Why are there so many lens choices for your camera? The simple answer is that every photographer sees the world differently requiring the use of different focal length lenses. Different photographers, different lens choice For example, landscape photographers typically use wide-angle lenses, in the 10mm to 24mm range. This allows the photographer to create expansive images that are sharp from the foreground to the background. Wildlife photographers typically shoot with super telephoto lenses, 400mm and longer, as they are unable to get … [Read more...] about Why are there so many lens choices?
Gear
LUMIX releases specs of full-frame S series cameras
Last fall, LUMIX announced its new full frame cameras, the S1 and S1R, which will feature a new L-Mount lens collaboration between LUMIX, Leica and Sigma. Early this morning, LUMIX came out with more information about both cameras. Let me give you the big details up front, and you can read the entire release below. S1R, 47.3 megapixels Boasting a full 36x24mm sensor, the S1R offers the highest resolution of any full-frame mirrorless camera on the market. Plus, the high-resolution mode — which combines multiple frames into a single raw file — … [Read more...] about LUMIX releases specs of full-frame S series cameras
Call me impressed: A small change to a simple product
Think Tank Photo recently made a tiny change (really a couple tiny changes) to a product that's so simple, and I'm impressed. For years I have used the Think Tank Photo memory card wallets, like the Pixel Pocket Rocket. I've used wallets that hold Compact Flash cards, Compact Flash and Secure Digital cards, and only Secure Digital cards. But recently Think Tank Photo announced their new Secure Pixel Pocket Rockets. These wallets are slightly larger than the previous versions for two reasons: They're meant to hold any memory card … [Read more...] about Call me impressed: A small change to a simple product
Electronic vs. optical: The viewfinder showdown
When the Olympus OM-D E-M1X was announced, the argument over electronic viewfinder (EVF) vs. optical viewfinders (OVF) came up in a lot of my conversations. Those of us who have been mirrorless users for a while have surely gotten used to our EVF, but it's one of the biggest concerns I hear from those photographers who have a DSLR system, which employs an OVF. And I hear those concerns. As a person who ditched the world of full-frame DSLRs nearly two years ago for a mirrorless, micro four-thirds sensor, I had the same worries. It took me a bit … [Read more...] about Electronic vs. optical: The viewfinder showdown
An in-depth look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X
Early this morning, Olympus revealed its new flagship camera — the OM-D E-M1X. There’s quite a bit of hype over what this camera can do, and I was lucky enough to have a pre-release copy that I used for about five weeks. Being that several camera manufacturers introduced mirrorless cameras last year, many expected Olympus to embrace the full-frame mirrorless market. But as I discussed with them at the PhotoPlus Expo back in October, Olympus is 100% committed to the micro four-thirds mirrorless realm. The E-M1X shows how Olympus has invested … [Read more...] about An in-depth look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X
Olympus announces E-M1X, flash, super telephoto lens and more
Click here to read my in-depth review on the new OM-D E-M1X. Olympus has announced the E-M1X, the latest in its line of OM-D cameras. Sporting a built-in vertical grip and features like Handheld High Res Shot and Live ND mode, Olympus is clearly gearing this camera toward working professionals. The E-M1X is seen as a parallel offering to the E-M1 Mark II, Olympus’ flagship camera for the last few years. It features the same 20.4MP micro four-thirds sensor and has a very familiar look and feel, with the added benefit of a vertical … [Read more...] about Olympus announces E-M1X, flash, super telephoto lens and more
5 incredibly useful photography accessories
As photographers, we often find ourselves faced with endless choices of gadgets and gizmos that could aid in our artwork. Today I want to share a few items that you could find useful in your camera bag, closet or drawer. These items might not be useful on a regular basis, but when you need it, having them could be a project saver. Hero Clip The first product I want to share is the Hero Clip. It's a carabiner unlock any you've used before. It's a carabiner with a hook. Yes, that simple! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpqGZDky5vw Having … [Read more...] about 5 incredibly useful photography accessories
Sony announces a6400 with Real-time Eye AF
Earlier today, Sony introduced the a6400, the latest addition to its E-mount mirrorless camera line-up. The a6400 brings many of Sony's most advanced technologies from their full-frame cameras to a compact APS-C camera. It boasts the world's fastest autofocus acquisition of 0.02 seconds, and also introduces the new advanced Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking capabilities. Also included is high speed shooting at up to 11 fps, 4K video recording and more. “The α6400 represents another important step in the growth of Sony’s overall … [Read more...] about Sony announces a6400 with Real-time Eye AF
Canon deals at B&H
B&H is offering some major savings on Canon camera kits, flashes and lenses. Check out some notable deals below: Cameras and kits See all camera and kit deals here. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR Camera (Body Only) - $500 off, $5499 Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera with 24-105mm f/4L II Lens - $700 off, $3699 Canon EOS 6D Mark II DSLR Camera with 24-105mm f/4L II Lens - $700 off, $2199 Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera with 18-135mm Lens - $400 off, $1399 Flashes See all flash deals here. Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT - $100 … [Read more...] about Canon deals at B&H
ProGrade Digital releases dual-slot SD card reader
This morning, ProGrade Digital announced its newest product, the SD Dual-Slot USB 3.1, Gen. 2 Card Reader. As with their other workflow readers, the SD Dual-Slot reader transfers simultaneously at speeds up to 10Gb/s. "Many of today's professional cameras have two SD slots, so it is only natural that ProGrade Digital's newest USB 3.1, Gen. 2 workflow reader be a dual-slot for SD cards," said founder and CEO Wes Brewer. "Based on the successes of earlier workflow readers, we know that our patent-pending magnetic base, compact rugged design and … [Read more...] about ProGrade Digital releases dual-slot SD card reader
Sensor cleaning: The ultimate guide
In my previous article, I talked about cleaning your lenses and your camera. It's time to tackle a bigger, more complex subject: cleaning your sensor! If you shoot a lot, and especially if you shoot mirrorless, you definitely need to clean your sensor. If you have never done it, it can be quite intimidating, as you don't want to damage your camera. If that's your case, you may want to consider a professional sensor cleaning at your local camera store. But if you have to clean your sensor often (say, because you shoot mirrorless) or if you're … [Read more...] about Sensor cleaning: The ultimate guide
A quick look at the Lume Cube Professionals’ Pack
By itself, the Lume Cube is a powerful and capable 1500-lumen, 6000k color temperature light, in a small, portable and easy-to-use package. It is a 1.5" square aluminum housing with 1/4"-20 female threads that allow you to mount it in many different ways. It's waterproof to 100' and uses micro USB to power it or to recharge the battery. There is also a smartphone application you can get for your iOS or Android devices that use Bluetooth to remotely control the lights and you have 10 adjustable light levels including flash rates by pushing a … [Read more...] about A quick look at the Lume Cube Professionals’ Pack
Photographing advertising with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the final article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my previous article, discussing the use of the camera for portraiture. In addition to corporate events, I also shoot some corporate promotional — also known as advertising — photography. These images are used on a wide array of mediums, including websites, brochures, mailers, billboards and more. Corporate advertising That's right — I said billboards. Despite having a 20-megapixel sensor, my photographs have ended up on … [Read more...] about Photographing advertising with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Quick Guide: Cleaning your camera and your lenses
If you photograph a decent amount, you probably need to clean your camera and lenses pretty regularly. As a professional photographer, cleaning my gear is something I do regularly, so I like having good tools for the job. Cleaning your camera and lenses isn't as paramount and complicated as cleaning your sensor, but it's good to do it from time to time. If you have a few good tools, it can be a quick endeavor. Dust blower The first thing is usually getting rid of dust and particles. A good dust blower is usually enough, I recommend … [Read more...] about Quick Guide: Cleaning your camera and your lenses
Gear Guide: Architectural photography kit
To keep this series about architectural photography going, let's talk a little about gear :-) Having the right gear can help you best more productive, faster and overall give a better service to your clients. However, don't forget that it doesn't replace skill and it won't make you a better photographer. This is a pretty extensive gear guide for commercial architecture. Don't worry if you're starting out or if you don't have a lot of gear. You don't need all of this at all. And you can rent a lot of it for specific photoshoots. I started … [Read more...] about Gear Guide: Architectural photography kit
How to get your color spot-on with the Illuminati color/light meter
Having the ability to accurately capture an image's color in-camera is a powerful one. How many times have you taken a photo and grown frustrated because your camera doesn't capture it "the way you saw it?" Often we become resigned to shoot an image and fix it in post-processing later. Full disclosure: When I first started out years ago, this was my go-to strategy for images. Later, when I was forced to spend hours fixing image after image on my computer, I'd want to kick myself. Fast forward to today, and experience has taught me how to … [Read more...] about How to get your color spot-on with the Illuminati color/light meter
Photographing portraits with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the third article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my previous article, discussing the use of the camera for landscapes. In my final article, I'll discuss using the camera for advertising. I photograph a lot of different types of portraits. Just a few weeks ago, I was hired to photograph the downtown tree lighting, which involved me taking photographs of Santa, Mrs. Claus and guests at a rapid pace. But I've also shot several corporate portraits, and a few family portraits as … [Read more...] about Photographing portraits with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Easy sensor cleaning with Visible Dust’s Arctic Butterfly 724s
Ever since I switched to mirrorless with my Sony a7R II, I've been trying to figure out the easiest way to clean my sensor. As you might know, without the mirror to protect the sensor, mirrorless cameras can collect a lot of dust spots! I've gone through a lot of options — blowers, sensor swabs, etc. Most of them are ineffective, hard to use or both. I would be fine getting my cameras cleaned by a professional, but here in Toronto, for some reason, the only store who can clean Sony sensors takes two business days, which in most cases doesn't … [Read more...] about Easy sensor cleaning with Visible Dust’s Arctic Butterfly 724s
Photographing landscapes with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the second article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my first article, discussing the use of the camera for events. In future articles, I'll discuss using the camera for portraiture and advertising. While my bread and butter might be event photography, in my spare time I photograph landscapes and travel imagery. Everything from long exposures to walking the streets, I love to photograph it. Landscapes (and some cityscapes) When I started out doing nighttime long exposures with my … [Read more...] about Photographing landscapes with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Huge holiday savings on lighting gear from B&H
Starting today, B&H is offering some amazing deals on lighting equipment, through Dec. 18. Check out all the lighting deals on bhphotovideo.com and use the promo code LIGHT for additional savings, or take a look below at each individual offering. Impact VC-500WLN 3-500Ws Digital Monolight with Transmitter Kit Originally $1099.95. Use the promo code LIGHT and the price will knock down to $799.99! Click here to learn more. Package includes three VC-500WLN Digital Monolights, three kit stands and 7" reflectors, one 24" x 36" softbox, … [Read more...] about Huge holiday savings on lighting gear from B&H
Photographing events with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the first article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. In future articles, I'll discuss using the camera for landscapes, portraiture and advertising. Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to win an Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, and I've since made it my camera of choice. After photographing exclusively with it for nine months, I feel like I've got a good grasp of the capabilities of the camera. I couldn't be happier with my Olympus system. I now have a second body for backup purposes, plus a plethora of … [Read more...] about Photographing events with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Great Cyber Monday deals for photographers
Cyber Monday is officially here, and what once was Black Friday's little cousin has blossomed into a shopping extravaganza all of its own. Below are some of our favorite deals. Hurry, these deals won't last long! To check out more Cyber Monday savings, visit our friends at B&H. Keep track of all of our favorite products and deals in our Holiday Gift Guide! Photofocus Exclusive: Perfectly Clear flash sale For four hours only, get Perfectly Clear Complete for just $69. And if you want to get an even better deal, you can get the … [Read more...] about Great Cyber Monday deals for photographers
Some more super deal specials for photographers
The deals continue! Below are a few more deals we found for photographers. Cyber Monday deals and specials from B&H are right here! See all deals and our favorite gifts in our Holiday Gift Guide! The DAM Book 3.0 Written by Peter Krogh, The Dam Book 3.0 delivers a detailed and unified approach to help you create order from the chaos of your existing image collection, maximize the value and utility of your visual media library and build a resilient archive that can withstand multiple treats. The DAM Book 3.0 is available for a $20 … [Read more...] about Some more super deal specials for photographers
Quick Tip: When cleaning a lens, don’t forget the rear element
Most people clean the front of the lens, but they forget to clean the rear element. Before you remove your lens, blow and wipe off around the back part of the lens. This will prevent loose dirt or dust from entering the camera. Inspect the rear element and clean it the same way you cleaned the front of the lens. Put the lens back on and take a test shot of a wall or the sky. If the dust spots are gone, you don’t need to clean the sensor. Want to learn more? Check out this article, "How to Clean Your Camera Sensor and Lens (Video included)" … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: When cleaning a lens, don’t forget the rear element
Shooting through glass
In some instances, shooting through glass is the only way you're going to get the shot. An example I encounter pretty regularly is shooting at observatories like One World Observatory in New York City or the Skydeck in Chicago. In a lot of observatories (the Top of the Rock and the Empire State Buildings are notable exceptions), you have to shoot the view through glass. Other situations you might encounter glass are shooting from a car, a train or an airplane. If you've ever been in a situation with glass, you know how hard it is to shoot … [Read more...] about Shooting through glass
Even more Black Friday specials for photographers
Black Friday is officially here! We already previewed a few deals that have started, and below are a bunch more deals to get your shopping holiday started. Super Cyber Monday deals from B&H. Don't miss out! See all the deals and our favorite gifts in our Holiday Gift Guide! V-Flat World V-Flat World, makers of the portable V-Flat, is offering a $20 discount when you sign up for its e-mail newsletter. Click here to learn more about its products and to sign up! Offer available through Cyber Monday. Vanguard Vanguard is having … [Read more...] about Even more Black Friday specials for photographers
More Early Bird Black Friday specials for photographers
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click this link to go shopping! Black Friday is only a day away, and you know what that means — deals, deals, deals! Below are some of our favorite Black Friday specials that have already begun. Hurry, these deals won't last long! See all the Black Friday deals and our favorite gifts in our Holiday Gift Guide! Workshops and mentorships from Photofocus authors In addition to writing for Photofocus, a lot of our team offers workshops and mentorship programs for photographers. Check out their deals … [Read more...] about More Early Bird Black Friday specials for photographers
Early Black Friday savings from Olympus
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click this link to go shopping! Olympus is offering some great deals on its cameras, lenses and various accessories! In addition to the deals below, Olympus is offering 2x rewards on purchases made through Dec. 19, 2018, on getolympus.com, as well as free 2-day shipping on orders over $50. To learn more and see all the Olympus Black Friday deals, visit getolympus.com. Note that freebies mentioned are only guaranteed to be available through getolympus.com, but pricing will be honored by other authorized … [Read more...] about Early Black Friday savings from Olympus
2018 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts over $500
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click here for the deals! With Black Friday and Cyber Monday only days away, we wanted to compile some of our favorite gifts that you can buy your favorite photographer (or send to friends and family to buy you!). Below are a few gift ideas that are over $500. Keep track of all of our favorite products in our Holiday Gift Guide! Profoto A1 AirTTL Studio Light Recommended by Michael Muraz Get Profoto in a smaller package! Created for the professional photographer looking for portability and … [Read more...] about 2018 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts over $500
Early Black Friday savings from Nikon
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click here for the deals! Nikon is offering some great deals on its cameras and lenses! Below are a few of our favorites. Click here to see all the Nikon specials. DSLR cameras and bundles Nikon D750 with 24-120mm Lens and MB-D16 Battery Power Pack: $1200 off; now $1896.95 Nikon D750 with MB-D16 Battery Power Pack: $600 off; now $1396.95 Nikon D810 with 24-120mm Lens and MB-D12 Battery Power Pack: $800 off; now $3296.95 Nikon D500 with 16-80mm Lens and MB-D17 Battery Power Pack: $570 off; … [Read more...] about Early Black Friday savings from Nikon
