When I'm traveling light and street shooting with a prime lens, I'm enjoying the Gariz Leather Metal Half Case for Olympus OM-D ($90) that's less bulky than the power grip. The half case also provides good bottom protection for the camera and allows quick access to all of the ports, including the battery - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/stylish-gariz-half-c.html
Recently in Photography
This week on The Digital Story - "The Ultimate Podcast FAQ: Juan Pons moderates the third and final installment of our Spring Photography Mashup and asks our panel of experts a variety of questions. We discuss inspiration, overcoming challenges, equipment, how we got started in the photography business, plus much more - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/mashup-3---the-ultim.html
It's difficult to describe how an overnight hiking trip can rejuvenate the soul. So instead, I'm going to express those thoughts via a short movie that I created after my last adventure - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/into-fresh-air-with.html
I like some of the creative features offered by the latest batch of cameras. I look at them as suggestions. But I'm still in charge of the final product.
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/can-a-camera-be-crea.html
Since none of my other current cameras do a very good job with infrared photography, I started wondering if the new X-Trans sensor in the Fujifilm X-20 might be better than the others. As it turns out, it is. Here are examples why - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/easy-infrared-photog.html
Back in February, I recorded a movie for Wiley & Sons Publishing about my latest book, iPad for Digital Photographers. The movie is on the Amazon catalog page. But a nicer presentation of it is embedded in the official Press Release for the book. You can see it here
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/official-wiley-press.html
San Francisco street scene captured with a Fujifilm X20 - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/what-a-mess-street-s.html
Can you capture quality images from an iPad mini? Thanks to software optimization from independent developers, my answer is yes. Here's a four-shot comparison with different apps and a digital camera to help you draw your own conclusion
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/can-you-take-quality.html
This week on The Digital Story: The groundbreaking Canon PowerShot N; the versatile, affordable Sigma 17mm-70mm f/2.8-4 zoom lens for APS-C DSLRs; and a visit to Carpinteria. All of this and more on The Digital Story podcast
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/canon-powershot-n-si.html
Two very desirable prime lenses in the Olympus Micro Four Thirds lineup are now available with a black finish. Both the 75mm f/1.8 and the the 17mm f/1.8 are listed on B&H for preorder. Here's more
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/finally-in-black.html
If you're looking for a compact camera that works seamlessly with your iPad (or iPhone) for on-the-fly processing and sharing of images, you may want to investigate the just-released Canon PowerShot Nwith built-in WiFi. When paired with Canon's Camera Window app for iOS, you have an ultra compact "capture - edit - publish" duo. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/canon-powershot-n-ul.html
The latest flagship Olympus PEN E-P5 has all the goodies you would expect in a premium Micro Four Thirds camera. But it also has some cool new features. Here are my favorites
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/5-cool-new-features.html
Creating a portfolio on your iPad says that you have reached a certain point in your photography. It makes the statement, "Not only do I know how to make a photograph, I know how to present it as well." Here's how -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/top-5-tips-for-build.html
Adobe's announcement that it will cease perpetual license sales of Photoshop and move to a subscription only offering for the application will force many photographers to look elsewhere - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/adobe-drives-coffin.html
This week on The Digital Story: Photography Mashup, "Tools or Toys," joined by the hosts from Improve Photography and the Digital Photo Experience. Listen in here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/podcast-mashup---too.html
Wouldn't it be great to clean up your iPhoto library so that you have all the good stuff, but none of the cruft? Well, with the help of Aperture, you can. (This approach works for tidying an Aperture library too!) This 3-minute movie shows you how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/easy-clean-up-of-you.html
The Waka Waka Solar Charger combines two functions I often need when working in the field: unlimited portable light and the ability to recharge my iPhone. Here's more
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/nimble-solar-power-s.html
Panorama photography is more popular than ever. The ability to sweep your mobile phone or compact camera and capture 180 degrees of a scene is both easy and compelling. But they aren't just for vacation scenics. They can capture human drama too -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/storytelling-power-o.html
The thing about compact cameras is that they don't attract attention. I'm hanging out in the club at Oracle Arena before the Warriors game with...
For the March 2013 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters saw the world through monochrome glasses. See for yourself in our gallery, Black & White. And which one will be the SizzlPix Photo Assignment Pick of the Month? Here's more - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/05/black-white---result-1.html
Photographers who shoot Raw often don't realize their camera might have a powerful image processing function that creates Jpeg variations of those Raw files in camera. There are many advantages to this capability. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/the-value-of-in-came.html
This week on The Digital Story podcast: The gorgeous Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens, creating a Frankenzoom, release of iPad for Digital Photographers, and SizzlPix winners! - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/gorgeous-sigma-35-14.html
The key components to go from 112mm to 168mm were a Fujifilm adapter/lens hood for the X20 and an old Canon 1.5X tele extender that I had for my G2. I used gaffer's tape to connect the lens hood to the tele extender, then screwed the device into the front of the camera. Here's more -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/frankenzoom---gettin.html
Photographers: Do you want to pack an iPad instead of lug a computer? Not only will you lighten your load, but you can use just about any camera bag you want because the iPad fits everywhere. And yes, you can organize, edit, and share your pictures, just as easily, if not easier, than before. Here's how
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/the-ultimate-guide-f.html
Which of the popular smartphones have the best camera for you? In the article, Super Shootout: Samsung Galaxy S4 vs HTC One vs Apple iPhone 5 vs Nokia Lumia 920 on DP Connect, they put these top four models through basic image testing. Here's more
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/smartphone-camera-sh.html
In my latest Macworld article, Import Like a Pro in Aperture, I explain how to separate Raw+Jpeg pairs so you can filter out one set or the other, add effects during import to improve the appearance of the photos, and take advantage of simple AppleScripts to automatically organize images within albums. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/advanced-importing-t.html
This week on The Digital Story: Photography Mashup, Episode 1, with the hosts from Improve Photography and the Digital Photo Experience. Via Skype, I'm joining...
If you want to experience refocusing a picture after you've made the exposure, take a look at FocusTwist, available for $1.99 in the iTunes...
Well done and entertaining! Here's an animated video showing the history of photography created for TED Education. Worth a watch! Want to Comment on...
Here's our crew hard at work on their iPads at Cafe Noto in Windsor, CA during the iPad for Digital Photographers Workshop. Great day to...
Adobe made a little noise with the release of Lightroom 4.4 and its working closely with Fufifilm to provide top notch decoding of .RAF files from Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1, X100S, and X-20 cameras. This lead to some speculation that Apple would be left out in the cold with Raw decoding for X-Trans sensors.
Well, apparently not. Apple today released Raw Compatibility Update v4.05 with support for these very same cameras. So how do these two applications stack up for Fujifilm camera owners? http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/aperture-vs-lightroo-3.html
The solution to dealing with strong, directional light that's determined to cause flare in your photograph may already be sitting in your camera bag. If you have a RougeFlag Bounce Cardthat you typically use for bounce flash, you can adapt it to serve as a robust lens shade too. Here's more
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/an-industrial-streng.html
Some pictures just look better in Black and White. And even though there are plug-ins and specialized programs to help you create B&W images, you can produce great stuff using the built-in tools in Aperture and iPhoto. Here's how
http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/elegant-bw-conversio.html
This week on The Digital Story: Lightroom 5 public beta is now available for download, Fujifilm X20 deluxe compact camera begins shipping, and the imminent release of iPad for Digital Photographers. All of this... and more! http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/lightroom-5-pb-fujif.html
Even though it only has a 2/3" sensor (smaller than Micro Four Thirds and APS-C), the Fujifilm X20 compact camera has the ability to soften backgrounds for portraits. Take a look at this comparison
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/soft-focus-backgroun.html
RAW files from Fujifilm's new X-Trans CMOS II sensor can be processed in Lightroom 4.4 with excellent results. Adobe and Fujifilm have been working together to enable Lightroom to get the most out of the X Series cameras. Here's an example
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/processing-fujifilm.html
We tend to think of sunsets and big landscapes at twilight, but it's also my favorite time to shoot close-ups. Subjects that are unremarkable in midday light take on a surreal glow at day's edge
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/close-up-photography.html
Panoramas are a great way to document an area that you're visiting. But it's interesting how different the same place can look, depending on how you make the image. I have have two panoramas here, one captured with a Canon S90 and stitched together in Photoshop CS6. And the other recorded with an iPhone 4S in panorama mode. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/iphone-panorama-vs-c.html
The amazing Olympus OM-D can do just about anything. Figuring out how to program it is another matter all together. Fortunately, seasoned Micro Four...
This week on The Digital Story: Are off-brands worth the risk? Backpacking is different for photographers. DIY Home Portrait Studio, Part 2. All of this... and more
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/are-off-brands-risky.html
Our eyes have this wonderful ability to render sky and foreground at the same time. Our cameras need a little help. If you like sunrise and sunset photos, and are tired of having the foreground go to black, here are three options that should improve your composition
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/three-techniques-for.html
You can control which application opens when you double-click a shared Aperture/iPhoto library. (All current Aperture and iPhoto libraries are "shared" by default.) This is a handy trick because many photographers open libraries from the Finder instead of from within the application. Here's how to control whether iPhoto or Aperture opens when you double-click on the shared library icon
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/iphoto-and-aperture-1.html
In about 20 minutes, you can build your own light wand that's handy for portraiture and general photo projects. Here's how
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/make-your-own-light.html
We'll be covering the Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic as our project for the Movie Making for Photographers workshop on June 15 and 16, 2013. Class size is limited to 6 participants, that will be taught by 3 instructors. Find out more here -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/announcing-movie-mak.html
This week on The Digital Story podcast: DIY home portrait studio, model releases, lens hood as an LCD shade, all of this... and more!
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/diy-portrait-studio-1.html
It's tough to view photos on camera LCD screens in bright outdoor conditions. You can help improve this situation by using an accessory that you probably already have in your camera bag: a lens hood. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/04/use-your-lens-hood-a.html
Take the day off to spend with family, a friend, your dog, or just you and nature... Want to Comment on this Post? You can...
I've just finished looking over the Photographer's Guide to Copyright Law, and there is a ton of useful information in this free download. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/free-photographers-g.html
Photographer Gavin Seim did many things right when creating his ColorFlow presets for Aperture 3. I like them, not only because they help you produce better images, but also because they help you improve your editing skills in Aperture. Here's more about them - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/colorflow-presets-fo.html
You have a DSLR around your neck, and another body in your camera bag. You should be able to cover just about anything, right? Yes,...
This week on The Digital Story: Is the new Canon EOS SL1 a mirrorless killer? Supercharge your photo management workflow by using Aperture and iPhoto together. And I share some insights from the recent 3-Day Artisan Cheese Festival event coverage and advanced TDS workshop - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/canon-sl1-mirrorless.html
Successful event photography requires quick reflexes and a few tricks. And like the magician's wand, the 70-200mm pro zoom can cast the perfect spell. Canon...
Regardless if you're primarily an Aperture or iPhoto user, you can sweeten your workflow by using the two applications together. And in my latest lynda.com title, I show you how. Here's a quick overview - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/using-aperture-and-i.html
Canon wants you to have the option to keep the optical DSLR experience, even when the camera body itself is compact. They've introduced the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 with new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens ($799 for kit). It's the world's smallest DSLR. Here's what it looks like - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/canon-sl1---keep-you.html
Here are five considerations that will help you choose the perfect next lens for you
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/your-next-lens---how.html
The Lomography Smartphone Film Scanner is about the easiest way to scan 35mm film strips. Plus it's affordable and compact. Here's how it works - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/review-of-the-lomogr.html
In last week's podcast, I talked about how I was going to prepare for the St. Patrick's Parade assignment in San Francisco. My basic...
Beautiful weather and happy people were the highlights of the St. Patrick's Day celebration in San Francisco. Here are a few images that show...
I bet you rarely use Noise Reduction in Aperture. Probably because it doesn't work that well... at least not for its intended purpose. What it is good for, however, is rendering more pleasing skin tones for your portraits. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/more-pleasing-skin-t.html
The Leica DG Summilux 25mm f-1.4 for Micro 4/3 cameras brings a fast prime lens to the mirrorless form factor at a relatively reasonable price. Here's a closer look at this impressive glass - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/review-of-leica-dg-s.html
You have two cameras on your iPhone, why not put them to use? That's the feeling of Toad Murphy, the group that created Dblcam. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/twice-the-photo-fun.html
This week on The Digital Story: It's me and 100,000 Irish this coming Saturday for the St. Patrick's Day Parade in San Francisco. Here's how...
In the case of the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM, you get what you pay for. At least that's the verdict of DP...
In the post, 20 Things That Are Way Better In Slow Motion, we're treated to 20 film clips of activities recorded in slow motion....
The easiest way to move a picture that you've just edited in your Aperture library to your iOS device is to drag and drop. That's right. It's that simple. And it works for iPhoto too. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/the-1-step-photo-tra.html
Top stories this week on The Digital Story: I found the cure to help me avoid purchasing the Sony RX1, Mobile Photography microsite coming to The Digital Story, The Return of Drobo, Workshops update... and more on this week's podcast. This show was recorded with the RODE iXY Stereo Mic plugged in to an iPad 3. How does it sound? - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/03/the-499-cure-new-tds.html
Nikon joins the large sensor compact camera party with the Nikon Coolpix A. Built around a 16.2MP DX sensor, the Coolpix A uses a 28mm...
For the Jan. 2013 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters steadied their cameras and set their timers. See for yourself in our gallery, Self Timer. And which...
You can record serious audio with your iPhone. With the new Rode iXY Stereo Recording Microphone for iPhone/iPad, and the Rode Rec app in iTunes ($5.99), you can create audio for movie voiceovers, interviews, ambient environment, and more. Here's more about it with a sample recording and screenshots of the app -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/rode-ixy-stereo-mic.html
When natural light isn't available, you can still create flattering portraits on the go using a ring flash. But which one? In the article,...
One of the regular deals making the rounds via Groupon and other discount sites is the Vibe Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard Case and Stand for...
Most photos can be improved with just a few adjustments... especially if you know which levers to pull. In my Macworld article, The 7-step...
The folks at Flickr are not resting on their recent laurels. They've released Flickr 2.1 for iOS, and it includes a handful of terrific...
I posted a photo of Andris Biedrins of the Golden State Warriors blocking a shot on my Instagram page just moments after it happened using this workflow with my OM-D, FlashAir card, and iPad mini - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/real-time-reporting.html
If you're in the mood for a new photo app to play with on your iPhone, you may want to take a look at Wood Camera - Vintage Photo Editor. Currently on sale in the iTunes App Store for 99 cents, Wood Camera provides an array of imaging tools to capture, edit, and share your pictures - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/wood-camera-for-ipho.html
Top stories this week on The Digital Story: Five things you can do when you want a new camera, but can't afford one; The Lomography...
Photographer James Duncan Davidson has been carrying the Sony RX1 since the early days of its release and has published his findings in the...
The engaging model on the cover of iPad for Digital Photographers was willing to dash out in the rain using a photo umbrella as backdrop and for protection. Here's the story of how it all came together - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/story-behind-the-mod.html
Here's an ode to the Super Bowl Chrysler ad, "Farmer," created by the Richards Group. But this time the subject is "photographer." I enjoyed...
In an attempt not to undermine the sales of its popular EOS 5D Mark III, Canon may have constrained the features a bit too much...
You can create attractive portfolio pages and share them wirelessly with others around you -- all served securely from your digital camera. Sounds crazy, right? It isn't. By using the Light Table tool in Aperture for design, and the Toshiba FlashAir SD card as the web server, you can set this system up quickly. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/turn-your-camera-int.html
Top stories this week on The Digital Story: the ingenious Toshiba FlashAir wireless memory card, personal photo projects, and workshops update
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/ingenious-toshiba-fl.html
As a way to occupy myself during my 450 mile journey, I photograph the overpasses as I approach and pass through. You may think that all of the shots would look the same. But they don't. And the simple designs of the overpasses complements a variety of landscapes and lighting conditions. Here's what they look like - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/overpasses-of-inters.html
I created this photo sequence of Blake Griffin shooting a free throw using the "Sequence" preset in the print dialog for Aperture 3.4. It's an easy way to create these types of images. Here's how to do it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/02/easy-photo-sequence.html
This week's stories: More tempting f/4 pro lenses. Do our high ISO camera bodies make these zooms the smart choice? A review of my day...
For the Dec. 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters left their shutters open. See for yourself in our gallery, Long Exposure. And which one will be...
If you're in the Bay area, the ongoing Macworld/iWorld event is worth a trip to Moscone Center West in the heart of San Francisco. The...
Nine times out of ten, when a new client doesn't like the job you've delivered, it's because the images don't match what they've visualized in their mind. This is exacerbated by their assumption that what they are seeing in the proofs will be the final look of the project. Here are some tips for turning a cranky client into a happy one - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/dealing-with-cranky.html
Sigma announced Art Line versions of its 19mm and 30mm prime lenses for Micro Four Thirds and Sony NEX mounts. "All three DN lenses...
This week's TDS podcast stories: Using Lensbaby on Micro Four Thirds to create shallow depth of field, what's going on with Nik Software, a look at Drobo warranty and technical support, and what's coming up this week.
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/lensbaby-nik-softwar.html
I wanted to make a photo that captured the beauty and clean design of the Audi R8 sports car. The problem was, I didn't have access to one. So I tried this experiment instead. Here's how I used a Lensbaby Composer and Nik Silver Efex Pro to transform a 1/16 model into what feels like a real car - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/using-special-effect.html
Want to get your photo business on track? Then you might want to download the free The 2013 Photo Business Plan Workbook. Just click...
I stumbled across this article, Best Wi-Fi Cameras by Kyle Schurman. To tell the truth, I hadn't realized there were so many models with this capability
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/interesting-wifi-cam.html
The Olympus Body Cap Lens that we first saw back at Photokina is now readily available for $49. This is a great accessory for micro four thirds shooters, and at a terrific price. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/olympus-body-cap-len.html
Portraits of LA Clippers Blake Griffin, Grant Hill, and DeAndre Jordan before a contest with the Warriors at Oracle Arena - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/portraits-of-la-clip.html
This week's stories: 2013 Photo Workshops Schedule, Return of Drobo Part 5, Budget Fisheye, Macworld 2013. Tune in to the show here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/2013-workshops-macwo.html
To help protect the front element of my Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm lens,I like the $7.29 Rainbowimaging 37mm Vented Metal Hood Shadethat screws into the front threads. The vented hood is extremely light, which is important as to not stress the autofocusing mechanism of the 17mm prime. Here's more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/handsome-metal-lens.html
I'm be hanging out at the Macworld/iWorld event in San Francisco on the afternoon of Thursday, Jan 31, 2013. If you're in town and...
I've had a hankering to play with fisheye photography, but didn't have the budget for a lens for my OM-D. So I spent $16 and bought the 3in1 Fisheye Wide Angle Macro Lens kitfor my iPhone 4S. Here's more about it
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/budget-fisheye-photo.html
I like making short movies and publishing them online. And I like trying different looks. So I decided to give the Dramatic Tone art...
This week stories on the TDS Podcast: Hands on with the Canon PowerShot N, falling in lust with the Fujifilm X20, and the Return of Drobo, Part 4 - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/canon-powershot-n-fu.html
With the The Lomography Smartphone Film Scanner, I can choose images from my film and slide catalog, scan them with my iPhone, and use them immediately on Flickr, Instagram, Twiter, Facebook, and The Digital Story. Here's more about it -
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/analog-joy---the-lom.html
It's easy to create your own image effects in Aperture, complete with previews. Think of them as recipes that you can replicate time and time again "This is delicious! Can you make this again?" "Indeed I can!" Here's a "vintage look" that I use to soften the color and create a more timeless rendering. And here's how to add it to your default Effects set - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/create-your-own-vint.html
The Canon PowerShot N looks different than every other compact on the planet, and once paired with the Canon CameraWindow app for iOS or Android, will help you post more impressive images on Instagram, Flickr, Facebook, and Twitter. Here's why I think it could help the struggling point and shoot market - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/canon-powershot-n-to.html
My MacBook Pro Retina Display screen didn't like my existing cleaning cloths. All I would get smear instead of clear. In fact the only thing that worked at all was the small cloth Apple included in the kit. So my quest began for a nice, large microfiber cloth that worked on all of my Retina displays, including the MacBook Pro. Here's what I found that actually works great! - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/smudged-retina-displ.html
Fujifilm has tempted me since initially releasing the X10. Now they've done it again with the X20. Here's why - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/the-beautiful-fujifi.html
I found this display of micro four thirds lenses by a variety of manufacturers in the Panasonic booth at CES, and I thought that some of you would appreciate how this catalog of glass has grown recently - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/micro-four-thirds-le.html
Polaroid was showing off their new Android-based camera at the Pepcom Digital Experience on the eve of CES 2013. Aimed at snapshooters, this CSC features a 10-30mm zoom with a 3.4" touchscreen LCD, powered by Android 4.1 Jelly Bean operating system. Here's a closer look - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/the-polaroid-interch.html
We're seeing WiFi in our cameras more and more. The new Samsung NX300 and Canon PowerShot N are two recent examples. Then we jump over...
During the first day of press events at CES 2013 in Las Vegas, we're seeing a number of gadget mashups. A primary ingredient is mobility. It seems to spice up to everything from cameras to laptops to cars. Here's a look at the Lenovo ThinkPad Helix and the Urban Hello phone - http://thedigitalstory.com/2013/01/convergence-is-emerg.html
Shooting video is a lot more fun than editing it. If you're one of those photographers who never took the iMovie dive, you might...
For the Nov. 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters shined a light on their favorite subjects. See for yourself in our gallery, Flash. And which one...
I think the title says it all for this one......
With 2012 in our rear view mirrors, I want to thank you for being a part of our photography community. Thanks to your support of...
One of my favorite phrases on the road is, "Come here and look at this." When I hear that, I make sure I have...
Canon isn't quite ready to retire the Canon 5D Mark II quite yet, and neither am I - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/canon-5d-mark-ii-not.html
After reading the review of the Sony RX1 full frame compact camera, I have even a further admiration for what Sony engineers have accomplished....
DPReview has published their test results of the new Sigma 35mm f/1.4 prime lens, and it has increased my desire for this glass - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/a-lens-i-want---the.html
Happy Holidays to you, and thanks for being a member of our photography community. I'm honored to be part of your life. Looking forward...
Don't get me wrong. I love capturing good action shots during a sporting event. But the storyteller in me is interested in what happens off the hardwood too. Last night's Golden State Warriors vs the Los Angeles Lakers game was a perfect example. Here are some examples of what I'm talking about - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/great-photos-after-t.html
Lowepro and Adorama Camera have teamed up for a giveaway of an Olympus Tough TG-320 camera and Dashpoint 30 case. It's super easy to...
A mirrorless Nikon with Nikkor zoom for $299? Yes indeed. B&H Photo is offering the Nikon 1 V1 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 10-30mm Lens for $299 with free shipping. And for a very limited time, free overnight shipping.
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/crazy-good-deal-on-n.html
This week's stories: Lightroom 4.3 gets very Apple friendly, Flickr gets it together on the iPhone, and The Return of Drobo, Part 3 - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/lightroom-43-flickr.html
With the current holiday sale of 50 percent off a second SizzlPix or 25 percent off a single order, lots of photographers from the TDS community are trying their first SizzlPix. Here's some info to help you - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/questions-about-maki.html
Winner of the Olympus TG-1 Tough camera giveaway announced - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/winner-of-the-olympu.html
The recent Lightroom 4.3 release addresses a number of bug fixes, adds RAW profiles for the latest cameras, additional lens profiles including for iPhone 4S and 5, plus for Mac users who have Retina displays, HiDPI support in the Library and Develop modules. Here are a couple interface comparisons between version 4.2 and 4.3 - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/a-look-at-hidpi-supp.html
Here are the 5 photography applications that made the "Best of 2012" list in the Mac App Store - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/camerabag-2-snapheal.html
You might fall in love with Flickr all over again. The latest release of Flickr for the iPhone (version 2.0) brings back the joy to the venerable photo sharing app in a very modern way. Here's my hands-on review - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/new-flickr-app-for-i.html
I've had the iPad mini since day 1 of its release. And how I'm using it is much different than I would have anticipated. Here are 5 personal iPad mini myths that have been debunked over time - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/5-personal-myths-abo.html
This week stories: A Bargain Canon Super Zoom, The Return of Drobo Part 2, and the Olympus TG-1 camera giveaway. Story Number One: - The...
At $255 (or less), the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II lenscombines powerful magnification (88mm-400mm), terrific image quality, four-stop stabilization, and impressive close-up performance...
To celebrate the holiday season, I want to give away an Olympus Tough TG-1 iHS Digital Camera. It's one of my favorite compact cameras, and I think someone else should enjoy one too. Here's how to participate -
http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/win-an-olympus-tough.html
Google was busy yesterday, releasing new versions of both Gmail for iOS and Snapseed. The most noticeable change in Snapseed, other than the white background replacing the black for its logo, is in the Share menu. Google+ is now at the top of the list, and Instagram has been removed. More here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/new-snapseed-google.html
The Color brick is one of the most powerful tools in Aperture 3. Not only can you adjust colors, you can change them all together. By way of example, I'm going to change this blue Rolls-Royce to a red model. Here's an example - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/easily-color-changin.html
After weeks of testing, I learned that the Olympus 60mm Macro f/2.8 Lens is a surprisingly versatile lens. Yes, it is excellent for 1:1 macro photography. But I've also been reaching for it to shoot sporting events and portrait assignments. And in all of these conditions, the 60mm performed exceedingly well.
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/hands-on-review-of-t-1.html
Congratulations to Dean Ray who won the Lowepro Pro Messenger 160 AW bag and wrote: "My day to day my bag needs change. So in...
I introduce what will be my ongoing review of this multi-drive storage device that I had experience with in the past, but haven't been using for a while. But now a new Drobo is available, the 5D with a Thunderbolt connector, and I became interested again
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/12/return-of-drobo-gear.html
Here's your chance to win a Lowepro Lowepro Pro Messenger Bag 160 AW - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/win-a-lowepro-pro-me.html
Buy.com is offering the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Lens for $189.99 including filter and cleaning kit. This zoom features Canon's 4-stop compensation...
Having the family gather once a year for portrait is a wonderful way to record "that moment in time." When done annually, you create a...
Holiday photography is really just a type of event coverage, except that you usually know your subjects quite well. In this week's podcast I provide...
Lots of good information on how to integrate all of your images, from your iOS devices to digital cameras, using Apple technology such as Photo Stream, iPhoto, and Aperture. This week, I join David Sparks and Katie Floyd on the Mac Power Users show to discuss photography workflow - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/photography-workflow.html
The San Francisco International Auto Show features the latest cars from top manufacturers all over the world. Visitors can see 2013 models of their favorite brands, concept cars of the future, and historical classics, all under the shining lights of Moscone Center in San Francisco. I had a blast shooting the event with just the OM-D and Panasonic 12-35mm f-2.8 zoom. Here are some shots and more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/shooting-the-sf-auto.html
Welcome to Black Friday: regardless of what day it is. Cyber Monday begins tomorrow, and will continue through the start of 2013. Retailers are ready...
We were just talking about this last night at Thanksgiving with the family. Quite a few folks were asking about compact cameras and which...
Even though I knew about Instagram for a while, I didn't really get excited about it until I wanted to use it for sharing pictures...
Dollar for dollar, the Pentax K-5 II with kit zoom is a great value at $1,350. (I have a Pentax K-5 and love it.)...
The Olympus 60mm f/2.8 macro provides 1:1 magnification, but is only 3" long and 46mms in diameter. I'm going to post a full review...
If you're thinking about starting out the New Year being better organized and having complete control over access to your images, you may want to take a look at this article
- http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/pogoplug-still-my-fa.html
Aperture 3.4, and just about every other photo editing app, has a straighten tool to correct crooked horizons and leaning buildings. But the straighten...
The premium Olympus 17mm f/1.8 prime lens will debut in December for $499 US. This is great news for micro four thirds shooters who want a top quality prime for general low light photography. Here's more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/fast-olympus-17mm-le.html
Very few cameras have WiFi built-in. But you can control your existing DSLR over a wireless network with Triggertrap 1.5.1 and a couple of iOS devices, such as an iPhone. Here's how to do it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/affordable-wifi-remo.html
Want to compare tons of sensor data for various cameras you're interested in? Check out the Digital Camera Database. DCD allows you to visually compare...
Three stories this week, one in the air, one on the road, and the last tied to my computer. "Wind Shear" Went flying over...
Sunday was a perfect, crisp, Autumn day for flying. And I had the opportunity to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge from the air with my...
Think of Aperture as a vault that stores and protects your images. But you can export versions of those masters in a variety of formats and configurations. In my Macworld Magazine article, "How to get your pictures out of Aperture," I show you how to set up a custom export preset to the exact specifications you want - http://thedigitalstory.com
Aperture 3 supports tethered shooting with a host of Canon and Nikon DSLRs. But iOS devices work quite well too. Simply connect an iPhone or iPad via the USB cable to your Mac, then start a tether session in Aperture. And to make things even better, the third party app, ProCamera, works tethered to Aperture. Here's more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/advanced-tethering-w.html
For years I never trusted auto-focus for sporting events because I felt I missed too many shots. Then auto-focus got better. But lately I've been using some of my prime lenses from the past and rediscovering the joy of manual focus. Here's an example - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/rediscovering-the-jo.html
Chances are, you have a stylish leather case for the iPad mini right under your nose - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/ipad-mini-diy-case-a.html
Canon has just announced the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM for $1,500 US, and I have to say, I'm scratching my head - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/the-1500-canon-ef-24.html
Photographers aren't the easiest bunch to buy for, especially on a tight budget. That's why I've published the TDS Gift Guide for Photographers. Here...
If the iPad 3 has a 5MP iSight camera, and the iPad mini also has a 5MP iSight camera, then why do the two devices render images so differently? Here's are side by side photos in a backlit situation - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/camera-differences-b.html
One of the tests I used to gauge the WiFi capability for the iPad mini is how AirPlay performed when streaming video to an Apple TV. I tested the mini with a variety of apps, including the ABC Player, iTunes, NBC and others. In short, video playback was smooth and the audio was crisp. Here's more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/11/airplay-mirroring-wi.html
Taking pictures with the iPad mini is more enjoyable and less awkward than with its bigger brother, the full sized iPad. As I suspected...
Even though there were relatively few camera hardware changes between the Samsung Galaxy S2 and the current S3 model, DP Connect rates the S3...
The Apple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader for iPad is available now for $29 and is a necessary accessory for nimble iPad-toting photographers...
For the Sept. 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters worked their backgrounds as much as their subjects. See for yourself in our gallery, Bokeh. And which...
Clearly Windows 8 has much to offer for touchscreen devices and those wanting a refreshed interface. But I've spent some time looking into the...
Want to hear something go bump in the night? Then you might want to find your nearest Haunted House and get in the Halloween spirit....
The panorama feature in iOS 6 is even cooler than I originally thought. Here's more about it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/more-on-ios-6-panora.html
Halloween is the perfect excuse to experiment with extreme low light technique. In this podcast, I take a look at ISO, glass, file format,...
Here's a beautiful gallery of portraits of our model Ewelina from the TDS Fall Photography Workshop - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/model-shoot-gallery.html
The Apple 1 was Apple's first computer and was hand-built by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in Steve Jobs' garage in 1976. At the time, it was priced at $666.66 and sold without any accessories, including a case, monitor, or keyboard. Here's a close look at it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/the-apple-1-computer.html
A fun post on PetaPixel describes how to use Art Filter 11 (Key Line) as an aid for precise manual focusing. I've tested it myself, and it's a clever diversion that prompted me to experiment with some of the other features on the camera - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/more-on-the-om-d-foc.html
Lots to consider with the iPad mini, especially if you want to keep your budget in good shape. Here are a few tips to help you decide which configuration makes the most sense for you - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/ipad-mini-buying-gui.html
When Phil Schiller announced the MacBook Pro 13" with Retina Display, he showed photographs on Aperture, which has been rewritten to take advantage of...
So many interesting visuals at sporting events. This image of backlit cheerleaders caught my eye at the game last night. Captured with an OM-D with...
When Apple announced the Fusion Drive for the iMac today, the first thing that I thought is that I want one for my MacBook...
The iPad mini is a fascinating device for nimble photographers. At 7.9" tall and 7.2mm thick, it will fit in most conventional camera bags....
When working with lighting and portraits, it's easy to get caught up in the photo shoot and forget how you captured the shot. Like a...
We were up early to catch the morning light for our adventure at Safari West on day 1 of the TDS Fall Color Workshop....
I went on a scouting mission this morning to evaluate my favorite spots in preparation for the Fall Color with Safari West Workshop that begins tomorrow at my studio in Santa Rosa, CA. The color is just beginning here in Northern California, and will continue to intensify over the coming weeks. Here's a peek of what's in store - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/sonoma-county-fall-c.html
If indeed Apple announces the iPad mini on Oct. 23, 2012, the device will have a big impact for nimble photographers. The current iPad is the largest surface area object in our "travel light" camera bags. Measuring 9.5" x 7.31", the iPad determines the type and size of transport we must carry to be fully functional while on the go. But in order for this to work for photographers, the iPad mini will need certain attributes - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/5-necessary-ipad-min.html
With Aperture 3.3 and iPhoto 9.3, Apple introduced the Unified Library that allows both applications to share a single library container. Not only does this allow you to switch back and forth between iPhoto and Aperture seamlessly, but it introduces new options for your photo workflow, including making Photo Stream easier to manage. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/take-advantage-of-th.html
With so many changes in the camera market, we have new options for configuring an arsenal that best suits our needs. In today's podcast,...
It's already time to start thinking about the 2013 photography workshop season, and I have four events scheduled, with more to come. If you want to get on the reserve list for 2013, visit the TDS Workshops page and complete the Send Me Info box. It's going to be a great year - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/2013-tds-photography.html
One of my favorite iPhone apps, Camera Awesome, has now been engineered for the iPad too. This is great news for nimble photographers - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/camera-awesome-for-t.html
The iPad is a highly capable companion for the digital photographer. Its main drawback, however, is the lack of storage on the device itself. In my recent Macworld Magazine article, The Ultimate iPhoto Workflow, I show how you how to work around the storage limits so you can leave your laptop at home and use the iPad on the road - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/nimble-iphoto-for-io.html
The Pentax K-30 is an affordable, rugged, and weather resistant DSLR that takes great shots. I put it through its paces over two months, and here's my report - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/pentax-k-30-review--.html
A new perspective with the Samyang fisheye lens for micro four thirds and most other mounts. Here's how the world looks through this glass - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/a-new-perspective-wi.html
A sign of the times. DP Review just launched Connect, a site dedicated to mobile photography technology, culture, and community. The top nav bar covers...
The Lowepro Lens Exchange Case 100 AW is like having an extra hand. You can easily change lenses on your DSLR without fumbling. Check out its clever design - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/need-a-spare-hand-lo.html
Recent releases of Aperture and Lightroom make it a great time to revisit the individual strengths of each application. We're talking cream of the crop here, but they do offer different features. Which one is right for you? Listen in on today's Special Edition podcast, "Aperture vs Lightroom," and discover the answer - http://thedigitalstory.com/show-notes/
Each month the team over at SizzlPix choose a SizzlPix Pick of the Month from our Photo Assignment participants. I thought it would be fun...
I discovered the Magnus iPad stand when riffling through my gift bag after speaking at the Mac Expo 2012 on Saturday. Created by Ten 1...
The latest firmware update V 1.5 for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 quiets its humming sound and improves image stabilization for lenses used with an adapter. It's clever how Olympus fixed the problem - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/om-d-firmware-15-alt.html
lynda.com has just released Aperture 3.3 Essential Training (2012), the updated, comprehensive video training for Apple's professional photo management application. Here's what's new - http://thedigitalstory.com/aperture/
Attaching photos to email just got a lot easier in iOS 6. Now you have the option to add images while you're in the Mail client. You no longer have to start with the picture in the Camera Roll. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/easy-photo-attachmen.html
most folks know about the new panorama feature in iOS 6 for the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5. But there's more! I talk about my favorite photo goodies in this latest mobile operating system release from Apple. I also touch on the upcoming Aperture workshop and follow up on my Instagram impressions from the road. All of this and more on this week's TDS podcast - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/10/ios-6-for-photograph.html
For the August 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters hit the streets. See for yourself in our gallery, Street Scene. And which one will be the...
With the new Shared Photo Stream in Aperture 3.4.1 and iOS 6, you can set up mobile portfolios that can be viewed on your iPad, iPhone, Mac, or even Windows computer. You can limit accessibility to just your devices, or share individual streams (mobile portfolios) with friends. Here's how to set it up - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/using-apertures-shar.html
The new panorama feature in iOS 6 might seem like reinventing the wheel, but once you use it, you'll discover that it's quite remarkable. Here's more about it with a couple of beautiful examples from Baveria, Germany - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/beautiful-ios6-panor.html
The Lowepro Passport Sling II has been my daily companion for the last two weeks in Germany. Before I leave the hotel for the day, I pack it with my camera gear, personal items, and even a light jacket. At the end of the day, my back and shoulders feel as fresh as they did when I left.
If you listened to my post-Oktoberfest morning podcast from the Leonardo Hotel in Munich, you know that I was sipping coffee and relaying events...
I had a surprising number of conversations last week that were focused on my micro four thirds system. At the Photokina show, people wanted...
Want to see inside the Hofbrau tent at Oktoberfest in Munich? http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/a-night-inside-oktob.html
For me, Instagram is the ultimate travel log. You can capture images with your smart phone, apply effects, write captions, and share with others...
By now you've probably read plenty about the announcements and discoveries at Photokina in Cologne, Germany. So, for just 90 seconds, I want to...
Do you have a few rolls of 35mm film in the freezer that you'd love to do something fun with? Take a look at the Spinner 360 degrees by the creative folks at Lomography. All you do is load up the camera with film, find an interesting subject, pull the cord, and the camera spins, filming as it moves. It records everything around you - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/spinner-360-puts-twi.html
I think this was the part where everyone else knew a lot more about what was going to happen than me. The model was quite sexy, and all around me shutters were firing off as she moved from one pose to the next - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/hensel-lighting-draw.html
If you like pancake lenses, you're going to love this. The just-announced Olympus BCL-15mm f8.0 Body Cap Lens is literally the size of a...
The most recognized icon at Photokina is the Photo Globe. It attracts curious visitors to look at the thousands of images there, and to...
One of my stops today at Photokina was to take a closer look at the Samsung Galaxy Camera. In case you missed the announcement, this...
Canon comes through with the 6D, a more affordable full frame DSLR. I take a look at its specs and see how it stacks...
After 24 hours of traveling, I'm in my room in Cologne making sure I stay awake until the evening hours. I want to acclimate to...
The rugged Sonoma Coast provided the perfect background for the stunning Alyssa Jayne during the first day of shooting at the recent TDS Sonoma...
Nathalie Rollandin was in San Francisco with a GoPro when a seagull picked it up and flew away... with the camera still recording. Now...
Nikon answers the call for an affordable feature-rich full frame DSLR with the D600 that will sell for $2,100 US body only, or $2,600...
The just-anounced Sony Cyper-shot DSC RX1 is a Nimble Photographer's dream machine. Sony packed a 24 MP full frame CMOS sensor into a gorgeous...
Taking good photographs from land is hard enough, but it gets even more exciting on a twin-engine outboard bouncing across the San Francisco Bay....
As we've already seen with the Pentax announcement, there will be lots of photo equipment news over the next few days. This is the...
Professional photographer Daniel Forster invited me to accompany him while shooting the Rolex Big Boats Series in San Francisco. I learned much about this type...
ge to B&W, then restore bits of color. The element of surprise is often stimulating. Here's an example - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/brush-bw-away-to-del.html
I love the metadata that cameras write to our digital files... most of the time. But every now and then a camera includes information that I don't want, and have a hard time getting rid of. Case in point: the "Image Description" field automatically populated by Olympus digital cameras. Here's how I deal with it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/unwanted-metadata.html
Even in the digital age filters have an important role. In this update, I cover the new Hoya UV and IR Cut Filter, an affordable micro four thirds 3-filter kit, and the best deal ever on a variable ND filter - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/news-from-the-world.html
I've been waiting for a professional zoom lens to complement the Olympus OM-D, and thanks to Panasonic's new 12-35mm f/2.8, I have one. At 2.9" long and less than 11 ounces in weight, this 14-element zoom allows me to tackle the most demanding of assignments. I share my initial impressions of the 12-35mm in the first segment of this week's show. In the second story I share how AT&T kindly unlocked my iPhone 3GS so I could take it to Germany and use a local SIM card there. Will make life much easier on the road. And finally, I cover the iPad Smart Case. It protects the entire unit, not just the front. All of this and more in this week's podcast - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/panasonic-12-35mm-f2-1.html
The Panasonic 12-35mm lens for micro four thirds cameras is the equivalent of a 24-70mm f/2.8 zooms for DSLRs. When mounted on a top-tier body, such as the Olympus OM-D E-M5, you have a professional caliber rig that is far more compact than its DSLR counterpart. I've been testing the 12-35mm Panasonic in the studio and field with great success. Here are a few highlights - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/review---panasonic-l.html
You can save even more time in Aperture by apply basic image adjustments during the import process. This automation became particularly attractive in version 3.3...
For the July 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters tried to stay cool while capturing heat in their images. See for yourself in our gallery "Hot" - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/09/hot---results-from-p.html
Good news out of San Jose. PetaPixel published an article pointing to an Adobe statement on the Photoshop.com blog, that Adobe "will provide support...
Want a compact camera that you can take anywhere, even 40' underwater? I put the Olympus TG-1 Tough through a grueling test during an 8-day trip to Maui, and have published my findings on TechHive - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/my-field-test-of-the.html
Need a second battery for your Olympus OM-D E-M5? Well, how about 2 more, and for only $25! http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/3rd-party-batteries.html
Not all terrific cameras get the spotlight they deserve. The Pentax K-30 is one of those cameras. In this week's episode, I talk about my experiences with the K-30, plus a recap of the Sonoma Coast Photography Workshop - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/pentax-k-30-spamalot.html
Looking for Raw support for your new digital camera? Through Adobe Labs, Lightroom 4.2 Release Candidate (as well as ACR 7.2) is now available for Mac and PC - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/raw-support-for-your.html
One argument to shoot Raw+Jpeg for your landscape work is the built-in distortion correction feature that we're seeing on many current DSLRs. When turned on, the camera corrects for barrel or pincushion distortion. That's the good news. Unfortunately that doesn't work for Raw files, only your Jpegs. Here's a field test of that feature with a new Pentax K-30 - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/the-ins-and-outs-of.html
A combination of beautiful North Coast scenery and the fantastic Alyssa Jayne teamed up for a fun day of shooting at the the TDS Sonoma Coast Photography Workshop - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/alyssa-lights-up-day.html
Been thinking about getting an all-in-one super zoom digital camera? Well, this is your lucky week. Pentax, Olympus, Nikon, and Canon all announced new models. Here's a quick roundup of four new cameras - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/its-super-zoom-week.html
The Nikon COOLPIX S800c digital camera ($349 US) doesn't have cellular (although how cool would that be), but it is Android powered with WiFi...
What's the biggest drawback to being the Nimble Photographer on photo assignment? Perception. If I show up with anything less than a big gun,...
It's ironic that we use live view for composing our photographs on our camera phones and point and shoots, but seem to forget that it exists when we pick up the DSLR. But I've found it very helpful for many types of shots. Here's my case for live view - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/making-the-case-for.html
If you really want to put your money where your mouth is, take your nimble photographer kit on a paid assignment and leave the DSLR back at the studio. That's what I did for yesterday's Grape to Glass assignment. Here's how it turned out - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/my-first-paid-assign.html
You might be wondering why I'm getting prepared for Photokina a month ahead of time. I've learned over the years that if I start packing early, I forget much less. Here's what I'm taking and what I plan to do in Cologne, Germany - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/getting-ready-for-ph.html
I get a kick out of creating landscape panoramas. When trying to photograph a beautiful vista, panoramas come closer to what I'm actually feeling...
Half the fun of image editing in a non-destructive environment is playing with different techniques. If you stumble across a look that you want to...
For a week of hiking, snorkeling, and lounging around the pool in Maui, I depended on one camera - The Olympus Tough TG-1. Not...
Since I was in nimble photographer mode already, my week in Maui seemed like a perfect time to explore the joys of Instagram photography - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/my-week-with-instagr.html
The Olympus Tough TG-1 can withstand shock, cold, rain, and yes, even immersion. Here are a set of photos captured with the TG-1 on a recent snorkeling trip to Maui - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/underwater-images-fr.html
Canon issued a product advisory covering a potential focusing problem with the 40mm f/2.8 STM pancake lens. In short, if you put pressure on the...
Sometimes the fun shots are available at dinner time. After our meal, I got up from the table to work on this shot for a...
I want the sand beneath my toes and the sun low on the horizon... and not much more during my vacation in Maui. So...
The new Lowepro Photo Hatchback is a great camera backpack for the photographer who needs a versatile, stylish carrying solution. Here's how the bag worked for college student Leah Lavoneh on her trip to Mount Rainier. Read on here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/exploring-the-northw.html
Inquiring minds want to know, right? On most Canon DSLRs, once you get over 100,000 shutter actuations, the risk of it failing increases (pro bodies more like 300,000). So how do you find out? http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/08/want-to-know-the-shu.html
"Sunflowers at Sunset" - In my mind, to hand hold a shot at this focal length at 1/8 of a second defies photography as I understood it for years. But the image stabilization, great electronics, and sharp lens redefines what we can do with a camera. http://thedigitalstory.com
For the June 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters found wisdom, humor, and direction in the words around them. See for yourself in our gallery, Signs - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/signs---results-from.html
The Nokia 808 PureView camera phone has amazing specs, including 38 MP capture with a 28mm Zeiss lens. Then with PureView zoom, you can go up to 3.6X with the sacrifice being in megapixels, not image quality. Very interesting device, and possibly the best camera phone ever. In the second story, I cover AirPlay Mirroring for Mac OS X Mountain Lion, and we wrap up with a look at the color code for Albums in iPhoto for iOS - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/best-camera-phone-ev.html
Do you know why iPhoto for iOS adorns your library shelf with albums that are blue, tan, and gray? They are actually organizational tools to help you find your images. In my Macworld article, Mastering albums in iPhoto for iOS, I explain in detail how you can put these albums to use on your iPad. In the meantime, if you're curious as to what the colors actually mean, here you go - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/deciphering-album-co.html
One of Mac OS X Mountain Lion's most tantalizing features for photographers and teachers is AirPlay Mirroring. With just one click, you can share your computer screen with any HDTV wirelessly via an Apple TV. Here's my first look at AirPlay Mirroring for photography and presentations - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/airplay-mirroring--.html
There are those images that I suspect have good potential, but require just a bit of work. My rescue tool of choice is Adobe Camera Raw 7.1 and Photoshop CS6. Typically, I can salvage a picture in just a few minutes. Here's a recent example of a rescue that took just three steps. Here's how - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/fast-photo-rescue-wi.html
If you recently purchased the MacBook Pro 15" Retina display, or another of Apple's latest offers, you probably qualify for the Up to Date Program. More info here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/mountain-lion-is-fre.html
After I finished a day of recording at the lynda.com studio in Carpinteria, CA, I headed out to the beach for a sunset walk....
The Canon EOS M mirrorless camera has been officially announced. We've had some discussion on TDS about "is it the next camera for you,"...
The Micro Four Thirds system supports a variety of lenses by Olympus, Panasonic, and Sigma. But even with that wide selection, there are a few gaps. For example, I needed a fast aperture zoom for a recent assignment. Thanks to the Olympus MMF-3 4/3 Adapter($165), I was able to use one of my favorite Olympus optics, the Olympus Zuiko 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 zoom(which is the equivalent of 24-120mm). Here are the pros and cons of this configuration - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/expanding-your-lens.html
At last the other shoe has dropped and now Canon has their entry into the mirrorless camera derby. And it's a good one. With its 18.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and full HD movie mode with movie servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects, the EOS M is targeted directly at those for whom video is a priority. It even has an external mic jack. Will I place my order? Read more here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/is-the-canon-eos-m-f.html
You can stream from iPhoto on your iPad to your HDTV via Apple TV. The trick is to reveal the hidden AirPlay button while working...
So, how does Lightroom 4.1 look on the new MacBook Pro with retina display? I've heard comments from "horrible" to "gorgeous." Let's take a look. Here are two screenshots from a MacBook Pro with retina display. One is Lightroom 4.1, and the other is Aperture 3.3.1. What do you think? http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/lightroom-4-on-a-mac.html
Have an older flash that you really like, but it just doesn't fit with your new camera gear? For less than $25 you can use that light again with the Cowboy Studio Wireless Hot Shoe Flash Trigger/Receiver kit. It brings wireless flash photography to just about any flash/camera combination. Find out how here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/new-life-for-old-fla.html
The answer to yesterday's "Can you guess this shot?" http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/answer-to-macro-ques.html
Can you guess the subject of this macro shot? http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/can-you-guess-this-s.html
Nikon officially announces their 800mm f/5.6 super telephoto. It's the longest focal length of any Nikkor autofocus lens. Then, in the second story, I try not to get my hopes up about the latest Canon rumor for an entry-level full-frame DSLR with some tantalizing (rumored) specs. I also cover how to put some pizazz in your group shots, and the value (and use of) a shot list for event photography. All of this and more on this week's podcast episode - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/nikon-800mm-canon-5d.html
The Effects panel from iPhoto has found its way into Aperture's Adjustments tab. It's a bit like the new roommate who brings his HDTV along...
World class BBQ has arrived in Sonoma County. The proof was in the mouth watering ribs, pork, and brisket served at the second annual...
Canon's latest EOS Rebel T4i may look similar to its predecessor, but inside it represents Canon's effort to keep up with today's generation of photographers. Here's a closer look at a camera we should keep an eye on - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/canon-t4i-may-look-t.html
There are a few basic steps to make Olympus firmware updates smooth and easy. If you have the new OM-D E-M5, firmware v1.2 is available. It improves the camera's performance when waking from sleep, and it displays the tracking focus point when shooting in low-speed continuous drive mode. The most important aspect for many of us is the waking from sleep. Here's how to do it - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/how-to-apply-olympus.html
This guide will help you build an Olympus compact system camera kit, or add to an existing one. To assist you in making the best decisions for your photography needs, I'll discuss my experiences with these items, link to articles about their use, and recommend groupings that accommodate different budgets and shooting styles. You can view the guide here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/olympus-micro-four-t.html
As we get the hang of working with Solid State Drives that are much faster but tend to have less capacity than their mechanical counterparts, we can take advantage of a variety of supplemental storage options. Today I'm looking at the portable 1 TB hard drive that is light, about the size of a deck of cards, and is usually available for around $100. Here's how I set it up - http://thedigitalstory.com/
Looks like Canon may finally be joining the Compact System Camera (CSC) party. Speculation is that they will announce their intentions on July 23. Their entry into the mirrorless market will shake things up. How? I start out the show by addressing the potential impact. Then I switch gears to Solid State Drives (SSD) - those electronic wonders that are many times faster than the traditional mechanical hard drives they replace. The problem is, they don't have as much capacity. And for photographers, that's a challenge. I begin the conversation about how I think the tradeoff is worth it, and the adjustments I'm making along the way. And finally, I have to say that I'm enjoying Pinterest. More about that, and other goodies, in this week's TDS podcast - http://thedigitalstory.com/podcasts/latest/
A terrific workflow improvement with Aperture 3.3.1 and iPhoto 9.3 is the "unified library." This means that regardless of which application creates the library, it can be opened with either app. I tested this feature on a new MacBook Pro 15" Retina Display, and report on how well unified libraries work with screenshots from both Aperture and iPhoto - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/iphoto-and-aperture.html - Article and photos by Derrick Story.
If you like world class BBQ, music, beer, wine, great setting, and of course photography, come hang out with the TDS crew at this year's Wine Country Big Q in Santa Rosa, CA on Saturday, July 14, 1-5 pm - More information here - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/come-hang-out-with-t.html
Do I still have the chops to shoot basketball with a manual focus lens? I mounted a Carl Zeiss 85mm f/2.8 prime (from my Contax SLR film days) on to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 and covered a high school summer league basketball game. The results are at www.thedigitalstory.com
Triggertrap is an ambitious app that enables you to control your iPhone camera, and with accessory dongle and connecting cable, your DSLR. Its functions range from the expected (cable release, sound trigger, and time lapse) to the impressive (eased time lapse and distance-lapse). It sells for $9.99 in the iTunes App Store, so expectations are high for its performance (as reflected in the user reviews on iTunes). You can read more about it at www.thedigitalstory.com
To 40mm or not? Canon's $199 40mm f/2.8 pancake lens seemed like a no-brainer to me. But some in our audience weren't impressed. I start out the show explaining why I think this little prime is just flat out fun. Metadata-Smetadata: despite the adolescent title, I think adding IPTC information to your photos before releasing them into the wild is important. And I say why in the second segment. SizzlPix 20" test from an iPhone 4S photo. I sent in an iPhone picture and got back a 20x15 inch SizzlPix. How did it look? All of this and more in this week's episode - http://thedigitalstory.com/2012/07/canon-40mm-lens-flat.html
The new Canon 40mm f-2.8 prime is a fun all-purpose lens that focuses as close as 1 foot, is well-built (including a metal mount), and will only set you back $199. I spent a week shooting a variety of subjects with this little "pancake," and have photos (and comments) for you to check out at www.thedigitalstory.com
For the May 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters fired up their motor drives and captured the world moving around them. See for yourself in our...
Probably like many other MobileMe users, I spent part of yesterday pulling content off my little corner of the Apple universe and saving it to my computer. As of today, it's goodbye MobileMe, hello iCloud. But there's a parting gift from Apple... http://www.thedigitalstory.com
How versatile is the iPhone 4S? Nick Fancher, an Ohio based photographer, posted a "behind the scenes" video of a fashion shoot he did with...
Podcasts are now out of iTunes and reside in their own app called Podcasts, which is available for free in the App Store. At first...
Giants pitcher Ryan Vogelsong had his stuff working, and hitters Melky Cabrera and Buster Posey did their jobs at the plate. The result: Giants...
Whether you work with models regularly, or are contemplating your first shoot, this week's podcast includes "5 Don'ts" for these projects. These warnings were...
One of the many feature improvements in Aperture 3.3 is the White Balance tool. Among its enhancements is an "uber auto" button and three "filters"...
Creating silhouette images is one of the easiest in photography, and often produces interesting pictures. The trick is to control the placement of the negative...
For the last few years, a chorus of us have been chanting that "the best camera is the one that you have with you." And...
I upgraded to the new MacBook Pro with Retina display for my everyday work. Chief among the reasons why was the 15" Retina display and...
Imagine waking up on the beautiful Northern Californian coastline, and the only item on the day's agenda is to focus on your photography. You...
In the world of photography, the iPad has become an equal partner in my gear bag. Among the many reasons I like it so much...
Imagine a set-up that includes modifiers for three flashes, a grid spot, two sets of gels, and a diffusion panel, yet only occupies the...
The Rogue Master Lighting Kitprovides the nimble photographer with a variety of flash modifiers and gels in kit that occupies about as much space...
The latest episode of This Week in Photo includes a lively discussion about the just-announced MacBook Pro Retina Display, the Aperture 3.3 release, and...
I'm enjoying watching 42-year-old Jim Furyk battle a predominately younger field at the U.S. Open golf championship in progress at the Olympic Club in San...
Many Aperture users were hoping for a 4.0 debut this week, and instead they got 3.3. Joe Linaschke over at ApertureExpert.com breaks down this...
The 2012 U.S. Open Golf Championship is underway at the Olympic Club in San Francisco, CA. The combination of historic site plus world class golfers...
In addition to the 7 boards I've already populated on my just-launched Pinterest page, I've viewed hundreds by others who have posted on a variety...
Aperture 3.3 provides much for us to talk about, and I'm going to start today with its improved rendering speed during import. Apple calls this...
Apple announces a 1-2 knockout punch for photographers: a redesigned MacBook Pro 15" with Retina Display combined with an updated Aperture (v 3.3) that...
Repetition isn't necessarily a good thing when it comes to our daily work, but it can be a terrific photo subject. A line of Mini...
As Apple applies the finishing touches to Moscone West for the World Wide Developers Conference, we can look forward to some important announcements on Monday...
"I captured this with my Olympus Pen E-PL1 camera and 17mm 2.8 pancake lens," writes Roderick James. "This was the last day of the...
With the impending announcement of Canon's pancake lens, I thought it would be a good time to revisit this svelte class of prime glass. So,...
"Where the heck is Aperture 4?"[a cry from the blogosphere] Usually when we get this deep into the Aperture release cycle (2 years +),...
The ability to capture crisp images is a longstanding goal for most photographers. In this week's podcast, I review 5 basic "dos and don'ts"...
I've photographed a lot of junior sporting events, but 7-year-old boys playing hockey is one the best. Our workshop group had an appointment at Snoopy's...
One of the challenges we grappled with at the Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival during the TDS Action Photography Workshop was how to show the speed...
For the April 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters got "up close and personal" with their subjects. See for yourself how the world changes with a...
Lowepro launched a sweepstakes with some very tempting prizes, including a Pro Roller Lite 250AW($295 street price), Pro Trekker 300 AW($289 street price), Photo...
A sharp image gives us more detail. And sometimes it's the details that separate a decent shot from a terrific one. So here are a...
Apple's iPhoto for iOS is a terrific app, but you can easily run aground if you want to move your best shots from the mobile...
Adobe Photoshop CS6 recently debuted with new features such as non-destructive cropping, Adaptive Wide Angle adjustments, enhanced video tools, and so much more. We...
I've experimented with many apps to display pictures on the iPad. It's a perfect device for showing off your work. But finding the right...
My recent webinar, A Fresh Look at Familiar Subjects in B&W is now available online. This recorded version of last week's webinar, sponsored by Nik...
Updates to the Flickr interface seem to be gaining momentum with the latest being justified view for groups. To experience this, click on the "more...
What goes on behind the scenes at Leo Laporte's TWiT studio in Petaluma, CA? I recently spent an afternoon there recording scenes with a...
Subjects that we normally think of in color can often resonate without it too. That's the premise for my project, B&W Vegas. This is also...
I became a Pentax fan (again!) when I reviewed the Pentax K-5 for Macworld Magazine. In addition to its outstanding image quality, the K-5...
LED lighting for photographers has evolved from exotic to affordable. No better case in point than the Neewer Ring Light for $30. I talk...
I just read a review of the Panasonic LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm F2.8 ASPH zoom lens on PhotographyBLOG that helped me understand more...
I've been fascinated with B&W photos from the moment I saw my first Life Magazine. Even today I have prints by Eisenstaedt and Bresson hanging...
Macworld Magazine has published my full review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5, including lab test scores from the PC Mag lab. The camera earned...
I've been having a blast with the $30 NEEWER 48 LED Ring Lightthat mounts directly to my macro lens and is powered by 2...
I'm thrilled to be leading the Sonoma Coast Photography Workshop for a second year. I have an amazing weekend planed. The Sonoma Coast Photography...
When there's a dark area in your photograph that you want to lighten, the common inclination is to reach for the Dodge tool. I...
Your iPhone captures terrific pictures. And now, so does the iPad. So when you want to give a print to someone, what do you...
Back-button focusing allows you to separate the auto-focusing function from the shutter release button. I talk more about how to do this, and why...
Typically, most DSLR shooters lock their focus by pressing the shutter half way, recomposing, then pressing further to record the image. It's a tried...
Popular photo sharing site Flickr has retooled its uploader interface. The new version features both improved functionality and is easier on the eyes. The...
I keep a box of prints handy for reference. It consists of a few images printed on 3 or 4 different surfaces. When I'm...
The iPhone display is so beautiful. Wouldn't it be great to use it as a control panel for your DSLR? Now, thanks to enlight...
Regardless of the weather outside, you can still have fun with your photography inside. I just read a good article titled, How to Get Great...
Adobe just released ACR 6.7 that includes RAW support for 9 new cameras plus 30 new lens profiles. Heavy hitters are included such as...
I like my vintage 2008 17" MacBook Pro (MBP). But it had become too tired to run Aperture and manage my extensive photo library. Rather...
On Saturday, May 19, I'll be in San Jose, CA speaking for TWiP and SmugMug on How to Pack a KILLER Camera Bag, then on...
Nimble photographers who like sling bags and want to carry their iPad with them, might want to investigate the new Lowepro Urban Photo Sling. This...
One of the reasons that I had to get my hands on The new iPad was for a time-lapse movie project I'm working on. Yesterday,...
For the March 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters focused their lenses on the "windows of the soul"...or a twist on that concept. See for yourself...
The Olympus OM-D E-M5is about ready for its North American release. I've spent a few weeks with this beautiful micro four thirds system camera, and...
Two of the challenges of macro photography is getting precise focusing and correct position. I've found that a focusing rail is an invaluable tool for...
We need to shoot often to improve our technique and stay sharp. But it's not always easy to fit a photo expedition into our busy...
Do you ever have the feeling that your Aperture library isn't feeling quite right? For those Alka Seltzer situations, try running the Aperture Library First...
One of the features on the new Olympus ED 12-50mm F3.5-6.3 zoomthat intrigued me was the macro capability. I'm asked all the time if...
Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen stepped on stage at the de Young Museum in San Francisco to reveal the path to Adobe's future. Adobe is...
If you're an outdoor photographer who likes stream crossings on a fallen log, jogging down a winding trail, or mountain biking on a brisk...
The killer feature in Apple's 3rd generation iPad is the Retina display. The 9.7-inch LED-backlit glossy widescreen shows your pictures with 2048-by-1536-pixel resolution at 264...
This is one of the oldest, and most affordable tricks, for close up photography: the reverse ring. With this $10 adapter that you screw...
Ring flash is useful for macro and portrait photography. Yesterday I reviewed the impressive Orbis Ring Flash and bracket that combines versatility with professional results....
With the closing of MobileMe, and Flickr seeming to fall behind the pack, it reaffirmed my belief that it's best to have complete control over...
For my upcoming Close Up Photography Workshop, I needed a ring flash that would work with each student's lighting gear. After some research, I...
I shoot everything in color. Actually, Raw, to be precise. And once I've done my sort and decided which images I like best, I...
You can create inkjet contact sheets with Aperture by following four basic steps. These are useful as proof sheets for client review, or as a...
Both Aperture and Lightroom provide excellent tools for organizing images in your library. A common question I hear during workshops is about the difference...
Sigma has released a pair of prime lenses for micro four/thirds cameras, such as the Olympus PENs. I've been testing the 30mm F2.8 EX DN($199...
Starting this month, I'm available for speaking at SMUGs (SmugMug User Groups). I'm looking forward to meeting with other photographers who share the same...
It's exciting to create an image unlike anything you've shot before. That fresh look can lead to a entirely new type of photography. To help...
I recently paid $39 for an Olympus LH-40B lens hood for the 45mm f/1.8 primethat I use on my PEN cameras. Even though it's...
A slight shift in weight or change in angle can make a big difference in the final portrait. Since many of the subjects we photograph...
It's the question many filmmakers want answered: Is the Canon 5D Mark III or Nikon D800 best for high-end movie making? The answer, according to...
Like a bear that emerges from hibernation, photographers north of the equator are getting ready to venture outdoors and capture the glory of Spring....
I rarely get rid of old equipment if it's still serviceable. A perfect case in point is when I needed a few graduated filters...
Cropped sensor cameras aren't getting as much attention these days as they should. Recent full frame announcements such as the Canon 5D Mark III and...
For the Feb. 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters got back to basics and worked with the Rule of Thirds for their compositions. But even within...
There has been lots of discussion about the changes inside the Canon 5D Mark III, but I've noticed plenty of differences on the outside too....
If I had the disposable income for it, I'd love to try the $799 Canon G1 Xlarge sensor compact. It's handsome on the outside...
In portrait photography, one of the toughest challenges for subject and photographer alike is posing. This is especially true when one or both don't...
Lowepro asked me to shoot a Nimble Photographer movie using their Event Messenger 150 Bag($59 US), which I really like anyway. And since iPhoto...
In this week's podcast, I discuss the basic game plan for successful event photography. One of the subtleties during the actual shoot is learning...
I just finished covering a big 3-day event in Petaluma, CA called the Artisan Cheese Festival. There were so many things going on at once,...
Motrr Galileo is raising money through Kickstarter, and it looks to be a promising device. It's an iOS-controlled robotic iPhone platform with infinite spherical...
Photographer Dustin Farrell explains how to combine HDR and timelapse techniques in his post, How to Create an HDR Timelapse. Sounds like a great weekend...
Pro shooter Dan Patitucci offers plenty of sage advice for travel photographers in his post, Making Respectful Travel Portraits. Among the many points Dan...
The evening of Monday, March 20, 2012 began lighthearted enough. I had a beer in one hand and a bobble head in the other. We...
Working efficiently in Aperture or Lightroom allows you to spend more time being creative and less fooling around with medicore shots. In this week's podcast,...
Small enough to fit in your pocket, but adds big capability to your iPhone photography, the iPhone Shutter Remote is great for group shots, time-lapse,...
I was intrigued by a new free photo sharing service called Blinq. In essence, it facilitates seamless image sharing among your computers and iOS devices,...
TDS member Brandt Ryan talks about the tip, "always look behind you," and how it led to this photo he captured. "Not long ago...
Here's a crazy idea for a nimble studio set up: two iPads running Photo Soft Box to illuminate your subject, then take the picture...
When Apple announced the new iPad, many of us got what we had hoped for: a new Retina display, more horsepower under the hood, and...
I enjoyed reading Sly Arena's first impressions of Canon's New Speedlite 600EX-RT & Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT. But then I calculated the costs. The 600EX-RT...
A negative space, such as my shadow against this yellow wall, can help you create strong graphical compositions. Elements to watch for include strong,...
Macworld Magazine today published my full review of Lightroom 4, which is now available for $149. Here are my pros and cons from that...
You can tell that Apple worked hard to bring iPhoto to the iPad. It's designed from the ground up, and is a joy to...
Working with off-camera flash doesn't have to be expensive. Yes, we see wireless flash systems that cost $1,000 and up, but you don't need...
There's plenty to play with in Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4with new features such as the book layout tool, video management, and geotagging. But the...
Over the last decade, digital photography hardware has evolved at a fast pace. This led to us buying cameras more frequently than in the film...
It's rare when all of the hosts on TWiP agree on anything, but we all wanted to choose Camera Awesome as our pick of...
Good news! Canon releases the 5D Mark III. Bad news: Price tag is $3,500 here in the US. That's $1,000 more than I paid...
For the Jan. 2012 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters put their callers on hold and snapped photos with their camera phones. You can view a wide...
When I review my twilight shots that blur motion, it's amazing how often the ones I like best were exposed at 1 second. "Las Vegas...
When we think of "back up," we're usually visualizing hard drives and computers. But what about your "Plan B" for a photo shoot? Things don't...
The love affair with mobile cameras enters a new chapter with Nokia announcing PureView Pro. They write, "The Nokia PureView Pro imaging technology is...
Keep your camera at the ready during a portrait shoot. You may just capture an in-between moment. Photographer Ed Shields talked about this with...
To celebrate our first TDS Off-Camera Flash Workshop this weekend, I thought I'd share a favorite tip: how to photograph reflective artwork with two flashes....
Lowel Ego Lights are affordable soft lights that can be used for portrait and product photography, as well as video recording. Each lighting unit...
Long exposure helps create the ghostly effect against a brightly lit background. When you think about photographing Las Vegas, you probably see bright colors...
I'm working this week at WPPI held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. As you might expect, there's lots of energy, and a few...
One of the more interesting WPPI debuts was ICE Light, a hand-holdable daylight LED wand that makes it easier for the portrait photographer to hold...
You hear video shooters say time after time, the best way to get great audio for your movies is to record it with a...
I touched down in Las Vegas on Sunday afternoon to cover WPPI 2012 at the MGM Grand. An Olympus E-PL2 set to 1/2 second at...
It's one thing being able to connect your iPad to a projector and show your work. It's another being able to do it wirelessly. If...
The Loupe tool in Aperture was one of the first "oh wow" features that caught photographers' attention. What's interesting, however, is that it's also...
"Danger, Will Robinson; danger, Will Robinson!" You look down at your camera and see Err 01 on the LCD. What does that mean? Why...
What a great month for Compact System Cameras (CSC). First, Sony announces its lens roadmap for the NEX series that includes some tantalizing glass. Sony...
When trying to decide which Compact System Camera (CSC) is the best for you, one to consider is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1,our current favorite...
I've talked a great deal about how much I like the Epson R2000 13" fine art printer. Now, thanks to their mobile app, Epson...
Imaging-Resource reports that the Nikon D4 delivery to the US will slip about a month. Originally scheduled for February, they are now estimating sometime in...
Want to have fun making a Valentine's Day card and delight the recipient at the same time? Take a look at Card Shop for the...
Earlier this week, I wrote about the debut of the Olympus OM-D line. Since then, I've discovered a handful of informative movies about this...
We have two terrific hands-on workshops scheduled for this Spring, and an addition to the Summer line up. On April 21-22, we're conducting the "Close-Up"...
I was impressed with Corel's ambition in its 1.0 release of AfterShot Pro. And for the most part, the execution wasn't bad either. I...
Your investment in micro four thirds gear is about to pay off. And if you haven't made the leap yet, this might tempt you to...
Nikon has throw down the gauntlet with the impressive D800 featuring 36 high resolution megapixels. Canon meanwhile, decided that today was a good time...
If printing were as fun as the other aspects of your photography, you might engage more often. Right? After all, we like sharing prints. It's...
Postcards present great advantages. In a mailbox full of bland envelopes, postcards radiate like desert flowers. They're easy to send: stick a 32-cent stamp on...
The folks at Imaging-Resource.com have published an excellent image comparison test with the Canon G1 Xand a batch of its competitors, including the Canon...
Curious about what the Mac App Store has to offer for photographers? You might want to take a look at the Apps for Photographers collection....
The new Lowepro Event Messenger is a good looking shoulder bag that holds your DSLR, Compact System Camera, lenses, and laptop or tablet computer. It...
For the Dec. '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters looked close to home for exploring the theme Family. One of the things I enjoy most about...
You have to wonder how secure manufacturers feel right now as they release the barrage of new compact cameras in a declining market for...
I've had a chance to work with Lightroom 4 public beta and publish an article about it for Macworld Magazine. That release has led to...
I keep waiting for the charm to wear off. But it hasn't. My favorite camera when heading out the door for a walk is...
Creative exercise is much like physically working out: it makes you stronger. And one of my favorite creative activities is focusing on a compositional...
The HP TopShot LaserJet Pro M275 multifunctional printer produces fast B&W or color output (17 PPM black & 4 PPM color), is network enabled including...
There are plenty of refinements and new features in the public beta of Adobe Lightroom 4, but the two tools that caught my eye are...
It was the craziest thing. I was out for a walk along the shore, and I saw these talking deer. But because of the...
As you look at this picture, what to you see? Ocean, sky, rugged shoreline? Those were the elements that I noticed as I hiked by....
This is ingenious. A compact, machined-metal, ball head, tripod that you can leave mounted on your camera, yet, it doesn't get in the way....
When I travel, I'm impressed with the exercise bikes I see in modern hotel gyms. They have a complete multimedia setups that help pass the...
Photographers and other creatives can help connect with others by understanding the benefits of social media. I think the best approach is "be yourself."...
When I first picked up the Polaroid Z340at CES, the sensation was more old than new. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Even though the...
I'm back from Las Vegas, and my "travel light" system worked! This week, I talk about small planes, hotel life, and highlights from CES. Lots...
I found a motorized "lazy Susan" in the garage the other day, and asked myself, "What could I do with this?" I had just seen...
This field report, including photos, is contributed by TDS member, Ed Shields. I also took a look at the GX1 while at CES, and enjoyed...
When you watch people and technology collide, have your camera ready. It's a playing field for interesting photography. As expected, 3D was a major theme...
The question that surfaces in nearly every conversation here at CES is, "Have you seen the Samsung booth?" Not only is it amazing in terms...
You'd be surprised at what you can discover at an electronics event. For example, in the North Hall at CES there's an entire car show...
The Nimble Photographer takes to the air! Here's the challenge: I'm flying to Las Vegas to cover the CES event, but I'm using my local...
FujiFilm announced the Fujifilm X-Pro1, and it's exactly what many of us were hoping for. The beautiful styling of the X10 combined with the...
You knew Canon would respond to the large sensor compacts and CSCs recently introduced. And to their credit, they've offered photographers yet another option:...
How would you like to sharpen your off-camera flash skills (and have a blast while doing so)? Coming this February, I'm conducting a two-day workshop...
The 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) begins on Tuesday, Jan. 10 in Las Vegas. It is one of the biggest technology events of the...
Developing a short list of favorite portrait locations is a terrific asset in your photography arsenal, especially when a potential subject asks, "So, where should...
A New Year, and a fresh set of opportunities to improve our photography. In this week's podcast, I present six goals for 2012. Each one...
For the Nov. '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters got their grayscale on while exploring the theme Black & White. The imagery in this huge gallery...
The past year showed us how priorities are shifting in the world of photography. New DSLR announcements were at a premium -- in part...
As 2011 comes to a close, and we begin to think about our goals for 2012, improving our photography will be on many lists....
I just watched a terrific video by Lee Morris of FStoppers about improving the audio for your DSLR videos. I was expecting a complicated...
I was scouting a location yesterday afternoon, when I noticed the beautiful graphic design created by winter shadows. I found a high vantage point and...
2011 was a busy year for photographers and tech fans alike. In this week's podcast, I review a dozen of the topics that I discussed,...
Monta Ellis scored 26 points and led the Golden State Warriors to a 99-91 victory over the visiting Chicago Bulls last night at Oracle Arena...
For your next event shoot, say a pro basketball game, which would you rather have: a 280mm f/4 on a 21 MP body, or a...
As the New Year approaches, I like to get organized. One of the best ways to store and transport camera gear is with a professional...
I bought my Canon 85mm f/1.8 EF USM lens for wedding work well over a decade ago. At the time, I was shooting film...
When you're a photographer, spending time and money on your WiFi network is like having to buy tires for the car. You need them,...
Lowepro is sponsoring a 1-Day Photo Workshop with SF Giants Staff Photographer Andy Kuno and yours truly on Dec. 28, 2011 in San Francisco,...
Once you begin to take notice of time lapse photography, you see it everywhere. And for good reason. This style of video adds spice to...
You can securely mount an iPad 2 to your favorite tripod for movie recording and time lapse photography. All you need are a few...
Earlier in my career, I used to shoot a lot of physician portraits. And it seemed that I was constantly dealing with reflections in...
If you've purchased a Kindle Fireas a gift, and want to set it up before the official unwrapping, I have a few tips for...
You want to give something special to your close friends and family, but you don't have a lot of time. Sound familiar? Here's an idea...
Accessible time lapse photography is a gift of the digital age. And now, thanks to Boinx Software, it's easier than ever to create stop motion...
When we're very busy (as most are this time of year), it can be difficult to adhere to your formal archiving plan. Even I struggle...
Nimble photography isn't just for still photos. Our nimbleosity can extend to movie making too. This week I cover iMovie for the iPad and...
I like to set the Drive Mode to "continuous" when shooting animals, children, and people in general. Yes, you take up a bit more space...
I packed the new Olympus 45mm f/1.8 prime lens for a high school basketball game to see if could keep up with the action. The...
DP Review reports that Instagram and Snapseed are the Apps of the year for the iPhone and iPad respectively. The apps are part of Apple's...
I was working on a project last night at the Golden Gate Bridge north of San Francisco, when I noticed these two photographers in the...
It's not often that you get to sit down with a Sports Illustrated photographer and learn about life in the end zone. But on Monday,...
Things are sometimes better in threes. Three flashes on one lightstand; three exposures on one frame. Yes, this week I'm talking about multiples. I...
One of my favorite features on the Pentax K-5is the multiple exposure setting that allows me to integrate up to 9 images on one frame....
Now that we're smack dab in the middle of the holiday season, many of us want to finish off our gift list. Here are...
For the Oct. '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters worked the angles while exploring the theme Side Lighting. The imagery in this gallery is quite...
Your Apple ear buds with remote can also serve as a cable release for the iPhone. I've just tested this with my iPhone 4S, and...
In these early days of iCloud, the Photo Stream component is far from perfect. But the concept is good. So it's really a matter of...
Beth Wald has fulfilled national and international assignments for editorial clients that include National Geographic, Smithsonian, The New York Times, National Geographic Adventure, Outside, Men's...
Photography is a balancing act. You give a little here and get a bit there. One of the areas this comes in to play is...
If you want to improve your image editing skills in Adobe Camera Raw 6, download the free PDF guide (2.6 MB) authored by Francesco...
Is it possible to explore the world of macro photography without a tripod? And when it's time to make a movie, could you frame...
When I've worked events with a Gary Fong Lightsphere mounted over my flash, I've had people ask me if that was Tupperware on my...
There's a good list of 16 photography apps for the iPad on photography talk.com. I like many of these selections. Serious shooters should consider...
There are good deals... and then there's free. Over on the Lowepro Facebook fan page they are conducting a special Free Bag Friday where...
The new Olympus PEN E-PM1is a camera that I've been toting for the last couple months with good results. DP Review has now put it...
I love working with disc reflectors, but I don't always have an assistant to hold them for me. I found the Flashpoint 24" Triangular...
It's that time of year when some families take a deep breath and decide to spend time together. If you're the photographer for these brave...
What to get that favorite photographer in your life? In this week's podcast I have a dozen great ideas. The bulk of the gifts are...
The iPhone 4S has a built-in HDR option that works quite well. But, by using the following technique, you can maximize its potential, taking your...
I don't always want to look the part of the photographer. Sometimes I'm just hanging out with friends, having a good time. That doesn't mean...
From day one, I've wanted to print from my iPad and iPhone as easily as I can from my Mac. And for those who have...
Canon USA published a press release discussing the availability of three professional lenses. One of those included, the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS is...
No matter how digital I get, there are a few cameras that I will never part with. Today's analog favorite: the Hasselblad 500C with...
One of the most common complaints I hear from photo subjects is that the photographer doesn't communicate during the shoot. I can see both...
Professional travel photographer and teacher Rick Sammon is conducting a free webinar on Nov. 17, 12:00 - 1:00 PM PST. You can reserve your seat...
We spent Sunday afternoon at the TDS Workshop creating prints from the edited images we had been working on. During this session, I helped...
Our crew of photographers wrapped a full day of classroom instruction and shooting on Saturday during the November TDS Aperture Workshop. One of three model...
Apple released Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 3.9 that provides support for 11 new cameras, including the Canon S100, Nikon 1, Sony NEX 5N, and...
I ran across this article, Panheads Vs Ballheads, and it got me thinking about how my preferences for tripod mounts has swung back and forth...
Michelle Vinay will be the featured model this weekend for the Aperture Intensive Workshop in Santa Rosa, CA. Attending photographers will have three sessions...
Some people vow to shed weight or drop an undesirable habit when the New Year rolls around. As 2012 approaches, I think this is also...
Photo Stream is iCloud's free picture service that shares your mobile pictures with computers and iOS devices. Like many Apple products, this first version works...
Journalists are starting to get their hands on the new Panasonic GX1 CSC camera, and it's a beauty. I like the gunmetal grey version myself....
I recently came across one of my favorite photos of Steve Jobs. I took this shot in Oct. 2005 during the Apple event at the...
For the Sept. '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters worked with digits while exploring the theme Hands and Feet. The imagery in this gallery is clever...
Of the interviews I've done, this chat with Leo Laporte on TWiT Photo goes down as one of my favorites. Derrick Story (left) and Leo...
I'm going to be on the set of TWiT Photo today joining their great crew talking about photography. We'll touch on some of my favorite...
A big challenge for photographers these days is distinguishing themselves from others. A pretty landscape image just isn't going to do it. I have five...
I just spent a week on the road with the Gymbl case and tripod for my iPhone 4S. It's a clever combination of a...
You could call it: "time lapse photography made easy." I mounted an iPhone 4S on a Gymbl tripod and launched the Joby Gorillacam app to...
I saw this served across from me at Trattoria Dell'Arte, 900 7th Ave (between 56th and 57th st) in New York City. I think it...
It looks like that comfy soft canvas bag from a previous era, but the new Lowepro Pro Messenger 200 AW camera bag is anything...
When working in clear air, especially in the mountains, keep an eye on your sky when using a polarizing filter. Believe it or not, you...
In his latest book, The Passionate Photographer,Steve Simon presents 10 steps toward becoming great. For example, in Step 3, Work It: Don't Give Up...
Two big topics this week! I'm heading out to PhotoPlus Expo in New York and will talk about what's going on at that event. It's...
I packed a Pentax K-5DSLR on a recent trip to the Eastern Sierra to test its ruggedness and picture quality. In short, it impressed me...
I love the morning light. So as I'm heading out the door, I usually grab a camera for my walk. Today, I had the Olympus...
The first time I saw Brian Smith shoot, I realized how he makes those compelling portraits. Brian is like a sculptor. And with his...
Want to say "Thank You" to that office coworker who went the extra mile, school volunteer who helped your kids, or hair cutter who...
It's as light as a feather and as snug as a glove, and it mounts your iPhone to a tripod or serves as a...
Now, more than ever, your iPhone photos need to be incorporated into your photography workflow. With the 8 MP camera in the iPhone 4S,...
The upgraded camera is one of the major features of the iPhone 4S. But does it have enough horsepower to be your everyday compact camera?...
Apple's latest iPhone comes equipped with an overhauled camera that sports many useful features. Even though I give it an overall "thumbs up," I do...
One of the events during the TDS Oct. Photography Workshop was a visit to Safari West for a morning of wildlife photography. "I've got my...
Water is one of my favorite photo subjects, in part because there are so many things you can do with it. Recently I photographed...
While packing for my Eastern Sierra trip, I put the Olympus PEN E-PM1in my camera bag along with a couple DSLR bodies. Why? Because I...
No, it's not HDR. I used a Cokin A 121 Neutral Grad filter on a Pentax K-5 with stock 18-55mm zoom. The Cokin filter...
I recorded this on my way out the door to the Sierra to shoot fall color. On this short road trip I'll be testing a...
I'm a big fan of what Nik Silver Efex Pro 2can do for my B&W photography, so when I heard that they've just released Color...
The new Olympus PEN E-PM1, known as the "Mini" is exactly that. It's smaller than what I used to call a compact camera, such as...
If it hadn't been for Steve Jobs, you probably wouldn't be reading these words right now. Yes, I've always been a writer. But I've...
As I mentioned yesterday, Apple announced my next camera during their special event today. I had a good feeling that they were going to...
Do you know the varying degrees of warming filters in your white balance presets? Have you tried WB bracketing? Have you figured out how to...
For many, Apple's announcement of the 5th generation iPhone is the next step in mobile communications. For me, it's my next camera. The history...
For the Aug. '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters experimented with various surfaces exploring the theme Reflection. The imagery in this gallery is beautiful. And which...
Remarkably smooth. That's my first impression of Flickr's Photo Session. It's a new feature that allows you to share a set of images in real...
I'm speaking at the Mac Computer Expo in Petaluma, CA on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011. My talk, A Photographer's Workflow for the iPad is part...
When I noticed the latest iApp update from Eye-Fi, I tested it right away on my iPhone. Why such a hurry? Well, my super...
A good camera bag is the photographer's home away from home. These days, it often contains your shooting gear, a laptop or tablet, and a...
Filed under "why didn't someone think of this before," the folks over at Visual Departures have created microGAFFER, gaffer tape in convenient 1" wide...
When you look at the new DSLR Video Fastpack, you see a next generation backpack that's evolved from the original (and popular) Fastpack. With the...
This isn't just any adapter. The Redrock Micro LiveLens MFT is the first active lens mount to allow Canon EF lenses to be used...
I've been thinking about the Nikon 1 and trying to figure out why there isn't an APS-C sensor in that handsome body. Instead, as...
One of the biggest frustrations I see when people begin to take control of organizing photos on their computers, is what to do with all...
The GorillaPod Focus with Ballhead X is no chimp. At the top of the Joby product line, this tripod combines stability and flexibility in a...
Filterstorm Pro strives to solve a number of problems for the nimble photographer working on an iPad or iPad 2. It provides a true library...
As I look at the just-announced Canon S100, it has me thinking about this class of device in general. What factors would motivate me...
A lot has changed since this nimble photographer last wrote about using an Eye-Fi card with ShutterSnitch on an iPad. In short, everything is a...
Here in Northern California, I can already feel the approach of Autumn. The light changes. The air smells different. Fall color is around the...
I have plenty of serious shooting on my dance card. But sometimes I just want to have fun with a camera. I wanted to take...
An assignment that I was looking forward to this week was covering the Wine Country Big Q. Set against the rolling hills backdrop of Sonoma...
As powerful as the Develop Module is, there are times when you need to take an image from Lightroom and work on it in Photoshop....
I'm preparing for my upcoming workshop at Photo Plus Expo in New York City on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, Developing Revenue Streams to Sustain...
Adobe Carousel is a software system that enables you to access, manage, and adjust your pictures on a Mac and iOS devices such as the...
I found this article on DIY Photography that explains how pro shooter Richard Hill created a background projector for his studio photography using an...
Photographers should think carefully about the hard drives they choose to organize and archive their images. There are three basic aspects to consider: capacity, convenience,...
Fujifilm has found a formula that I think is going to sell a lot of cameras in the near future. With the announcement of the...
Congratulations to Richard Bulda who is the winner of the Lowepro Fastpack 100 filled with goodies. Richard, please send me your shipping information (including...
It's amazing what you can build with a few pieces of PVC pipe and a handful of shower curtain hooks. This week I talk...
In Organizing and Archiving Digital Photos, I cover basic organizational techniques in Lightroom, Aperture, iPhoto, and roll-your-own. In this short video, I discuss keywording...
Photo shoot during the TDS Sonoma Coast Workshop. Portraits indoors and out require a mix of craftsmanship and artistry. After two days of shooting...
I love this photo by Katherine Crosbie of Ashley Tuttle captured at the ongoing TDS Sonoma Coast Workshop in Santa Rosa, CA. Katherine is...
Organizing and Archiving Digital Photos is live in the lynda.com online library. It's about the concepts and techniques behind efficient photo management and backup....
How easy is this? All you have to do is "Like" the TDS Facebook Fan Page, or... follow me on Twitter, or... add me...
Here's a look inside the Printing Room at the TDS Studio in Santa Rosa, CA. This image was captured after a 3-day marathon session...
Creating a portfolio, electronic or print, helps you focus your work and develop a style. The process is almost as important as the final product....
How many times have you said, "There's got to be a better way to present my work on the iPad?" I have. Many times....
After a recent assignment shoot, I pulled a Lexar 8GB Pro SD card from my Canon 60D and inserted it into the MacBook Air,...
We know that the Olympus E-P3 is capable in the field (see the latest DP Review test). That's the first environment that most think of...
I've been testing the Epson Stylus Photo R2000 inkjet printer, using it for a variety of images from saturated color compositions on glossy stock...
There comes a point when photo management software, such as Aperture or Lightroom, just makes sense. In this week's podcast, I share my top 5...
I just read a helpful tip on Rick Sammon's blog about the Color Replacement Tool in Photoshop. I thought this would be a good...
Ever since I can remember, Aperture has had the same five templates for creating web galleries. But thanks to Themes for Aperture by Graphic Node,...
Here are 5 Tips That Will Save You Time in Lightroom 3 by Scott Williams. My favorite of the bunch is Copy and Paste...
If you shoot senior portraits, then you know there are just as many guys as gals. Yet, most articles focus on posing young women....
Recently I commented in one of my podcasts that I wasn't finding much of interest in the Photography category of the Mac App Store. I...
Matt Kloskowski has published his Insta-Lightroom Nashville-like Preset for Lightroom as a free download from the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Killer Tips blog. He writes, "Every...
For this shot of Danielle Winkler at San Buenaventura State Beach in Ventura, I set a Canon 320 EX on the ground pointing upward...
We're putting the finishing touches today on my latest lynda.com title, "Organizing and Archiving Digital Photos" (you can see my entire library here). We've been...
If I've learned nothing else over the years, I've grasped the concept that photography is an evolving medium. I think this is a good...
I learned about Going Candid: An Unorthodox Approach to Street Photography (PDF download, 8.6 MBs) via a post by its author, Thomas Leuthard, on...
It's been a while since we've had a visit from the Nimble Photographer, so I thought after being on the road for a couple weeks...
I always have a few model releases in my camera bag in case I capture a great portrait on the fly. One thing I've...
Adobe has created a CS5 Hidden Gems channel, hosted by Bryan O'Neil Hughes. Via a series of short videos, Bryan demonstrates helpful, interesting techniques for...
"Sharing a View" by Derrick Story. Click on image for larger version. Who says that man and animal have different sensibilities? In this case,...
"Junior Lifeguards" at San Clemente Beach, CA. Photo by Derrick Story. Click on image for larger version. These junior lifeguards are lining up for...
Olympus announced today that the Olympus E-PL3 will be available in September 2011 for $699.99 (with redesigned 14-42mm zoom lens). They also add a...
Bee in Cactus Flower: Mission San Juan Capistrano. Photo by Derrick Story. Click on image for larger version. This bee climbed into the cactus...
Google+ has great appeal for many photographers, and causes concern with others. After a few weeks of testing, I give my first impression on this...
"Kite on Doheny State Beach" by Derrick Story. Click on image for higher quality version. Canon 60D, EF-S 15-85mm zoom, and polarizer. When I...
I've always used external hard drives to store my Aperture 3 Vaults. And even though I work with a referenced library these days instead...
The third gallery of TDS Member Photo of the Day images is now complete and ready for viewing. Each photo includes commentary by me...
Apple's latest version of the MacBook Air combines good specification and excellent portability, making it an ideal machine for mobile photographers. One of the key...
I've been impressed with image editing on the iPad. For some reason, it seems more fun than on a regular computer. This is definitely...
The Epson Stylus Photo R2000 is a sophisticated photo printer that accommodates sheets up to 13" x 19", accepts roll paper, and even has...
This short video shows how two DSLRs are wired up to be controlled with a single remote. I'm not sure where the author got the...
One of the joys of taking photos with an iPhone is the ability to tap the touchscreen to choose the focus, then take the photo....
"So, what do you think of Google+?" That's been the question over the last couple weeks that we've been asking each other. Unless you...
One of the challenges in the studio when using off camera flash is getting the right balance between light on the background and your subject....
We were heating up Jiffy Pop popcorn (as much fun to make as it is to eat) over a camp fire the other night,...
When you go on a hike to take pictures, you might be thinking photography, but you're also an outdoorsman, whether you want to be or...
High ISO performance, sophisticated noise reduction, fast lenses... who needs a tripod for outdoor photography? Well, we all do -- at least some of...
One of the first questions I fielded when I published the article, Personal Cloud Storage for Photographers, was, "Can I access the contents of the...
With our August Sonoma Coast Workshop just around the corner, I'm thrilled that Alicia Miller will be there too, posing for our attendees. Alicia joins...
There are a variety of cloud services available these days, including Apple's new iCloud. But what if you wanted to create your own cloud? I've...
I've been testing the Buffalo Cloudstor with an eye toward it helping me better manage my photography content, both in the studio and while...
For the May '11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters got their Eco on to create this gallery titled Shades of Green. Monotoned? No way. A...
Here's the problem when you click the new Olympus 12mm f/2.0 prime lens into place on the redesigned E-P3 body: You never want to take...
"This image was taken while strolling through Central Park in Manhattan," writes Kevin Miller. "The John Lennon memorial, 'Strawberry Fields,' was dedicated on what would...
I was standing among the giant balloons as propane burners brought them to life and crews steadied the crafts for hopeful liftoff. "Hot Air" was...
A gap in my photography software had been the ability to create professional videos from the content captured with my DSLR. Until recently, I depended...
Many people don't explore all of the personal settings in their Flickr photo sharing account, and end up using the default controls. But with a...
I mentioned to a friend of mine who doesn't work on a Mac that I was editing my first movie in Final Cut Pro X....
Olympus has launched a teaser website for the next generation PEN camera. I'll have coverage of the new gear once the embargo is lifted....
The second gallery of TDS Member Photo of the Day images is now complete and ready for viewing. Each photo includes commentary by me...
I have an LED flashlight in my camera bag, and you probably do too. Recently I read an article titled LED Flashlight Used as...
"Recently, my wife and her two nieces were doing the tourist thing at Ghirardelli Square," writes Gary Henry. "One niece ran up, grabbed me,...
One of the many things we learned as our workshop crew prepared to photograph the Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Festival, was to have your...
3am and the iPhone is ringing. It's not a wrong number, but the alarm clock. What about Fathers' Day? Shouldn't the dads among us be...
onOne Software announced today the availability of Perfect Layers for Aperture and Lightroom at a special intro price of $99.95. I loaded up this plug-in...
Do you know who shot the last spool of Kodachrome that rolled off the production line? Steve McCurry ("Afghan Girl") had the honor, and he...
I've come to expect innovation from the brilliant folks over at Nik Software, and their latest creation, Snapseed for iPad easily meets my expectations. At...
After every major photo assignment, I take a few moments to review how effective my plan was, and try to note any lessons that I...
The rustling in the audience grew louder as we approached 20 minutes beyond the scheduled show time at the Paramount Theater in downtown Charlottesville, Virginia....
I had my best conversation with Antonin Kratochvil in New York last year after he had been mildly reprimanded for swearing during his presentation...
As part of my coverage of the LOOK3 Festival for Lowepro, I attended a presentation by George Steinmetz last night at the Paramount Theater in...
One of the joys of looking through the optical viewfinder on your DSLR is seeing the world with crystal clarity. Thanks to the diopter...
If the words "Zeiss Ikon Contarex" or "Minolta SR-1" bring a smile to your face, then I think you'll enjoy "Classic Cameras," a treasure that...
I saw an interview with a photography professor who commented that many of today's memories are being recorded on mobile phones, and those images often...
If you want to work with off-camera flash, but don't have a built-in system like with the Canon T3i, there are affordable alternatives to...
It's Free Bag Friday on the Lowepro Blog. This week you have a chance to win a Flipside 400 AW (use Code LP20 for...
Using the "Places" project in Flickr, you can type in a location and see interesting photos from that area. It's a great way to explore...
For the April'11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters searched for the imperfect to create this gallery titled Broken. Fractured? Yes. But often beautiful too. And...
Those of us who were photographers in the Analog Age (pre-2000), have an inventory of 4x6 prints, negatives, slides, and enlargements. For months I've been...
Graduation season is underway, and it's an opportunity to capture memorable shots for sharing with family and friends. As with any photo opp, a little...
We've updated the TDS Podcast App so it now looks great on the iPad, as well as the iPhone and Android devices. The interface is...
Just when you thought you didn't have to worry about color calibration for your tablet, along comes SpyderGallery for the iPad to make you...
My default metering setting on all of my cameras is "pattern." Depending on the brand, this setting can be called evaluative, matrix, multi-segment, or some...
On May 21 and 22, I conducted an Aperture Intensive workshop at TDS headquarters in Santa Rosa, CA. Our goal was to sharpen our post...
I talk a lot about shooting great portraits, and your bag of tricks can include very simple setups as well as complicated ones. This week...
The first gallery of TDS Member Photo of the Day images is now complete and ready for viewing. Each photo includes commentary by me...
Editor's Note: An account about how good things can happen with your photography by TDS Member and SizzlPix winner Ken Latman. He wrote this piece...
Auto Lighting Optimizer is one of those features that we have on our newer Canon cameras, but we might not know exactly what it...
When you have a new camera that produces Raw files not immediately supported in Aperture (and iPhoto), how should you approach the situation? Here's...
You may remember Stephanie Scheetz from our Creative Output Series. She's an artist, photographer, and frequent model for TDS Workshops. We haven't worked together for...
The first consideration is color temperature. What type of lighting are you working in, and do you need to compensate for it? Then, the use...
I first read about the The DIY Ring Flash Kit on the Strobist blog. And I was intrigued by the possibility of having this...
When Theresa got to the top of the bluff, I said, "Don't move!" because I saw this shot instantly. Even for simple day hikes in...
We need the light for taking our pictures, but it can really work against us when it's time to review them on the camera's LCD....
I've used Canon flashes for a number of years, but none of them have delighted me like the new Speedlite 320EX($275 US). It's a truly...
Adobe released a handful of demonstration apps for the iPad to show off their new set of developer tools. I downloaded Adobe Nav for Photoshop...
I have new way to share the best of your photo contributions with our virtual camera club... and the world. We now have the TDS...
There are some good tablet discussions online about iPad 2 vs Android. My bottom line recommendation is, if you're using a Mac or an...
We now have The Digital Story on Facebook, and I think you're going to like it. The heart of this new site is your...
"While I wait for the train to pass," writes Conrado Gonzalez, "why not capture a grab shot?" What a great argument for having your...
I've mounted a Pinwide wide angle pinhole cap on my Olympus E-PL1 micro four thirds camera and have been shooting crazy shots. The first thing...
"Sunrise at Crescent Beach" Canon 60D with 15-85mm set at 85mm. F/5.6 at 1/125th. ISO 125. Photo by Derrick Story. Click on image for...
When I first posted the story about the M.I.C. CF Card Reader for the iPad, I received mail saying that it wouldn't work for a...
Macworld Magazine has published my full review of the Canon EOS Rebel T3i from a Mac perspective. In terms of base performance, this model is...
For the March'11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters explored color with this gallery titled Blue. This hue never looked so good. And which one will...
Two surfers head home as the sun sets at Crescent Beach in Florida. The image was first processed using the Miniature Effect in the Creative...
The air was muggy outside Whitney Lab, off road 1A1 south of St. Augustine, Florida. But I had a freshly made chicken salad sandwich, and...
I join Frederick Van Johnson and crew for the This Week in Photo show titled, "Viva Las Vegas." Yes, the US Postal Service used...
The Pinwide wide angle pinhole cap for micro four thirds cameras (Olympus PENs and Panasonic G Series) gives photographers the traditional feel of pinhole photography...
Photography is a fantastic part time job. It can help pay for your equipment or supplement your regular income. A strategy I recommend for building...
We've been able to apply watermarks in Aperture since the beginning, but the problem is they usually don't look the way we want. Unless you...
onOne Software has borrowed one of Photoshop's most hallowed features, Layers, and created a plug-in for two of our favorite nondestructive photo management applications: Lightroom...
In addition to showing off your work on Flickr, you can become a museum curator and create galleries of images by other photographers. Each gallery...
I was thrilled to read that Eye-Fi has enabled a direct mode feature to its X2 series of cards. I had read in some of...
This project recorded with an Olympus XZ-1 and Canon T3i, both shot at 720p. The studio demo footage employed the Rode VideoMic Pro plugged into...
Exposure, color, and composition... the basics of photography. In this week's episode, we're going to review how the camera sees light, and how you can...
Canon offers the Rebel T3i with the EF-S 18-135mm IS Zoomas a step-up to the shorter 18-55mm lens (it's an actual kit at a...
Until recently, I had considered the Lowepro Versapack 200 AW as primarily a hiking backpack. But I've discovered it's terrific for biking too. Here's a...
I've had photographers tell me that they would patiently wait -- sometimes for an hour -- for people to clear out of a scene...
"I've been trying to capture a rocket launch from Vandenberg for almost a year now," writes Thomas Emmerich. "I finally got my chance tonight, and...
One of my favorite features in Adobe Camera Raw 6.3 (part of Photoshop CS5) is the Lens Correction tool. It's handy for correcting images from...
It happens a thousand times a day: a group of people want to commerate a moment together, and you're the person standing there with a...
As high-end compact cameras became, well, more compact, their optical viewfinders fell by the wayside. For me, this wasn't such a terrible thing since they...
The Canon EOS Rebel T3i(600D) is not your father's entry level Rebel. The latest consumer DSLR from Canon features a 3-inch articulated LCD, 18 MPs...
Both the Canon EOS 60Dand the Canon EOS Rebel T3i(600D) include the new "Soft Focus" Creative Filter that allows you to apply in-camera effects after...
When buying a new APS-C DSLR, it's a good idea to get a kit lens with it. They're great for resale value and are...
"I started out Sunday evening and took a drive until I found some water," writes Keith Burrows. At just the right moment, I stopped and...
Even though the Olympus PEN E-PL2has a pop-up flash, you're not stuck with it solely for advanced lighting techniques. You can slide an external flash...
In my Macworld review of the Samsung NX 100 ILC camera, I say that it's an innovative camera, but not always a practical one....
Black & White photography is beautiful, artistic, and easier than ever to create dynamic images. In this week's podcast, I first talk about Silver Efex...
If you want to show people what you've experienced on a bike, surfboard, skis, or just rambling down a hiking trail, then you should...
The first place I send my photos online is to the Digital Story Flickr site. But I have to admit, I haven't been sharing those...
Flickr has terrific search tools, but some folks don't realize that they can also tap the power of Google to find images within the Flickr...
For the Feb.'11 Photo Assignment, TDS shooters got personal and assembled an intimate gallery titled Loved One. These will touch your heart. And which...
There are very few plug-ins that I'd consider necessay. The editing tools in Aperture 3 and Lightroom 3 are so robust, that I can handle...
The Olympus XZ-1 provides most of the features you'd ever want in a compact camera - super bright f/1.8 lens, hot shoe, accessory port, and...
One of the most difficult things to do with off-camera flash is to put the light exactly where you want it, and nowhere else....
The fast, beautiful Olympus XZ-1has one of the most enticing lenses we've seen on a compact camera -- iZuiko f/1.8-f/2.5 4X zoom. With such a...
It's about time someone produced one of these: a CF card reader for iPad and iPad 2. It also includes a USB port, although...
I've been working with all three Rogue FlashBenders in the Rogue FlashBender Kit (bounce card, small and large positionable reflectors, $105) with great results....
The first two things that struck me about the new Olympus XZ-1 10 MP Digital Camera with f1.8 Lens was the large diameter of...
You might not have thought about using keyboard shortcuts with Flickr, but I can tell you, they are fun and efficient. My favorite is the...
Which paper surface will perfectly complement the image you're ready to print? Glossy, luster, matte? And what are the various characteristics that make each paper...
"I can't believe I'm actually taking these pictures!" exclaimed June H. when she looked at the LCD on the back of her camera. She,...
Much has changed in the Flickr universe since I released the original training title on lynda.com in 2009. So I went back into the...
So here's something written about me instead of by me. I had fun chatting with Cindy Maram at Dig In Magazine for this interview...