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Editorial

Lions at Zoo, shooting through fences

How do I photograph through a wire fence?

Ever been to a zoo and tried to capture animals through that wire fence? It’s frustrating and annoying. You can see the wire in the shot, even when out of focus. But the fence is there for their protection and yours! Thankfully, there are a few tricks to help eliminate

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Safety tips for charging batteries and electronics

Don’t let batteries burn you up. We’re all guilty of leaving our phones charging on our bedside tables overnight, or tossing our remote control into a drawer without a second thought. But these seemingly harmless habits could be putting your home and camera gear at risk. Let’s talk about why

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Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr portraits form the backdrop for a family's selfie at the Brooklyn Museum.

Paul McCartney, the documentary photographer

Paul McCarney documented the rise to stardom of his band The Beatles in 1963-64. His behind-the-scenes photographs in Paris, London, New York City, Washington DC and Miami are in a traveling exhibition that began in London’s National Portrait Gallery. The exhibition has 250 prints, contact sheets and videos on at

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The German Historical Museum verticals corrected with Adobe Guided Upright with missing edges

Photoshop AI tools banned in club competitions

Recently, I presented at an Atlanta area camera club. I was shocked to learn that the members were banned from using artificial intelligence (AI) in the club’s photo competitions. The club’s rationale During my presentation, I talked about the generative AI tools in Photoshop because I use them. I love

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Editorial: Do photographers need to learn video?

Do photographers have to learn video?

With new still cameras bringing professional-level video to photographers it is only a matter of time before people will ask us to make motion pictures. Cinema quality video is here New graffiti is on the subway car and it’s telling us to get our video skills up and running —

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Victorian State Library in B&W

Are photographers traditionalists or pioneers?

In the dynamic world of photography, there exists a fascinating dichotomy between traditionalists and pioneers. On one hand, some adhere to the time-tested techniques and conventions of the craft, cherishing its rich history and heritage. But on the other hand, there are the pioneers, pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and reshaping

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Do mirrorless cameras stifle creativity and learning?

Modern cameras are a wonderful thing. They’ve made it to where everyone can capture a variety of images with relative ease. Still, I can’t help but wonder if modern cameras with all their bells and whistles might be having an impact on creativity. Now, I know there are already some

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Helping Photofocus celebrate 25 years: Bob Coates

Looks like I’ve been writing steady for Photofocus since 2018. That makes it about four or five years. Man, time sure flies when you are having fun! Here’s a link to my very first article written at the behest of then editor Kevin Ames. Writing for Photofocus Photofocus has helped

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