Lightroom has a million and a half functions, and most of them have keyboard shortcuts. I know it sounds silly to say moving your mouse or pen around the screen to click on things is slow, but keyboard shortcuts make your workflow much faster. I've been using Lightroom for eight years, and I continue to learn new shortcuts that make it faster to get my work done. In the ten minutes, I counted over 20 shortcuts I used to import and edit a few pictures. You'll find a The trouble is, learning all these shortcuts at once is daunting and impossible … [Read more...] about Gear Review: EditorsKeys Lightroom Shortcuts Keyboard
Gear
Shoot Anywhere With Platypod Ultra
I've become a fan of Platypod Ultra. It's got all the best features of the original Pro and the larger Max, and it fits in my back pocket. It goes everywhere I go from road trips to long hikes. I use it in airports, cities, and other places tripods just aren't safe to use. Let me show you some of the ways I've been employing Ultra in my photography and you'll see that you should have one, too. Group Portraits This is an easy way to use Ultra, and since it's small and light you can have a solid platform for your camera with you all the time. … [Read more...] about Shoot Anywhere With Platypod Ultra
Studio Tip: Use A Shoulder Support Rig For Video
I had a chance to sit down with director and producer Ty Hunt as he reviews the inexpensive Revo SR-1000 Shoulder Support Rig. Ty is used to working on high-budget sets that supply expensive steady cams. The self-produced video project I'm working on doesn't have a budget for such a costly piece of gear so Ty used the Revo. After working with it, I asked Ty his professional opinion. Overall, he feels it's great for: Wedding Photographers that want to add quick video clips. DSLR users, especially those just starting out. Those that … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: Use A Shoulder Support Rig For Video
Moving into 360-Degree Cameras
Camera technology is constantly changing and it's about to the point where we're wondering. . . What do we want next? We have ultra-high megapixel digital cameras like the Canon 5Ds R and the Pentax 645z medium format camera, amazing low light cameras like the Sony A7s Mark II, great action sports and underwater cameras with the GoPro Hero 5, high frame rate cameras like the Nikon D5 and Canon 1Dx Mark II... the list can go on and on. More of what we're seeing now comes in the form of one body, multiple functions. Stills cameras that shoot … [Read more...] about Moving into 360-Degree Cameras
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Accessories for Accessibility
In the last 35 days, I've traveled to Florida, Nevada, Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Shandong in China, the Oregon Coast, Seattle, and I've been hiking four times near my home in Portland, Oregon. I'm sitting in a hotel in Spokane, Washington, right now, and I'll be heading to Bozeman, Montana, Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Boise Idaho in the next few days. I've made thousands of pictures in each place, and I couldn't have done it half so well with a bulkier DSLR. I realized there are a couple of accessories I use everywhere I go and they are so integrated … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Accessories for Accessibility
The Platypod Party: Embracing Low-Angle Photography
Dan Bailey and Karen Hutton, Fujifilm X Team Photographers, jumping for joy in Florida Fuji XT 2, 10-24mm f 4 lens, ISO 800, f 4, 1/8000, Fuji X 500 flash on High Speed Sync. Platypod has just introduced a new model of their awesome camera support system, the Platypod Ultra. I recently had the opportunity to try it out while I was in Florida. Three “X” Team photographers; Dan Bailey, Karen Hutton, and I, were invited to the Fuji sales meeting to give some inspirational presentations and hands-on-seminars to the sales team. All the Fuji … [Read more...] about The Platypod Party: Embracing Low-Angle Photography
An Interview with the Inventor of the Illuminati Wireless Light & Color Meter
The Illuminati meter is a cool new device that makes it easy to choose the right camera settings as well as the right white balance settings for a camera. Normally, these two meters will easily set a photographer back $2,000 or more. But the Illuminati meter is wireless and uses a smartphone and app to process the light and color in a scene. This makes it ideal for both photo and video uses. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4Dw_eip97M To find out more about the Illuminati meter, I reached out to its inventor. I always find it helpful … [Read more...] about An Interview with the Inventor of the Illuminati Wireless Light & Color Meter
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Switching from Full-Frame to Micro Four-Thirds
For years, I trusted my Nikon D800 kit to produce images for my clients. I knew the system inside and out, and was comfortable with it. But as time wore on, there were some pain points (literally). I regularly shoot corporate events. Oftentimes, these events require a hefty 70-200mm lens — even with my Peak Design Slide strap, this combo gets tiresome. What's more, lugging all my camera gear around was tedious and often unrealistic for what I needed. I was also beginning to realize that my D800 was technologically behind, compared to other … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Switching from Full-Frame to Micro Four-Thirds
10 Ways to Protect Your Camera Memory Cards
Let's talk memory cards. We have SD cards, CF cards, SSD cards, CFast cards and many options within those to choose from. We all have them, need them and use them. But what does it all mean? Let's discuss taking care of our cards and preventing potential problems that can and will happen to all of us. Here are ten practical tips 1. Keep your camera up to date. It seems like firmware updates are happening more and more often. This can affect the way your camera talks to your memory card. Even memory cards nowadays can have firmware updates … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Protect Your Camera Memory Cards
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: You Need One Before 8/21/17
If you live in the United States, I can unequivocally say that you need to buy a mirrorless camera before August 21st, 2017. Just trust me. Ok, I'll tell you more. Why Before Aug. 21st? You’ve probably heard about the Total Solar Eclipse happening this year, and it’s on the 21st of August. If you haven’t made plan to be in place to view it, you’d better get going on that because hotels and campgrounds are filling fast. Here’s another article with the details. But Why Do I Need A Mirrorless Camera? A solar eclipse means the moon will … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: You Need One Before 8/21/17
How Sony E-Mount Became the Universal Fullframe Lens Mount
In many ways, the Sony E-Mount has become the universal fullframe lens mount. I find that the huge range of fullframe lenses is important to the way I shoot. Here's a recent talk I gave. https://vimeo.com/143360346 … [Read more...] about How Sony E-Mount Became the Universal Fullframe Lens Mount
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Instantly Magnify Your Tripod
Here I go again, touting the advantages of mirrorless cameras. The thing is if you're into landscape and nature photography then you've always been encouraged to carry the biggest tripod you can carry. This is because big heavy cameras sitting atop spindly tripod legs are prone to wobbling and vibration making blurring pictures at long shutter speeds. Bigger diameter tripod legs offer more rigidity and stability, making not only sharper photographs without wiggle, but also a safer platform to keep your camera from tipping over. But here are two … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Instantly Magnify Your Tripod
Studio Tip: The Benefits of an Extension Arm
An extension arm is a versatile piece of studio gear. You can use it to hold a studio strobe, clip a flag or hang a background. Connecting the Pieces The extension arm comes with a knuckle or grip head attached to one end. Slide the extension arm rod through a grip head that’s attached to a light or C-Stand.Tighten the grip head. Using a pin, attach the studio strobe to the extension arm. Make sure you mount the light on the right side of the knuckle, then if the knuckle becomes loose, the weight of the strobe should … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: The Benefits of an Extension Arm
Fast DIY Fix for a Common Camera Error
A sense of dread begins to fill you as frightening words and symbols flash before your eyes. Afraid all is lost, you begin to panic... An error message has appeared on your camera screen! An error message is a sure way to send blood pressure skyrocketing and heart beat racing. Often the messages are cryptic at best, requiring you to look it up while envisioning an expensive repair bill for your camera. But, some of the most common errors I have seen on DSLRs in my photographic endeavors are due to communications issues between the lens and … [Read more...] about Fast DIY Fix for a Common Camera Error
Studio Tip: Safety on Set—Tennis Ball
Nothing shuts a photo shoot down faster than an injury on the set. Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce risk of injuries. Here’s how a simple tennis ball can help. A Simple Tennis Ball When an extension arm is placed high, people are able to safely walk under it. But when an extension arm is placed low, it’s easy for a person to walk into the end of it. To avoid this problem, cut a hole in a tennis ball and place it on the end of the extension arm. The bright ball will be noticeable plus offers a little cushion if ran … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: Safety on Set—Tennis Ball
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: The #1 Problem With Mirrorless
I'm an evangelist for mirrorless. The mirrorless cameras are driving innovation and bringing the best changes to the way we make photographs. I tell everyone I meet that they should consider a mirrorless camera, and while they are amazed by the features and intrigued by the possibilities, they all say the same thing: "But I have all these lenses for my current camera--I'm too invested to change!" I understand that feeling, but I've had a different experience. Did you know that I've owned 27 Interchangeable Lens Cameras (ILC's) in the last 7 … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: The #1 Problem With Mirrorless
Gear Tips for the Traveling Photographer
I am always looking for new ways to save space or weight in my baggage, or to ease the challenges I face with my camera gear. I am sure many of you are just like me, so I put together this list of "Gear Tips," in hopes that some of these tips may prove helpful. None of the photos accompanying this post would have been possible without one or more of the items listed below. Gear Tips I travel with camera battery chargers that are smaller and lighter than the chargers that came with my cameras. I bought my chargers on Amazon, and … [Read more...] about Gear Tips for the Traveling Photographer
Studio Tip: Grip Arm Pin
A Grip Arm Pin is designed to be inserted into a grip head so a light or other accessory can be attached to it. Connecting a Grip Arm Pin Insert the pin into the proper sized hole of the grip head. Ensure the end with the lip is on top. This will prevent the pin from falling out when you loosen the knuckle. Grip Arm Pin Video https://youtu.be/CzAh3VGhXlY For more Studio Tips, click here. … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: Grip Arm Pin
Studio Tip: Keep your Lens Hood On
A lens hood’s main purpose it to prevent lens flare caused by light entering the side of the lens. Most photographers use the hood outdoors, but don't think they need it while shooting in a studio. Here's why you should always keep the lens hood on. Lens Flare and Protection Lens Flare usually isn't a major concern in a studio environment – but it can still happen. We are still working with light after all. Another less obvious reason is protection. Keeping your lens hood on helps protect against accidental bumps or, worst case, dropping … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: Keep your Lens Hood On
Avoiding Memory Card Chaos
As photographers, we often take for granted one of the most important pieces of equipment we can invest in — memory cards. Whether you use CF or SD cards, there's some simple things to remember in order to avoid card failure. Don't Delete...Format! While it might make sense to use your computer's option to delete photos off your camera, it's actually the opposite of what's recommended. Instead, format your card in-camera after you off-load a shoot to your computer. Doing so will refresh the card so it works as best as possible with your … [Read more...] about Avoiding Memory Card Chaos
Studio Tips: Gaffers Tape is the Photographer’s Duct Tape
Gaffers tape—also known as gaff tape—is a heavy cotton cloth, pressure-sensitive tape with strong adhesive properties. Sounds a lot like Duct Tape, but the two are different—especially when it comes to photography. Main differences between Gaffers Tape and Duct Tape Gaffers Tape is designed to be removable—especially important when you can’t damage the surface beneath the tape. It can easily be torn by hand, it’s water resistant and able to resist high heat temperatures—making it ideal for securing cables and props that are exposed to the … [Read more...] about Studio Tips: Gaffers Tape is the Photographer’s Duct Tape
Does Size Matter? Upgrading Your Gear For The Wrong Reasons
Let’s face it, many photographers believe that "bigger is better." I know I initially did years ago. Large is in charge, and it's easy to assume that success is a reflection of how impressive or expensive our camera body or lens is. However, I personally believe that this is less and less true these days. In many cases, advancements in current technology have made high quality equipment very affordable at a relatively low price point. Manufacturing companies have found ways to make smaller and more compact cameras, and these cameras are … [Read more...] about Does Size Matter? Upgrading Your Gear For The Wrong Reasons
Photographers will eventually NEED a RAID System
When a hard drive fails, it can wreak havoc on your work day. Let me share with you how, in 2010, I built a reliable, cost-effective storage solution that grew over the years as I grew—saving me time and money. Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) RAID sounds scary, but it’s just a way of configuring several hard drives together to act like one super hard drive. There are several different “levels” of RAID—each offering its own unique benefits. The good news: products such as Western Digital My Book, Synology and, of course, Drobo, … [Read more...] about Photographers will eventually NEED a RAID System
Photofocus Podcast January 28, 2017 — Mirrorless with Scott Bourne & Marco Larousse
Scott and Marco discuss these new products and mirrorless topics on this episode of the Photofocus #Mirrorless Show: Panasonic announced the price and availability of the Lumix DC-GH5. It will be available for US-$1999 at the end of March 2017 and Scott has ordered one to compare it to His Olympus OM-D EM 1 II. Panasonic has also announced four updated lenses. The updated lenses are: LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm F2.8 II ASPH. POWER O.I.S. (H-HSA12035) ($1000) LUMIX G X VARIO 35-100mm F2.8 II POWER O.I.S. (H-HSA35100) ($1100) … [Read more...] about Photofocus Podcast January 28, 2017 — Mirrorless with Scott Bourne & Marco Larousse
Protected Storage: How to Move from JBOD to RAID
Arguably, making the move from just a bunch of disks (JBOD) to a RAID like those I use from Drobo, is where to start? That's simple. Answer this question: How much storage will be needed to house the data on all of those drives? Label each drive with a number Determining the space required means finding out how much space has been used on each drive. Begin with some masking tape. Put a strip on each drive. Now, number them starting with 1. Next, grab a sheet of paper or if you prefer make a spread sheet. List the number of each drive on the … [Read more...] about Protected Storage: How to Move from JBOD to RAID
How Much Speed Does a Photographer Need
It's the age old question since we've started to shoot digital. How can I make my workflow faster? More efficient? Or more importantly, how can I get more free time and peace of mind? Well, here's where I hopefully can help out a little. I was lucky enough to get my hands on the DROBO 5D with a couple of Seagate 2TB SATA HDD's to do some long term testing for my photo and video production workflow...and the short answer to the question? As much as we can get our hands on! The Nitty Gritty / Tech Details The Drobo 5D is a USB3 and Dual … [Read more...] about How Much Speed Does a Photographer Need
In The Photography Studio – Securing a Radio Trigger
Radio triggers—like a Pocket Wizard or Yongnuo—wirelessly fires a studio strobe or a speedlight off camera. Here’s how to secure the trigger so it won’t come crashing down when you move the light. Wrapping the Trigger Instead of letting the trigger dangle from a knuckle or from a knob, wrap the lanyard around the arm and slip the trigger through. This will secure the trigger and it won’t fall if you need to move the light. Think Tank Red Whips If your radio triggers don’t have a lanyard, use Think Tank’s Red Whips. They will secure … [Read more...] about In The Photography Studio – Securing a Radio Trigger
The Q & A Show | Photofocus Podcast December 7th, 2016
https://soundcloud.com/photofocus/the-q-a-show-december-7th-2016 Scott Bourne and Richard Harrington answer viewers photography questions. Q&A Podcast Questions #1 From David Keneipp Manhattan Beach CA Question about exposing to the right. I still use my Nikon DSLR for some things, but I've lately been shooting more with my Fuji X-E2 because of the film simulations that can look great right out of the camera. I often shoot JPEG+RAW in case I need some bigger adjustments in post. I know shooting to the right (i.e., overexposing) … [Read more...] about The Q & A Show | Photofocus Podcast December 7th, 2016
GoPro Update Eliminates Off-Brand Batteries & A Huge Surprise
A recent update for the GoPro Hero5 firmware (v01.55) makes the camera unable to use batteries made by other manufacturers. This is troublesome because 3rd party or off-brand batteries are typically much cheaper than a manufacturer's batteries. Of course, the off-brand batteries often don't last as long as the OEM units, but they are still cheaper per use than the OEM. On the other hand, many camera manufacturers include smart technology in their batteries that allow them to communicate status with the camera beyond how much power is left. … [Read more...] about GoPro Update Eliminates Off-Brand Batteries & A Huge Surprise
Location Photography: On Assignment with Joe McNally
ThinkTAPLearn has released a new training title with Joe McNally—Location Photography: On Assignment with Joe McNally. You’ll have a chance to watch over Joe’s shoulder as he works his magic on the set of a dance shoot. An industry legend, McNally began as a photojournalist and has worked for publications like Life and National Geographic. Joe continues to work on assignment today, producing amazing images and inspiring photographers. Watching him work is a treat. Who’s this course for? To get the most from this course, you’ll want to have … [Read more...] about Location Photography: On Assignment with Joe McNally
