The Timpani LED light from Luxli is the deep bass kettledrum of portable AC or battery powered lighting. This multi-talented instrument brings much more to the photographic game than does its one-note per drum percussive namesake. This is a deep dive review of the features of this multi-featured although at first glance, a somewhat pricey light. As a matter of full disclosure, I was given a pair of Timpani lights and batteries a few months ago in exchange for writing this review. In the interim, I have put them through their paces. What follows … [Read more...] about In-depth: Luxli’s Timpani LED ultra versatile luminaire
Photography
Enthusiast’s Guide: How to use Photoshop’s image stacks to remove people from a scene
(Editor's note: Photofocus is proud to add Rocky Nook as a vibrant contributor for our readers. Rocky Nook is a small — seven-person independent publishing company. Their commitment is producing high-quality books written by pros for photographers who want to learn more about their craft. Over the next several weeks, Photofocus features a series on multi-shot photography excerpted from "The Enthusiast's Guide to Multi-Shot Techniques" by Alan Hess.) Once you have a set of images loaded as a stack in Photoshop you can apply some of the other … [Read more...] about Enthusiast’s Guide: How to use Photoshop’s image stacks to remove people from a scene
Ten reasons why I love my Fuji X-T3
My new Fuji X-T3 just arrived. I am so excited. The camera was only just released last week. I have barely used it and I am already "in love." Of course I am a tried and true Fuji fan, having walked away from my Nikon D800 a few years back. So I am probably biased. Time will tell if the camera truly lives up to its hype. 1. A newly developed fourth generation sensor — the X-Trans CMOS 4 I am clueless what the upgrade to the sensor actually means in technical terms. The sensor is now back-illuminated — I read that a back-illuminated sensor … [Read more...] about Ten reasons why I love my Fuji X-T3
Why every photographer should watch Pupparazzi
I smiled so much, my cheeks are still hurting after watching Kaylee Greer’s interaction with dogs on NatGeo's new show Pupparazzi. Watching the show was entertaining and educational. Here's why every photographer should watch Pupparazzi. A quick overview of the show The show starts out with Kaylee and her fiance driving to a shoot for an ad campaign. On the way, they stop to visit an animal shelter filled with rescue dogs from puppy mills. They tour the facility looking for one dog to photograph that will represent the shelter to raise … [Read more...] about Why every photographer should watch Pupparazzi
Gear Review: Oben CT-3451 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-113T Ball Head
I recently got my hands on the Oben CT-3451 Tripod and I couldn’t be more grateful. At the first of this year, I made a big change from Nikon to Lumix and was super frustrated with the fact that my Manfrotto tripod was massive compared to my mirrorless camera. I felt weighted down and not interested in hiking much this summer till I could find something to replace it. Then, in walked the Oben CT-3451 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-113T Ball Head and I was ready to hit the trail again. Weight This entire tripod weighs just 2.5 pounds and … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Oben CT-3451 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-113T Ball Head
A detailed (hands-on) look at the Canon EOS R
Canon unveiled the Canon EOS R camera system today and it's truly amazing. I had the chance to try out a pre-release version of the camera and really explore its uses. The camera is Canon’s response to Sony’s A7 series and a much stronger release than Nikon’s recent Z series. The camera is appealing to many different types of users. Those looking to switch to a full-frame workflow will love the quality and performance. Those who already have invested in Canon lenses can bring them over very easily. And video shooters will see a lot to … [Read more...] about A detailed (hands-on) look at the Canon EOS R
How to travel light AND have your camera gear too!
B&H Photo provided Photofocus the Pelican MPD40 40L Duffel bag in return for a review. I was one of the first authors to volunteer — thinking it was a camera backpack. Imagine my surprise when I learned it was, well, er... a backpack. My views changed after a visit from my cousin Mary Ann. Here are my thoughts on how a photographer can use this backpack to travel light and have their camera gear too. Her overseas trip to Paris meant packing light As I mentioned to my cousin Mary Ann — who happen to stop by to borrow a camera bag for her … [Read more...] about How to travel light AND have your camera gear too!
Wacom Intuos Pro offers precision and speed for photo editors
Earlier this month I received Wacom's entry-level tablet, the Intuos Pen Tablet. While that's a great tablet for beginners and light photo editors, the Wacom Intuos Pro really takes it to the next level. I received a review unit shortly after the Intuos Pen Tablet, and have been testing it out for the past couple of weeks. Appearance and specs The Wacom Intuos Pro comes in two sizes — a Medium (13.2 x 8.5 inches) and a Large (16.8 x 11.2 inches). Both are 0.3 inches thick and are completely black. They come with built-in Bluetooth … [Read more...] about Wacom Intuos Pro offers precision and speed for photo editors
The Illuminati Meter: What is that?
When Rudy Guttosch from Illuminati Instrument Corp sent me this intriguing device, I wasn't really sure how I was going to use it. I don't particularly enjoy having to bring extra stuff at photo shoots. Still, for the purpose of this article, I gave it a try and took it with me on location. Well, I have to admit it, I've been quite fascinated by all what my new buddy could do for me for less than 62 grams of weight. First things first: what is that Illuminati thing? The Illuminati light and color meter does exactly what its name says it … [Read more...] about The Illuminati Meter: What is that?
Wacom Intuos Pen Tablet a great entry-level tablet for photographers
I've long been a user of a keyboard and mouse, even for my photo editing. But over time, as I used Lightroom and Photoshop for more precise edits, it became more and more cumbersome. Enter the Wacom Intuos Pen Tablet, a new entry-level pen and tablet offering from Wacom. I received a review unit from Wacom, and after a couple weeks of using it, I must say I'm impressed. I put my mouse away and have been using the Intuos exclusively. Appearance and specs The Wacom Intuos Pen Tablet is Wacom's entry-level tablet and features four … [Read more...] about Wacom Intuos Pen Tablet a great entry-level tablet for photographers
“The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography” gets you geared up for your next trip
(Editor's note: Photofocus is pleased to announce a partnership with Rocky Nook. Rocky Nook publishes great books about photography by photographers. Coming soon we'll be featuring excerpts from "The Enthusiast's Guide to Multi-Shot Photography" by Alan Hess. Stay tuned!) After my trip to Ireland last summer, I didn't want to stop traveling. Since then, I've been traveling to places like Las Vegas and Toronto. And I wish I would have read Jordana Wright's book, "The Enthusiast's Guide to Travel Photography" before then. There's a lot that … [Read more...] about “The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography” gets you geared up for your next trip
Google Clips: The future of cameras?
When I first received my Google Clips unit for review, I was curious. How would I use the small, portable camera in my workflow? While Google Clips has some really cool technology and is a sign of what the future might bring, it's also a tad bit creepy. How it works Google Clips connects to your phone via a private Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth, and automatically records short video clips (which are really just fast-capture still images put together) when it detects faces. There's no sound recorded at all. You can also click the shutter button … [Read more...] about Google Clips: The future of cameras?
Gear Review: Ruggard Thunderhead 35 Camera Backpack
Everyone needs a camera backpack, and this one from Ruggard is a good choice. It's well made and will protect your gear. It's a medium-sized bag with room for lots of tools. The carry straps and belt are well padded. It'll even carry your laptop. It's not a stylish bag, but it's a straightforward simple design that has proven effective. More specs and details right here. https://youtu.be/eyiHLezwhu4 … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Ruggard Thunderhead 35 Camera Backpack
Gear Review: Ruggard Hunter Pro 65 DSLR Holster Bag
A holster bag is a terrific addition to your camera bag quiver. In fact, it's a very good choice as a first camera bag. You'll always find uses for it, even when your equipment needs outgrow its size. I have far more gear than will fit in this bag, but I use it as a convenient bag for keeping a camera and lens handy. It sits next to me in the car, it goes inside another duffle bag or backpack and I attach it to the belt of my backpack when hiking. In this video, I show you the 65, but it comes in various sizes, including a larger bag which … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Ruggard Hunter Pro 65 DSLR Holster Bag
In Depth Video Gear Review: Vanguard Alta GH300T Tripod Grip Head
The right tripod head makes using a tripod a joy, and the Vanguard Alta GH300T is just such a head. It's a grip head, which means you can make adjustments with a single hand, but unlike other grip heads, it doesn't require you to squeeze a handle. A single lock at the thumb loosens and tightens. It is Arca-Swiss compatible. It also has a trigger built-in which can trigger your shutter with an included cord (includes cords for Canon and Nikon). I like this head very much, and I think you'll enjoy it, too. I'm showing it in this video attached to … [Read more...] about In Depth Video Gear Review: Vanguard Alta GH300T Tripod Grip Head
Gear Review: Angler Collapsible Backdrop, 5×7′
Collapsible backdrops are great for location shooting and small studios — even large studios use them for convenient and inexpensive options for backdrops. The video below shows the 5x7' chroma key backdrop. You can use chroma key backdrops to replace the background in your photo or videos, but Angler also has other colors with the same build quality. This is a well-made backdrop that should last a very long time. Even the carry bag is better made than most others that cost a lot more money. I use this kind of backdrop on location every week. … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Angler Collapsible Backdrop, 5×7′
Gear Review: Fractals (Your New Must-Have)
Fractals, people, are the new must-haves in my camera bag. I was introduced to Fractals at WPPI. My friend and fellow photographer, Kathy Mukhopadhyay, bought a set and mentioned that they were doing live demos throughout the trade show if I wanted to check them out. I snuck over briefly to see what all the fuss was about and let me just tell you, their booth was packed! People were jammed into their little area just to see what all the talk was about. Sadly by the time I had gotten up front they were already sold out. That's how hot this item … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Fractals (Your New Must-Have)
Gear Review: Oben GH-30 Gimbal Head
I've been using gimbal heads in my photography for as long as I can remember. Gimbal heads are simple devices that support long, heavy, lenses. They help photographers move big lenses around while tracking fast moving objects in the distance. Weightless balance Their primary feature is the ability to balance the camera and lens within the tripod head and use tension controls to simulate a "weightlessness." The camera can be moved freely but stays in place when not being moved. The gimbal allows for easy tracking along the vertical and … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Oben GH-30 Gimbal Head
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 Gives Micro Four-Thirds Shooters a Budget-Friendly Portrait Option
While Olympus and Panasonic are the big players in the Micro Four-Thirds space, Sigma has recently released a few lenses that are on par with their full-frame counterparts. I had the chance to try out the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN, and there's nothing "third party" about this lens — it stands its own in the increasingly competitive Micro Four-Thirds world. With a quick look at the Sigma 30mm f/1.4, you'll see a very familiar style to Sigma's DSLR art lenses. Providing a 60mm frame of view, the image quality is superb, providing a creative and … [Read more...] about Sigma 30mm f/1.4 Gives Micro Four-Thirds Shooters a Budget-Friendly Portrait Option
Sigma 16mm f/1.4 for Micro Four-Thirds Captures the Artistic View of the World
Since my switch to micro four-thirds, I haven't been able to pick up a Sigma lens. When I checked out Sigma's new offerings in their global vision contemporary series — the 16mm f/1.4 and 30mm f/1.4 — I was intrigued. And after spending a few weeks with the 16mm f/1.4 (full-frame field of view at 32mm), I must say that it opens up a lot of possibilities. I took the lens on a photowalk last week to check out its capabilities. Wide open at f/1.4, this lens can only be described as dreamy, capturing the main subject with tack-sharp focus and a … [Read more...] about Sigma 16mm f/1.4 for Micro Four-Thirds Captures the Artistic View of the World
The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Guidelines
As traveling photographers, we all wear many hats—landscape photographer, bird photographer, portrait photographer, food photographer, etc. We may feel comfortable in some of the hats we wear, and some hats just don’t seem to fit well at all. I had my roots in landscape and nature photography then moved on to cityscapes. Photographing people on the streets in the places I visited always seemed a tough fit. So I pushed hard--taking a class, watching videos, reading some books, and making lots of pictures--to figure out how to get good shots … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Guidelines
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Panasonic Leica 200mm f/2.8 Offers Superb Build Quality & Reach
For the past four years, I've photographed an event for Gilda's Club Grand Rapids — the Laughfest Signature Event. It features a highly sought-after comedian with the ultimate goal to raise money for cancer support. This year, Comedy Central's Trevor Noah (from The Daily Show) graced Grand Rapids with his presence for the event. While photographing comedians is a blast, being in the back of the room means you have to be creative in terms of how you're going to capture it. The first year, I was completely unprepared and had to rely on a much … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Panasonic Leica 200mm f/2.8 Offers Superb Build Quality & Reach
Gear Review: NiSi Medium GND 100x150mm Filter
Editor's note: This is a guest Post by Ugo Cei. See his work right here. In recent times I haven’t been making much use of filters in my photography. I would occasionally use a polarizer and that’s all. As a consequence, when faced with landscape scenes with a lot of contrast, like when the sky is bright, but the ground is in shade, I would normally resort to bracketing and then merging the resulting shots to HDR or doing some kind of blending. Graduated Neutral Density (GND) Filters When creating HDR photos, I always strive to produce … [Read more...] about Gear Review: NiSi Medium GND 100x150mm Filter
A New Kind of Acrylic: TruLife
Recently, my friend and fellow Photofocus author, Levi Sim, called me up and asked me about how I print my photos for my clients. We discussed the options I have and where I like to have them printed and he asked me if I had ever used acrylics. I shared with him that truthfully, I didn't really enjoy acrylic prints. I find them to be a bit too much "in your face" with their super reflective nature. I always found that the acrylic got in the way of the viewing experience. He proceeded to tell me about what ArtisanHD is doing with a new product … [Read more...] about A New Kind of Acrylic: TruLife
Angler Silverbox 18″ Softbox Review
The Basics Okay, so awhile back I was asked to test and review the Angler Silverbox 18" Softbox and at first, given I have the Profoto version of this as well as the Beauty Dish, I was wondering just how useful or good this guy could be. Given it was 1/2 the price, (or less), of the Profoto version I was used too, I was pretty sure the quality would be less than great and i'd try it once, and throw into a corner never to be seen again. Well...lets just say I was pleasantly surprised! Check this out; Above is a shot I took using JUST … [Read more...] about Angler Silverbox 18″ Softbox Review
Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR and Laptop Backpack Review
A photographer is always looking for new camera bags, but there always seems to be a new one on my mind. I was looking for a camera backpack that I could keep a camera body and lens attached while carrying a few extra lenses and accessories. I don’t use a backpack often, but I have the ThinkTank Shape Shifter and it works well, but I can’t fit a body with a lens attached into that backpack. I had the chance to try out the new Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR & Laptop Backpack courtesy of B&H. The Ruggard Thunderhead 35 is a small camera … [Read more...] about Ruggard Thunderhead 35 DSLR and Laptop Backpack Review
Reviewed: Perfecting The Headshot
Headshot photography, once reserved for actors and the occasional executive, is now about as mainstream as LinkedIn or Facebook. Whether you're looking for a job, changing careers, starting a new business, or looking for a date, an amazing headshot is step one. Headshots are the core to the now overused term of personal branding. Call it whatever you want, but it all starts with a headshot. I can think of no better way to learn headshot photography than from the man himself, Peter Hurley. Peter has been perfecting the craft of headshots for … [Read more...] about Reviewed: Perfecting The Headshot
Product Review: Spyder5ELITE Monitor Calibrator
Editor's Note: A special thanks to our partner Datacolor for helping us to bring more information about color calibration to you. Monitor calibration does not have to be difficult with a solid calibration device. Special Deals on Datacolor Spyder Elite Spyder 5 Elite Datacolor's new Spyder 5 Elite monitor calibrator is dead simple to use. The software installs from Datacolor's website. The Spyder 5 device is the same for the three versions of the product: Spyder5EXPRESS, Spyder5PRO, and Spyder5ELITE. The difference is in the software. … [Read more...] about Product Review: Spyder5ELITE Monitor Calibrator
Gear Review: Atlas Packs ‘Athlete’
Atlas Packs is a new company and they have created a good product. They've created backpacks that are extremely comfortable to wear and that carry a lot of weight without leaving you feeling fatigued. What's more, they truly don't look like technology backpacks that are full of expensive tools--they just look like a regular hiking backpack. Who's This Camera Bag For? Atlas Packs would be perfect for anyone who needs to carry their camera equipment as well as other stuff because they are well designed and have plenty of room for coats and … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Atlas Packs ‘Athlete’
Gear Review: Impact 5-in-1 Reflector with Handles
(Editor's note: Levi shows how to fold circular, triangular and oblong reflectors in this tutorial.) After a camera and a good tripod, I'd say a 5-in-1 reflector is a must have tool for every photographer. Whether you're photographing flowers, portraits, or products a 5-in-1 reflector can help you make great light. I got my hands on Impact's 42-inch 5-in-1 Collapsible Circular Reflector with Handles. Let me tell you what I think of it see if it's the right tool for you. The Basics As far as reflectors go, this is the smallest I recommend … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Impact 5-in-1 Reflector with Handles
