When a new camera model is introduced many photographers pour over its specifications looking for technical advancements. One aspect that draws a lot of attention is the range of ISO settings that are available. Seeing ever-increasing native ISO-settings looks great. But, is your camera actually shooting RAW files at the ISO you set? The differences between manufacturer-stated ISO and measured ISO may surprise you. Continue reading Manufacturer and measured ISO
Category Archives: Essays
The need for respect
Sometimes it is hard not to scratch one’s head when observing the behaviour of others. I had a recent experience with an article that I penned for another web site that really has me wondering if camera ownership is becoming politicized. Continue reading The need for respect
A Big “Thank You” to readers for our first year together
It was mid-January last year that my photography blog went live. A small handful of readers from Photography Life began this journey with me and since that time our community has grown tremendously. Continue reading A Big “Thank You” to readers for our first year together
Reasons we overspend on camera gear
During a rather brisk walk this afternoon my brain was rattling around in my skull and it occurred to me that I’ve overspent on camera gear a few times in my life. I figured it was logical for me to assume that other folks likely have as well. I began to muse about the reasons we overspend on camera gear which led to this article. Continue reading Reasons we overspend on camera gear
Sensor performance isn’t everything
Choosing a new camera can be a daunting task given how many makes and models are available. While I am a big fan of the independent lens and sensor testing done by DxOMark, sensor performance isn’t everything when deciding on a camera. Continue reading Sensor performance isn’t everything
Where should you put your upgrade money?
There are always lots of opinions about specific new camera bodies and lenses. A perpetual stream of new equipment introductions directly fuels gear acquisition syndrome, and many folks get glandular as they read about the latest and greatest technology. “Where should you put your upgrade money?” is a question on a lot of photographers’ minds these days. Continue reading Where should you put your upgrade money?
Things to consider when buying an inter-changeable lens camera
With advances in technology it seems to be more and more daunting to decide which inter-changeable lens camera to buy. Continue reading Things to consider when buying an inter-changeable lens camera
Shooting with Lady Luck
Without question there is a skill component in photography. Understanding our gear, lighting, composition and post processing are all important ingredients when creating images. Photography captures specific moments in time and on occasion it can be extremely helpful when Lady Luck is on our side. Continue reading Shooting with Lady Luck
Prime versus zoom lenses. Which should you choose?
For many photographers, especially those starting out, deciding which lenses to buy can be a daunting task. One of the fundamental questions we often ask ourselves is “Should I buy prime lenses or zoom lenses?” Continue reading Prime versus zoom lenses. Which should you choose?
Professional Development: A Different “Rule of Thirds”
As photographers who regularly visit photography web sites and blogs, we all seem to be driven by very personal commitments to learn new things and to improve. Over the years I’ve been using my own ‘rule of thirds’ – not as a composition technique – but as an approach to help me direct my own development efforts when it comes to photography. Continue reading Professional Development: A Different “Rule of Thirds”