improve My Zoom Lighting Setup
How do you keep yourself looking good while working from home, without turning your home into a workplace?
How Useful Are Wireless Connections Between a Camera and a Smartphone?
Almost every modern camera comes equipped with some form of wireless connectivity. Manufacturers are even making them a prominent selling point. But just how valuable is this feature in reality? In this article, I want to dive into the possibilities and their value.
Printer Ink: It's a SCAM
Capturing the Future: AI Headshots Revolutionize the Face of Professional Photography
I know what you might be thinking. "Will AI replace professional photographers? Are the days of hiring a professional photographer numbered?" As the owner of 415Headshots, a San Francisco-based headshot studio, I'm here to quell those fears.
Photographing The World: Japan Behind The Scenes Episode 1
Upgrade Your Life, Photographers. Don’t Sit On Your Gear: Sell It!
How much clutter is there in your life? Don’t you wish that your photography gear was better than what you have? Now is a great time to change that situation with a little help from MPB.
Evoto: Maximizing Profits With Smart Choices in Photography
The more I see AI churn out headshots and portraits with twisted appendages and those weird, dead eyes, the less I'm sweating about artificial presences taking over the photography world. Why fight AI when you can make it work for you? So, instead of pushing it away, I've started using AI tools in my day-to-day. It's not replacing my job; it's just handling the mundane stuff.
5 Landscape Photography Tricks Only Pros Know
Landscape photography is an art that requires skill, creativity, and an understanding of the natural environment. While beginners can capture stunning images, seasoned professionals have honed their craft over the years and mastered some advanced techniques. In this article, we will explore five landscape photography tricks that only pros know.
5 Documentaries Every Photographer and Creative Should Watch
I love all types of documentaries, and I think it's very important that artists and photographers educate themselves on the past greats and present ones working today. I watch documentaries on photography, fashion, art, and anything else I find interesting. It’s an education coming from a very successful person in that field that everyone can learn from, and I find them to be very inspirational. When I don’t feel inspired or I'm frustrated with things not working out for me, I put on a photography or artist doc and learn about their past struggles and their process that they go through. It’s always a great way to remind myself that everything is going to workout and to create that crazy idea.
How the Basic Science We Learned at School Can Improve Our Photography
A basic understanding of the physics of light can help us to achieve the best possible photographic results. Here are some very simplified explanations of how what we learned in school science lessons can affect what we do with our cameras.
6 Lighting Setups Any Photographer Can Use
Having a few simple lighting setups available at your disposal is one of the most important tricks any photographer can have up their sleeve. In this post, I'm going to share with you six of my favorite lighting setups for wedding photographers, but really any photographer can use these simple tips.
A Colorful DIY Photoshoot Backdrop Under $25
Sometimes, the simplest ideas can create some really cool images. Here’s how I created a fun and colorful DIY photoshoot backdrop for less than $25.
Exposure or Exploitation? The Problem With Working for Free as a Photographer
Being asked to work for free can be a frustrating experience for photographers who have invested years of hard work and dedication to master their craft. In a time where equipment and running costs are so high, it has never been so important to politely decline requests to work for free.
Crazy Cosmic Photoshoot Using Metallic Spandex
Discover the Hidden Gems of Slovakia With Dynamic Perception's Motion Control Technology
Filip Majerčík, a diverse Slovak photographer, shares his incredible project that has taken six years to complete over 50 trips, resulting in 3 TB of data to process. His passion and dedication capture his country’s beauty from a sensitive, awe-inspiring perspective.
Are You Ever Disappointed With Your Photos? Here's Why It's Probably the Light
Knowing what photos work best and worst in different lighting conditions can help us create the best possible photos. Here's how to do it.
The Great Debate: Why Gear Doesn't Make You a Better Photographer
In the modern world of photography, it's easy to be lured into the belief that owning the latest and most expensive gear will automatically elevate your skills as a photographer. However, the truth is far from this misconception. While high-quality equipment can undoubtedly enhance certain aspects of your photography, it is essential to understand that gear alone does not make you a better photographer. In this article, let's delve into the reasons why true photographic prowess lies in the photographer's skill, creativity, and vision rather than the equipment they possess.
The Great Debate: Why Gear Does Make You a Better Photographer
In the world of photography, the debate over whether gear truly impacts the quality of a photographer's work has been going for years. Some argue that it is the photographer's skill and vision that matter most, while others firmly believe that having the right gear can significantly elevate one's abilities. This article aims to shed light on the argument that gear does make you a better photographer, by exploring how advanced equipment empowers photographers, enhances creative possibilities, and enables the pursuit of excellence.
The Difference Between How Old Labs and New Labs Handle Collage Frame Orders
Photography has long been regarded as an art form that captures moments, emotions, and memories, preserving them for generations to come. The constantly evolving photography landscape is mostly driven by the advancement of the tools and technologies used to create and deliver photographs. While the art of photography has progressively changed and improved, the way images are developed has not changed much and often lagged behind based on the traditional lab approach.
Film Challenge: Porta 400 Film With the Canon EOS-1N RS
It’s been a minute since I shot color film. I’ve been shooting digital on a Canon 5D Mark IV for years. How does The Canon EOS-1N RS with Portra 400 compare?
How to Avoid Dust Spots in Your Images
Landscape photography offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking scenes and create stunning images. However, one common issue that can plague your landscape photographs is the presence of dust spots. These pesky little specks can appear on your images and distract the viewer's attention from the beauty of the scene. In this article, we will explore several effective techniques to help you avoid dust spots in your landscape images and maintain the integrity of your photographs.
There’s Never Been a Better Time to Buy a RED Komodo on a Budget
The three-year-old camera is already seeing some solid discounts, for a variety of reasons.
The Pillar of Stability: The Importance of Choosing the Right Tripod for Photography
In the world of photography, capturing the perfect shot often requires meticulous attention to detail. From adjusting camera settings to framing the subject just right, photographers invest significant effort in creating stunning visuals. However, amidst all the technicalities, there is one often overlooked but indispensable tool that can make or break the outcome of a photograph: the tripod.
Maintaining a Strong Foundation: The Importance of Back and Lumbar Maintenance for Landscape Photography
Landscape photography is a rewarding and captivating pursuit that allows us to capture the natural beauty of the world around us. However, it often involves long hours of carrying heavy camera gear and traversing various terrains. To fully enjoy and excel in this art form, it is crucial to prioritize the health and maintenance of your back and lumbar region. In this article, we will explore the significance of good back and lumbar maintenance for landscape photography. We will discuss the role of a suitable camera bag, the importance of ergonomic camera gear choices, and various exercises that can help you maintain a healthy spine, ensuring longevity and comfort in your photographic journey.
Add Impact to Your Photos by Showing Less
As a beginner photographer, your natural instinct often tries to capture everything that catches your eye. If you’re standing in front of the most beautiful view you’ve ever seen, of course you’ll want to show the whole scene in your image, but you’ll often create the most compelling images by showing less.
The Art of Persistence in Landscape Photography
Landscape photography is a pursuit that requires patience, dedication, and a persistent mindset. From waiting for the right conditions to refining compositions during challenging moments, as landscape photographers, we face a range of experiences that test our resolve. This article delves into the significance of persistence in landscape photography, exploring how embracing unfavorable conditions can benefit our skills, how enjoying the rewards of successful shots can continue to benefit us long after the shoot, the importance of how considered post-processing and printing of our banger combine and contribute to help us become a successful landscape photographer.